Where to find a PS5 under $400 before GTA 6 launches
The PlayStation 5 faces mounting price pressures as Sony implements aggressive pricing increases. Since its original launch, the console has seen two significant price hikes—in August 2025 and again in April 2026—marking a departure from traditional console pricing trends. The PS5 Digital Edition has increased from $399 to $599, while the standard PS5 with disc drive has risen from $499 to $649.
This pricing strategy stands out in console history. The ninth generation is the first where gaming hardware has become progressively more expensive rather than dropping in price over its lifecycle. Despite these increases, demand remains robust as gamers anticipate upcoming major releases.
Grand Theft Auto 6 is poised to be a significant driver of console sales, with its November 19, 2026 launch date prompting many players who’ve waited since 2020 to upgrade to current-generation hardware. The timing of GTA 6’s release creates urgency for consumers still considering a PS5 purchase.
For price-conscious buyers, deals do exist beyond the obvious secondhand marketplaces like eBay and Facebook Marketplace. PlayStation Direct, Sony’s official online retailer, offers competitive pricing on PS5 consoles. These alternative retail channels may provide opportunities to acquire hardware below the newly elevated manufacturer’s suggested retail prices, making now a viable time to purchase before GTA 6’s launch.