The persistent shortage of standalone PlayStation 5 disc drives continues to frustrate gamers, particularly those who have purchased the disc-less PS5 Pro. Since the PS5 Pro's November 2024 launch, demand for the add-on drive has far outstripped supply.
Sony's own PS Direct stores in the US and UK remain consistently out of stock, with available units quickly snatched up. This mirrors the challenges faced during the initial PS5 launch in 2020, with scalpers aggressively acquiring drives and reselling them at significantly inflated prices. This adds considerable expense to the already high cost of the PS5 Pro.
While some third-party retailers like Best Buy and Target occasionally receive limited stock, these sporadic drops are insufficient to meet the overwhelming demand. The situation is further complicated by Sony's silence on the matter, a stark contrast to their proactive approach during the 2020 console shortages.
The PS5 Pro's design choice to omit a built-in disc drive has fueled the controversy. The added cost of the separate drive, already approximately $80 from official sources, is exacerbated by scalping, leaving many players with no option but to wait for improved supply and reduced demand – a prospect that currently seems distant.
The lack of a built-in disc drive on the PS5 Pro remains a point of contention, especially given the current market conditions. The combination of high demand and limited supply, fueled by scalping activities, presents a significant challenge for consumers seeking to upgrade their gaming experience. The absence of a statement from Sony only intensifies the frustration felt by many PlayStation fans.
