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

Despite mixed initial reactions, analysts predict strong sales for the newly released PS5 Pro. The latest PlayStation console also reignites speculation about a potential handheld device.

Analyst Forecasts Robust PS5 Pro Sales Despite Price Increase

Enhanced PS5 Pro Capabilities Fuel "PS5 Handheld" Speculation

The $700 PS5 Pro's launch has prompted industry analysts to predict sales comparable to the PS4 Pro, even with the higher price tag. Ampere Analysis' Piers Harding-Rolls noted the significant price difference between the standard PS5 and the Pro model, highlighting a much larger gap than seen between the PS4 and PS4 Pro at launch.

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 initial sales in 2016. Harding-Rolls points to the substantial price difference as a potential factor impacting demand. However, he also suggests that the higher price may be less of a deterrent for dedicated PlayStation fans. Sony ultimately sold around 14.5 million PS4 Pro units. Ampere estimates that the PS4 Pro represented roughly 12% of total PS4 sales, projecting a sell-through of approximately 13 million units over five years. (Sell-through refers to direct consumer purchases from retailers).

Meanwhile, PS5 lead architect Mark Cerny confirmed that the PS5 Pro will enhance PSVR2 gaming performance. In a statement to CNET, Cerny explained that the Pro's upgraded GPU will allow for higher-resolution PSVR2 game outputs, though specific titles haven't been announced. He also confirmed 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, such as the PS Portal.

This PS Portal compatibility, coupled with previous rumors of a PlayStation handheld capable of running PS5 games, has fueled speculation about a potential new portable PlayStation console. While unconfirmed, the PS5 Pro's advanced capabilities could indeed pave the way for a new handheld device.