PS5 tops Nintendo Switch 2 sales for first time in November, but console spending falls

The Switch 2 has been a success for Nintendo, beating expectations for retail performance. Still, Sony’s gaming systems are proving resilient, after PS5 sales topped Circana’s charts in November. The U.S. data shows the PlayStation console finishing in prime position for the first time since its handheld rival’s release date.

PS5 and Switch 2 dominate with an unlikely challenger

Not surprisingly, with higher prices, the Xbox Series X and S struggled in a busy month for shoppers. Microsoft even found itself trailing the motion-controlled family-friendly Nex Playground. Yet, at this stage, Sony and Nintendo dominate the console wars.

To add context to the numbers, Circana’s Mat Piscatella offered theories for the PS5’s triumph. He cautions gamers not to overreact to the lower Switch 2 sales. The analyst notes that the handheld remains the fastest-selling console since tracking began. That said, he suggests that the ample launch supply may have cannibalized potential purchases later in 2025.

The Switch 2 price being significantly higher than its predecessor is significant. Even though it hasn’t suffered price increases, gamers are contending with a challenging economy. Sony’s Black Friday deals provided relief to buyers, while discounts on Nintendo’s handheld were less widespread.

A troubled future for console sales

Sony may celebrate the Circana report, but there are warning signs for the hardware market. Total sales declined by 27% when compared to the same period in 2024. Spending reached $695 million, the lowest November total since 2005. Retailers sold 1.6 million units, which was the worst result since November 1995.

The lackluster results could be explained by the average hardware purchase demanding $439. One historical study suggested that, adjusted for inflation, the PS5 should cost $229 for a five-year-old system. Rising memory and storage costs could also force manufacturers to further hike the MSRPs of consoles.

Caveats aside, PS5 sales continue to lead the way across the globe. While the Switch 2 had been on top in the U.S. until now, PlayStation earlier reclaimed pole position in several European nations.