PS5 restock: Target's PS5 disc console drop continues, but nearly sold out

Update 06:04 ET: Target is now live with its PS5 stock - it's limited by region right now, and we're now seeing nearly everything out of stock as we randomly check multiple stores across the US.

Target's much-rumored PS5 restock drop has finally arrived - hurry, as they're likely to be severely limited. Note: it's only available for pick up at location, so make sure you can do so safely, as delivery is not an option. 

It looks like stocks are dwindling to zero at the moment - we are seeing some in stock around the nation, but we're increasingly seeing 'out of stock' notices.

• Target: PS5 |(PS5 Digital Edition is not available with this PS5 restock)

The PS5 stock availability is limited to the disc version of the console, so don't expect to get the digital-only version. We've checked multiple locations around the US, and not seen anything available - only the PS5 disc console in stock.

Rumors had suggested that Target would receive units in its warehouses around the US on Monday, but they didn't materialize. Those same sources suggested that the drop could happen up to December 29, and that's turned out to be true.

While PS5 stock is rare and severely limited, here's where else to check when it does land:

• Amazon: PS5 | PS5 Digital Edition
• Walmart: PS5 | PS5 Digital Edition
• Best Buy: PS5 | PS5 Digital Edition
• GameStop: PS5 | PS5 Digital Edition
• Sony Direct: PS5 | PS5 Digital Edition
• B&H Photo: PS5 |PS5 Digital Edition
• Sam's Club: PS5 | PS5 Digital Edition
• Newegg: PS5 | PS5 Digital Edition
• Costco: PS5
• Adorama: PS5 
• Antonline: PS5

Target had been tipped to have PS5 restock shipments incoming, and the expected time frame was December 27-29, according to video game site Spiel Times, which cited 'Someone of higher designation' as the source of Target PS5 restock info. This means the window has been narrowed down to tomorrow.

The stock was heading to stores earlier in the week, and that drop has now happened, albeit at the very last minute.

It seem the Spiel Times' source is accurate and the detail in the report was strong: specific regions are likely to get more than others, and that's what we're seeing right now.

When the PS5 restock appears...

The only good news is that retailers are offering the stock in waves to stop their sites crashing under heavy loads at certain times – that could also explain why Target is doing drops in the early hours. 

Spiel Times is suggesting that 3am-7am is the key time for PS5 stock to land (which turned out to be true), and that's something we've experienced in the past too.

This previous Tweet from Spiel Times earlier in December is also worth remembering:

[TARGET INFO]Keep in mind Target is keeping a close watch on Twitter accounts and info floating around social media. So, there could be rescheduling or delays.More Info - https://t.co/wcLOvYVIYN https://t.co/rACRFX5XFODecember 17, 2020

The PS5 stock drop will be in-store pickup only with no walk-in orders (thankfully, to avoid the Covid-tempting stampedes at the news of a PS5 console) – so you'll order online and get them in store at a specific time. 

The key thing with these PS5 restock drops is making the checkout process as smooth as possible – you'll often be able to add to cart, but every second and click after that reduces your chance of actually getting one dramatically.

Should you buy a PS5?

The PS5 comes with a revolutionary new DualSense controller, and is capable of 4K gaming at 120fps. It's also backwards compatible with all the best PS4 games, so you can revisit some classic titles and take your existing library with you.

What's more, the PS5's selection of games is already shaping up nicely. Games such as Demon's Souls and Marvel's Spider-Man: Miles Morales are must-haves, and continue Sony's legacy of creating compelling exclusives you won't find anywhere else.

• PS5 review: read our verdict
• PS5 vs PS5 Digital Edition: what's the difference?
• Best PS5 games: the top titles on PlayStation 5