As Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals wind down, analysts are beginning to dissect November’s gaming hardware sales. Early estimates show that Sony’s PlayStation 5, boosted by the PS5 Pro, significantly outperformed its competitors. Meanwhile, the Nintendo Switch, despite being in its eighth year, managed to outsell Microsoft’s Xbox consoles yet again.
PS5 Sales Surge Thanks to New Models
According to analyst Welfare on the Install Base Forums, the PS5 saw impressive growth, selling an estimated 153,000 units in November 2024, up 25% from the same period last year.
- PS5 Pro: Around 20,000-30,000 units sold via Amazon.
- PS5 Slim: Roughly 90,000 units accounted for the bulk of sales.
Sony’s strong showing is even more remarkable given the lack of major first-party releases in 2024, highlighting the effectiveness of their hardware refresh strategy. The PS5 is also outpacing the sales trajectory of the PS4, cementing Sony’s dominance in the console market.
Nintendo Switch: Still Going Strong Despite Decline
The Nintendo Switch, eight years into its lifecycle, saw a decline in sales compared to November 2023, dropping from 143,000 to 56,000 units. However, it still outsold the Xbox, which reportedly sold 32,000 units last month.
This performance is notable given the aging console’s quiet year, with few major releases. Nintendo will likely be encouraged as it gears up for the Switch 2, expected to make waves in 2025. While the Switch is on track to challenge the PS2’s 160 million lifetime sales, it remains to be seen if it will surpass this milestone.
Xbox: Struggling Despite Game Pass Success
Microsoft’s Xbox continued to trail behind, despite the successful launch of Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 and growth in Xbox Game Pass subscriptions. The console’s estimated 32,000 units sold in November highlights its uphill battle against Sony and Nintendo.
Microsoft’s gaming division has faced significant challenges in recent years, including hundreds of layoffs and lukewarm hardware sales. However, the company has reaffirmed its commitment to the console market, dispelling any speculation about an exit.
Sony Leads Black Friday, Eyeing Future Expansion
Sony emerged as the biggest winner of Black Friday, selling almost three times as many consoles as its closest competitor. The company’s strategic moves, including the launch of new PS5 models and rumored acquisitions, indicate its focus on expanding its gaming ecosystem:
- Plans to acquire Kadokawa, the parent company of FromSoftware (creators of Elden Ring).
- Rumors of a new PlayStation handheld console, marking its return to portable gaming after the PS Vita.
Conclusion: The Console Race Tightens
Sony’s PS5 continues to lead the pack, benefiting from its mid-cycle hardware refresh and year-on-year growth. Nintendo Switch, while aging, remains a formidable player as the company prepares for the Switch 2. Meanwhile, Microsoft’s Xbox faces mounting challenges but remains committed to staying in the game. With 2025 on the horizon, the competition is set to intensify, especially with new hardware announcements likely to shake up the market.
