Sony’s PlayStation 5 and its rumored high-end counterpart, the PS5 Pro, may soon see dramatic price hikes due to escalating trade tensions and competitive moves by rival Microsoft, according to a new industry analysis. A prominent tech analyst now warns that the standard PS5 could jump to 900—a shift tied to Xbox’s recent adjustments to tariff-related cost pressures.
The speculation stems from ongoing U.S.-China trade disputes, which have led to increased import tariffs on electronics manufactured in China. Microsoft reportedly plans to raise Xbox Series X/S prices in response, passing some of these costs to consumers. Sony, analysts argue, may have no choice but to follow suit to maintain profitability, particularly if the PS5 Pro launches with premium hardware.
As highlighted in a recent social media thread, the gaming industry is bracing for a “domino effect” as console makers grapple with supply chain disruptions and inflation. “Sony is walking a tightrope,” the analysis states. “If Xbox raises prices first, Sony can justify matching those increases—especially for a ‘Pro’ model marketed as a luxury device.”
The current PS5 disc edition retails at 700 tag would mark a 40% increase—a risky move during a cost-of-living crisis. Meanwhile, the PS5 Pro, long rumored to feature upgraded specs for 8K gaming and advanced ray tracing, could face backlash if priced near four figures. Consumers have already expressed frustration online, with some calling the potential hikes “out of touch.”
Industry insiders suggest Sony might stagger the increases to soften the blow, possibly introducing the PS5 Pro at a premium before adjusting the base model. However, this strategy could backfire if Xbox opts for smaller increments or bundles its consoles with popular games like Starfield or Call of Duty.
The timing is also critical. With the holiday season approaching, price jumps could deter gift shoppers and push budget-conscious gamers toward alternatives like PC gaming or subscription services. “This isn’t just about tariffs—it’s about optics,” said one retail analyst. “Sony doesn’t want to be the ‘expensive’ option, but they’re running out of runway.”
Neither Sony nor Microsoft has officially commented on future pricing, but the analyst community remains on high alert. For now, gamers are advised to keep an eye on Black Friday deals—or buy soon, before the speculated surges hit.
As trade wars and inflation reshape the tech landscape, one thing is clear: the era of the $500 console may be coming to an abrupt end.
Xbox X hardware price increase of about US$100, probably means MSFT wearing some of the tariff cost. (China tariff is 145% but probably assumes it normalizes to 40% or so). Will Sony do the same and take a profit hit? Unlikely, PS5 price increase likely US$200+ in US in May pic.twitter.com/CmwrJeHuDT
— David Gibson (@gibbogame) May 2, 2025
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