How to Get Your Hands on a PlayStation 5

Still struggling to buy a PS5? Don't worry, you're not alone in thinking that overpaying for such a console is dumb. But even if things can be quite tough, there are still ways to get the new Sony console without breaking the bank - and without padding the pockets of grubby scalpers.

GameStop PS5 Restock: PlayStation 5 Bundles to Come Soon, But Only For PowerUp Pro Subscribers

(Photo : Shpëtim Ujkani from Unsplash)
Here's what you need to know about the upcoming PS5 restock event at GameStop.

But a disclaimer before we begin: this guide doesn't promise that you will get a PS5 at all. All it aims for is to give you pointers, meaning while the tips and tricks here aren't guaranteed to get you a console, they still help increase your chances. So without further ado, here's how.

WHERE Should You Get A PS5?

According to The Verge, the answer is simple: go for registered, legitimate retailers. But you must remember that each store handles PlayStation5 restock events a bit differently than the others, so whatever works for one won't necessarily work with another. Here's a list of the retailers you can target, along with how they handle restocks:

Amazon: On the retail giant's landing page for the Sony console, you can actually request an invitation to get one. You must be logged into your account, obviously. As soon as you get the invitation, you have 72 hours to get a unit when it becomes available. If you don't get it within that span of time, someone else will get the PS5.
Gamestop: The store often announces in-person PlayStation 5 restock events a week or two in advance using their newsletter, which you can sign up for just by putting your email address in.
Sony: You can register directly with Sony and get an invitation to buy a PS5 console. It might be really slow, but this is the most reliable out of anything considering you're buying straight from the manufacturer.
Target: While Target doesn't seem to experience a lot of bottlenecks when it comes to queues, it seems to be a bit less reliable if you try to check out. However, it also doesn't require you to sign up for a subscription service - something that other retailers like Walmart, Costco, or Best Buy does.

Use A Retailer App Instead Of A Browser

If your preferred retailer has a dedicated online shopping app, use it instead of logging into a browser. According to CNET, completing a purchase via an app is almost always faster than just using a browser like Chrome. Also, remember that mobile browsers are also far slower than desktop ones.

By using a retailer app in conjunction with a browser login, however, you give yourself a legitimate second or third option when buying a PS5. Almost all major retailers have dedicated apps: Amazon, Best Buy, Target, Walmart, Gamestop, Costco, and Target all have their own apps on iOS and Android.

Timing Is Key

When it comes to PlayStation 5 restock events, always remember that timing is critical. And these restock events have been around for so long, they practically have a pattern that you can take advantage of.

Restocks almost always happen in the afternoon and evening. Your chances of getting an unplanned PS5 restock often increases past 10 AM PT/1 PM ET, making this time frame the best one to watch out for.
PS5 restocks also almost never happen on weekends. This is, unless, they're mentioned ahead of time - just like how Gamestop does it via their newsletter.

Good luck on your next-gen console hunt!