Analysts: Sony, Microsoft, and Nintendo Must Slow Performance Pursuit to Keep Next-Gen Consoles Under $1,000
November 10, 2026 · 1 min read
Also published in Português (Brasil)
On November 8, 2026, multiple industry analysts stated that game console manufacturers need to appropriately slow their pursuit of high performance to avoid launching next-generation consoles priced above 1,000 USD.
Piers Harding-Rolls from Ampere Analysis suggested that to prevent high console prices, manufacturers need to adjust their performance targets. Rhys Elliott from Alinea Analytics anticipated that due to rising costs, the PS5 would continue to sell for a considerable time even after the PS6 is released.
Unlike the previous generation, the prices of PS5 and Xbox Series X|S consoles have not decreased over time; instead, they have become increasingly expensive. Whether consumers will be able to purchase affordable game consoles in the future remains uncertain, given the ongoing DRAM memory crisis and rising component costs fueled by AI trends.
Piers Harding-Rolls believes that if Sony, Microsoft, and Nintendo want to keep console prices lower, they need to lower their expectations for high-quality, high-performance graphics.
Additionally, James McWhirter from Omdia predicted that the console market will see more distinct tiers in the future. For example, Nintendo may introduce a lower-priced Switch 2 and offer more bundled packages for better value. To offset the rising trend in component costs, console manufacturers may likely delay new hardware release plans.