PlayStation’s Rough May
In May 2026, PlayStation 5 sales dropped dramatically. According to Circana, the console recorded its worst May in units sold since the year 2000, with a 58 % decline compared to May 2025.
Price hikes hurt sales
The slump appears linked to a price increase that Sony applied in April. In the United States the standard PS5 became $100 more expensive and the PS5 Pro went up by $150. In Europe the Digital Edition’s recommended price rose to €499.99, while the disc‑drive model stayed the same and the external drive fell to €79.99.
Xbox’s Lowest May Ever
Xbox Series consoles also struggled. Xbox posted its worst May sales figure since the brand launched, falling 12 % year‑over‑year. Because Xbox started from a lower base, the drop did not create a new all‑time low for the month, but the numbers are still concerning.
Already pricey, but still down
Microsoft had already raised Xbox prices in 2025 and announced another global increase for August 1, 2026. The August change did not affect May’s results, showing that the decline is driven by other factors besides the upcoming price hike.
Nintendo Switch 2 Shines
While Sony and Microsoft faltered, Nintendo’s Switch 2 had a standout month. It became the best‑selling console in the United States for May, both in units sold and revenue generated.
Best‑selling console, revenue up
Circana reported that hardware spending during May reached $249 million, a 38 % increase over the same period in 2025. Although higher prices contributed to the rise, most of the growth came from strong Switch 2 sales.
Hardware spending spikes
The surge in spending shows that consumers are still buying games and accessories, but they are choosing Nintendo’s latest hardware over the competing PlayStation and Xbox models.
Switch 2 vs. History
With its May performance, Switch 2 has now surpassed 5.9 million units sold in the United States during its first year. That makes it the second‑fastest‑selling console in the country since data collection began in 1995. The only system that sold faster in its debut year is the beloved Game Boy Advance.
Beating records, only behind Game Boy Advance
This achievement highlights Nintendo’s strong appeal to younger gamers and families, giving the Switch 2 a solid foothold in a market where its rivals are facing headwinds.
Conclusion
May 2026 was a tough month for PlayStation and Xbox, mainly due to recent price increases that turned off buyers. In stark contrast, Nintendo’s Switch 2 enjoyed record‑breaking sales, pushing hardware spending upward and securing its place as one of the fastest‑selling consoles in U.S. history. Unless Sony and Microsoft adjust their pricing or offer compelling new incentives, Nintendo’s momentum is likely to continue.
Source
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