We take a detailed look at the differences between the PS4 Pro and the PS4 Slim, and then provide a recommendation on which console is suitable for whom.
On November 10, 2016, the PS4 Pro will be released – the most powerful console from Sony to date. However, it does not replace the current PS4 and PS4 Slim; it does not usher in a new console generation. Rather, it offers you the possibility to play PS4 games and PlayStation VR in a completely new quality. The gaming experience is to be improved.
However, all games can still be played with the standard PS4 and the PS4 Slim. A hardware upgrade is therefore not absolutely necessary. And since the Slim version can be purchased at a lower price than the PS4 Pro, it is worth considering: Which console should I put in my living room? Do I really need the PS4 Pro? We will take a closer look at the technical specifications.
PS4 Pro vs PS4 Slim
Before we examine the technical specifications between the PS4 Pro and PS4 Slim in the following table, here are three pieces of information about the Slim model, which was released in mid-September: Compared to the standard model, it is 30% smaller, 16% lighter, and has up to 28% lower energy consumption.
Now for the details of the PS4 Pro and PS4 Slim:
The main difference lies in the significantly increased graphics performance. The PS4 Pro comes with impressive 3D power thanks to the new graphics unit. Overall, it is said to deliver 2.3 times the performance of the PS4 Slim. Game developers can thus enhance the graphics quality and performance (more FPS, i.e., frames per second) in “Pro Mode”.
By the way: The consoles come with a new “DualShock 4” controller, which features an additional light bar above the touchpad. Moreover, it can also transfer data via the USB port, resulting in even lower latency.
Is it worth buying the PS4 Pro?
The biggest selling point for the PS4 Slim is probably the price. On Amazon, the 500 GB variant can already be had at a bargain price of 269 euros. The 1TB version costs 299 euros. If you consider yourself a casual gamer who only occasionally wants to play a round of FIFA 17 with friends, this model is more than sufficient.
However, if you want to be prepared for the future and are willing to spend an additional 100 euros for an optimized gaming experience, our recommendation goes to the PS4 Pro. It simply delivers significantly more power, making you well-equipped for PlayStation VR as well as 4K.
If you still have a fully functional standard PS4 at home, there is no need to purchase a new one. Unless you say: I am willing to spend the nearly 400 euros to upgrade the quality of my favorite evening entertainment. If you have a 4K TV in your living room and want impressive picture quality, a hardware upgrade is particularly worthwhile. The PSVR also benefits from the higher performance of the PS4 Pro.
Important note for those transitioning from the “old PS4” to the new one: PlayStation 4 Pro – how to transfer your data from the “old” PS4.
Here you can find the offers on Amazon:
Already at release, over 30 games are “PS4 Pro” optimized. Here you can find the complete list.
