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

Recent PS5 Pro sales projections remain robust despite mixed initial reception. Analysts offer insights into its anticipated market performance, while the console's capabilities fuel speculation about a potential new handheld device.

Analyst Perspective on PS5 Pro Sales and Pricing

PS5 Pro's Enhanced Features Spark Renewed Handheld Console Rumors

Despite its $700 price tag, the PS5 Pro is projected to achieve sales comparable to the PS4 Pro, according to Ampere Analysis. Market research director Piers Harding-Rolls notes a significant price difference between the PS5 and PS5 Pro (40-50%), exceeding that of the PS4 and PS4 Pro at launch.

Ampere Analysis forecasts approximately 1.3 million PS5 Pro units sold during its November 2024 launch window – 400,000 fewer than the PS4 Pro's initial launch sales in 2016. Harding-Rolls points to the price as a potential sales dampener, but believes PlayStation enthusiasts will be less price-sensitive. The PS4 Pro ultimately sold around 14.5 million units, representing about 12% of total PS4 sales, with a projected sell-through of approximately 13 million units within five years. Sell-through, in this context, refers to direct consumer purchases from retailers.

PS5 lead architect Mark Cerny highlights PS5 Pro's enhanced capabilities for PSVR2. He stated to Cnet that the improved GPU will allow for higher-resolution PSVR2 game outputs, although specific titles haven't been confirmed. Cerny also mentioned that PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution, the PS5 Pro's AI upscaling technology, will be compatible with PSVR2. The PS5 Pro also boasts compatibility 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, suggests the possibility of a new handheld device. While unconfirmed, the PS5 Pro's advanced features could revitalize Sony's handheld gaming sector.