Why is Sony’s new PS5 Pro console so expensive?

The announcement of the PS5 Pro console has stirred up conversations across the gaming community, with one particular question standing out: Why is it so expensive? At nearly $700, the PS5 Pro comes with a hefty price tag that has left many gamers divided. While some argue that the price is justified due to the console’s premium features, others feel that it alienates a large portion of the gaming audience. Let’s dive into the reasons behind the cost of the PS5 Pro and explore whether the price is really warranted.

The Pro Model Is for the Enthusiasts

First and foremost, it’s important to recognize that the PS5 Pro is not designed to appeal to the average gamer. Sony’s strategy with this new model isn’t to attract newcomers to the PlayStation ecosystem or to get casual players to upgrade. Instead, the PS5 Pro is very much a niche product aimed at the hardcore gaming audience who crave the best possible performance.

This group, often referred to as the “enthusiasts,” is willing to spend more for high-end features such as AI-driven upscaling, advanced ray tracing, and higher frame rates. These gamers have likely already invested in top-tier accessories like the DualSense Edge controller, which costs over $200, or the PlayStation Portal, a handheld streaming device. Sony knows that this segment of its user base is highly engaged and eager for cutting-edge experiences. The PS5 Pro is tailored specifically to their needs, which partly explains the steep cost.

Rising Manufacturing Costs

Another major factor driving the price up is the rising cost of manufacturing. The gaming industry, much like many other sectors, has been grappling with increased expenses in producing hardware. Over the years, the cost of components such as semiconductors, graphics chips, and memory has steadily climbed. On top of that, global supply chain issues—exacerbated by the pandemic and ongoing economic shifts—have further pushed up production costs.

In the past, console manufacturers like Sony were able to sell their hardware at a loss, relying on game sales and subscriptions to recoup those losses. However, the current economic climate makes it much harder for companies to take such aggressive pricing strategies. In 2024, margin matters more than ever, and Sony can’t afford to lose money on each unit sold. The $700 price tag reflects these realities.

No Real Competition for the Pro

Sony’s decision to price the PS5 Pro at this level also stems from the fact that the console doesn’t have any direct competition in its segment. Unlike the initial launch of the PS5, which had to compete directly with Microsoft’s Xbox Series X and S, the Pro version doesn’t have a direct rival. Microsoft hasn’t released a mid-generation upgrade, meaning Sony doesn’t have to undercut a competitor to maintain market share.

Without a competing product forcing a price war, Sony can afford to set a premium price for its premium product. Gamers who want the absolute best performance and features will likely pay for it, even at this high cost, because there isn’t a cheaper alternative available.

Are We Ready for a PS5 Pro?

One of the main criticisms of the PS5 Pro’s high price is that it feels premature. The console generation still feels relatively young, especially when compared to previous generations. Many of the industry’s biggest studios have yet to fully transition to developing games exclusively for the PS5. In fact, many titles that have been launched in the past few years are still available on the PS4, and some major upcoming releases will still run on the older hardware.

There’s a sense that the PS5 hasn’t been fully utilized to its potential yet. With many developers still catering to both the PS4 and PS5, the leap in performance that the Pro promises may not feel as necessary as it did in previous generations. The PS4 Pro, released in 2016, arrived at a time when 4K TVs were becoming mainstream, making the upgrade more justifiable. In contrast, the PS5 Pro’s improvements may seem marginal to all but the most dedicated gamers.

Is It Worth the Investment?

Despite these criticisms, there’s no denying that the PS5 Pro will offer a superior gaming experience for those who can afford it. Upcoming blockbuster games like Grand Theft Auto VI, Borderlands 4, and Monster Hunter Wilds are expected to push the boundaries of what current-gen consoles can handle. The PS5 Pro’s enhanced hardware will likely ensure that these games run more smoothly, with better graphics and faster load times.

However, for the average gamer, the base PS5 is still more than capable of delivering a fantastic gaming experience. The vast majority of titles will continue to be optimized for the standard PS5, and the Pro’s enhancements, while impressive, may not be worth the significant extra cost for everyone.

Sony’s decision to price the PS5 Pro at $700 reflects a combination of factors—rising manufacturing costs, a focus on the enthusiast market, and a lack of direct competition. While the price may feel steep, it’s important to remember that this console is not designed to appeal to everyone. For the hardcore gamers who want the best possible performance and are willing to pay for it, the PS5 Pro will undoubtedly be a worthwhile investment. For everyone else, the standard PS5 remains a more than capable option.

The real question isn’t so much whether the PS5 Pro is too expensive, but whether we as an industry are ready for it. With many developers still straddling the line between PS4 and PS5, and the console generation feeling far from fully mature, it’s understandable that some might feel that the Pro has arrived too soon. Only time will tell if the demand for this high-end device will match Sony’s expectations.