PS6 RAM and SSD costs reportedly nearing $700

A few months ago, it came to light that next‑generation consoles could break the $1000 barrier due to rising component costs through 2026. If recent information is accurate, that outcome is now looking increasingly likely, as it has been claimed that the RAM and SSD for the PlayStation 6 alone are currently costing close to $700.

The claim comes from hardware leaker Kepler_L2, who has previously shared reliable details about next‑gen console specifications. According to their latest information, the PS6’s memory and storage configuration could cost up to $680 on their own. That figure does not include the AMD APU powering the system or any of the remaining components.

In previous generations, the APU was typically the most expensive part of a console. However, the hardware market has shifted dramatically. DRAM and NAND flash, which were relatively cheap commodities leading up to 2025, have become huge cost drivers due to supply constraints and intense demand from AI data‑centres. This trend has already impacted current‑generation systems, with both the PS5 and Xbox Series X/S receiving multiple price increases since launch as memory and SSD costs climbed.

Analysts have been warning about this situation for some time. Earlier this year, industry commentary suggested that $1000 could become the new “floor” for high‑end consumer hardware built around modern memory and storage requirements. Valve’s Steam Machine, which launched at $1050, was initially seen as an outlier, but its pricing may end up being an early preview of where next‑gen consoles are heading.

Microsoft has confirmed that it is working on Project Helix, while Sony is developing the PlayStation 6. Prior reports indicated that Sony may delay its next console beyond 2028 due to rising component costs, but Microsoft is reportedly aiming for a 2027 launch window.

KitGuru says: If this all proves to be true, the console market could really struggle next generation. There are still many PS4 owners who didn't make the jump to PS5 early enough and are now priced out. If the PS6 hits $1000, then an even larger section of the playerbase won't be able to swing the upgrade.