Sony and PlayStation have unveiled a new leasing program for users in Japan and the United Kingdom. The new program, called Flex, allows users to rent a PlayStation 5 or one of several other PlayStation products, for 12, 24, or 36 months at a time.
Players Can Rent or Lease the PS5 in Japan or the UK
In the UK, users can lease one of several PS5 models, the PlayStation Portal, PS VR2, or even a DualSense Edge Wireless Controller through Raylo, a tech leasing company. As with any other lease, you can lock in a lower monthly rate the longer your lease term is. 36 month leases offer the lowest monthly cost, and there’s a monthly rolling lease that can be canceled at any time that’s much more expensive. For example, the PS5 Pro costs £35.59/month under a rolling monthly lease, but a 36 month lease lets player pay just £18.95/month. Currently, a PS5 Pro is retailed at £699.99 in the United Kingdom.
This is not a rent-to-own plan, but the Flex FAQ section does note that players “may have the option to purchase the device at the end of [a] lease, subject to Raylo’s discretion and pricing at that time.” While the service leases controllers as well, each PS5 comes with at least one controller included, as well a “fair” wear-and-tear policy that covers minor scratches or dents.
In Japan, video game retailer GEO launched its own PS5 rental service at the end of February. Players in Japan have the option of renting a PS5 for an eight-day or 15-day window for just a few dollars. However, according to Automaton, the service is already completely booked until mid-April.
Would you consider leasing a PS5 instead of buying one? Let us know in the comments or on our community forum!
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