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.

Analyst Forecasts for PS5 Pro Sales: A Pricey Proposition

PS5 Pro's Enhanced Capabilities Fuel Handheld Rumors

The $700 PS5 Pro's projected sales are comparable to the PS4 Pro, despite a significant price increase. Ampere Analysis' Piers Harding-Rolls notes a much larger price gap between the PS5 and PS5 Pro (40-50%) than between the PS4 and PS4 Pro at launch. Ampere predicts 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 points to the PS4 Pro's $399 launch price (compared to a $299 slim PS4), highlighting a 33% difference. He suggests the PS5 Pro's price may dampen demand, but believes PlayStation enthusiasts will be less affected by the cost. The PS4 Pro ultimately sold around 14.5 million units, representing roughly 12% of total PS4 sales, with an estimated five-year sell-through of around 13 million units. Sell-through\ refers to direct consumer purchases from retailers.

The PS5 Pro's improved GPU will enhance PSVR2 gaming with higher resolution outputs, according to PS5 lead architect Mark Cerny (Cnet). While specific titles haven't been named, Cerny confirmed compatibility with PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution, the PS5 Pro's AI upscaling technology. The console also supports existing PS5 accessories like the PS Portal.

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