Despite mixed initial reactions, the PS5 Pro's sales projections remain strong, according to industry analysts. The new console's launch also reignites speculation about a potential PlayStation handheld device.
Analyst Forecasts for PS5 Pro Sales: Price Isn't Everything
PS5 Pro's Enhanced Features Fuel Handheld Console Rumors
Despite its $700 price tag, the PS5 Pro is expected to achieve sales comparable to the PS4 Pro, according to Ampere Analysis. While the price difference between the PS5 and PS5 Pro (40-50%) is significantly larger than that between the PS4 and PS4 Pro, Ampere Analysis projects approximately 1.3 million PS5 Pro units sold during its November 2024 launch window – about 400,000 fewer than the PS4 Pro's initial launch sales.
Ampere Analysis' Piers Harding-Rolls notes that the higher price point may dampen demand, but enthusiasts are less likely to be deterred by cost. The PS4 Pro ultimately sold around 14.5 million units, representing about 12% of total PS4 sales, with an estimated 13 million units sold over five years. (Sell-through, as defined by the firm, refers to direct consumer purchases from retailers.)
Furthermore, PS5 lead architect Mark Cerny confirmed that the PS5 Pro will enhance PSVR2 gaming via performance improvements. The upgraded GPU will allow for higher resolutions in PSVR2 games, though specific titles haven't been announced. Cerny also confirmed that the PS5 Pro's PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution (AI-assisted upscaling) will be compatible with PSVR2. The PS5 Pro also supports other PS5 accessories, including the PS Portal.
This PS Portal compatibility, coupled with previous rumors of a PlayStation handheld capable of running PS5 games, has fueled speculation that a new portable console is in development. While unconfirmed, the PS5 Pro's capabilities could certainly pave the way for such a device.
