The PS5 lineup now has multiple models

Sony offers the PS5 Slim in digital-only ($600, 825GB) or disc ($650, 1TB), while the PS5 Pro is digital-only at $900. An $80 disc drive add-on is available separately for digital models.

The disc model wins on value

The 1TB disc Slim costs just $50 more than the digital model but includes 175GB extra storage. Since disc games still install to internal storage, you won't save space by using discs, making the extra storage the real advantage.

Physical games will disappear after 2027

Sony announced it will stop manufacturing game discs in 2028. New PS5 games won't be available on disc after 2027, though the PS5 will continue receiving games into the PS6 era.

“Sony will no longer make game discs starting in 2028”

Blu-Ray is the real reason to buy disc

The PS5 disc drive plays Blu-Ray and UHD Blu-Ray movies, offering uncompressed 4K video and audio that streaming services can't match. It's the cheapest way to add a high-quality Blu-Ray player to your home theater.

“Blu-Ray is the easiest way to experience uncompressed movies in the highest quality currently available for home theaters.”

Streaming can't match physical media quality

Streaming services advertise 4K with Dolby Atmos, but the picture and audio are heavily compressed compared to 4K Blu-Ray. Standalone Blu-Ray players cost several hundred dollars, making the PS5 disc drive a bargain.

The PS5 Pro is expensive and hard to find

The PS5 Pro costs $900 and is largely sold out due to GTA VI hype. Scalper prices are common, so waiting a few months for stock to normalize is worth considering.

Skip the disc drive for PS5 Pro owners

If you're buying the $900 PS5 Pro, the $80 disc drive add-on is only worth it if you already own a physical game library. Otherwise, the digital-only model is sufficient.

The final recommendation

The PS5 Slim with a disc drive is the best overall value. For $50 more than the digital model, you get extra storage, access to 14 years of physical games, and a Blu-Ray player.