I’ve been there—trying to figure out if the fancy upgrades of the PS5 are worth the extra cash or if the trusty PS4 still does the trick. Over the years, both consoles have built strong reputations, each with its own strengths and quirks. In this article, I’ll share my verdict and walk you through the highs and lows of both to help you make an informed choice. Do you need the extra features of the PS5, or does the PS4 fit the bill just fine? Let’s dive in and find out!
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PS4 VS PS5: Which One is For You?
The Verdict: If you’re looking for a high-tech, future-proof experience, go with the PS5. If you just want to enjoy solid gaming without splurging, the PS4 will be just fine. The PS5’s standout features, like the next-gen DualSense controller with haptic feedback and adaptive triggers, make every action feel more realistic—from the tension of pulling a bowstring to the sensation of different surfaces beneath your character’s feet.
I remember when the PS4 came out in 2013, starting at $399, and quickly became a favorite among gamers worldwide. Everyone was talking about the new console, and over time, the PS3 was gradually left behind. The PS4 is starting to fade into the background in a similar fashion, though it potentially holds value for some users.
Seven years later, the PS5 arrived with a higher price tag, starting at $499, but packed with faster load times, better graphics, and a whole new level of gaming. While the PS4 still does the job for most, the PS5 takes things to the next level with all its next-gen features.
So, which one’s right for you? Let’s find out.
Pick PS4 if…
- You’re not looking to spend a lot of money but still want great gaming
- You’re fine with longer load times and slightly less impressive graphics
- You already have a PS4 library of games and aren’t interested in upgrading just yet
- You don’t mind sticking with older accessories and controllers
- You mostly play casual or single-player games
- You don’t need 4K resolution or top-tier frame rates
- You’re into retro or classic games, as the PS4 has a wide selection
Pick PS5 if…
- You want quicker load times and graphics that’ll blow your mind
- If you’re into playing the latest PS5-only games, you’ll love titles like Final Fantasy XVI, Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart, Stellar Blade, Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, and God of War: Ragnarok for a top-tier gaming experience.
- You’re ready to invest in the next-gen experience and want something future-proof
- You crave 4K resolution and smoother frame rates for ultra-realistic visuals
- You want the new, more responsive DualSense controller with haptic feedback
- You’re excited about features like ray tracing and faster performance in demanding games
PS4 vs PS5: A Deep Dive into Specs and Features
| PS4 | PS5 | |
| Price | $369-399 (Standard) | $499 (Standard), $399 (Digital Only) |
| CPU | AMD Jaguar 8-core 1.6 GHz | AMD Zen 2 8-core 3.5 GHz |
| GPU | 1.84 TFLOPS, GCN architecture | 10.28 TFLOPS, RDNA 2 architecture |
| RAM | 8 GB GDDR5 | 16 GB GDDR6 |
| Storage | 500 GB (expandable) | 825 GB SSD (expandable) |
| Resolution | Up to 1080p | Up to 4K, supports 8K (via HDMI 2.1) |
| Frame Rate | 30-60 FPS (varies by game) | 60 FPS, up to 120 FPS |
| DualSense Controller | Standard DualShock 4 | Next-gen DualSense with haptic feedback and adaptive triggers |
| Backward Compatibility | No | Yes (PS4 games supported) |
| Media | Blu-ray Disc, Digital Download | Ultra HD Blu-ray Disc, Digital Download |
| USB Ports | 2x USB 3.0 | 2x USB Type-A, 1x USB Type-C |
| VR Support | PS VR | PS VR (PS5-compatible with adapter) |
| Network | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Ethernet, Bluetooth 2.1 | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), Ethernet, Bluetooth 5.1 |
| Audio | 7.1 surround sound, stereo | Tempest 3D AudioTech, 3D audio support via headphones |
| Exclusive Games | God of War, Horizon Zero Dawn, Spider-Man | Demon’s Souls, Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart, Returnal |
| Size | 275 x 305 x 53 mm | 390 x 104 x 260 mm |
| Weight | 2.8 kg (6.2 lbs) | 4.5 kg (9.9 lbs) |
By now, you likely have a clearer sense of which console suits you best. In this section, I’ll walk you through the key specs and features that set the PS5 apart from the PS4, so you can make a confident decision. Let’s take a closer look!
PS4 vs PS5: Performance and Processing Power
Winner: PS5
One of the biggest differences I noticed between the PS4 and PS5 is the performance. The PS4 has an AMD Jaguar 8-core processor running at 1.6 GHz, which works fine for most games. That said, when you compare it to the PS5’s AMD Zen 2 processor with 8 cores running at 3.5 GHz, the difference in speed and power is clear.
For gamers, this performance boost leads to quicker load times, higher frame rates, and an overall smoother experience. Titles like Spider-Man: Miles Morales or Demon’s Souls are optimized for the PS5, so you’ll notice a significant difference in how they look and feel compared to the PS4.
PS4 vs PS5: Graphics and Visuals
Winner: PS5
The PS5’s 10.28 teraflop RDNA 2 GPU is a huge leap over the PS4’s 1.84 teraflop GPU. This allows the PS5 to deliver stunning 4K visuals and even support 8K, if you have the right TV.
On the flip side, the PS4 only supports up to 1080p resolution, which, while still good, lacks the sharpness and detail the PS5 offers. The PS4 also runs games at lower frame rates, which can affect the smoothness of gameplay. While the PS4’s graphics are solid, they can’t match the PS5’s visuals.
PS4 vs PS5: Storage and Load Times
Winner: PS5
The PS5 features an 825 GB custom SSD, which drastically cuts down load times. Thanks to its ultra-fast data transfer speeds, games load almost instantly—something PS4 users can only dream of. The PS4, with its 500 GB HDD, is slower, leading to longer wait times when booting games or loading large open-world environments.
If quick access to your games is important, especially for titles that require a lot of data like Red Dead Redemption 2, the PS5’s SSD will make a big difference. The PS4 still works fine for casual gaming, but expect more loading screens and longer waits.
PS4 vs PS5: Controller Technology
One of the most talked-about upgrades in the PS5 is its next-gen DualSense controller. With haptic feedback and adaptive triggers, the DualSense provides a much more immersive experience by letting you feel every action in a more tactile way. For example, pulling a bowstring will feel different from pushing a car, adding a layer of realism that PS4’s DualShock 4 can’t match.
PS4 vs PS5: Backward Compatibility and Exclusive Games
A key feature of the PS5 is its backward compatibility, allowing you to play nearly all PS4 games on the new console, with some titles even running better. The PS4, however, doesn’t offer this, so you’d need to buy new games or a console for future generations.
Top 2 Accessories for PlayStation 5 Users
Below, I’ve listed two great accessories that will improve your PS5 gaming experience. Keep reading to see what each of them brings to the table.
PS5™ Console Covers (slim) – Chroma Teal
Link to Product: Prelaunch
Price (Pre-Order): $64.99
Release Date: January 23, 2025
These official PlayStation console covers are simple to install. Just remove your old PS5 covers and snap the new ones into place for a stunningly vivid gaming experience.
Want to explore groundbreaking products? Visit Prelaunch Marketplace for cutting-edge projects and exclusive deals. Find the latest trends and one-of-a-kind items all in one place!
Pulse 3D Wireless Headset
Link to Product: Pulse 3D Wireless Headset
Price: $109
The Pulse 3D Wireless Headset, designed for the PlayStation 5, delivers 3D audio that makes games feel more realistic. Dual microphones reduce background noise for clearer voice chat. The headset connects easily and complements the PS5 perfectly. It’s a great choice for gamers seeking better sound quality.
Final Thoughts
Bottom line—if you’re after the latest tech, faster load times, and exclusive games like Demon’s Souls or Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart, the PS5 is the clear choice. However, if you’re fine with playing PS4 games like The Last of Us Part II or Ghost of Tsushima without the need for next-gen features, the PS4 will still serve you well.
