In 2016, Sony blessed the gaming world with the release of two new consoles. Both were named PS4 but one had the word “Pro” latched on to the end.
Clearly, the addition indicates a model that is slightly or even more technically advanced but does that mean you have to immediately go for it? In reality, you have to weigh certain factors before making a decision.
Basics
The PS4 Pro is, as its name suggests, the more advanced of the two models. It is capable of gaming in 4K and HDR. On the other hand, the 2016 PS4 is virtually similar to the original PS4 but comes in a much slimmer package.
To avoid any confusion, the new PS4 model is actually called the PS4 Slim but since the original model was phased out, this one takes its place.
Graphics
If graphics matters to you, then you will definitely want to know how the two models compare. Given its name, the PS4 Pro has the more powerful graphics processor or GPU. Sony lists down its performance at 4.2 teraflops, which is a lot better than the PS4’s 1.84 teraflops.
Although the Pro model features the same 8GB GDDR5 memory as the old PS4, it does have a better performance since it runs at a higher speed.
One advantage the Pro model has over the original version is that it can run non-gaming applications like Netflix thanks to an additional 1GB of memory.
When applied to gameplay, the short answer is that it really depends on what game you’re playing.
Games that will be played on 4K TV sets obviously need a bigger resolution in order to look sharp. That said, the PS4 Pro can definitely render games more realistically thanks to a more powerful GPU.
Then again, this will matter if you’re using a high-end screen. And if we are being totally honest, the Pro doesn’t always run games in 4K.
Some games will but those that are heavy on graphics won’t because you’re going to need a much more technically advanced and more expensive model to do that.
Games
The great thing about Sony is that it doesn’t allow games to be intended for a specific model. Meaning, games should run on both PS4 and PS4 Pro.
To put it another way, games must be able to support PS4 Pro (it’s the more advanced of the two).
That said, what you need to know are the games that can provide better support for PS4 Pro. A couple of titles include Resident Evil 7, Hitman, and Rise of the Tomb Raider.
Conclusion
It’s best to stick with the PS4 if you’re screen only supports 1080p. The Pro version is only for when you have the equipment to match.
The war between the two 2016 models is won in the graphics department so there’s no need to buy a Pro when you’re TV can’t keep up. But if you have the means to upgrade both your TV and your console, then by all means, go ahead.