PlayStation 5 Disc Drive Shortage Persists
Since the launch of the PS5 Pro, a persistent shortage of standalone PlayStation 5 disc drives continues to frustrate gamers. The digital-only PS5 Pro, released in November 2024, necessitates the purchase of a separate disc drive for those wanting physical media compatibility. This unexpected demand has led to a situation reminiscent of the initial PS5 launch in 2020, with scalpers driving up prices on already scarce stock.
Both the US and UK PlayStation Direct online stores consistently show the disc drive as out of stock, with any available units rapidly disappearing. While some third-party retailers like Best Buy and Target occasionally receive limited stock, the availability remains highly unpredictable and insufficient to meet the considerable demand.
This ongoing shortage is further complicated by the lack of official comment from Sony. The company's silence is striking, particularly given their proactive response to supply chain issues during the 2020 pandemic. The added cost of the disc drive ($80 from official sources) coupled with inflated resale prices from scalpers leaves many PS5 Pro owners with limited options and a lengthy wait for improved availability. The situation, unfortunately, shows no immediate signs of improvement.
