The PlayStation 5 remains highly sought after four years post-launch, bolstered by a steady stream of new games. With models like the PS5 Slim and Pro, buyers face choices based on performance and budget. Current Black Friday deals offer significant discounts, although caution is advised against misleading offers. The PS5 Pro caters to serious gamers with advanced features, while the Slim is a solid choice for general players. Understanding the differences and considering personal gaming habits is crucial for potential buyers.
The Enduring Popularity of the PS5
It’s hard to believe that it’s been four years since the PlayStation 5 (PS5) hit the market, yet it continues to fly off the shelves. This enduring popularity can be attributed to the daily influx of new games tailored for this cutting-edge console. With the introduction of the PS5 Slim and Pro models, along with options featuring or omitting a disc drive, potential buyers now face a challenging decision.
Pricing Insights and Black Friday Opportunities
The PS5 maintains a premium price tag, with costs ranging from €400 to €600 depending on the model, not including occasional promotional deals. The newly launched PS5 Pro, priced at €799 (note: without a disc drive), has drawn its fair share of criticism from gamers feeling the pinch. However, with the ongoing Black Friday promotions, now is the perfect opportunity to snag a PlayStation 5 at a substantial discount across all available variants.
Retailers have slashed prices for the PS5 as part of these promotions, with some deals marking new record lows for the console. Be sure not to overlook these exciting opportunities.
It’s essential to exercise caution with certain offers, particularly one alarming listing on Amazon for a PS5 bundle priced at €300, which turned out to be misleading. We recommend checking the details thoroughly before making any purchases.
Current Best Deals on PS5 Consoles
As you consider the various PS5 models—Standard, Slim, and Pro—it’s beneficial to highlight the best ongoing deals. Before diving deeper into the specifics of each variation, let’s review some top offers from reputable retailers that promise impressive savings.
While accessories and games are also on sale, the PS5 is typically sold with only one controller. If you plan to game with friends, investing in an additional controller is a must. Additionally, you might want to explore exciting accessories like the PlayStation VR2 headset or other peripherals that are no longer bundled with the console. We will highlight the best accessory deals available shortly.
Affordable PS5 Games During Sales
Black Friday is a fantastic time to find great deals on PS5 games, with many titles dropping below €20. Our curated list of the best PS5 games will help you find the most rewarding gameplay experiences that are currently discounted. Keep an eye out, as we are actively searching for new offers to update this list.
Understanding the Differences Between PS5 Models
Although the original PS5 was a sensation at its launch in 2020, leading to shortages, Sony introduced the PS5 Slim in 2023, which continues to be a top seller. For many users, the Slim is likely the best option unless you’re a dedicated gamer who seeks the enhanced features of the PS5 Pro.
The PS5 Pro targets serious gamers with its advanced performance and improved graphics. However, with a price tag close to €800, it’s best suited for those who game extensively, prioritize visual quality, and aren’t overly concerned about budget constraints.
When comparing the consoles, the PS5 Pro stands out with its superior performance metrics. It boasts 25% faster RAM and a robust GPU that allows for 4K gaming at 60 frames per second, a feature that requires a trade-off with the Slim model. The Pro also supports a maximum of 120 frames per second and 8K resolution, though not simultaneously.
Important Considerations for PS5 Purchases
Both the original PS5 and the Slim model come in variants with and without a disc drive. The disc-less versions, labeled as ‘Digital Edition,’ carry similar limitations as the PS5 Pro. While you can buy an external drive for these consoles, availability may be an issue.
For those who want to ensure their PS5 includes a built-in drive, it’s crucial to check product descriptions or look for terms like ‘Standard Edition’ or ‘Disc Edition.’ This will guarantee that you can play physical games purchased from retailers.
Deciding on the Right PS5 Console for You
As the original PS5 is becoming harder to find, most buyers are left weighing the options between the Slim and Pro variants. The technical differences between the first PS5 and the Slim are minimal. The PS5 Pro, while impressive, is primarily intended for hardcore gamers, making the PS5 Slim the better choice for the average player.
Expect to find more frequent discounts on the Slim model, given its longer presence in the market. Conversely, the newer PS5 Pro may see only slight markdowns.
If you prefer physical games and wish to take advantage of in-store deals, ensure that your chosen console has a disc drive. Owners of disc-less models will find themselves reliant on Sony’s pricing in their online store. Ideally, confirm that the Slim model has a built-in drive, as separate drives are often expensive and difficult to find.
While the PS5 offers an exceptional gaming experience, it’s important to note that exclusive Nintendo titles can only be enjoyed on the Nintendo Switch, which many in our team also own for those unique gaming experiences.