tbh after owning a launch unit and now the slim I can tell you the best 'deal' is actually planning for the hidden storage costs because that internal drive fills up in like two seconds especially with modern AAA titles basically being 100GB+ each. I learned the hard way that hunting for a $50 discount on the console is less important than snagging the right peripherals when they hit their lowest price points in November and wait no I actually mean you should look at the total cost of ownership over like 3 or 4 years. Here is what I actually recommend focusing on for a long-term setup:
* Sony PlayStation 5 Slim Disc Console - dont go digital only because physical discs are way cheaper to trade or buy used at local shops over the life of the console.
* Samsung 990 PRO 2TB NVMe M.2 SSD - you'll want the version with the integrated heatsink since the PS5 requires specific thermal management for its PCIe Gen4 slot to maintain those 5,500 MB/s sequential read speeds.
* Sony PlayStation Plus Extra - instead of buying individual $70 games just get the mid-tier sub during the holiday sales it gives you a massive catalog instantly for the kid to explore. I mean I spent so much time worrying about the console price initially but I actually saved way more money by being ready to jump on a high-spec SSD and staying in the disc-based ecosystem so definitely keep an eye on those technical components too!

Hey, I get the PS5 struggle! My nephew's been bugging me for one too. Honestly, instead of Black Friday hunting, have you considered checking out places like Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist? I know, kinda risky, but hear me out.

I've actually had some decent luck finding used consoles there. You can often find bundles with games and extra controllers for around $350-$400, especially if you're patient and willing to haggle a bit. Just make sure you meet in a public place and test it out before handing over the cash. Unfortunately, I tried waiting for Black Friday deals on tires last year (needed them BADLY since mine are down to 3/32" tread depth!), and the 'deals' weren't as good as expected. I ended up paying more at Discount Tire later. Food for thought!

Good luck with the PS5 hunt! Hope you find a great deal!

Hey there! Totally get the PS5 Black Friday ambition – gotta make the little ones (or ourselves!) happy, right?! While the Facebook Marketplace suggestion in the previous reply is definitely viable, I'm gonna throw a *slightly* different angle at you, especially since you're already thinking budget!

Instead of focusing *solely* on a Black Friday miracle for the console itself, have you considered maximizing the *existing* tech you already own, and maybe deferring the PS5 purchase a bit? Hear me out! You could get a HUGE bang for your buck by upgrading your TV or sound system instead! Think about it: even if you snag a PS5 on sale, if it's plugged into an older TV, you're not really getting the full experience!

I actually did this a few years back! I was eyeing a new gaming PC, but instead, I splurged on a new 4K OLED TV during a pre-Super Bowl sale (around January). I scored a 55-inch LG C1 for around $900 (they might be even cheaper now!), and WOW, what a difference it made playing my existing games! The colors, the clarity... amazing! My *old* games felt brand new! Plus, good TVs often have HDMI 2.1 which is essential for the PS5! Then, over the next few months, I slowly saved up for the PC itself.

Alternatively, a fantastic soundbar system, like a Sony HT-A7000 (keep an eye out for sales!), can drastically improve the audio immersion in any game. You might find yourself so engrossed in your current games with better audio that the PS5 desire simmers down a bit! Trust me, upgrading your existing setup can be surprisingly satisfying AND cost-effective in the long run! And, hey, maybe by the time you *do* get the PS5, even better models or Pro versions will be out! Just a thought!

Good luck on your quest! Let me know if you wanna chat specifics about TV or soundbar features! I'm happy to ramble on about that stuff all day!

Hey there! I totally understand the PS5 hunt – everyone seems to want one! Instead of just focusing on Black Friday deals, have you considered looking at different gaming consoles altogether? Maybe broadening your horizons could lead to a better deal or even a better fit for your kid!

I remember when my nephew was set on getting an Xbox Series X. He was laser-focused, just like your kid with the PS5. We spent weeks researching Black Friday deals, but honestly, the discounts were pretty minimal and stock was always a nightmare. Then, almost as a joke, I started looking at Nintendo Switch bundles. Turns out, for around $300 (this was a year or two ago, so prices might be different now), we could get the Switch OLED model *with* a game!

He ended up loving the Switch! Plus, the games are generally a bit cheaper, which is a bonus for my wallet, haha. I know it's not a PS5, but maybe exploring other consoles – like the Xbox Series S (which is usually cheaper than the Series X) or even the older Xbox One X – could open up some more affordable options? You might even find a used one in good condition for under $200. Just remember to check the seller's reputation thoroughly if you go that route!

Black Friday for PS5s is always a gamble, honestly. Limited stock and high demand usually mean slim pickings. Thinking outside the box *might* get you a console sooner, and within your budget. I'm happy to help you compare specs or look at game libraries if you're interested! Just let me know what your kid likes to play.

Hey! I totally get the future planning for a PS5! Black Friday can be a gamble, but here's another thought: have you considered looking at refurbished models directly from Sony or GameStop?!

I know, refurbished can sound scary, but often they're just returns that are checked and fixed up. You can sometimes snag a standard PS5 Digital Edition for around $300-$350 that way! Plus, they usually come with a limited warranty, which is great. Check their websites regularly; they often have flash sales too, not just on Black Friday. I saw a bundle last month for $400 on the Sony site, including a controller! Is that amazing or what? I think checking those out might save you a ton and still make your kiddo happy! Good luck!

Hey! Totally get the PS5 Black Friday hunt – everyone wants to make their kid (or themselves!) happy! Seeing everyone talk about saving money reminds me of the time I tried to save a few bucks buying a used car battery... BIG mistake! Ended up stranded on the side of the road. So, while saving money is awesome, let's talk about the *source* of those savings, especially when it comes to electronics.

Instead of *just* focusing on the cheapest PS5 deal, I'd STRONGLY recommend prioritizing buying directly from Sony or a super reputable retailer like Best Buy or Target, even if it's not the *absolute lowest* price. Why? Peace of mind! You're guaranteed a genuine product, a proper warranty, and a return policy if something goes sideways. Think of it like buying car parts – yeah, you *could* get a super cheap knock-off online, but is it REALLY worth the risk of it failing and causing even MORE problems down the line? Probably not.

I remember seeing some sketchy online PS5 deals last year around Black Friday – looked too good to be true, and knowing what I know about cars, I immediately thought of those super cheap brake pads that wear out in like, 5,000 miles. Not worth it! Aim for reputable sellers, even if it means paying a *little* more. Maybe aim for a bundle from Best Buy – they often have console + game deals. You might spend closer to $550-$600, but you'll sleep better knowing you're not getting scammed or buying a grey-market console that might brick itself in a month.

Just my two cents! I'd rather pay a bit more and know I'm getting something reliable than save a few bucks and end up with a paperweight... or stranded on the highway! Let me know if you want me to keep an eye out for deals from reputable places closer to the holidays! Happy hunting (safely!)