As Grand Theft Auto 6 approaches its November release, players seeking the most affordable entry point into the current generation may find refurbished PlayStation 5 consoles to be the most compelling option. New PS5 models, including the Digital Edition at $599.99 and the disc-drive version at $649.99, present a substantial investment, while the PS5 Pro is priced at $899.99. A certified refurbished console can offer considerable savings without compromising functionality.
PlayStation Direct is offering certified refurbished PS5 consoles, with the standard model at $549 and the Digital Edition at $499. The refurbished Digital Edition is particularly attractive for new adopters, especially those without a pre-existing library of physical PS5 or PS4 games. This price point is $100 less than a new Digital Edition and includes the newer slimline design with a 1TB SSD.
Sony emphasizes that its certified refurbished products undergo a rigorous recertification process, ensuring they meet the same functional standards as new PlayStation consoles and operate like new. For players anticipating GTA 6 as their primary reason for purchasing a PS5, the refurbished Digital Edition's $499 price offers a significant value proposition.
Furthermore, Sony's plan to cease production of physical game discs for new PlayStation releases from January 2028 suggests a future where digital gaming will be increasingly central to the PlayStation ecosystem. While the disc-drive PS5 remains a recommendation for those who frequently purchase used games, hunt for physical discounts, borrow titles, or possess a large physical game collection, the Digital Edition is a strong contender for those starting fresh.
Alternative options exist, such as Best Buy's refurbished PS5, priced at $539.99. This model includes a disc drive but is the original 2020 hardware with an 825GB SSD, unlike the newer 1TB slimline model available from PlayStation Direct. For those prioritizing the lowest cost and not concerned with physical media, the $499 refurbished PS5 Digital Edition from PlayStation Direct is the most economical choice. If a disc drive is essential, the Best Buy option presents a more budget-friendly path to owning that hardware variant.
Best Buy also provides an incentive with a $50 reward certificate when purchasing GTA 6 alongside an eligible PS5 or Xbox console. However, it is important to note that this is a store credit, not an upfront discount. For the PS5 Pro, Best Buy has "Open Box" options starting at $800.99, depending on the condition. These are currently among the few readily available PS5 Pro units elsewhere.
Additionally, a $100 PlayStation Gift Card is available for $95 at Amazon for Prime members, offering a modest $5 saving on the GTA 6 Ultimate Edition. This represents a small but straightforward saving for those already planning to purchase the title.