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PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 5 Pro are both powerful consoles, but they have some core difference. PS5 Pro is newer, more advanced model, offering enhanced graphical performance, AI upscaling, and potential support for 8K resolution. While the PS5 remains a powerful and popular console with strong performance. Let’s explore what’s the difference between ps5 and ps5 pro.
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Processor:
- The PlayStation 5 Pro features a custom 8-core Zen 4 processor that delivers faster game load times and improved multitasking performance.
- The PlayStation 5 uses an older 8-core Zen 2 processor, which is still capable but slower.
Winner:
PlayStation 5 Pro
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Display Outputs:
- The PlayStation 5 Pro supports Native 8K output for providing higher resolution and detail visual experience.
- PlayStation 5 supports up to 4K output.
Winner:
PlayStation 5 Pro
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GPU Performance:
- The PlayStation 5 Pro has an RDNA 3 GPU that allows smoother gameplay at higher resolutions and frame rates.
- The PlayStation 5 uses an RDNA 2 GPU, which supports standard 4K gaming.
Winner:
PlayStation 5 Pro
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AI Upscaling:
- The PlayStation 5 Pro includes AI upscaling technology that boosts lower-resolution images to near-native 4K quality for better clarity.
- The PlayStation 5 does not support AI-based visual enhancement.
Winner:
PlayStation 5 Pro
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Storage Capacity:
- The PlayStation 5 Pro comes with a 1TB internal SSD that allows more game installs and faster load times.
- The PlayStation 5 includes an 825GB SSD with less usable space.
Winner:
PlayStation 5 Pro
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Ray Tracing Performance:
- The PlayStation 5 Pro supports more advanced ray tracing that enhances reflections and shadows in compatible games.
- PlayStation 5 supports basic ray tracing.
Winner:
PlayStation 5 Pro
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Virtual Reality Support:
- The PlayStation 5 Pro supports enhanced PS VR2 performance that enables higher-quality VR visuals and smoother tracking.
- PlayStation 5 supports PS VR2 with standard performance levels.
Winner:
PlayStation 5 Pro
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Cooling System:
- The PlayStation 5 Pro features an advanced vapor chamber cooling system that helps maintain stable performance during long sessions.
- The PlayStation 5 uses a standard fan-based cooling system.
Winner:
PlayStation 5 Pro
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Power Efficiency:
- The PlayStation 5 Pro features improved power efficiency that reduces heat and energy consumption during intensive gaming.
- PlayStation 5 uses a less efficient power architecture based on older technology.
Winner:
PlayStation 5 Pro
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Specs at a Glance
| Feature |
PlayStation 5 Pro |
PlayStation 5 |
| Release Year |
2025 |
2020 |
| Processor |
Custom 8-core Zen 4 CPU |
Custom 8-core Zen 2 CPU |
| GPU |
RDNA 3-based GPU, ~33.5 TFLOPS |
RDNA 2-based GPU, 10.3 TFLOPS |
| RAM |
16GB GDDR6 |
16GB GDDR6 |
| Storage |
1TB Custom NVMe SSD |
825GB Custom NVMe SSD |
| Max Output Resolution |
Up to 8K |
Up to 4K |
| Ray Tracing |
Enhanced hardware-accelerated |
Basic hardware-accelerated |
| Frame Rate Target |
Up to 120 FPS, more consistent |
Up to 120 FPS |
| Cooling System |
Advanced vapor chamber cooling |
Standard cooling system |
| AI Upscaling |
Yes (via custom machine learning) |
No |
| HDMI |
HDMI 2.1 |
HDMI 2.1 |
| USB Ports |
3 USB-A, 1 USB-C |
3 USB-A, 1 USB-C |
| Power Efficiency |
Improved with new architecture |
Standard |
| Design |
Slightly bulkier, modernized airflow |
Sleek and curved original design |
| VR Support |
Optimized for PS VR2 |
Supports PS VR2 |
Who Should Buy What?
Buy the PlayStation 5 Pro if you:
- Want the most powerful PlayStation hardware available.
- Plan to game on 8K or 4K120 displays with advanced ray tracing.
- Use PlayStation VR2 and want better performance.
- Need more internal storage out of the box.
- Care about future-proofing for upcoming graphics-heavy titles.
Check PlayStation 5 Pro Best Price
Buy the PlayStation 5 if you:
- Want a high-end gaming experience at a lower price.
- Are satisfied with 4K gaming and standard ray tracing.
- Don’t need AI upscaling or 8K support right now.
- Prefer a slightly smaller and less bulky design.
- Are upgrading from PS4 and want great value with full compatibility.
Check PlayStation 5 Best Price |
Winner by Category
| Category |
Winner |
| Processor |
PlayStation 5 Pro |
| Powerful GPU |
PlayStation 5 Pro |
| Display Resolution |
PlayStation 5 Pro |
| Enhanced Ray Tracing |
PlayStation 5 Pro |
| Connectivity and Ports |
Tie |
| Bluetooth Connectivity |
Tie |
| Virtual Reality Support |
PlayStation 5 Pro |
| Storage Capacity |
PlayStation 5 Pro |
| Frame Rate Stability |
PlayStation 5 Pro |
| Cooling System |
PlayStation 5 Pro |
| 8K Output |
PlayStation 5 Pro |
| Power Efficiency |
PlayStation 5 Pro |
| AI Upscaling |
PlayStation 5 Pro |
| Design |
PlayStation 5 Pro |
FAQ
Is the PlayStation 5 Pro backward compatible with PS5 and PS4 games?
Yes, the PlayStation 5 Pro is fully backward compatible with both PS5 and PS4 games. It not only supports the same titles as the standard PS5 but may also enhance performance in select PS4 games through improved frame rates and resolution.
Will the PS5 Pro work with my existing DualSense controller?
Yes, the PS5 Pro uses the same DualSense controller as the standard PS5. All existing accessories such as the controller, charging dock, headset, and media remote remain compatible with the new console.
Does the PlayStation 5 Pro support 8K gaming?
The PlayStation 5 Pro supports up to 8K output and is designed to handle 8K gaming where supported. However, most titles will continue to target 4K resolution with higher fidelity, using the 8K support mainly for future-ready capabilities and upscaling.
How much storage does the PS5 Pro have compared to the standard PS5?
The PS5 Pro includes a 1TB internal SSD, giving it more space than the 825GB SSD found in the standard PS5. This allows users to install more games and apps without needing immediate storage expansion.
Is there a performance difference in frame rate between the PS5 Pro and PS5?
Yes, the PS5 Pro delivers more stable and consistent frame rates, especially in graphics-intensive games. It targets 4K120 performance more reliably than the standard PS5, which can struggle in demanding scenarios.
Can I expand storage on the PS5 Pro?
Yes, the PS5 Pro includes an NVMe SSD expansion slot just like the standard PS5. Users can add compatible Gen4 NVMe drives to increase storage for games and media.
What makes the PS5 Pro better for ray tracing?
The PS5 Pro features a newer RDNA 3 GPU architecture that supports more advanced ray tracing capabilities. This results in better lighting, reflections, and shadows compared to the basic ray tracing support on the standard PS5.
Does the PS5 Pro include any new cooling technology?
Yes, the PS5 Pro includes a vapor chamber cooling system that is more efficient than the fan-based system in the original PS5. This helps keep the system quieter and cooler during long gaming sessions.
Are both consoles compatible with PlayStation VR2?
Yes, both the PS5 Pro and standard PS5 support PlayStation VR2. However, the Pro model may deliver smoother visuals and better frame rates in supported VR games due to its stronger GPU.
Is the PlayStation 5 Pro worth the upgrade from the PS5?
The PS5 Pro is a strong upgrade for players who want better performance, 8K output support, AI upscaling, and more consistent frame rates. However, if you already own a standard PS5 and are satisfied with 4K60 gaming, the upgrade may not be essential unless you’re focused on future-proofing.