It’s been more than two years since Sony’s PlayStation 5 (PS5) and Microsoft’s Xbox Series X consoles launched, and both are still frequently sold out. A mix of global health disruptions and a worldwide chip shortage has made it tougher than usual for manufacturers to produce enough units to meet demand.
We’re here to help so that gamers of all ages (yes, adults too) can get their hands on the systems they want. Below is our guide to locating and purchasing a PS5 or Xbox Series X/S this holiday season.
What Are the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X?
If you play video games, you’re probably familiar with these devices. If you’re buying a console as a gift, however, a quick primer might help. The PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X are the newest home consoles from Sony and Microsoft, respectively.
The PlayStation 5 succeeds Sony’s PlayStation 4, while Microsoft’s Xbox Series X is the successor to the Xbox One. Microsoft also sells the Xbox Series S as a lower-cost alternative to the Series X.
Sony offers two PS5 models: one with a disc drive and one without (the latter requires buying games digitally from Sony’s PlayStation Store). Both are labeled PlayStation 5, though the disc-free version is commonly referred to as the Digital Edition. Aside from the drive, the two PS5 versions are identical.
Microsoft followed a similar path but chose separate names. The Xbox Series X is the premium model, includes a disc drive and supports 4K gaming. The Xbox Series S is a more budget-friendly option without a disc drive and targets 1080p full HD gaming.
Should I Buy a PS5 or an Xbox?
Both the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S are outstanding consoles, and either will provide hours of entertainment. Beyond price and availability, the ecosystem and exclusive games are the main considerations when choosing a system.
Most multiplatform titles are available on both platforms, but each system also has exclusives (titles you can’t play on the other family of consoles). Xbox has series like Forza, Halo and Fable, while the PS5 lineup includes Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales, Ratchet & Clank and the Horizon franchise.
Historically, PlayStation has retained more exclusive titles for itself. Both platforms offer exclusives, but if your priority is the widest selection of first-party games, the PlayStation 5 is often the safer bet.
It’s also worth considering which console your friends use. Online multiplayer and social gaming often require the same platform to play together.
That social factor is why buying an Xbox for a child who wants a PlayStation can be a poor choice. If their friends use a different console, your child could miss out on group play and social interaction.
Ultimately, check the game libraries for each system and ask friends which console they own. If you’re buying for a child, ask which systems their friends have so they can remain connected while gaming.
Where to Buy PS5 (PlayStation 5)
The usual places to hunt for a PlayStation 5 this holiday season include Amazon, GameStop, Best Buy and Walmart. You can try visiting stores in person or checking their sites for inventory, though finding one often comes down to luck.
Amazon is a strong option because it allows shoppers to join an invitation-based queue. Think of this as reserving a position in line and helping prevent scalpers from scooping up every available console.
If an invite isn’t available for the particular model you want, consider alternatives like the Digital Edition. PS5 bundles tend to be harder for scalpers to move quickly since they require buying additional items (for example, a Horizon Forbidden West bundle), and such bundles can sometimes be worth the extra cost.
Buying directly from Sony’s store is also a reliable route. Sony uses a queue system to help limit scalper purchases.
If you plan to buy a PS5 from retailers such as GameStop, Best Buy or Walmart, consider signing up for their membership programs. These stores often offer members early access to restocks.
We also suggest using a tracking site like NowInStock.net to watch PS5 availability (both disc and digital editions) at multiple retailers. You can enable alerts in your browser to be notified when restocks happen.
Where to Buy Xbox Series X/S
Snagging an Xbox Series X or S has generally been easier than finding a PlayStation 5. While both platforms are competitive, the PS5 has often been the more sought-after system.
Because Xbox consoles have been more available, there’s less complicated advice needed. If you go the Amazon route, you can request a spot in a reservation queue for the Series X.
To buy directly from Microsoft, visit the company’s online store at Xbox consoles. The Microsoft Store may offer the Series X in bundles (sometimes with an extra controller) or as refurbished units.
If you purchase an Xbox Series X from big retailers like GameStop, Best Buy or Walmart, keep in mind that restocks may be prioritized for members of each store’s loyalty program.
You might be wondering why we didn’t spend much time on the Xbox Series S. That console has not been as scarce; it’s generally easier to locate. With Xbox availability higher, many buyers are choosing the full-priced 4K disc-based Series X.
If your goal is an Xbox Series S, check the websites of common electronics retailers — Amazon, Microsoft, GameStop, Best Buy and Walmart — and you should have little trouble finding one.
For hunting down a scarce Xbox Series X, use a monitoring service like NowInStock.net to track retailer availability and set alerts for restock events.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
You can sometimes buy a PS5 in physical stores, but finding one on the shelf is often difficult. Since the PS5 has tended to sell out rapidly since launch, we recommend usingSony’s official siteorretailer websitesto track down a new PlayStation 5 (disc or Digital Edition).
New video game consoles are often hard to obtain right after release, and the PS5 remains spottily stocked two years in. Limited supply is likely due to a combination of the chip shortage and recent global health events.
We advise trying to buy a PS5 either fromSony directlyor viaAmazon, as both provide reservation systems. Also consider purchasing a bundle (for example, a Horizon Forbidden West bundle), which can be simpler to locate.
James Radcliffe is a senior features writer covering consumer tech.
