Sony hikes PlayStation 5 prices again and halts CFexpress card sales: everything you need to know
If you've been thinking about getting a PlayStation 5, you might want to read this before saving up any more. Sony has just dropped two bombshells that are going to hit gamers' wallets harder than we expected. First, another price hike on several console models (yes, again). Second, a complete halt on sales of CFexpress memory cards – just when they were starting to look like a decent option for expanding internal storage. Let's break it down, because there's a lot to unpack.
PS5 prices jump (again) from 2 April
Those who follow the market closely know this isn't the first time. But what really stings is the reason: the conflict in Iran is hitting global supply chains, and Sony has no choice but to pass that extra cost on to the customer. From 2 April, prices for the PlayStation 5 Slim Digital Edition, PS5 Pro and PlayStation Portal will all shoot up. And we're not talking pocket change – in some cases, the increase is over €100.
Here's the clear breakdown so you don't get a nasty shock at the till:
- PS5 Slim Digital Edition: goes from €449.99 to €499.99 (€50 more).
- PS5 Pro: the top-tier model jumps from €799.99 to €899.99 (a €100 increase).
- PlayStation Portal: the remote-play handheld goes from €219.99 to €249.99 (€30 extra).
Note that the disc-drive models (the standard PS5) are safe for now. But don't celebrate too soon – the geopolitical situation is still a roll of the dice. If component costs rise further, don't rule out a fourth wave before the end of the year.
More trouble: Sony's CFexpress cards are a no-go
Just as the PlayStation 5 community was starting to warm to CFexpress cards for expanding internal storage (way faster than external USB hard drives), Sony has slammed the brakes. The company has suspended sales of these cards with no warning, and worse still – there's no estimated date for when they'll be back. If you check the PlayStation Store or any official retailer now, you'll see 'out of stock' or simply 'product not available'.
The official reason? Logistics issues with memory controllers – something other manufacturers have faced before. But many of us suspect it's also an attempt to push users towards Sony's official internal SSDs, which cost twice as much as an equivalent CFexpress card. Either way, if you're a PlayStation 4 owner thinking about making the leap to the next generation, bear in mind that expanding storage right now is a headache. And no, DIY adapter tricks don't always work well.
What should I do if I'm planning to buy a PS5?
My practical advice: if you can scrape the cash together before 2 April, run. Current prices will hold until 1 April inclusive, but after that you'll have to pay the new rates. I'd also suggest looking at second-hand options or PlayStation Store bundles with digital games – sometimes retailers throw in deals to soften the blow. As for CFexpress cards… patience. Or start looking at alternative brands like Sabrent or WD Black, which haven't announced any price hikes or shortages yet.
Either way, this is just another chapter in the hardware rollercoaster. The PlayStation 5 is still an incredible machine, but keeping it happy is getting more expensive by the day. The only good news is that PlayStation 4 games still run brilliantly on the new console, so at least backwards compatibility has your back. For everything else, it's time to tighten your belt and keep a close eye on the date: 2 April arrives with a warning for your wallet.