Recent PS5 Pro launch prompts analysts to forecast its sales trajectory. Meanwhile, the new console reignites speculation about a potential handheld PlayStation device.
Analyst Forecasts PS5 Pro Sales Despite Price Concerns
PS5 Pro's Enhanced Features Fuel Handheld Console Rumors
Following the PS5 Pro's official unveiling at a $700 price point, analysts predict sales comparable to the PS4 Pro, despite the higher cost. Ampere Analysis' Piers Harding-Rolls noted the significant price difference between the PS5 and PS5 Pro (40-50%), considerably larger than the PS4 and PS4 Pro launch gap.
Ampere Analysis projects 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 might 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 five-year sell-through of 13 million units. (Sell-through refers to consumer purchases directly from retailers.)
Furthermore, PS5 lead architect Mark Cerny confirmed that the PS5 Pro will enhance PSVR2 gaming performance. In a statement to CNET, Cerny indicated that the improved GPU will allow for higher resolution PSVR2 game outputs, although specific titles haven't been confirmed. He also mentioned the PS5 Pro's AI-assisted upscaling, PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution, will be compatible with PSVR2. The PS5 Pro also boasts compatibility with other PS5 accessories, including the PS Portal.
This PS Portal compatibility has fueled speculation about a potential new portable PlayStation console, echoing earlier rumors of a handheld capable of running PS5 games. While unconfirmed, the PS5 Pro's advanced capabilities could indeed pave the way for a new handheld device.
