PS5 vs. PS4 sales: Nearly 5 years later, Sony’s latest console matches its predecessor’s pace. Can the PS5 outsell the PS4? We break down the numbers, key factors, and future predictions.
Nearly five years after its launch, the PlayStation 5 continues to sell at a pace nearly identical to its predecessor, the PlayStation 4. According to recent sales data, Sony’s latest console is keeping up with the PS4’s impressive lifetime sales, despite facing significant supply constraints in its early years.
PS5 Sales vs. PS4: A Close Comparison 
As of recent reports, the PS5 has sold approximately 59.3 million units worldwide since its November 2020 launch. At the same point in its lifecycle (after about 4.5 years), the PS4 had sold around 60 million units, making the two consoles nearly identical in sales performance.
Key Sales Milestones:
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PS4: Reached 60 million units in June 2017 (~4.5 years after launch).
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PS5: Hit 59.3 million units by May 2024 (~4.5 years after launch).
This parity is particularly impressive given the PS5’s well-documented supply chain issues during its first two years on the market. The COVID-19 pandemic, semiconductor shortages, and high demand led to widespread stock shortages, yet the PS5 has managed to catch up.
Why the PS5 Has Kept Pace Despite Early Challenges
1. Strong Exclusive Titles
The PS5 has benefited from a steady stream of first-party exclusives, including:
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*Spider-Man 2* (2023)
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God of War Ragnarök (2022)
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Horizon Forbidden West (2022)
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Final Fantasy XVI (2023)
These blockbuster games have driven hardware sales, much like Uncharted 4 and Bloodborne did for the PS4.
2. Improved Supply in 2023-2024
After struggling with shortages, Sony resolved most of its production issues by mid-2023. The company even released a slimmer PS5 model, helping boost sales further.
3. Backward Compatibility & Upgrades
Unlike previous generational shifts, the PS5 allowed players to enjoy most PS4 games with improved performance, making the upgrade more appealing.
What’s Next for the PS5?
With the PS4 eventually selling over 117 million units, the question is whether the PS5 can surpass that figure. Analysts predict it could, thanks to:
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Potential price cuts (as manufacturing costs decrease).
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Upcoming exclusives like Marvel’s Wolverine and GTA 6 (expected to drive sales in 2025).
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A possible PS5 Pro model, rumored for late 2024.
The PS5’s ability to match the PS4’s sales—despite a rocky start—highlights Sony’s strong position in the console market. With major games still on the horizon and hardware revisions likely, the PS5 could eventually overtake its predecessor as Sony’s best-selling console.
For now, the race remains neck-and-neck, proving that even in a challenging market, PlayStation’s brand power continues to thrive.
