Sony PlayStation 4 Pro

Specs

The Sony PlayStation 4 Pro, launched in 2016, is a high-performance variant of the PlayStation 4, designed to deliver enhanced graphics, smoother gameplay, and support for 4K output. Here’s an in-depth look at what makes the PS4 Pro unique and whether it’s a worthwhile upgrade:

1. Design and Build

• Dimensions & Weight: The PS4 Pro has a bulkier and more robust design than the original PS4. It features a three-tiered structure, distinguishing it from the PS4’s two-tiered design. Weighing around 3.3 kg, it is slightly heavier but still compact enough to fit into most entertainment setups.
• Ports: It includes three USB 3.1 ports (one on the back and two on the front), HDMI, Ethernet, and an optical audio port for advanced audio setups. These extra ports are helpful for VR setups, which the standard PS4 sometimes struggles with.
• Cooling and Noise Levels: The Pro’s upgraded hardware generates more heat, so its fans are louder than the base PS4, particularly during intense gaming sessions. However, it performs well overall in terms of maintaining system temperatures.

2. Performance

• Processor and GPU: Equipped with an upgraded AMD Jaguar CPU and a 4.2 teraflop AMD Radeon GPU, the PS4 Pro is significantly faster and more powerful than the standard PS4. Games load faster, and frame rates are more stable.
• HDR and 4K Support: For 4K TV owners, the PS4 Pro is a major step up. Many games on the Pro can be rendered in 4K or close to it, and it supports HDR (High Dynamic Range) for richer, more vibrant colors. However, some games use checkerboard rendering to simulate 4K rather than native 4K.
• Enhanced Performance for PSVR: The PS4 Pro provides an enhanced experience for PlayStation VR, with better graphics and smoother performance compared to the base model.

3. Graphics and Visuals

• 4K Upscaling: The PS4 Pro can upscale certain games to 4K resolution. Although not every title runs in native 4K, the upscaling technology improves the visual quality significantly, especially on larger screens.
• Enhanced Graphics in Games: Developers often add “Pro” patches to their games, offering improved textures, lighting effects, and, in some cases, a smoother frame rate (targeting up to 60 fps).
• HDR Performance: HDR support on compatible TVs brings out deeper blacks, brighter whites, and a wider range of colors. This is especially noticeable in games with high-quality textures and environmental effects, enhancing the overall immersion.

4. Game Library

• Backward Compatibility with PS4 Titles: The PS4 Pro is fully backward compatible with all PS4 games, and many of these games have received performance updates to look better on the Pro. However, it does not support games from earlier Sony consoles like the PS3 or PS2.
• Exclusive Titles and Enhanced Editions: Sony’s rich library of exclusive games, including titles like The Last of Us Part II, God of War, and Uncharted 4, look especially impressive on the Pro, taking advantage of the hardware upgrades to deliver an immersive experience.

5. User Interface and Software

• UI Similarity with Standard PS4: The Pro runs the same UI as the base PS4, which is clean and user-friendly. Firmware updates have added new features over the years, including folder organization, background music, and a more efficient notification system.
• Media and Streaming Capabilities: It supports 4K streaming for services like Netflix, YouTube, and Hulu, which is a plus for those with 4K TVs. However, it does not support 4K Blu-ray discs, a curious omission given that Microsoft’s Xbox One X does.

6. Controller

• DualShock 4 (Second Generation): The PS4 Pro comes with the updated DualShock 4 controller, which has a light strip visible on the touchpad, allowing you to see the light bar color without flipping the controller. This generation also has improved analog sticks and buttons for better durability.

7. Sound and Audio

• Support for High-Quality Audio: The PS4 Pro supports high-quality 3D audio, providing an immersive sound experience. With an optical audio output, users with high-end audio systems can connect and get the most out of their sound setup.
• HDR Audio Support: Games designed for the PS4 Pro can also deliver better audio quality, especially when paired with a compatible 7.1 surround sound system or Sony’s Platinum Wireless headset.

8. Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Enhanced graphics and smoother frame rates for supported games.
• Improved VR performance.
• 4K and HDR support for a more immersive experience on compatible TVs.
• Fully backward compatible with all PS4 games.
• Ample storage options (1TB standard, expandable via external drives).

Cons:

• No support for 4K Blu-ray playback.
• Louder fan noise during intense gaming sessions.
• Limited true 4K gaming; many games still rely on checkerboarding techniques.
• Not a significant upgrade for gamers who already own a PS4 and do not own a 4K TV.

9. Is It Worth the Upgrade?

• For those who already own a 4K TV or are heavily invested in the PlayStation ecosystem, the PS4 Pro offers a significant improvement in graphics and performance over the base PS4, especially for exclusives and VR experiences. However, with the release of the PS5, many may find the Pro less appealing if they’re seeking the latest hardware. That said, if you’re looking for a solid gaming console with a large library and enhanced performance, the PS4 Pro is a compelling option, particularly if you find it at a discounted price.

Final Verdict

The PS4 Pro is a powerful console that can make the most of 4K HDR displays, offering stunning visuals and reliable performance across a large library of games. Though it’s somewhat overshadowed by the PS5, the PS4 Pro remains a strong contender for those who want an upgraded PS4 experience without diving into the next-gen console just yet.