Sony has officially announced the PlayStation 5 Pro, set to release on November 7, 2024. As anticipation builds, many gamers are wondering how the new PS5 Pro compares to the original PlayStation 5. Both consoles share the same gaming ecosystem, but differ in key areas, especially performance, storage, and pricing. Here’s a closer look at how these two consoles stack up against each other.
1. Performance and Hardware
One of the most notable differences between the PS5 and PS5 Pro lies in their hardware capabilities:
- PS5: Powered by an AMD Ryzen Zen 2 processor with 10.28 teraflops of GPU power, the PS5 provides an excellent gaming experience, supporting 4K resolution at 60 frames per second (FPS), with some titles even achieving up to 120 FPS. It has 16GB of GDDR6 RAM, which ensures smooth gameplay and quick load times.
- PS5 Pro: The Pro model steps things up with 33.5 teraflops of GPU power, boasting a 45% improvement in rendering performance compared to the standard PS5. Its upgraded AMD Radeon RDNA 3 GPU and advanced ray-tracing capabilities allow for even more lifelike visuals. It also introduces PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution (PSSR), a proprietary upscaling technology that enhances image quality, similar to Nvidia’s DLSS, making 4K games look sharper with less demand on hardware.
2. Storage
Storage has been a concern for many PS5 users, especially with the growing size of AAA games:
- PS5: The base PS5 comes with an 825GB SSD, but after system storage, users are left with around 667GB of usable space. For those who juggle multiple games, this can fill up quickly, especially with games requiring over 100GB each.
- PS5 Pro: Responding to user feedback, the PS5 Pro will launch with 2TB of SSD storage right out of the box, offering significantly more space for games and updates. The SSD is also faster, potentially improving load times and system responsiveness.
3. Ray Tracing and Visual Fidelity
Ray tracing is a high-demand feature that the PS5 handles well, but not without compromises. On the PS5, ray tracing often requires reduced frame rates, or lower resolutions to maintain smooth gameplay.
- PS5: Capable of ray tracing, but gamers sometimes need to choose between visual fidelity (with ray tracing) and higher frame rates, depending on the game.
- PS5 Pro: The PS5 Pro improves ray-tracing performance by dedicating hardware specifically for this feature, ensuring smoother visuals without the compromises found on the standard PS5. Gamers can expect higher fidelity with ray-traced lighting, shadows, and reflections, along with better frame rates.
4. Backward Compatibility and Game Boost
Both consoles offer backward compatibility, allowing gamers to enjoy their PS4 library. However, the PS5 Pro introduces new enhancements:
- PS5: Backward compatibility with PS4 games runs smoothly, with some titles benefiting from shorter load times and better frame rates via the Game Boost feature.
- PS5 Pro: Takes this feature a step further, offering enhanced Game Boost that optimizes over 8,500 PS4 titles for higher resolutions and improved performance. Gamers can expect older titles to look and feel better than ever before.
5. Price
Price is always a consideration for gamers, and the PS5 Pro comes in at a premium:
- PS5: The standard disc version of the PS5 is priced at $499 USD, with the Digital Edition available for $399 USD.
- PS5 Pro: The Pro model will launch at $699 USD, reflecting its significant performance upgrades and added storage. For gamers who demand the latest and greatest in gaming technology, the price difference may be worth the investment.
6. Design and Aesthetics
Both consoles share a similar aesthetic design, but the PS5 Pro has some notable refinements:
- PS5: Known for its futuristic design, the standard PS5 features a large white casing with flared side panels, a look that’s either loved, or criticized for its size and space requirements.
- PS5 Pro: Slightly more compact, the Pro model features a refined design with a wider base and subtle cuts along the sides, giving it a more premium, polished look. It is expected to be slightly easier to integrate into a home entertainment setup.
7. Who Should Upgrade to the PS5 Pro?
There are multiple reasons for wanting to upgrade to the PS5 Pro:
- For Current PS5 Owners: If you already own a PS5, the decision to upgrade largely depends on your gaming habits. If you prioritize 4K gaming at the highest frame rates, ray tracing, or virtual reality integration with PSVR 2, the PS5 Pro will likely enhance your experience. However, if you are content with 60 FPS gameplay and current PS5 visuals, the upgrade may not be necessary.
- For New Buyers: If you’re entering the PlayStation ecosystem for the first time, the PS5 Pro offers a future-proof gaming experience with more power and storage. It may be worth the extra investment, especially if you plan to use the console for high-end gaming, VR, or streaming in the years to come.
Final Verdict
The PS5 Pro is clearly designed for the gamer looking for cutting-edge performance and enhanced visuals. With faster hardware, more storage, and improvements in ray tracing and backward compatibility, it offers significant upgrades over the base PS5. However, for more casual gamers, or those who already own a PS5 and don’t feel the need for the latest tech, the original PS5 remains an excellent console that still delivers exceptional performance at a lower price point.
While the PS5 Pro is a powerhouse and the clear choice for those who want the best possible PlayStation experience, the original PS5 continues to hold its own as a top-tier console four years into its life cycle.
