I’ve been using my PS4 Pro since 2018, and now it’s time to upgrade to either the PS5 or PS5 Pro to fully experience Hogwarts Legacy. If you’re in the same boat, you’ve probably wondered which one is worth the investment. After digging into the specs, key differences, and reading plenty of user reviews, I’ve done the legwork for you. So, is the PS5 enough, or should you spend the extra $200 on the Pro? Keep reading to find out.
PS5 Pro vs PS5: Which One is For You?
When I compare the PS5 to the PS5 Pro, I’d say the Pro definitely has the upper hand. The real question is whether that ‘upper hand’ is worth it. The Pro just performs better overall. With specs like 67% more compute units and 28% faster memory, you can really feel the difference—games run smoother, look sharper, and feel more immersive.
For example, Spider-Man: Miles Morales is way better on the Pro—faster action, crisper graphics. It’s a noticeable upgrade, no doubt about it.
For a more in-depth breakdown of specs, read the next section.
Pick PS5 if:
- You’re on a budget: The standard PS5 is more affordable, typically priced around $500 while the PS5 Pro comes in at $699.
- You play casual games: If you enjoy games like Stardew Valley or Fall Guys, the PS5 will handle them just fine without needing the extra power of the Pro.
- You’re not obsessed with graphics: If you’re okay with solid visuals and performance, the PS5 delivers stunning graphics for most titles, like Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart, without needing the Pro’s advanced features.
- You don’t have a 4K TV: If your setup doesn’t support 4K resolution, you won’t benefit from the Pro’s capabilities. The PS5 will still give you a great gaming experience at 1080p or 1440p.
- You want to play older titles: The PS5 runs PS4 games well, so if you’re diving into classics or less demanding newer titles, the standard model is perfect.
- You’re not a hardcore gamer: If gaming is just one of many hobbies for you, the standard PS5 will meet your needs without any fuss.
Pick the PS5 Pro if:
- You demand excellent performance: The PS5 Pro has a powerful GPU with 67% more compute units and 28% faster memory, which makes games like Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 run smoother and look better, especially in Fidelity mode. This means you’ll get improved graphics and performance for a more immersive gaming experience.
- You have a 4K TV: If your setup supports 4K resolution and features like VRR (Variable Refresh Rate), the Pro will take full advantage of those capabilities—so you’ll get stunning visuals.
- You play demanding games: For titles that really push graphics, like Final Fantasy VII: Rebirth, the Pro handles them with ease, reducing lag and improving frame rates significantly.
- You want future-proofing: With its upgraded specs and features like PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution (PSSR), the Pro is designed to keep up with future games that will demand more power.
- Storage is important to you: The Pro comes with a generous 2TB SSD, which is great if you have a large library of games and want to avoid constantly deleting titles to make space.
- You’re a dedicated gamer: If gaming is your primary hobby and you want the best experience possible, investing in the PS5 Pro will pay off in terms of performance and visual fidelity.
Do You Really Need the Pro?
So, do you really need the PS5 Pro? Honestly, it all boils down to your gaming habits. If you’re all about those high-end graphics and want to experience every detail in your favorite games, then go for it!
But if you mostly play casual games or are happy with what you’ve got on the standard model, then stick with that—it’ll serve you well without any fuss.
PS5 Pro vs PS5: Detailed Features Breakdown
| Feature | PS5 | PS5 Pro |
| CPU | AMD Zen 2, 8 cores at 3.5 GHz | AMD Zen 2, 8 cores, up to 3.85 GHz |
| GPU | RDNA 2, 36 compute units, up to 2.23 GHz (10.28 TFLOPs) | Upgraded RDNA 2, 60 compute units (estimated), higher clock speeds (18+ TFLOPs) |
| Memory | 16 GB GDDR6, 448 GB/s bandwidth | 16 GB GDDR6, 28% faster bandwidth |
| Storage | 825 GB SSD (expandable) | 2 TB SSD (expandable) |
| Optical Drive | Ultra HD Blu-ray Drive | Optional detachable drive (digital-only by default) |
| Ray Tracing | Yes | Enhanced (up to 3x better performance) |
| AI Upscaling | No | PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution (PSSR) |
| Backward Compatibility | Most PS4 titles supported | Most PS4 titles supported with Game Boost |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 7 |
| USB Ports | USB-C (front), USB-A (rear) | USB-C (front), USB-A (rear) |
| HDR | HDR10 | HDR10 |
| 8K Output | Yes | Yes |
| Dimensions | 15.4 x 10.2 x 4.1 inches | 15.3 x 3.5 x 8.5 inches. |
| Price | $499 (disc version), $399 (digital version) | $699 |
| Release Date | November 12, 2020 | November 7, 2024 |
Now, let me break down how these differences actually impact your experience and give you examples to paint the picture.
PS5 Pro vs PS5: Performance and Graphics
Winner: PS5 Pro
The PS5 Pro is much faster, thanks to its upgraded GPU (graphics processing unit). This means the Pro can handle more demanding tasks, such as running games at higher resolutions or more stable frame rates, without dropping performance.
For example, when I played Horizon Forbidden West on a friend’s PS5, the visuals were already stunning. But the Pro doesn’t just show the same picture faster—it improves how the game feels. The ray tracing on the Pro makes lighting and shadows look more realistic.
Then there’s the AI upscaling tech in the Pro. This feature isn’t just a buzzword—it takes a lower resolution and makes it look as good as native 4K. For instance, a game optimized for 1440p still looks sharp on a 4K TV when you use the Pro, without my frame rates taking a hit.
PS5 Pro vs PS5: Storage Space
Winner: PS5 Pro
Let’s talk about the elephant in the room: storage. If you’re like me, deleting games to make room for new ones feels like a chore. The PS5 only gives you 825GB, and with games like Call of Duty: Modern Warfare eating up 100GB or more, it’s not long before you’re forced to pick and choose. The Pro, on the other hand, doubles down with a 2TB SSD. This upgrade isn’t just a number—it means you can keep all your favorite games installed at once. For someone who hates deciding what to delete, PS5 Pro is a lifesaver.
PS5 Pro vs PS5: Wi-Fi and Connectivity
Winner: PS5 Pro
Wi-Fi 7 on the PS5 Pro is a bigger deal than it sounds. If you’ve ever had your game stutter or lag during an online match, you know how frustrating it can be. My PS5 is already solid for downloads and multiplayer, but I’ve noticed hiccups in speed when multiple devices are connected at home. The Pro’s Wi-Fi 7 compatibility fixes that.
PS5 Pro vs PS5: Physical vs. Digital
Winner: PS5
The Pro is digital-only by default, which had some users unsure about the change. Those with physical PS4 game copies liked the idea of owning something tangible, but many who switched to digital downloads found they didn’t miss the clutter. The Pro does offer a detachable disc drive if needed, so there’s some flexibility. Still, this move is clearly aimed at those who are already digital or ready to make the switch.
Top 2 Accessories for PS5 Pro and PS5
If you want to get the most out of your PS5 or PS5 Pro, here are a few accessories that will go the distance.
1. 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.
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2. 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.
Conclusion
The PlayStation 5 Pro steps things up from the standard PS5 with a stronger GPU for better graphics, faster memory for smoother gameplay, and upgraded ray tracing for more lifelike lighting and shadows. That said, the higher price might not be worth it for everyone, especially casual players who think the original PS5 still offers an excellent gaming experience.