PS6 Reportedly Costs Less To Build Than Next Xbox
A tech insider claims the PS6's bill of materials is about $200 lower than the next Xbox's reported $1,200 to $1,800 production estimate. Even with that difference, the PS6 could still cost $1,000 to $1,600 to manufacture before taxes and other expenses. The report notes console design takes years and component prices have risen due to the AI boom.
Kepler, described as a reputable tech insider, estimates the PS6’s bill of materials at roughly $200 below the next Xbox’s reported $1,200–$1,800 production range. That still leaves Sony’s console at about $1,000–$1,600 to manufacture before taxes and other costs. The insider notes console planning spans five or more years, and neither Sony nor Microsoft could have anticipated RAM and NAND prices rising fivefold during the AI boom.
Kepler previously projected a $600 PS6, but now says memory alone may exceed $680 per unit. The article also cites the PS5 Pro’s $899 MSRP versus a $1,649 Walmart listing, and Valve’s Steam Machine crossing $1,000 amid component shortages.
If next-gen consoles launch near these reported costs, price-sensitive players and families could delay upgrades or stay on current hardware. That may slow adoption of new consoles and make publishers less willing to fund platform-exclusive titles. Retail markups and expensive games could reinforce gaming as a luxury for some households, while dedicated enthusiasts may still buy in. The effect may be gradual rather than immediate.