We’re barely done with the years-long period where it was almost impossible to get your hands on a PlayStation 5, and now Sony is launching the PlayStation 5 Pro. It has a more powerful graphics processor, better AI upscaling, and tons more storage, with a higher price to match. If you want to get your hands on one when it launches, though, it might take some effort.
It’s no secret at this point that scalpers are, metaphorically, armed to the teeth with tools that can snag dozens of PS5s before you can click the Buy button on one. There’s little reason to expect this new console launch will be any different. (Even if the $700 price makes it one of the most expensive consoles of all time.) Still, there are things you can do to improve your odds of nabbing one of these consoles. And while you’re at it, check out our Best PS5 Accessories and Best PS5 Games guides for more.
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When Do Preorders Start?
Photograph: Sony PlayStation
Preorders for the new PlayStation 5—as well as the extremely limited-edition 30th-anniversary PS5 Pro models designed to be reminiscent of the original PlayStation—will begin in stages. The PlayStation Direct website will get first dibs, followed by other retailers a couple of weeks later. Here are all of the important dates:
The PS5 Pro is $700 for the disc-less version. If you want to add a disc drive, it’s a separate purchase. You can read more about the differences between all the PS5 models here.
Tips to (Hopefully) Score Your Preorder
Photograph: Walmart
Unfortunately, there’s no way to guarantee that you’ll be able to get a console, even if you’re at your computer the minute sales go live. But there are things you can do to increase your odds: