PS5 Pro Release Despite Criticism

Despite mixed initial reactions, the PS5 Pro's sales are projected to be strong. Analysts offer insights into its anticipated market performance, and its features spark renewed speculation about a potential PlayStation handheld.

Analyst Predictions for PS5 Pro Sales: A Pricey Proposition

PS5 Pro's Enhanced Capabilities Fuel Handheld Speculation

The $700 PS5 Pro's projected sales, according to Ampere Analysis, mirror those of the PS4 Pro, despite a steeper price increase. Ampere's Piers Harding-Rolls notes a significant price difference (40-50%) between the standard PS5 and the Pro model, contrasting with the smaller gap between the PS4 and PS4 Pro.

Ampere forecasts around 1.3 million PS5 Pro units sold during its November 2024 launch, approximately 400,000 fewer than the PS4 Pro's initial launch sales in 2016. Harding-Rolls highlights the difference in pricing strategies between the PS4 and PS5 generations, pointing out the lower price differential between the original and slim PS4.

While acknowledging that the PS5 Pro's price may dampen demand, Harding-Rolls believes PlayStation enthusiasts will be less price-sensitive. The PS4 Pro ultimately sold approximately 14.5 million units, representing about 12% of total PS4 sales, with a projected sell-through of around 13 million units within five years. Sell-through* refers to direct consumer purchases from retailers.

The PS5 Pro's improved GPU will enhance PSVR2 gaming experiences by enabling higher resolutions, as confirmed by PS5 lead architect Mark Cerny to Cnet. While specific supported titles remain unannounced, Cerny stated that the console's PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution (AI-assisted upscaling) will be compatible with PSVR2. The PS5 Pro also boasts compatibility with existing PS5 peripherals, including the PS Portal.

This PS Portal compatibility, along with the Pro's enhanced capabilities, has reignited rumors of a new PlayStation handheld console. Earlier speculation about a handheld capable of running PS5 games resurfaces, fueled by the PS5 Pro's potential to power such a device. While unconfirmed, the PS5 Pro's features suggest the possibility of a future handheld in Sony's product line.