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

Despite mixed initial reactions, the PS5 Pro's sales projections remain strong, according to industry analysts. The new console also reignites speculation about a potential PlayStation handheld device.

Analyst Predictions for PS5 Pro Sales Despite Price Increase

Enhanced PS5 Pro Capabilities Fuel Handheld Console Rumors

The $700 PS5 Pro's launch is anticipated to mirror the PS4 Pro's sales success, even with a significant price jump. Ampere Analysis' Piers Harding-Rolls notes a much larger price difference between the PS5 and PS5 Pro (40-50%) compared to 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 sales. Harding-Rolls highlights the US launch price difference: the PS4 Pro debuted at $399, while the slim PS4 was $299 (a 33% difference). He suggests the PS5 Pro's price may dampen demand, but enthusiasts are less price-sensitive. The PS4 Pro ultimately sold around 14.5 million units, representing roughly 12% of total PS4 sales, with projected sales of around 13 million units over five years. (Sell-through refers to direct consumer purchases from retailers).

Furthermore, PS5 lead architect Mark Cerny confirmed enhanced PSVR2 performance with the PS5 Pro. Its improved GPU will allow for higher resolutions in PSVR2 games, although specific titles haven't been announced. Cerny also mentioned future PSVR2 compatibility with PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution, the PS5 Pro's AI-upscaling technology. The PS5 Pro also supports existing PS5 accessories, including the PS Portal remote player.

This PS Portal compatibility has fueled speculation about a potential new PlayStation handheld console, echoing earlier rumors of a PS5-capable handheld. While unconfirmed, the PS5 Pro's advanced capabilities could pave the way for a new portable PlayStation device.