PlayStation 5 Pro Review: Is It Worth the Upgrade?

The PlayStation 5 Pro has arrived, bringing promises of enhanced performance, better visuals, and a smoother gaming experience. But with a price tag of $700, many are left wondering: is the PS5 Pro truly a game-changer or just a marginal improvement over the base model? In this detailed review, we’ll break down its features, upgrades, and whether it justifies the cost for gamers in 2024.

What’s New in the PlayStation 5 Pro?

The PS5 Pro is positioned as the most powerful gaming console available today, boasting significant hardware upgrades. Below, we’ll examine the key features that set it apart from the original PS5.

1. Hardware Enhancements

• GPU Upgrade: The PS5 Pro comes with a GPU rated at 16.7 teraflops, a notable increase from the base PS5's 10.3 teraflops. This allows for smoother performance and improved graphical fidelity, supporting up to 45% better performance in some cases.

• Storage Capacity: The new 2TB NVMe SSD doubles the storage of the original PS5, addressing the common issue of limited space for high-capacity games.

• AI-Driven Upscaling: PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution (PSSR), Sony’s answer to NVIDIA's DLSS, enhances visuals by upscaling lower resolutions to near-4K quality, all while maintaining high frame rates.

2. Design Adjustments

• Sleek Design: While borrowing from the PS5 Slim’s aesthetic, the PS5 Pro is slightly taller to accommodate its robust components.

• Thermal Performance: Despite its increased power, the console maintains temperatures between 35-40°C under load and operates quietly, avoiding the "jet engine" noise associated with older consoles.

Performance Breakdown: Games on the PS5 Pro

The PS5 Pro shines when paired with games optimized for its capabilities. Here's how it performs with some top titles:

Marvel’s Spider-Man 2

• Performance Pro Mode: Combines ray tracing and 60fps gameplay, offering the best of both worlds.

• Fidelity Pro Mode: Pushes graphical boundaries with features like ray-traced ambient occlusion and improved reflections but at a capped 30fps.

Horizon Forbidden West

• Balanced Mode: Offers 40fps for those seeking a middle ground between quality and performance.

• Graphics Mode: Focuses on visual fidelity with higher base resolutions but sacrifices frame rates.

• Performance Mode: Delivers stunning visuals and stable 60fps, making it the recommended option.

Allen Wake 2

With its emphasis on ray tracing, this title showcases the PS5 Pro's prowess in rendering realistic reflections and lighting. However, compromises in resolution highlight the console’s limitations in achieving both top-tier visuals and high frame rates simultaneously.

Is the PlayStation 5 Pro Worth It?

Who Should Consider the Upgrade?

• Performance Enthusiasts: If 60fps gameplay and high-quality visuals are non-negotiable, the PS5 Pro delivers a noticeable improvement.

• Early Adopters of Next-Gen Technology: For those keen to experience AI-driven upscaling and cutting-edge graphics, the Pro offers a glimpse into the future of console gaming.

Who Should Stick with the Base PS5?

• Casual Gamers: If you’re satisfied with 30fps and the existing performance of the PS5, the $700 price tag is hard to justify.

• Budget-Conscious Consumers: With additional costs for accessories like the Blu-ray drive ($80) and vertical stand, the Pro can quickly exceed its base price.

FAQs

What is the price of the PlayStation 5 Pro?

The PS5 Pro is priced at $700, excluding additional accessories.

Does the PS5 Pro include a Blu-ray drive?

No, the Blu-ray drive is sold separately for $80.

How does the PS5 Pro compare to the base PS5?

The Pro offers enhanced GPU performance, AI-driven upscaling, and double the storage capacity, but the core gameplay remains similar.

What is PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution (PSSR)?

PSSR is Sony’s AI-driven upscaling technology that improves visuals without taxing the hardware, delivering near-4K quality from lower resolutions.

Is the PS5 Pro future-proof?

While the PS5 Pro offers advanced features, its performance will depend on how developers optimize games for its hardware.

Conclusion

The PlayStation 5 Pro is a solid upgrade for gamers seeking enhanced visuals, higher frame rates, and advanced upscaling technology. However, its premium price and reliance on game-specific optimizations mean it isn’t an essential purchase for everyone. Casual players may find the base PS5 sufficient for their needs, while performance-focused gamers will appreciate the Pro’s cutting-edge capabilities.