As the gaming world quickly approaches the launch of the PlayStation 5 in late 2020, it is important to understand the pros and cons of the PlayStation 5 when compared to its predecessor, the PlayStation 4. This article will compare both systems, so that gamers can make an informed decision when purchasing their next-gen console.
Overview of the PS4
The PlayStation 4 (PS4) was launched in 2013 and since then, it has been one of the most popular gaming consoles on the market. It is the successor to the PlayStation 3 and is still popular among gamers. The PS4 can play physical media discs and digital games from the PlayStation Network, and it supports a variety of video and audio output formats.
The PS4 has a powerful system-on-chip (SoC) with a central processing unit (CPU) and graphics processing unit (GPU) that are capable of displaying and running games in 1080p resolution and up to 4K resolution. It also has 8GB of RAM and 500GB to 1TB of storage space, depending on the model.
The PS4 runs the latest version of the PlayStation OS, including apps available on the PlayStation Store, access to online services, the ability to share gameplay clips, chat, customize profiles, and more. One of the unique features of the PS4 is its remote play feature, which allows players to stream games from the console to a compatible device, such as a laptop, tablet, or smartphone.
A major drawcard for the PS4 is its impressive library of exclusive games as well as backwards compatibility with most PlayStation 3 games, making it a great choice for players who want to keep playing their favorites. The PlayStation 4 has a large, vibrant community of players and offers a range of features and services for them.
Overview of the PS5
The PlayStation 5 (PS5) is the upcoming next-generation home video game console created by Sony Interactive Entertainment. It is the successor to the highly successful PlayStation 4, which was released in 2013. The new platform promises revolutionary features and promises to deliver an incredibly immersive experience for gamers.
The PS5 features a powerful 8-core AMD Ryzen processor, capable of running games at up to 4K resolution and supporting a range of cutting-edge technologies, such as ray tracing and 3D audio. It also supports high performance SSD storage, delivering speedy load and download times and making the most out of modern titles. The PS5 also boasts industry-leading support for virtual reality (VR) gaming, as well as backward compatible with PlayStation 4 classic titles, allowing gamers to enjoy their old favorites in a brand new way.
Moreover, the PS5 includes a unique DualSense controller, offering a large array of haptic feedbacks and adaptive triggers, combined with a more comfortable design, allowing gamers to get more immersed in their gaming experience.
All in all, the PS5 is set to deliver an unprecedented experience for gamers and is undoubtedly the most powerful home console ever released.
Comparison of Graphics
The PlayStation 4 and the PlayStation 5 offer stunning visuals and performance. But which one offers the best graphical experience? The answer depends primarily on budget and personal preference.
PlayStation 4:
The PlayStation 4 is capable of providing up to 1080p resolution at 60 frames per second. It is powered by a 1.84 teraflop AMD Radeon-based GPU; features an 8-core CPU, 8 GB of GDDR5 RAM and a custom version of AMD’s Jaguar processor.
PlayStation 5:
The PlayStation 5, however, offers an improved processor and graphics solutions. It has a 10.28 teraflop RDNA 2-based GPU, an 8-core AMD Zen 2 CPU, 16 GB of GDDR6 RAM and a custom version of AMD’s Navi processor. It can provide up to 8K resolution and 120 frames-per-second gaming.
Conclusion:
The PlayStation 5’s enhanced graphics are definitely more impressive. It offers a much better gaming experience thanks to its improved GPU and CPU. On the other hand, the PlayStation 4’s graphics capabilities are still quite good, and it can be much cheaper than the PS5.
Comparison of Audio
When comparing the audio capabilities of the PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5, the differences are remarkable. The PlayStation 4’s audio output is limited to stereo sound and lacks dedicated system wide audio processing options. The PlayStation 5, however, has advanced audio features that allow players to customize their listening experience. The PlayStation 5 has surround sound capabilities, object-based audio technology, adaptive playback capabilities and support for higher-end audio formats.
The PlayStation 5 also has support for 3D Audio, a feature that uses the PlayStation 5's microphones to detect the direction a sound should be coming from. This feature adds a more immersive audio experience for users, as it allows for a more accurate recreation of an audio source. The PlayStation 5 also has support for Atmos and DTS-X, two formats that offer cinematic sound quality with multiple speaker channels.
In terms of audio quality, the PlayStation 5 is significantly better than the PlayStation 4. This is due to the more advanced audio technologies that are available with the PlayStation 5, as well as its capability to produce higher-fidelity sound.
Comparison of Controllers
Both the Playstation 4 (PS4) and the Playstation 5 (PS5) come with controllers, but how do they compare?
The PS4 controller is virtually identical to the PS3 controller, with the same button layout and a slightly curved shape that fits comfortably in the hand. The D-pad and shoulder buttons are curved to give players a few more ergonomic options. The controller also has a rechargeable battery and a built-in touchpad, which makes game play more immersive.
The PS5 controller is an upgraded version of the PS4 controller, with improved grips, triggers, shoulder buttons and a more precise D-pad. It also features “adaptive triggers” which allow the player to feel resistance when pressing a button. It’s also equipped with a new Create button that can be used to quickly share gameplay clips with friends or create posts in social media. The PS5 controller is also able to connect without a wire, making it more convenient for gaming.
In the end, the Playstation 4 and Playstation 5 controllers are, while similar, quite different. The PS5 controller offers more features and a better design, making it the preferred controller for PS5 gamers. However, the PS4 controller is still a solid choice for anyone looking for a comfortable experience.
Comparison of Game Library
Although the newest console iteration of the PlayStation 5 (PS5) provides improved hardware capabilities and faster loading times, with improved graphics and sound quality, that isn't the only difference between the current and previous generation of Sony’s renowned console.
The difference between the two is also present in the game library. The PS4 library contains a vast selection of games, including “God of War”, “Uncharted 4” and “Spiderman”, that have earned critical acclaim for years. The selection of new titles for the PS5, however, is notably more skimpy. New titles such as “Demon's Souls”, “Resident Evil VII”, and “Sackboy: A Big Adventure” have released for the new console, but these games offer a fraction of the games available for the PS4.
Existing titles from the PS4 are also compatible with the PS5. This allows players to take the games they already own onto the new console with improved framerates and loading times, making them the same as the newly released games. This means that players with a vast library of PS4 games do not need to worry about repurchasing the same title for their new console.
Though the PS5’s game library may not be as expansive as the PS4’s yet, PlayStation plans to release several more titles over the year. It would appear that the library gap separating the two may eventually be filled, however, given the promising lineup of games to come.
Comparison of Online Services
Both the PS4 and the PS5 offer powerful online gaming services, with both boasting advanced online functionalities like online multiplayer, a matchmaking system, and special online-only content. The PS4, however, has been out for several years and its online service, PSN, has had plenty of time to expand and improve, now offering more features than ever before. The PS5 will also come with its own version of PSN – the PlayStation 5 Online Service – that promises many of the features already available on the PS4 as well as some new ones, such as interoperability with PlayStation VR.
The two services also differ in terms of pricing. On the PS4, you can either pay for a subscription to PS Plus or can participate in free-to-play games, which offer limited online features. On the PS5, however, only a subscription to the PlayStation Plus version of the new online service will offer full features – with no free-to-play option.
The PlayStation Plus version of PSN also offers exclusive benefits, such as discounts on select games, access to online multiplayer, online game save storage, and exclusive online-only content. What’s more, with PS Plus on the PS4, you can also enjoy streaming content from Netflix, Hulu, and other streaming services; however, PS Plus on the PS5 will offer even more streaming options.
When it comes to online services, the PS4 and the PS5 have their differences, but the biggest takeaway is that you’ll enjoy a fuller, more connected and more rewarding gaming experience with a subscription to PlayStation Plus.
Conclusion
The PS4 and the PS5 are two great gaming systems created by Sony, and each provides its own unique gaming experience. Although the PS5 is more powerful than the PS4 and boasts impressive technical capabilities, the PS4 still offers a wide range of games and features. Depending on your preferences and budget, either system is likely to suit your gaming needs.
That being said, if you’re looking to experience the highest quality gaming that the modern market has to offer, then the PS5 is the system you should buy. It provides a more immersive, exciting, and lifelike experience than the PS4 can offer, which is something that many gamers find appealing.
