How Much Does the PS5 Cost?

Last Updated on February 25, 2025
Written by CPA Alec Pow | Content Reviewed by CFA Alexander Popinker

The PlayStation 5 (PS5) remains one of the most in-demand gaming consoles over a year after its launch. With incredible graphics, super-fast loading, and must-have exclusives like God of War: Ragnarok, it’s no wonder PS5 prices are still hovering near full retail.

In this guide, we’ll demystify PS5 pricing, illuminate what influences costs, compare bundles and special editions, offer insider tips on finding deals, and make recommendations for budget-focused buyers. Whether you’re a devoted PlayStation gamer or casual shopper, read on for an unparalleled analysis of PS5 costs.

How Much Does the PS5 Cost?

The PS 5 console has launched with two base models, a Digital Edition costing $399.99 and a Standard Edition with a disc drive at $499.99. With bundles, special editions, accessories, and taxes, the total cost to purchase a new PS5 ranges from a minimum of approximately $400 on the low end to over $600 at the premium high end.

At launch, Sony made the PS5 available in two configurations:

PS5 Digital Edition ($399.99)

This all-digital console contains no disc drive for playing physical media. Gamers must purchase and download digital games directly from the PlayStation Store. While limiting, the upside is a $100 savings compared to the disc-equipped model.

PS5 Standard Edition ($499.99)

With its 4K Blu-ray disc drive, the standard PS5 plays both physical disc-based games and digital downloads. Many gamers prefer physical media for collecting editions, building libraries to lend or resell, and buying used games at a discount. This flexibility comes at a $100 premium over the digital-only unit.

PS5 Pricing Comparison

Console	Price	Key Differences
PS5 Digital Edition	$399.99	No disc drive, $100 cheaper
PS5 Standard Edition	$499.99	Supports physical discs, $100 more

As the table shows, the crucial distinction comes down to physical media support.

According to Indian Express, the PS5 is priced at $499.99 for the Standard Edition and $399.99 for the Digital Edition in the United States. This pricing is consistent across major retailers like Best Buy, which also lists the PS5 at these prices.

On PlayStation Direct, the official Sony platform, the PS5 consoles are listed with similar pricing, though specific prices are not displayed unless you are logged in and authorized to purchase. However, it is confirmed that the standard and digital editions are available at the same prices as other retailers.

Additionally, Walmart offers the PS5 at the same retail prices of $499.99 for the Standard Edition and $399.99 for the Digital Edition, aligning with industry standards.

Lastly, there is also mention of a potential PS5 Pro model, as noted by Dell, though specific pricing for this model is not widely available yet.

Special Editions and Bundles

Beyond the two base PS5 models, Sony has strategically released limited special editions and bundles:

PS5 Slim Prices: Digital ($449.99) and Standard ($499.99)

Sony introduced redesigned PS5 Slim models in both digital and disc-drive configurations. While retaining the same performance specs, these consoles sport a thinner, streamlined exterior chassis. They carry a moderate $50 price premium over original editions.

PS5 Game Bundles Span $559 – $599

Sony partners with major studios to offer PS5 console bundles pairing the hardware with hot new releases like Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, God of War: Ragnarok or the Call of Duty series. These limited packages raise the total price to $559 – $599 – a $50 – $100 uptick over stand-alone PS5 pricing.

For hardcore fans of specific franchises, bundles provide great value. But more casual gamers can likely find better deals purchasing à la carte.

PS5 Prices at Major Retailers

When purchasing a brand new PS5, Sony maintains consistent base pricing whether buying directly from PlayStation or major retail partners:

• Amazon, Walmart, Target, Best Buy: $399 Digital, $499 Standard
• GameStop, Microsoft Store, regional gaming stores: MSRP base pricing

However, buyers should be aware:

Resellers and Marketplaces Charge Wildly Inflated Premium Prices.

On third-party resale sites like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, and StockX, limited supply allows independent sellers to charge well above MSRP based on spiking demand – often $550 to $700 and up!

While tempting during shortages, these inflated costs primarily benefit scalpers. Patience pays off.

Used and Refurbished PS5 Consoles

For buyers on a budget, considering discounted pre-owned options can save over 20% off retail:

Gently Used PS5 Models Run $350 – $450

Lightly used PS5 consoles in good condition can be found on Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, eBay, and even at GameStop. Inspect carefully for defects and test before purchasing.

Refurbished Units Cost $400 – $480

Sony certified refurbished PS5s come professionally cleaned, inspected, and often with a warranty. As safe alternatives to used, they offer sizable savings.

Tradeoffs: No Original Packaging, Shorter Warranty Periods

The benefits of used and refurbished come with some compromises. But minor cosmetic wear shouldn’t affect core performance.

You might also like our articles about the cost of PlayStation Plus, Xbox Game Pass, or Nintendo Switch.

PS5 Price Changes Over Time

PS5 sticker prices evolve gradually in response to market forces:

Improving Supply Could Organically Lower Prices

As Sony manufactures more PS5 units over months and years, prices may decrease from the initial launch highs as supply catches up to demand. But unpredictable variables like component shortages complicate forecasts.

Regional Price Fluctuations

Import taxes, currency exchange rates, and tariffs cause PS5 retail costs to vary across global regions. Models sell at different price points in the U.S., Japan, Europe, and India based on trade policies.

Holiday Promotions and Sales Offer Periodic Discounts

History shows limited-time Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and holiday season sales will temporarily knock $50 – $100 off PS5 pricing for a few days annually. Buyers can watch for these ephemeral deals.

Comparison of Global PS5 Pricing

Region	Price (Digital / Standard)
United States	$399 / $499
Japan	¥41,979 / ¥51,978
United Kingdom	£359 / £459
India	₹36,990 / ₹46,990

Will Sony Drop PS5 Pricing in the Future?

In short – don’t hold your breath. Sony historically waits several years into a console generation before making permanent price cuts. But there are glimmers of hope:

• As the PS5 matures, Sony may incrementally lower pricing to maintain sales momentum and combat next-gen competition, just as they did with PS4 Slim models.
• A potential PS5 Pro announcement could see original PS5s discounted to $349 or lower to incentivize upgrades.
• By 2025, four years into the PS5 lifecycle, a $50 – $100 price drop is very plausible following past Sony patterns.

But in the absence of major sales, current elevated pricing is likely here to stay for the next 12-24 months. Supply finally meeting demand may organically trigger deals.

Should You Buy a PS5 Now or Wait?

Consider your budget, urgency, and willingness to compromise:

• Avid gamers who demand the very latest experiences should buy at current retail pricing to maximize playtime. The premium delivers tangible value.
• Budget-focused buyers should watch sales events, consider pre-owned consoles, or wait for the first permanent price drop to maximize savings.
• Early adopters and collectors should consider special edition bundles before they disappear from shelves. Unique packages have historical and future resale value.

There’s no universally “right” timing – purchase based on your budget and motivations as a gamer.

Advice from Gaming Industry Experts

“Avoid resale sites and scalpers if possible – their extreme markups only feed the supply shortage. With patience, legit retailers offer fair pricing.” – Max Taylor, Senior Editor at PlayStation Universe

“Don’t underestimate the trade-in value of your PS4 and games to offset upgrade costs. Also utilize retailer bonus trade promos.” – Samantha Lewis, GameStop Store Manager

“Monitor social media inventory trackers and be ready to act fast when consoles drop. Retailers are slowly improving supply flows.” – Jeremy Collins, Operations Manager at Game On Video Games

“Consider console sharing with a trusted friend or family member to split costs – alternate on exclusive title releases.” – Andrea Fletcher, Co-host of Xbox Podcast unlocked

Answers to Common Questions

Which PS5 is better, digital or disc?

The disc edition supports physical media and reselling, but digital is $100 cheaper. Digital is best for all-digital gamers; disc is best for collectors.

Is there a spending limit on PS5?

There’s no spending limit, but parents can set restrictions on minors through PlayStation Family Management parental controls.

How much storage does the PS5 have?

The PS5 comes with an 825GB internal solid-state drive (SSD). This can be expanded via external USB hard drives and internal NVMe SSD storage upgrades.