Is the PS5 Pro's $700 Price Worth Its Performance Gains?
Published On: September 12, 2024
Sony recently unveiled the PlayStation 5 Pro (PS5 Pro), which will launch in November 2024 at a steep $700. While the console boasts improvements in graphical performance, it’s not necessarily a game-changer, especially considering it’s built on the same architecture as the original PS5.
The biggest upgrade in the PS5 Pro comes from its GPU. While the original PS5 runs on AMD’s RDNA 2 architecture with 36 compute units (CUs), the Pro version has 67% more CUs. Many speculate that this increase brings the total up to 60 CUs, aligning it more closely with the AMD Radeon RX 6800, a high-performing PC GPU that excels in 4K gaming. The enhanced GPU allows for faster rendering speeds—Sony claims up to 45% faster—meaning games will look more polished and run smoother. But it's important to note this isn't a generational leap but rather a refinement of existing technology.
Beyond the GPU, Sony has also upgraded the PS5 Pro's memory bandwidth, making it 28% faster than the original. This will help handle more intensive 4K gaming loads, but the system still operates with 16GB of RAM, which almost makes the memory bandwidth upgrade irrelevant, given the increasing demands of modern games. However, AI-based upscaling is a promising addition. The PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution, a new feature, uses machine learning to fill in missing image details, providing sharper visuals without putting too much strain on performance.
Another area where the PS5 Pro disappoints is its lack of a disc drive, which needs to be purchased separately for $79.99. This and the $29.99 charge for a vertical stand add to the console’s already high cost. Moreover, the overall design and build of the PS5 Pro remain largely the same, maintaining the bulk of the original PS5, which some users had hoped would be trimmed down in this update.
Should I buy the PS5 Pro?
The decision to buy the PlayStation 5 Pro largely depends on your gaming preferences and whether you really need the performance upgrades it offers. If you're happy with the performance of your current PS5, the Pro may not offer enough of a difference to justify the upgrade. While it does improve frame rates and resolution slightly, the boost isn't game-changing for most players, especially if you mostly play older titles that both the PS5 and PS5 Pro can handle at 60fps.
For gamers prioritizing modern titles with high visual fidelity, a trade-in option could reduce the cost of the Pro. Still, it's important to weigh if those slight enhancements are worth the investment. If you focus primarily on older or less graphically demanding games, sticking with your current PS5 is likely the better choice.