PS4 Pro vs PS4: Everything you need to know about Sony's two consoles. 'Do you need a 4K TV?' and other common questions answered.
The PS4 Pro is finally here after months living under the guise of its codename: PS4 Neo. And while the PS4 Pro isn't the beginning of a new console generation, it does bring with it a slew of impressive upgrades.
In our PS4 Pro review, we said it's "no brainer" for anyone who doesn't already own a next-gen console and wants one. But what's the difference between the PS4 Pro and the PS4? Here's everything you need to know.
Disappointingly, the PS4 Pro doesn't feature a 4K Blu-ray player – though obviously neither does the new PS4 proper, which also won't be able to play games or stream content in 4K.
However, Sony's latest software update has introduced support for HDR video and gaming for the standard PS4 console (both the new slim design and the original console). That means that while the PS4 won't be able to stream or play games in 4K, it will bring HDR enhancements to content, which include brighter whites, more natural colours, and more detail preserved in the image. Naturally, the PS4 Pro will also support HDR, but you will need an HDR-ready set in both cases.
Another reason for the performance boost on the Pro is the arrival of PSVR, having launched earlier this year. Both the PS4 and PS4 Pro will be able to support Sony's new virtual reality platform. But some developers have expressed disappointment that the current PS4 tech is a bit of a bottleneck when it comes to virtual reality.
The complaint stems from the fact Sony has specified that all VR games have to run at 60fps minimum to avoid any issues with lag and motion sickness, which is a tricky task for the current PS4. The Pro console's extra processing grunt will ensure the experience is smooth without developers having to compromise too much on graphical detail.
The PS4 Pro is more powerful than the original PS4, mainly in the graphics department. It uses a new, updated graphics processor that's roughly twice as powerful, and a slightly faster processor. It also features improved Wi-Fi. Here are the PS4 Pro specs:
- Main processor: Custom-chip single Processor
- CPU: x86-64 AMD "Jaguar," 8 cores
- GPU: 4.20 TFLOPS, AMD Radeon™ based graphics engine
- Memory: GDDR5 8GB 1GB of VRAM
- Storage size: 1TB
- External dimensions: Approx. 295×55×327 mm (width × height × length) (excludes largest projection)
- Mass: Approx. 3.3 kg
- BD/DVD Drive: BD × 6 CAV, DVD × 8 CAV
- Input/Output: Super-Speed USB (USB 3.1 Gen.1) port × 3, AUX port × 1
- Networking: Ethernet (10BASE-T, 100BASE-TX, 1000BASE-T)×1, IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, Bluetooth® 4.0 (LE)
- Power: AC 100V, 50/60Hz
- Power consumption: Max. 310W
- Operating temp: 5ºC – 35ºC
- AV Output: HDMI out port (supports 4K/HDR) DIGITAL OUT (OPTICAL) port
So, what does that mean in terms of performance in comparison to the PS4? Well, the Pro will run games faster, with fewer framerate tears in more intensive games, providing a smoother gaming experience across the board. The faster GPU, which is more than double that of the original PS4, allows for improved resolution, effects and performance, though the difference is less pronounced in games that rely heavily on the CPU.
All new and recent PS4 games are required to support a 'Pro' mode, which means either improved resolution and/or increased texture and effects quality. Crucially, games that support an increased '4K' mode have to run as smoothly as they do on the standard PS4 console. Even if you don't have a 4K TV, games will look better on the PS4 Pro, though to what degree is down to the developer.
Of course, the PS4 Pro adds support for 4K output to facilitate all of this, meaning you'll be able to play games and stream certain content in Ultra HD provided you've got a 4K-ready TV set. It'll also upscale some games to 'near 4K' and offer improved frame rates – a welcome, if imperfect enhancement
Disappointingly, the PS4 Pro doesn't feature a 4K Blu-ray player – though obviously neither does the new PS4 proper, which also won't be able to play games or stream content in 4K.
However, Sony's latest software update has introduced support for HDR video and gaming for the standard PS4 console (both the new slim design and the original console). That means that while the PS4 won't be able to stream or play games in 4K, it will bring HDR enhancements to content, which include brighter whites, more natural colours, and more detail preserved in the image. Naturally, the PS4 Pro will also support HDR, but you will need an HDR-ready set in both cases.
Another reason for the performance boost on the Pro is the arrival of PSVR, having launched earlier this year. Both the PS4 and PS4 Pro will be able to support Sony's new virtual reality platform. But some developers have expressed disappointment that the current PS4 tech is a bit of a bottleneck when it comes to virtual reality.
The complaint stems from the fact Sony has specified that all VR games have to run at 60fps minimum to avoid any issues with lag and motion sickness, which is a tricky task for the current PS4. The Pro console's extra processing grunt will ensure the experience is smooth without developers having to compromise too much on graphical detail.
PS4 PRO VS PS4 – DESIGN AND ACCESSORIES
The PS4 Pro is big. It'll measure 295mm x 55mm x 327mm (WxHxD) and weigh a hefty 3.3kg.
The new PS4 on the other hand is basically a slimmed down version of the original PS4, which is why it was known as the PS4 Slim prior to launch. At 265mm wide x 39mm high x 288mm long, it won't be much smaller than its predecessor, which measured 275mm x 53mm x 305mm, but it will be significantly thinner.
And while the new PS4 consoles may sport new looks, the accessories are mostly the same. The new DualShock 4 controller comes with a light on the touchpad, but that's the only difference
PS4 PRO VS PS4 – FINAL THOUGHTS
Depending on your gaming and media needs, both the PS4 Pro and new PS4 look like good value for what they offer.
There's no doubt the PS4 Pro is a better, more capable machine. For £100 extra you're getting something that is firmly future-proofed, what with its support for 4K and HDR, and it's a small amount compared to buying a new TV.
However, for now, the best rule to follow is to only buy the PS4 Pro if you already own a 4K HDR TV, or are planning to buy one in the near future. If you can't afford to buy a new console and a new TV, the standard PS4 is the better choice.
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