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

PS5 Pro's Poor Reception Does Nothing to Slow Sales Projections The recent launch of the PS5 Pro has prompted analysts to assess its projected sales figures. Meanwhile, the PS5 Pro's features have reignited speculation about a potential new PlayStation handheld device.

Analyst Forecasts for PS5 Pro Sales Despite Price Increase

PS5 Pro's Enhanced Capabilities Fuel Handheld Console Rumors

PS5 Pro's Poor Reception Does Nothing to Slow Sales Projections Despite its $700 price tag, the PS5 Pro is predicted by analysts to achieve sales comparable to the PS4 Pro. 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 approximately 1.3 million PS5 Pro units sold during its November 2024 launch window—400,000 fewer than the PS4 Pro's launch sales in 2016. Harding-Rolls highlighted the price disparity, suggesting it could dampen demand, 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 an estimated 13 million unit sell-through within five years. (Sell-through refers to direct consumer purchases from retailers.)

PS5 Pro's Poor Reception Does Nothing to Slow Sales Projections Furthermore, PS5 lead architect Mark Cerny confirmed that the PS5 Pro will enhance PSVR2 gaming through performance improvements. In a statement to CNET, Cerny explained that the PS5 Pro's upgraded GPU will allow for higher resolution PSVR2 game outputs, though specific titles haven't been announced.

Cerny also mentioned the PS5 Pro's AI-assisted upscaling feature, PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution, will eventually be compatible with PSVR2. The PS5 Pro also boasts compatibility with other PS5 accessories like the PS Portal.

This PS Portal compatibility has fueled speculation about a possible new portable PlayStation console. Earlier reports 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.