The hardest thing about the recent console launches for both PS5 and Xbox Series X|S is actually getting one. Since the launch date, both consoles have been largely out of stock. This includes both in-store and online.
Walmart No Longer Selling PS5 or Xbox Series X
Like many of you, we’ve been attempting to get our hands on the latest consoles since launch. Whether online or in-store, units typically sell out within seconds or minutes respectively. Recently, one of our very own attempted to get a PS5 from a local Walmart location where we came across some breaking news.
As expected, many are still trying to get their hands on a new console. Companies have been over selling while others like Target remain consistently out of stock. The latter of which has moved to online only, allowing buyers even an option to purchase online and pick-up in-store.
After enduring large lines reminiscent of Black Friday, we’ve discovered that moving forward, Walmart will no longer be carrying any next-generation consoles in-store. Current stock will be sold as expected, emptying local inventory. Then, the only way to acquire one from Walmart will be from their app or website. One of the managers clarified it would not operate exactly as Target does. Walmart will not be offering in-store pickups for online purchases. The company is effectively eliminating the possibility any in-store transactions regarding the PS5 and Xbox Series X|S for the foreseeable future. Like standard online purchases, units (when actually available) can only be bought and shipped directly to the purchaser.
Bad news for the holidays
Obviously, this spells bad news for buyers. It’s no secret bots and scalpers plague online sales. That said, there is some hope. On two separate occasion, my household has been able to secure both a PS5 and Xbox Series X from Walmart’s website. The best advice I can give is:
- If you have not, create a profile. This way you can set a default shipping address and payment option ahead of time. This saves valuable seconds from those who enter them in on the spot and avoids the need for the captcha.
- Be sure to know your card’s 3-digit security code like your name. Even if pre-entered, you will be asked to type it in again
- Be on the buy page 3 to 5 minutes before the scheduled restock. For now, Walmart strategically removes the item page for both consoles, so you’ll at least need to be here for the Xbox or here the PlayStation 5 so that you can click into the appropriate page link the minute they are available.
From there, it’s up to favor, internet, and timing. We wish all of you luck in getting your next console. I’d personally encourage not to buy at scalper prices as it encourages this behavior. Waiting can suck, but sometimes it is the better option.
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The Xbox Series X is available at Walmart (Update: Sold out)
If you’re not sure how the Series X differs from the more affordable but weaker Series S console, there a few things to consider. First, unlike the Series S, the Series X features a 4K UHD Blu-ray drive, which allows it to play physical games and other media. The Series X also has a 1TB SSD instead of the 512GB SSD found on the Series S, and it renders games in native 4K at 60fps. The Series S targets it 1440p and features a slimmer build, but otherwise, the machines are essentially the same.