Japan-Only 825GB PS5 Digital Edition: Price, Specs, Release Date

Sony has announced a Japan‑exclusive PlayStation 5 Digital Edition, set to release on November 21, 2025. The console was revealed during the State of Play Japan broadcast and comes with an 825GB SSD at a retail price of 55,000 yen (around $350 USD).

This new model is unique in that it is Japanese‑language only, meaning it can only be used with PlayStation accounts registered in Japan. It’s a move that mirrors Nintendo’s earlier release of a discounted, Japan‑only Switch 2 model, showing how both companies are tailoring hardware specifically for their domestic market.

PlayStation 5 Digital Edition Japanese Model | Image Credit: Sony via Gaming Amigos

Features and Specifications

• Storage: 825GB SSD

• Language: Japanese only, tied to accounts with “Country/Region” set to Japan

• Performance: Retains the PS5’s ultra‑fast SSD, 3D audio, backward compatibility with PS4, and DualSense controller features like haptic feedback and adaptive triggers

• Compatibility: Works with PS5 peripherals from the CFI‑2000 slim model group (vertical stands, disc drives, body covers sold separately)

• Disc Drive Option: While this edition is digital‑only, players can attach a separately sold disc drive to enjoy physical games and media

• Contents in Box: Console, DualSense controller, HDMI cable, USB cable, power cord, printed materials, and Astro’s Playroom pre‑installed

Release and Availability

• Release Date: November 21, 2025

• Reservations: Began November 13, 2025, at 10:00 AM JST via Japanese PlayStation retailers and e‑commerce sites

• Price: 55,000 yen (tax included), approximately $355–$357 USD

Market Context

For comparison, the base PS5 with a disc drive costs $549.99 in the U.S., while the PS5 Digital Edition is $499.99. The PS5 Pro sits at $749.99, with all three models seeing price increases in August. Offering a cheaper, localized PS5 Digital Edition is part of Sony’s strategy to expand console sales in Japan.

Earlier the same day, Sony confirmed that the PS5 has sold 84.2 million units worldwide at the five‑year mark, slightly behind the PS4’s 86.1 million in the same timeframe. The Japan‑only model could help boost momentum in its home market.

Domestic journalist Kawamura Meikou argues that Sony’s decision is “perfect, if not frightening” in its timing. He notes that by pricing the console close to Nintendo’s Switch 2 (49,980 yen), which is currently scarce in Japan, Sony is cleverly targeting "shortage‑driven demand." Kawamura believes this move could reignite the console race in Japan, where the PS5 has struggled against the Switch’s dominance, and potentially shift consumer interest thanks to its competitive price and stronger performance.

The PS5 Digital Edition wasn’t the only hardware announcement. Sony also revealed a 27‑inch PlayStation gaming monitor with VRR support and a DualSense charging hook.