Do Consumers Have a Hope of Scoring a PS5 Before the Holidays?

The quest for a highly desired gift item isn't a new concept. Every year, gift-givers and others scour the stores, query the search engines, and compete in online auctions in hopes of finding an available item that's on their list. The hard-to-find items vary each year according to trends and demands, but video game consoles often make the top ten. So it's no surprise that the PlayStation 5 is one of the sought-after gifts in 2021.

The difference between this year and previous years is that the country continues to deal with supply chain issues stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic and various responses to it. And those pressures are making it even harder for retailers to keep up with product demands.

Here's the good news for shoppers: Stores are still getting restocks of the PS5, even in the few days leading up to Christmas. The problem is that restocks are hit-and-miss, and the available product tends to go fast. Best Buy received a restock in mid December, for example, that was completely gone in just a day or so.

Consumers that want to score the PS5 — especially the Digital Version — must remain aware and be willing to check stores and online retailers regularly. GameStop is holding an event on December 23 when it plans to have PS5 restock. Availability is limited, and the event won't be occurring at all locations, so check with yours ahead of time. You also have to be a PowerUp Rewards Pro to get in on this opportunity.

One of the best options for buying the PS5 in December 2021 is via online retailers and marketplaces. Walmart and Amazon may both get restock, and if they don't, their third-party sellers may. It's unlikely at this point that anything ordered online will arrive in time to be wrapped and put under the tree for Christmas morning — unless consumers are in a 1-day or same-day delivery area. That being said, the promise that a PS5 is coming before the new year might be a welcome surprise under the tree for video game enthusiasts.