So I was updating a guide on where to look for PlayStation 5s (you're welcome, we're going to be updating that and the Xbox Series X/S one frequently to try to help readers out), and I came across something weird. I was on Walmart.com looking up the PS5 product pages and came across a bunch of listings that had the console and two controllers... for around $1,000. I thought, "huh that's weird. Why are they selling at after-market prices on Walmart.com?" So I ran it by my colleagues to make sure I was looking at the right thing. No, I was not, they informed me. Apparently, now Wal-Mart lets third-parties list on their product pages with only the slightest indication that you are buying from a third-party (beyond the obviously absurd price).
Now, I'm not dumb, but I haven't shopped on Walmart in a while. I've certainly shopped on Amazon and Ebay and dealt with my share of third-party grief. The difference was with Amazon and Ebay, it was always understood that I was taking a risk with a third party. When I go to a major retailer website like Target or Walmart, I'm not looking to buy from a third party. I don't know who would be, but I guess I've just been out of the loop long enough to miss that apparently Wal-Mart is a marketplace for after-market sellers and pricing now.
So I just thought I'd put this together as a PSA. I know a lot of folks out there are still looking for PS5 and Xbox Series X/S consoles. Keep your eye out for shenanigans like that. Many may know that Newegg also lets you buy third-party or direct from Newegg through filters. Walmart.com now has filters that work similarly way. If you want to see Walmart stock, be sure to check the filters and remove third-party sellers from listing.
I would also recommend registering with Sony for a chance at buying a PlayStation 5. I was ready to write that process off as stupid in 2020, but it ended up being how I bought mine, and it was an incredibly stress-free way to go about it. Yes, I know, it sucks to cast your chance at a console to the luck of getting an invitation from the company. Still, if you get that invitation, this is the safest and most secure way to get a PS5 that I know of.
Otherwise, stay tuned to our Where to Buy PS5 and Where to buy Xbox Series X/S guides. We'll be updating these far more frequently to try to guide you to stock in a far more timely manner. Stay tuned and good luck with shopping this season. Let your non-internet savvy loved ones know not to get raked over the coals by garbage third-party sellers jacking up prices on Walmart.com.
