Why the PS5 Pro Costs Even More Outside the US

The PlayStation 5 Pro, Sony’s latest mid-generation upgrade to the PS5, is creating quite a stir, but not just for the expected reasons. While gamers have been eagerly anticipating more power and improved performance, the significant price difference outside the US has raised eyebrows. The PlayStation 5 Pro is undeniably an expensive piece of gaming hardware, but for fans in the UK, Europe, Japan, and other regions, the price is even steeper than it is in the United States. With the PS5 Pro priced at $699.99 in the US and significantly higher elsewhere, international gamers are beginning to question whether the power boost is worth the higher cost. Let’s dive into the PS5 Pro's price differences, its features, and whether or not gamers outside the US are justified in feeling frustrated with Sony’s pricing strategy.

PS5 Pro: A Global Price Comparison

When it comes to gaming hardware, it's not unusual for international markets to face price increases compared to the US, but the price jump for the PS5 Pro is hard to ignore. In the US, the PS5 Pro is set to launch at $699.99 on November 7, 2024. While this price may already seem steep for many, it’s nothing compared to the costs gamers in other regions will have to pay.

Here’s a breakdown of the PS5 Pro pricing outside the US:

• United States: $699.99 (excluding tax)

• United Kingdom: £699.99 ($919.74 USD)

• Europe: €799.99 ($887.02 USD)

• Japan: ¥119,980 ($853.68 USD)

As seen from these numbers, the PS5 Pro is almost $220 more expensive in the UK, close to $190 more in Europe, and roughly $153 higher in Japan. This price disparity has left gamers outside the US frustrated and wondering why they are paying so much more for the same console.

Why Is the PS5 Pro More Expensive Outside the US?

Several factors contribute to the higher cost of the PS5 Pro outside the US. One of the biggest reasons is taxes. In most European countries, including the UK, the price listed for products already includes VAT (Value-Added Tax), which can range from 20-25%. In Japan, the price includes a consumption tax that also adds to the overall cost. Currency fluctuations also play a part in determining how much international markets pay for imported goods. Sony, like many multinational companies, adjusts its prices based on exchange rates and the local economy. In recent years, inflation has impacted global markets differently, and many regions have seen their currencies weaken compared to the US dollar. As a result, the price of goods, including gaming consoles like the PS5 Pro, has increased.

How Much Will the PS5 Pro Console Cost in South Africa?

In South Africa, the PS5 Pro is expected to come with a significant price tag, with the base model likely ranging between R14,000 and R16,000. This estimate is based on current exchange rates, import taxes, and local retail markups, which tend to make gaming consoles more expensive compared to other regions. While the exact price is yet to be confirmed, South African gamers should brace themselves for a hefty cost similar to what they’ve seen with previous console launches. If additional accessories, like the detachable disc drive or vertical stand, are needed, the overall price could increase even more, making it a substantial investment for local players looking to upgrade to Sony’s latest gaming system.

The Lack of Essential Accessories: Another Frustration for Gamers

While the higher price is already causing issues, what makes the situation even worse is the lack of key accessories that come with the PS5 Pro. Unlike previous versions of PlayStation consoles, the PS5 Pro does not include a vertical stand or a built-in disc drive, two features that many gamers would expect in a console priced this high.

• Vertical Stand: If you want to display your PS5 Pro vertically, you’ll need to purchase the stand separately for an additional $29.99.

• Disc Drive: Those who prefer physical games will need to buy a detachable disc drive, which costs another $80. This is particularly frustrating for gamers who have already amassed a collection of physical PS4 and PS5 games, as they won't be able to use them without the additional hardware.

When factoring in the cost of these add-ons, the overall price of the PS5 Pro rises even further, making the console an even tougher sale for international gamers.

PS5 Pro vs. Previous PlayStation Consoles: Is It Worth the Price?

While the price of the PS5 Pro is significantly higher in regions outside the US, it’s important to note that it’s not the most expensive PlayStation console in history when adjusted for inflation. However, what the PS5 Pro brings to the table, compared to previous models, is still up for debate. The PS5 Pro is an upgrade from the base PS5, with improved graphics, a faster CPU, and better support for 4K gaming. These enhancements might appeal to hardcore gamers looking for top-tier performance, but casual gamers may struggle to justify the high cost, especially when they consider the lack of included accessories. One of the biggest criticisms of the PS5 Pro is that it doesn't feel like a substantial enough upgrade to justify the extra expense. For gamers who are already content with their base PS5, the additional features may not offer enough value for the price. On the other hand, those eager for a power boost and unwilling to wait for the eventual PlayStation 6 release might find the PS5 Pro's upgrades worth the investment.

Supply Issues: Getting Your Hands on a PS5 Pro May Be a Challenge

If the price wasn’t enough to discourage some from buying the PS5 Pro, the availability might seal the deal. Even though pre-orders for the console don’t go live until September 26, there are already reports of the detachable disc drives selling out quickly. Sony’s track record of limited stock for their hardware launches has many gamers worried that they won’t be able to get a PS5 Pro or the necessary accessories. The scarcity of PlayStation hardware during launch periods is nothing new. The original PS5 saw significant supply shortages, which led to scalpers reselling consoles at an even higher markup. There’s a good chance the PS5 Pro could face a similar fate, making it even harder for gamers to justify spending so much on a console they might not even be able to get their hands on.

Fan Reaction: Is the PS5 Pro Worth the Investment?

The reveal of the PS5 Pro sparked excitement within the gaming community, but as more details about the price and lack of accessories came to light, many fans have become disillusioned with Sony’s latest console offering. A growing number of gamers have expressed their intent to skip the PS5 Pro altogether, opting to wait for the inevitable release of the PlayStation 6. Those who do plan on purchasing the PS5 Pro are often doing so out of necessity rather than excitement. For gamers looking for a significant power upgrade without waiting for the next generation of consoles, the PS5 Pro might be the only option. However, with the additional costs and lack of essential features, it’s no surprise that many gamers feel the PS5 Pro isn't worth the investment.

Should You Buy the PS5 Pro Outside the US?

The PlayStation 5 Pro's higher price outside the US makes it a tough sell for gamers around the world. While the upgraded specs might be appealing, the lack of a built-in disc drive and the exclusion of a vertical stand make the already high cost even more difficult to justify. For gamers in the UK, Europe, Japan, and beyond, the price disparity, when compared to the US, only adds to the frustration. Ultimately, whether or not the PS5 Pro is worth the investment depends on the individual gamer. Those who want the latest and greatest in gaming hardware might find the PS5 Pro’s power boost enticing, but casual gamers may be better off sticking with their base PS5 and waiting for the PlayStation 6 to hit the market.