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 recent analyst assessments. The new console also reignites speculation about a potential PlayStation handheld device.

Analyst Forecasts Robust PS5 Pro Sales Despite Price Increase

Enhanced PS5 Pro Capabilities Fuel "PS5 Handheld" Speculation

The recently launched PS5 Pro, priced at $700, is projected to achieve sales comparable to the PS4 Pro, according to Ampere Analysis. While the price increase is a significant factor—a 40-50% jump compared to the PS4 and PS4 Pro launch price difference—the market research firm anticipates approximately 1.3 million PS5 Pro units sold during its November 2024 launch window. This is about 400,000 units fewer than the PS4 Pro's initial launch sales in 2016.

Ampere Analysis' Piers Harding-Rolls highlights the substantial price difference between the PS5 and PS5 Pro, suggesting it might dampen demand. However, he also notes that the higher price point may be less of a concern for dedicated PlayStation fans. The PS4 Pro ultimately sold around 14.5 million units, representing roughly 12% of total PS4 sales, with projected sales reaching approximately 13 million units over five years. Sell-through, in this context, refers to direct consumer purchases from retailers.

Further enhancing the PS5 Pro's appeal, lead architect Mark Cerny confirmed performance improvements for PSVR2 games. Speaking to CNET, Cerny stated that the upgraded GPU will enable higher resolutions for PSVR2 titles, though specific compatible games remain unannounced. He also mentioned that PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution, the PS5 Pro's AI-upscaling technology, will eventually support PSVR2. The PS5 Pro also boasts compatibility with existing PS5 accessories like the PS Portal.

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