We’re inching ever closer to a mid-cycle refresh for the PlayStation 5, as preorders for Sony’s forthcoming console are now available to the masses. Although the $699.99 machine was originally exclusive to the PlayStation Direct storefront, it’s now up for preorder at all major retailers — including Amazon, Walmart, Best Buy, and Target.

Sony’s retro-styled 30th Anniversary consoles and accessories also went up for preorder at the same time as the standard PS5 Pro, but, unfortunately, they quickly sold out and are still unavailable.

Regardless of which PS5 Pro model you secure, the main prospect of the PS5 Pro is improved graphics and performance. The new console may lack a disc drive (you can get one for an additional $80), but its new GPU, AI upscaling, and better ray tracing promise a new level of fidelity for this console generation — with the ability to maintain 4K resolution at 60fps across select titles.

It may not be the most logical upgrade over a regular PS5 for everyone, but if you’re hungry for the best performance on exclusives like Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, it may be the only way to achieve it (at least until Rebirth and other exclusives find their way to PC).

As previously mentioned, Sony was the first retailer to open up preorders for its $699.99 console through PlayStation Direct. As of this week, however, Amazon, Walmart, Best Buy, and Target are all now taking preorders, with a delivery date of November 7th.

Unlike the nightmarish PS5 restocks we witnessed in the early days of the pandemic, retailers don’t seem to have the heightened demand for the PS5 Pro that would necessitate lengthy queues. Some may require you to sign in with an account, however, and may still limit you to one console per order. Stock is still readily available and, even if they sell out, we expect to see more in the run-up to the PS5 Pro’s release.

Whether or not the rush returns, you may still appreciate these tips for increasing your chances of successfully preordering a console:

• Create an account for the retail site that you plan to use. This not only covers any potential sign-in requirements but also makes it easier to track your order once it ships.
• Have your billing / shipping info saved to make checkout as quick as possible.
• If necessary, try accessing the retailer’s site using both your computer and the accompanying mobile app for your phone or tablet. One may work better for you at any given time than the other.

Whether you’re going with a PS5 Digital Edition slim or a PS5 Pro, you’ll want to consider whether you anticipate needing a disc drive down the line. Neither console includes one — an especially egregious omission on the PS5 Pro, considering the price — which means you’ll be relegated to purchasing digital titles unless you pick one up.

That being said, it’s a good idea to secure the $79.99 disc drive (which is compatible with both the PS5 Pro and PS5 Digital Edition slim) sooner rather than later. We’ve recently noticed stock fluctuating at some retailers as prospective buyers prepare to receive their consoles. Currently, you can purchase one from Amazon, Walmart, Best Buy, and the PlayStation Direct storefront.

Update, October 11th: Added new retailer links for the PS5 Pro and a section regarding the PS5 disc drive, along with the latest info on Sony’s 30th anniversary console.