Insider thinks new PS6 handheld price may be closer to Switch 2 console than ROG Xbox Ally
With the rising prices of consoles, some gamers fear how costly the next PS6 handheld may be. The upcoming ROG Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X are the latest systems that are pricier than initially anticipated. However, according to insider KeplerL2, despite impressive performance, Sony’s rumored Canis could cost around $500.
The MSRP suggested by KeplerL2 would make the PS6 handheld price competitive with the Switch 2. Without a bundled game, Nintendo’s console requires an investment of $450. Like the original Switch, the gaming giant could also raise the Switch 2 price by the time the Canis arrives. Windows 11 handhelds appeal to a different audience, but the ROG Xbox Ally costs $599.99, while the ROG Xbox Ally X demands $999.99.
When asked about the new PlayStation handheld, the insider explained why it would be more affordable. On the ResetEra forums, KeplerL2 argues that the ROG Xbox Ally is a “low volume device made and sold by Asus at a profit”. He believes that Sony can keep costs reasonable because of a more efficient SoC that allows for other lower-cost components.
What PS6 handheld specs could buyers see for $500?
Even at $500, the Canis could likely run PS4, PS5 and PS6 games, albeit in handheld modes and after updates. Reportedly, its APU would devote four AMD Zen 6C cores for gaming tasks and a pair of lower-power Zen 6 cores to its OS. Meanwhile, the device’s GPU would benefit from RDNA 5 architecture, currently in development. Gamers could expect more efficient ray-tracing performance while optimizing frame rates.
If leaks from Moore's Law is Dead are accurate, the PlayStation handheld and Switch 2 will share a hybrid design. When docked, the GPU may see an increase in clock speeds from 1.2 GHz to 1.6 GHz.
As KeplerL2 notes, the choice of display technology will have a dramatic effect on the PS6 handheld price. Only a non-OLED screen would keep costs near $500. Gamers saw Nintendo with the Switch 2 and Asus with the ROG Xbox Ally make a similar compromise.
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