Three PS6 systems, including a handheld, are reportedly coming from Sony

HARDWARE NEWS manhkbrady - 2 hours ago

Sony’s next generation of PlayStation hardware could arrive as a broader lineup than usual, with rumors pointing to three different models: a PS6 S (or Lite), a handheld version, and a full-fledged PlayStation 6. According to leaks, both the S model and the handheld would use AMD’s Canis chipset, while the main console would feature a more powerful Orion-based CPU.

This latest information comes from the YouTube channel Moore’s Law is Dead, where estimated pricing for the upcoming consoles was discussed. Based on projected component costs, possible tariffs, and current memory pricing, the overall range for the lineup could fall between $350 and $1,000. Breaking that down further, the estimates suggest the following:

PS6 S: $349 to $549 (€297 to €467, or £259 to £407)
PS6 handheld: $499 to $699 (€425 to €595, or £370 to £518)
Full PS6 console: $699 to $999 (€595 to €850, or £518 to £741)

(Conversions are based on live exchange rates and are rounded for readability)

Table comparing estimated part costs for PS5, PS6 "PS6S" Canis, PS6 Canis Handheld, and PS6 Orion consoles.

These figures take into account different scenarios, including the impact of potential 30% tariffs and fluctuations in RAM prices, which remain a key variable. Reports also suggest that the Orion-based PS6 may offer multiple versions, mirroring the PS5's disc and digital launch. However, following Sony's recent strategy, all models might omit internal disc drives by default, favoring separate external drives to lower base retail prices.

Pricing will be especially important this generation, as rising production costs have already pushed console prices upward. Unlike previous cycles where hardware became cheaper over time, the PS5 has actually increased in price since launch due to global economic pressures. In terms of performance, earlier leaks suggest the Canis chip would outperform the Xbox Series S and Nintendo Switch 2, while still sitting slightly below the base PS5. The Orion chip, meanwhile, is expected to power the high-end PS6 model with significantly greater capabilities.

Sony has remained quiet about official plans so far. However, PlayStation architect Mark Cerny previously confirmed that the PS6 is still a few years away. Improvements in ray tracing and path tracing efficiency are reportedly a key focus, alongside efforts to reduce power consumption and possibly shrink the overall console size compared to the bulky PS5. Current speculation points to a release window in 2027, with 2028 also being a possibility depending on market conditions - particularly ongoing memory supply challenges.

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