Update: The PlayStation 5 is currently selling for its lowest price in months with discounts of more than $130 up for grabs.
For example, Amazon currently has the PlayStation 5 Disc Edition (Slim) for only $699.
We have also started to see a downward shift in eBay reseller listings. Previously fetching prices north of $1,000, the Blu-ray version of the console can now be snapped up for under $700, brand new.
Handily, eBay automatically shows the lowest price on its PS5 product page, so you don't have to sift through a bunch of listings.
After a rocky launch in 2020, the Sony PlayStation 5 has cemented itself as this generation's best games machine. Featuring vastly improved graphics to the PlayStation 4 and brand new controller and a more exclusive games than any other console, it is currently running rings around the competition.
Crucially, it's backwards-compatible with most PlayStation 4 software, which means the majority of your old games will work on the new system.
Here are some online stores where you can buy the console in Australia.
There are 2 versions of the PlayStation 5: the standard edition and an all-digital version that lacks an optical disc drive (otherwise, the specifications are identical.) Here is the recommended retail price of each model, following a price bump in late 2022:
Fortunately, it's possible to get the console below the RRP if you know where to shop. You can also purchase a range of bundles that include games and/or additional accessories (see below).
PlayStation 5 games are generally more expensive than the PS4 version. Expect to pay around $10 more.
To date, Sony has released 2 different versions of the PlayStation 5: the standard model and an all-digital option that lacks an optical disc drive. The digital version is $150 cheaper but you won't be able to play physical games or Blu-ray/DVD movies. Instead, all media needs to be streamed or downloaded through an Internet connection.
With the exception of the disc slot, the 2 versions are identical beneath the hood. If you rarely use physical media, then the all-digital version might be worth considering to save some money. However, if you like watching Blu-ray movies and don't want to clutter your home entertainment unit with a DVD player, go for the standard edition.
In the second half of 2021, Sony released a revised version of both consoles. The chassis and components are identical with the exception of a smaller heatsink. This results in a physically lighter console at the expense of temperature. It reportedly runs hotter than the original version, although this shouldn't affect the overall reliability. If you're buying a new PS5 now, it will likely be the version with a smaller heatsink.
There are persistent rumours of a new PlayStation console in the works, dubbed the PS5 Pro. This would be similar to the PlayStation 4 Pro, offering more processing power and enhanced graphics for existing PS5 games. You can expect it to sell for a premium of around $150-$200. (The PS5 will probably receive a price drop around the same time that the new console launches.)
So when can we expect to see it? Reports indicate the PS5 Pro will launch sometime in 2024, possibly as late as November. To fill the gap, a downsized PS5 Slim model with similar internal specs seems likely.
With the rumoured launch being more than a year away, our advice is to buy the existing console and consider upgrading in a few years when the Pro comes down in price.
Find out more about the PlayStation Pro here.
In addition to the PlayStation Pro, Sony is allegedly working on a modular PS5 with a detachable disc drive. According to a credible report on Insider Gaming, the new-look console is expected to launch in late 2023.
While the hardware will be almost identical, the outer design will look very different. The detachable disc drive will connect to the console via an extra USB-C port located in the back. This will essentially merge the current Digital and Standard models into a single offering, with the disc drive sold as an optional extra. (You'll reportedly be able to buy them bundled together.)
In 2022, Sony announced a refreshed version of the PlayStation 5 console. In terms of features and specifications, it is identical to the current model and is also physically indistinguishable. Under the hood however, Sony has made some minor tweaks.
According to a comprehensive hardware teardown, the new model (code named CFI-1200) has a redesigned motherboard with an improved SSD enclosure and a more efficient heatsink.
This translates to better power consumption with a reduced chance of overheating. If you're determined to get your hands on the newer model, purchase a bundle with distinct packaging, such as the Horizon: Forbidden West version. This will ensure you're not receiving old stock from the back of a factory warehouse.
The other cost to consider is a PlayStation Plus membership. This is a subscription service that grants access to multiplayer online gaming and 2 free games per month which are yours to keep for the duration of your membership. It costs $79.95 for an annual subscription, or $11.95 if you elect to pay month by month. PlayStation Plus recently underwent a name change and is now called PlayStation Plus Essential. This is to differentiate it from two new versions of the PlayStation Plus service in Australia.
PlayStation Plus Extra is a premium version of PlayStation Plus. This includes all the same perks as the base service, plus an additional 400 PS4 and PS5 games that you can download and play at no extra charge. A subscription to PlayStation Plus Extra will set you back $134.95 per year or $18.95 on a per-month basis.
Finally, there's PlayStation Plus Deluxe. This is identical to PlayStation Plus Extra but with the addition of a classic library of PlayStation games from the PS3, PS2 and PS1 era. It also includes game trials. It costs $154.95 per year and $21.95 per month, respectively.
Unless you're a serious gamer with an interest in retro titles, PlayStation Plus Deluxe probably isn't worth the extra $3 per month.
Sony launched a virtual-reality headset for the PlayStation 5 in early 2023. The PSVR2 is similar to the original PSVR for the PlayStation 4 with one big difference - it comes with handheld sensor controllers, similar to the Meta Quest 2. (While the PSVR was compatible with Move controllers, these were sold separately and not required for most games.)
The PlayStation VR 2 costs an eye-watering $879.95 in Australia. This is significantly more expensive than the PlayStation VR, although you do get 2 motion controllers included in the package.
You can also get the headset bundles with the game Horizon: Call Of The Mountain Bundle for $959.95. Amazon currently has it for $854.96 - a saving of $104.99.
Here are the best places to buy the PSVR2 online.
As a leader in entertainment products, OzGameShop provides a huge range of quality tech, gadgets and accessories. Buy the PlayStation 5 accessories and games you need online here.
MightyApe is one of Australia's leading ecommerce websites specialising in games, music and movies, with a commitment to providing a wide range of products at low prices.
Dick Smith stocks all top gaming brands including PlayStation, plus a wide selection of games and accessories. Shop all things PlayStation 5-related online here.
50% off Logitech M720 Triathlon Wireless Mouse
Up to $300 off electronics and home appliances
5% off your orders at Global Shop Direct
Up to 45% off HP laptops, desktops, and more
Up to 65% off sale at Kogan
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