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PlayStation 5 Price Increase Hits United States

Sony raises US PS5 prices by 50 dollars, effective August 21, citing a tough economic environment and tariffs.

August 20, 2025 at 04:03 PM
blur PlayStation 5 Price Increase to $550

Sony raises US PS5 prices by 50 dollars citing tariffs and a tough economy.

PlayStation 5 Price Increase Hits United States

Sony announced a $50 price increase for the PlayStation 5 in the United States. Beginning August 21, the standard PS5 will cost $549.99, the PS5 Digital Edition $499.99, and the PS5 Pro $749.99. The changes come as Sony cites a challenging economic environment and tariffs affecting hardware costs.

The company notes that accessories prices remain unchanged. In the broader market, rivals Microsoft and Nintendo have also adjusted prices in response to tariffs, with Xbox Series X rising to $599.99 and Nintendo pricing the Switch 2 at $449.99. Sony had previously raised prices in some regions earlier this year but had held U.S. prices until now.

Key Takeaways

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US PS5 price rises by $50 to 549.99 for standard model
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Digital Edition now 499.99 and Pro 749.99
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Prices take effect August 21
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Accessories prices stay unchanged
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Rivals Microsoft and Nintendo have also raised prices
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Price sensitive buyers may delay purchases or seek discounts
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Tariffs continue to influence hardware pricing globally

"we’ve made the difficult decision to increase the recommended retail price for PlayStation 5 consoles in the U.S."

Sony blog post announcing the hike

"similar to many global businesses, we continue to navigate a challenging economic environment"

Sony blog post about environment

"the pricing remains unchanged for accessories and no other market changes were announced"

Sony note on accessories and markets

"Microsoft and Nintendo have also moved prices amid tariff pressures"

Industry context with rivals

The move shows how tariffs and broader inflation shape hardware pricing. For players, the price increase could shift when people buy a console and push families to budget for a big purchase.

It also tests Sony's relationship with fans and the market. With rivals adjusting prices too, price parity becomes a moving target that keeps shoppers watching prices week to week.

Highlights

  • Price hikes hit the wallet before the wishlist
  • Tariffs meet tech prices and gamers pay the bill
  • Living room budgets feel the tug of tariffs
  • A price tag that tests consumer patience

Tariffs and budget concerns around price increase

The US price rise touches budget considerations and political sensitivities linked to tariff policies. It could trigger backlash among price-sensitive shoppers and invite scrutiny from policymakers and investors.

The price move underscores how policy and market forces shape a crowded console landscape.

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