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

The recent unveiling of the PS5 Pro has sparked discussion among analysts regarding its projected sales. The new console reignites speculation surrounding a potential new handheld PlayStation device.

Analyst Weighs in on PS5 Pro Sales Trajectory with Price Hike

PS5 Pro's Enhanced Capabilities Fuel "PS5 Handheld" Rumors

Despite its $700 price tag, analysts at Ampere Analysis predict strong sales for the PS5 Pro, comparable to the PS4 Pro. Ampere's Piers Harding-Rolls acknowledges the significant price difference between the PS5 and PS5 Pro (40-50%), much larger than the PS4 and PS4 Pro launch gap. They project approximately 1.3 million PS5 Pro units sold during the November 2024 launch window – around 400,000 fewer than the PS4 Pro's launch sales in 2016. Harding-Rolls notes that while the price may dampen demand, enthusiasts are less price-sensitive. The PS4 Pro ultimately sold approximately 14.5 million units, representing roughly 12% of total PS4 sales, with an estimated 13 million unit sell-through over five years. (Sell-through refers to consumer purchases from retailers.)

Meanwhile, PS5 lead architect Mark Cerny highlighted the PS5 Pro's enhancement of PSVR2 gaming. In a statement to CNET, Cerny cited the improved GPU's ability to deliver higher resolution PSVR2 game outputs, though specific titles haven't been announced. He also confirmed PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution (AI-assisted upscaling) will eventually support PSVR2. The PS5 Pro is also compatible with existing PS5 accessories like the PS Portal.

This PS Portal compatibility fuels speculation about a potential new portable PlayStation console. Earlier rumors of a PS5 handheld capable of running PS5 games resurfaced following the PS5 Pro's unveiling. While unconfirmed, the PS5 Pro's advanced features could indicate a shift towards a new handheld offering.