PlayStation 5 Prices Go Up in the U.S. on August 21
Published On: August 21st, 2025
Sony has announced that the cost of its PlayStation 5 consoles in the United States will rise by $50 across all models, effective August 21. The move comes as the company cites higher operating costs, shifting economic conditions, and ongoing trade tariffs affecting imports from Japan.
New pricing
The updated suggested retail prices are:
- PlayStation 5 – $549.99
- PlayStation 5 Digital Edition – $499.99
- PlayStation 5 Pro – $749.99
Accessories for the console will remain at their current prices, and Sony said it has no plans to introduce additional increases in other regions at this time.
Why prices are going up
In a blog post, Isabelle Tomatis, Vice President of Global Marketing at Sony Interactive Entertainment, said the company had to make a “difficult decision” in response to economic pressures. A combination of tariffs and broader cost increases has put pressure on the gaming giant, which follows similar actions in other markets earlier this year, including the UK and Europe.
The announcement comes amid a 15% tariff on imported Japanese goods, part of ongoing U.S. trade policies. Companies across industries have been warning that higher import costs are being passed on to consumers. Firms such as Nike, Adidas, and Home Depot have already confirmed price hikes linked to tariffs.
Broader gaming market impact
Sony is not alone in raising prices. Microsoft recently increased the price of its Xbox consoles in some regions, while Nintendo has faced criticism over higher game costs, with titles like Mario Kart World now retailing for £75 in the UK.
The global gaming market has slowed in recent quarters, adding further pressure on console makers.