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PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 are both powerful consoles, but they have some core difference. The PlayStation®5 is Sony’s more advanced console with faster load times, higher resolutions, and modern features for next-gen gaming, while the PlayStation 4 Console remains a reliable and affordable option. Let’s explore what is the difference between ps4 and ps5.
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Processor:
- PlayStation®5 console features an 8-core AMD Zen 2 processor that runs at 3.5GHz to deliver smooth performance and faster load times.
- PlayStation 4 Console uses an 8-core AMD Jaguar processor that runs at 1.6GHz.
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Disc Drive:
- PlayStation®5 console supports a detachable Ultra HD Blu-ray drive that allows playback of 4K physical media.
- PlayStation 4 Console features a standard Blu-ray drive with 1080p output support.
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GPU Performance:
- PlayStation®5 console includes a 10.3 TFLOPS RDNA 2 GPU that enables 4K gaming and ray tracing for advanced visual effects.
- PlayStation 4 Console uses a 1.84 TFLOPS GCN GPU with support for 1080p gaming.
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RAM:
- PlayStation®5 console has 16GB of GDDR6 memory that handles large game assets for smoother multitasking and gameplay.
- PlayStation 4 Console includes 8GB of GDDR5 memory that supports basic gaming.
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Storage Capacity:
- PlayStation®5 console comes with a 1TB PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSD that shortens loading times and improves data access.
- PlayStation 4 Console includes a 1TB HDD that provides slower loading speeds.
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Media Playback:
- PlayStation®5 console supports 4K streaming and UHD Blu-ray playback to enhance visual media experiences.
- PlayStation 4 Console supports 1080p streaming and regular Blu-ray discs.
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Game Compatibility:
- PlayStation®5 console supports backward compatibility with PS4 games to expand the playable library.
- PlayStation 4 Console is not compatible with PS5 games.
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Audio:
- PlayStation®5 console supports Tempest 3D AudioTech that delivers spatial sound to enhance in-game awareness.
- PlayStation 4 Console supports Dolby Digital and DTS for basic surround sound.
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Connectivity:
- PlayStation®5 console includes Wi-Fi 6 and a USB-C port that improves download speeds and peripheral compatibility.
- PlayStation 4 Console includes Wi-Fi 4 and lacks USB-C support.
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Specs at a Glance
| Feature |
PlayStation®5 |
PlayStation®4 |
| CPU |
8-core AMD Zen 2 at 3.5GHz |
8-core AMD Jaguar at 1.6GHz |
| GPU |
10.3 TFLOPS RDNA 2 |
1.84 TFLOPS GCN |
| RAM |
16GB GDDR6 |
8GB GDDR5 |
| Storage |
1TB PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSD |
1TB 5400RPM HDD |
| Disc Drive |
Ultra HD Blu-ray |
Standard Blu-ray |
| Max Resolution |
Up to 4K at 120Hz |
Up to 1080p |
| Video Output |
HDMI 2.1 |
HDMI 1.4 |
| Audio |
Tempest 3D AudioTech |
Dolby Digital, DTS |
| Networking |
Wi-Fi 6, Gigabit Ethernet |
Wi-Fi 4, Ethernet |
| USB Ports |
2× USB-A, 1× USB-C |
2× USB 3.1 |
| Backward Compatibility |
Yes (PS4 games) |
No |
Who Should Buy What?
Buy the PlayStation®5 if you:
- Want the best performance for next-gen gaming with faster load times and smoother visuals.
- Plan to play both PS5 and PS4 titles and want future-proof support.
- Prefer higher resolution media playback and enhanced 3D audio.
- Like the flexibility of using a detachable disc drive.
- Need the latest wireless tech for faster downloads and online play.
Check PlayStation 5 Best Price
Buy the PlayStation®4 if you:
- Have a smaller budget and want a reliable entry point into console gaming.
- Do not need 4K visuals or cutting-edge graphics.
- Plan to play only PS4 games and are okay with a smaller feature set.
- Prefer a lightweight, compact design that fits in any setup.
- Want a console that runs cooler and consumes less power.
Check PlayStation 4 Best Price |
Winner by Category
| Category |
Winner |
| CPU |
PlayStation®5 console |
| GPU |
PlayStation®5 console |
| Disc Drive |
PlayStation®5 console |
| System Memory |
PlayStation®5 console |
| Optical Drive |
PlayStation®5 console |
| SSD |
PlayStation®5 console |
| PS5 Game Disc |
PlayStation®5 console |
| Video Output |
PlayStation®5 console |
| Audio |
PlayStation®5 console |
| Input/Output |
PlayStation®5 console |
| Networking |
PlayStation®5 console |
| Game Access Flexibility |
PlayStation®5 console |
| Build Flexibility |
PlayStation®5 console |
| Connectivity |
PlayStation®5 console |
| Media Playback |
PlayStation®5 console |
FAQ
Is the PlayStation®5 console backward compatible with PS4 games?
Yes, the PlayStation®5 console is fully backward compatible with most PlayStation 4 games, allowing users to continue playing their existing library.
Can the PlayStation 4 play PlayStation 5 games?
No, the PlayStation 4 does not support PS5 games due to hardware limitations and software incompatibility.
Does the PlayStation®5 console support physical discs?
Yes, the PS5 with disc edition supports Ultra HD Blu-ray discs. The disc drive is detachable, giving users flexibility in setup.
How much storage does each console include?
The PlayStation®5 console includes a 1TB NVMe SSD, while the PlayStation 4 comes with a 1TB HDD. The SSD in the PS5 is significantly faster.
Can I stream 4K content on both consoles?
Only the PlayStation®5 console supports 4K video streaming and playback. The PS4 is limited to 1080p resolution.
Which console is better for multiplayer gaming?
The PlayStation®5 console is better equipped for multiplayer gaming due to faster load times, improved network speeds with Wi-Fi 6, and advanced graphics.
Which console is more compact and portable?
The PlayStation 4 is smaller and lighter than the PS5, making it easier to fit into compact setups or travel with.
Do both consoles support external storage expansion?
Yes, both consoles support external USB storage, but the PS5 also allows for NVMe SSD expansion for next-gen game installs.
Is it still worth buying a PS4 in 2025?
The PS4 is suitable for casual gamers or those on a tight budget, but the PS5 is recommended for future-proofing and next-gen performance.