GTA 6 hype sends used PS5 Pro prices soaring as supply remains tight

PlayStation 5 buyers are facing another difficult period, with rising console prices and reports of dwindling PS5 Pro stock just weeks before Grand Theft Auto VI arrives. According to a report from gaming outlet PlayFront, Sony has warned retailers that shortages of its premium console could persist into early 2027, potentially leaving players with limited options as demand increases.

The report cites a retailer memo describing “temporary market supply constraints and high demand,” with the shortage expected to continue “through early 2027 at the earliest.” Major retailers, including Sony's own online store, have reportedly run out of stock. The upcoming launch of GTA 6 on November 19 is considered a potential factor, as some players may want to upgrade to Sony's most powerful console ahead of Rockstar's highly anticipated release.

The supply crunch is also affecting the secondhand market. GameStop has reportedly introduced new pricing guidelines for pre-owned PS5 Pro consoles across its stores, effective October 16. Under the revised prices, the digital-only model can cost as much as $1,399.99 (approximately €1,204 / £1,036), while a unit equipped with a disc drive can reach $1,499.99 (approximately €1,290 / £1,110). These figures put used consoles well above the PS5 Pro's original retail price.

Sony launched the PS5 Pro in November 2024, several years after the original PS5 debuted amid chip shortages and widespread supply-chain disruptions. Those earlier problems had largely eased by January 2023, but the current situation presents a new challenge for buyers hoping to secure the upgraded hardware.

Console prices have also moved in the opposite direction from the discounts many players expected as the hardware aged. The original PS5 launched in November 2020 at $499 (€499 / £449) for the disc edition and $399 (€399 / £359) for the Digital Edition. By 2026, those prices had climbed to $649 (€649 / £569), and $599 (€599 / £519), respectively. Meanwhile, the PS5 Pro debuted at $699 (€799 / £699) in 2024, rose to $749 (€799 / £699) in August 2025, and reached $899 (€899 / £789) following another increase in April 2026.

Although supply constraints can limit availability, GTA 6 may add further pressure as its release approaches. The game's launch on PlayStation and Xbox could encourage some players to purchase a PS5 Pro for its more capable hardware, particularly those who have yet to buy a current-generation console. Whether demand will ease after launch remains uncertain, but the reported shortage suggests that finding a PS5 Pro at a reasonable price could remain difficult for months.

As always, for the latest news on PlayStation consoles, PS6 rumors, hardware pricing, and developments across the gaming industry, be sure to follow our dedicated hardware coverage.