Sony's new PS5 Pro has launched, prompting analysts to assess its sales potential. The console's release also reignites earlier speculation about a potential new PlayStation handheld.
Analyst Forecasts for PS5 Pro Sales Despite Price Increase
PS5 Pro's Enhanced Features Fuel Handheld Console Rumors
Despite a $700 price tag, analysts predict the PS5 Pro will achieve sales comparable to the PS4 Pro. Ampere Analysis' Piers Harding-Rolls notes a significant price difference between the PS5 and PS5 Pro (40-50%), much larger than the gap between the PS4 and PS4 Pro at launch.
Ampere Analysis projects around 1.3 million PS5 Pro units sold during its November 2024 launch window—approximately 400,000 fewer than the PS4 Pro's initial sales. Harding-Rolls highlights the price disparity: the PS4 Pro launched at $399, while the slim PS4 was $299 (a 33% difference). He suggests the PS5 Pro's price might dampen demand, but believes PlayStation enthusiasts will be less price-sensitive. Sony sold approximately 14.5 million PS4 Pro units, representing about 12% of total PS4 sales, with an anticipated 13 million unit sell-through within five years. (Sell-through refers to direct consumer purchases from retailers.)
Furthermore, PS5 lead architect Mark Cerny confirmed that the PS5 Pro will enhance PSVR2 gaming performance. He told CNET that the upgraded GPU will allow for higher resolutions in PSVR2 games, though specific titles haven't been announced. Cerny also mentioned that PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution, the PS5 Pro's AI upscaling, will be compatible with PSVR2. The PS5 Pro also supports other PS5 accessories, including the PS Portal.
This PS Portal compatibility fuels speculation about a potential new portable PlayStation console. Earlier rumors suggested a handheld capable of running PS5 games. While unconfirmed, the PS5 Pro's capabilities could indeed pave the way for a new handheld device.
