PS5 Buying Guide 2026: What You Need to Know
By The Game Collection | Published: 2026-10-21
Category: Buying Guides
Get the facts on buying a PlayStation 5 in 2026, including storage, game format, and bundle options. Make an informed decision with our clear advice.
Quick answer
If you want a straightforward PS5 with the most value, the standard 1TB console is a solid pick. But if you're eager for a packed game right away, the Borderlands 4 bundle saves you money and shows off the console's speed.
Storage and game format: what's changing in 2026
Both the standard PS5 and the Borderlands 4 bundle come with 1TB of internal storage. That's enough for several modern games, but if you plan to play a large library, you might want an external drive later. The real shift is in game distribution: starting January 2028, newly released PlayStation games will be available only as digital downloads from the PlayStation Store and other retailers. That means any disc you buy today will still work, but future titles won't come on a disc. If you prefer physical copies, this is your last window to enjoy that option for new releases.
Bundle vs standalone: which saves you more?
The Borderlands 4 bundle costs about $42 more than the standalone console. That extra money gets you a full-priced game that normally retails for $70. So if you were going to buy Borderlands 4 anyway, the bundle is a no-brainer. If you don't care about that specific game, stick with the standalone and use the savings on something else. Either way, the hardware is identical: both consoles deliver 4K visuals at up to 120fps and load games almost instantly thanks to the custom SSD.
Performance: what the specs mean for you
Both PS5 models share the same custom AMD architecture and lightning-fast SSD. That means no loading screens in most games, smooth frame rates, and vibrant HDR graphics. The Borderlands 4 bundle is a great showcase because the game's worlds are colorful and action-heavy, so you'll see the console's strengths right out of the box. If you already own a PS5 or are upgrading from a PS4, the difference is night and day.
Your PS5 decision rules
- Storage needs: 1TB is enough for most players, but if you plan to keep more than 10-15 large games installed, consider an external USB drive (for PS4 games) or an internal SSD expansion.
- Game format preference: If you love collecting discs or trading games, buy now because after Jan. 2028 new releases will be digital-only. The disc drive on the current model will still play older discs. This is your last chance to buy a PS5 that plays new physical games.
- Bundle value: The Borderlands 4 bundle costs about $42 more than the standalone console. Since the game retails for $70, you save roughly $28 if you want that game. If you don't, skip it. Only get the bundle if you already plan to play Borderlands 4.
Product facts
- PlayStation®5 Console - 1 TB with Borderlands 4 (PS5): The PlayStation 5 Console 1TB with Borderlands 4 delivers stunning 4K visuals at up to 120fps, powered by custom AMD architecture and a lightning-fast SSD that eliminates loading times. It gives you a top-tier gaming experience and a full-priced game in one box, perfect for showing off the console's speed and graphics.
PlayStation®5 Console - 1 TB with Borderlands 4 (PS5) - PlayStation®5 Console - 1TB (PS5): The PlayStation 5 Console 1TB features cutting-edge hardware that delivers stunning 4K visuals at up to 120fps, with a note that from Jan. 2028 new games will be digital-only. It's the same powerful console without the extra game, so you save money and still get all the performance benefits, but you should be aware of the upcoming shift to digital games.
PlayStation®5 Console - 1TB (PS5)
Which PS5 is right for you?
Best for
- Gamers who want the best value and don't care about a specific bundled game
- Players who already own Borderlands 4 or prefer to buy games separately
Not ideal for
- Anyone who absolutely must have a physical disc for every new game after Jan. 2028
- Budget buyers who don't want to spend extra on a bundle they won't use
