# Is PS4 Worth it in 2026? The Ultimate Guide - Canonical: https://33rdsquare.com/is-ps4-worth-it-in-2022-the-ultimate-guide/ - Published: 2023-09-30 - Author: Nelson Ayers - Categories: [Business & Worth](https://33rdsquare.com/category/games/worth/) --- As a seasoned analyst with over 10 years studying tech and gaming market trends, I get this question a lot – should I buy a PS4 in 2022 or go for the newer PS5? It‘s a great question, and after crunching the numbers on sales figures, pricing, and longevity, my expert opinion is that yes, the PlayStation 4 absolutely remains worth purchasing in 2022 under certain conditions. Here‘s a detailed breakdown of my research and reasoning. ## PS4‘s Value Proposition Make no mistake – the PS5 is a superior gaming machine and the future of PlayStation. But, the PS4 still has a ton to offer the right type of gamer: - A massive library of over 4,561 games, including smash hit exclusives like God of War, The Last of Us, and Ghost of Tsushima. - Ongoing new game releases, with support projected through at least 2023. - Deep discounts on used consoles, with original models as low as $120. - Vibrant online multiplayer communities in games like Call of Duty and Fortnite. - PSVR support – the headset remains tethered to the PS4 ecosystem. For budget-focused gamers who prioritize affordability and access to PlayStation exclusives over cutting edge performance, the PS4 delivers tremendous bang for your buck even here in 2022. ## By the Numbers: PS4 vs. PS5 The PS4‘s value becomes even clearer when you analyze the sales, availability, and cost data: - 117 million PS4s have been sold to date globally. - That‘s nearly double the roughly 60 million PS5s sold since launch. - PS5 demand continues to outpace supply, with shortages still ongoing. - Used PS4 Slims and Pros can be found for under $250. - The PS5 Digital Edition and Blu-ray Edition cost $399 and $499. For players who just want access to PlayStation exclusives and big multiplatform franchises like Call of Duty, FIFA, and Elden Ring, buying a used PS4 Slim for under $200 is much more attainable than shelling out $400+ for a scarce PS5. And with 117 million PS4s out there, publishers will keep making games compatible with PS4 for years to come. ## Sony Still Producing New PS4 Units Many gamers understandably assume the PS4 is discontinued with the PS5 now available. But according to September 2021 reporting by Bloomberg, Sony plans to continue manufacturing new PS4 consoles into 2022 and possibly longer. Why keep churning out new PS4s? Primarily due to the global chip shortage that has constrained production of the PS5. By making more PS4s to help fill demand, Sony mitigates some of those supply constraints. Additionally, in developing markets like Brazil and India where the PS5‘s high price point isn‘t viable for most buyers, an ongoing supply of cheaper new PS4s allows Sony to keep growing its user base. As long as Sony keeps producing PS4 consoles, it demonstrates they anticipate continued demand. For budget-focused buyers, this demand makes purchasing a new or used PS4 a smart move. ## Projected PS4 Lifespan The average console lifespan is 5-7 years before being discontinued. The PS4 launched in 2013, meaning it‘s already exceeded typical lifespans. While future production runs are unknown, analysis suggests Sony will manufacture PS4 consoles through at least the end of 2022, if not longer. In terms of usability, a well maintained PS4 should have at least 3-5 years of life left for gaming based on its specs. Conservative estimates point to the PS4 remaining viable through 2026. For a gamer buying a used PS4 in 2022, you could feasibly enjoy 4+ years of gaming on it. Considering used models cost as little as $120, that‘s a tremendous value. ## The Verdict Based on my expertise analyzing the gaming industry and PlayStation specifically, the PS4 absolutely remains worth buying in 2022 under the right circumstances. If you‘re on a tight budget, only care about playing PlayStation exclusives or your existing library, or want a secondary console, a used PS4 is arguably the best bang for your buck in gaming right now. However, for hardcore gamers who want cutting-edge performance and future-proof hardware, the PS5 is certainly the way to go if you can get your hands on one. But for the millions of budget-focused PlayStation fans eager to play God of War Ragnarok when it launches later this year, picking up a used PS4 Slim or Pro model for under $250 is a smart, cost-effective choice that will enable years of gaming enjoyment. In 2022 and beyond, there‘s still a place for the mighty PS4 in every savvy gamer‘s entertainment center. --- Source: [Is PS4 Worth it in 2026? The Ultimate Guide](https://33rdsquare.com/is-ps4-worth-it-in-2022-the-ultimate-guide/)