Sony is reportedly working on two versions of the PlayStation 6 simultaneously. According to leaks, the company plans to release a premium model priced around $700 for enthusiasts, alongside a budget-friendly version expected to cost between $350 and $400.
Tech insider Moore’s Law Is Dead claims that the cheaper “Slim” version will use the same chip as the upcoming portable PlayStation. This strategy is aimed at undercutting competitors such as Microsoft’s Xbox and devices from Valve.
Industry challenges such as memory shortages and component supply issues have made it difficult for Sony to scale production of a high-end console at an affordable price. As a result, a budget model is seen as a practical solution.
The lower-cost console, especially if bundled with Grand Theft Auto VI, could become an instant hit and encourage even long-time PlayStation 4 users to upgrade.
However, there are risks. The experience with Xbox Series S shows that weaker hardware can lead to optimization issues and delayed releases for certain games.
Still, popular titles like FIFA, Call of Duty, and Grand Theft Auto VI are expected to run smoothly, which may be sufficient for mainstream users.
PlayStation 6 is expected to be unveiled in 2027, though ongoing memory shortages could push the launch to 2028.
