The PS4 is beating the Xbox One in sales--this we know, because the recent sales numbers are pretty clear. What's more impressive, though, is that Sony's console has been able to do this while having a restricted hardware supply in all regions.
Unfortunately for you as a consumer, MCV reports that it will remain difficult to get your hands on one for a while more--Sony forecasts the supply will stay limited up until around April. The availability problem won't be helped by the PS4 launching in Japan today either (but should boost their sales even more).
PlayStation UK and Ireland boss Fergal Gara told MCV, "I can't work it out precisely. But based on what I've seen so far, I think it is going to be tricky until around about April. You might get a fortnight or a week here or there where it is more available, but we should be back to free supply by about April."
Xbox One holds onto one of its few business advantages until then, as the Microsoft console has not faced as strong supply limitations so far. Its superior supply does not seem to be because it has sold less units than the PS4, just that Microsoft had more consoles ready at and after launch. Despite this, the PS4 has sold roughly double the number of Xbox Ones since January.
Being unable to find a console if you're looking to buy one is tough as a consumer, but it's not all bad from a business standpoint. A lack of supply sparks more demand, simple economics tell us, as the object is perceived as more valuable and rare, and it generates discussion about the product.
The PlayStation looks poised to hold a lead over its competitor for the time being, with the Japan launch inevitably boosting sales and supply constraints lightening up over the coming months. It's still very early in this race though, so don't count the Xbox One out-and if both consoles sell a lot of units, both companies can be winners.
