Will PS4 Consoles Become Cheaper with the Launch of PS5? Is Now a Good Time to Buy?

The decision to purchase a PS4 or wait for a potential price drop before buying a PS5 is a personal one. Ultimately, it depends on your financial situation and gaming preferences. In the United States, where the majority of gaming enthusiasts reside, the PS5 has become a dominant force in the market, offering a range of exclusive games and features. However, the PS4 remains a viable option, especially for those who are looking for a cost-effective solution.

The PS5's Dominance and the Future of PS4

The PS5 has clearly outperformed both the Xbox Series X and its other competitors. However, its steep initial price tag of around $500 can be a significant hurdle for gamers on a budget. Given this, the PS4 is a more accessible and affordable option. The PS4, available in various models such as the standard and slim versions, continues to offer a vast library of titles and remains a reliable console for both current and classic games.

Current PS4 Pricing and Accessibility

Currently, the PS4 can be found at various price points. The cheapest I've seen is around $125, often found on secondary markets like pawn shops. Major retail stores such as Amazon, Walmart, and GameStop typically offer a mid-range price point, around $220. As of this writing, it's reasonable to expect that the PS4 will become more affordable and more accessible to the majority of people by 2024.

One of the easiest ways to secure a PS4 at a cheaper price is by buying refurbished models. GameStop, for example, offers such units, often for around $209. This option is not only financially viable but also comes with warranties and excellent customer service.

Recent PS4 Acquisition and Its Value

Interestingly, I recently received a PS4 Slim 1TB as a gift, which was priced at over $400 when new. This illustrates that the PS4 can still be a valuable investment, even at its initial release price. Additionally, if you need a new controller, you can purchase one for around $65 at Walmart. This makes the PS4 a more complete package and a better value proposition for many gamers.

The PS4 Library of Cheap Games

The PS4 boasts a vast and varied library of games that are either free or available at a significantly reduced cost. For example, Apex Legends is one of the most popular games available for free downloads on the platform. This library continues to grow, making the PS4 an attractive option for budget-conscious gamers.

The PS5, on the other hand, is likely to retain its high initial price point, with potential price drops being minimal. According to my sources, the Slim model of the PS4 may release later in 2023, but it is only expected to be around $100 cheaper than the standard model. This means that if you absolutely need the latest releases and exclusive games, the PS5 remains the only option, albeit at a higher cost.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Ultimately, the decision to buy a PS4 now or to wait for a potential price drop before purchasing a PS5 depends on your individual needs and budget. The PS4 remains a reliable and cost-effective gaming system with a wide range of titles available. If you can accommodate the higher initial cost and potential maintenance expenses of the PS5, it may be worth considering, especially for those who want the latest technology and exclusive games.

For those on a tighter budget, the PS4 is the clear choice. It offers a thorough gaming experience with a wide range of excellent games and is more likely to become more affordable in the coming months and years. Happy gaming!

If you have any questions or need further assistance with pricing, you can always use the Google search engine to compare prices and make an informed decision.