PS5 Pro's Poor Reception Does Nothing to Slow Sales Projections

Recent PS5 Pro launch sparks analyst debate on its sales potential. Meanwhile, the new console reignites earlier speculation about a potential PlayStation handheld.

Analyst Forecasts PS5 Pro Sales Despite Price Increase

Enhanced PS5 Pro Capabilities Fuel "PS5 Handheld" Speculation

The $700 PS5 Pro's unveiling has prompted industry analysts to predict sales comparable to the PS4 Pro, despite the higher price tag. Ampere Analysis' Piers Harding-Rolls noted the significant price difference between the PS5 and PS5 Pro (40-50%), much larger than the PS4 and PS4 Pro launch gap.

Ampere Analysis forecasts around 1.3 million PS5 Pro units sold during its November 2024 launch window—approximately 400,000 fewer than the PS4 Pro's launch sales in 2016. Harding-Rolls highlighted the price disparity, stating that while it might dampen demand, PlayStation enthusiasts are less likely to be deterred by the cost. The PS4 Pro ultimately sold approximately 14.5 million units, representing about 12% of total PS4 sales, with projected sales of around 13 million units over five years. (*Sell-through refers to direct consumer purchases from retailers.)

PS5 lead architect Mark Cerny confirmed that the PS5 Pro will enhance PSVR2 gaming via performance boosts. He told CNET that the improved GPU will allow for higher resolutions in PSVR2 games, although specific titles haven't been announced. Cerny also mentioned the PS5 Pro's AI-assisted upscaling, PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution, will be compatible with PSVR2. The PS5 Pro also works with other PS5 accessories like the PS Portal.

This PS Portal compatibility, coupled with previous rumors of a portable PlayStation console capable of running PS5 games, has reignited speculation about a new handheld device. While unconfirmed, the PS5 Pro's advanced capabilities could indicate a shift towards a new handheld platform.