PlayStation 5 vs. PlayStation 4: Complete Hardware Overview
The PlayStation 5 brings major hardware upgrades that redefine gaming capabilities compared to the PlayStation 4. Below, I break down the key hardware components that set these consoles apart.
Design and Build Differences
The PS5 features a larger, more futuristic design measuring approximately 15.4 inches tall, 10.2 inches deep, and 4.1 inches wide, contrasted with the PS4’s compact dimensions of 10.8 x 12 x 1.7 inches. The PS5 weight is about 9.9 pounds, almost double the PS4’s 6.2 pounds. The PS5’s white and black color scheme and curved surfaces differ greatly from the PS4’s minimalist black rectangular design. Cooling system improvements, including larger fans and heat sinks, make the PS5 quieter despite the higher performance demands.
Processor and GPU Specifications
The PS5 runs on a custom AMD Ryzen Zen 2 octa-core CPU clocked at 3.5 GHz, while the PS4 has a Jaguar octa-core CPU at 1.6 GHz. The PS5 GPU is based on AMD’s RDNA 2 architecture, delivering 10.28 teraflops of power compared to the PS4’s 1.84 teraflops GPU built on older GCN architecture. These enhancements allow the PS5 to handle ray tracing, higher frame rates up to 120 FPS, and 4K gaming at native resolutions, features the PS4 cannot fully support.
Memory and Storage Options
The PS5 includes 16 GB of GDDR6 RAM with a bandwidth of 448 GB/s, doubling the PS4’s 8 GB of GDDR5 RAM at 176 GB/s. Regarding storage, the PS5 comes standard with an ultra-fast custom 825 GB NVMe SSD, reducing game loading times drastically compared to the PS4’s 500 GB or 1 TB mechanical HDD. The PS5 SSD achieves an I/O throughput exceeding 5.5 GB/s raw, while the PS4’s HDD manages around 50-100 MB/s. Expandable storage options allow users to install additional NVMe drives on the PS5, improving flexibility over the PS4’s external USB storage compatibility only.
Performance Comparison
I evaluated the PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4 across key performance factors. These include gaming performance, load times, and backward compatibility.
Gaming Performance and Frame Rates
The PS5 delivers a custom AMD Ryzen Zen 2 CPU with 8 cores at 3.5 GHz, paired with an AMD RDNA 2 GPU outputting 10.28 teraflops. The PS4 uses a Jaguar 8-core CPU at 1.6 GHz and a GCN GPU with 1.84 teraflops. This leap in hardware boosts the PS5’s ability to maintain higher frame rates; many titles run at 60 frames per second or higher on the PS5, whereas the PS4 often targets 30 fps. The PS5 also supports 4K resolution gaming natively, compared to the PS4’s 1080p ceiling. Frame time consistency improves with the PS5’s architecture, reducing stuttering during gameplay.
Load Times and SSD Impact
The PS5’s built-in 825 GB NVMe SSD reads at approximately 5.5 GB/s raw bandwidth, drastically cutting load times versus the PS4’s traditional mechanical hard drive averaging 50–100 MB/s. Games launch, level transitions, and asset streaming complete in seconds. I observed reductions from 60-second load screens on the PS4 to under 10 seconds on the PS5 in certain games. This speed gains more fluid gameplay, minimizes downtime, and enables developers to design expansive, seamless worlds.
Backward Compatibility and Game Library
The PS5 supports the vast majority of PS4 games, enabling an upgraded experience with improved performance on many titles. Sony confirmed over 4,000 backward compatible games run on PS5. Some games benefit from Performance Boost Mode, increasing frame rates and stability without patches. However, the PS5 does not support PS3, PS2, or PS1 discs directly. The PS5’s game library grows with exclusive next-gen titles unavailable on PS4, while maintaining native access to a broad catalog of existing games.
Additional Features and Innovations
The PlayStation 5 introduces several new features and innovations that enhance user experience beyond raw hardware improvements. These improvements impact interface design, controller functionality, and overall audiovisual immersion.
User Interface and Experience
The PS5 interface offers a streamlined, faster user experience compared to the PS4. I notice the Control Center on the PS5, accessible with a single button press, gives instant access to notifications, friends list, music, and game stats without leaving gameplay. The redesigned home screen focuses on game cards that provide real-time updates such as achievements and game progress. Unlike the PS4’s comparatively slower menu navigation, the PS5 interface feels fluid, enabling quicker transitions between apps and media. Additionally, the PS5 supports multiple user profiles with individual storage and customization options, enhancing personalization.
Controller Enhancements: DualSense vs. DualShock 4
The DualSense controller represents a significant leap over the DualShock 4, introducing adaptive triggers and advanced haptic feedback. The adaptive triggers adjust resistance dynamically based on in-game actions—such as drawing a bowstring or braking a car—adding tactile realism that the PS4 controller lacks. The refined haptics deliver detailed vibrations that better simulate textures and impacts. The DualSense also integrates a built-in microphone array, enabling voice chat without a headset, unlike the PS4’s reliance on external microphones. Ergonomically, the DualSense features a larger, more comfortable grip with improved button layout, enhancing long session comfort.
Audio and Visual Improvements
The PS5 employs Tempest 3D AudioTech to generate immersive spatial audio through headphones or TV speakers. I experience clear directional sound, allowing precise identification of in-game elements like footsteps or environmental cues, surpassing the PS4’s stereo and basic surround sound capabilities. Visually, the PS5 supports native 4K gaming, ray tracing, and higher frame rates, delivering sharper, more realistic graphics. The console also supports 8K output for future content. HDR compatibility enhances brightness and color accuracy, creating vivid game worlds. These audio and visual advances combine to elevate immersion beyond what the PlayStation 4 facilitated.
Price and Availability
Price and availability play crucial roles in deciding between the PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4. Below, I break down the launch pricing, current market value, and availability options including bundles.
Launch Pricing and Current Market Value
Sony launched the PlayStation 5 with two main versions: the standard edition priced at $499 and the digital edition at $399. The PlayStation 4 originally debuted at $399 for the base model. Over time, the PS4’s price dropped to around $299 or lower during promotions. Currently, the PS4 remains available new in some markets priced between $200 and $300 depending on the model and retailer. Meanwhile, PS5 pricing tends to fluctuate due to high demand and limited supply, often exceeding the original MSRP on resale platforms by 10% to 50% or more.
| Console | Launch Price (USD) | Current Market Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| PlayStation 5 | $499 (standard) | $499–$750+ (resale and retail) |
| PlayStation 5 DE | $399 (digital) | $399–$650+ |
| PlayStation 4 | $399 | $200–$300 (new), $150–$250 (used) |
Availability and Bundles
PS5 remains challenging to find consistently at retail price due to supply constraints and ongoing high demand worldwide. Retailers occasionally restock consoles in limited quantities, while large-scale bundles including games like Spider-Man: Miles Morales or Demon’s Souls often appear but at premium prices. The PS4 maintains wider availability through multiple retailers and can be found bundled with popular games at competitive rates.
When purchasing a console, I recommend comparing standalone units versus bundles. Bundles add value through included games and extras but may increase upfront cost by $50 to $150. Availability for both consoles varies by region and retailer stock cycles, so monitoring trusted sellers and official Sony channels improves chances of securing the desired model.
Conclusion
Choosing between the PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4 ultimately depends on what you value most in your gaming setup. The PS5 offers a leap forward in power, speed, and immersive features that redefine next-gen gaming. However, the PS4 remains a solid choice for those seeking affordability and a vast library of games.
If you want the best performance and future-proofing, the PS5 is worth the investment despite its current availability challenges. For gamers on a budget or those new to the PlayStation ecosystem, the PS4 still delivers a great experience.
Whichever console you pick, both have their strengths and continue to provide countless hours of entertainment. I’m excited to see how the PS5 shapes the future of gaming while appreciating everything the PS4 brought to the table.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main hardware differences between the PS4 and PS5?
The PS5 features a more powerful custom AMD Ryzen Zen 2 CPU, an RDNA 2 GPU, 16 GB of GDDR6 RAM, and an 825 GB NVMe SSD. In contrast, the PS4 uses older CPU/GPU tech, 8 GB GDDR5 RAM, and a mechanical HDD. These upgrades lead to faster load times, better graphics, and improved overall performance on the PS5.
How much faster are load times on the PS5 compared to the PS4?
The PS5’s NVMe SSD reduces load times significantly, often cutting them from around 60 seconds on the PS4 to under 10 seconds on the PS5 for many games, enabling smoother and more seamless gameplay.
Does the PS5 support PS4 games?
Yes, the PS5 supports the majority of PS4 games through backward compatibility, often with improved performance and graphics. However, it does not support older games from PS3, PS2, or PS1 discs.
What new features does the PS5 offer over the PS4?
The PS5 includes a redesigned user interface with a Control Center for quick access to features, the DualSense controller with adaptive triggers and advanced haptics, immersive Tempest 3D AudioTech, native 4K gaming, ray tracing, and HDR support.
How do the graphics on PS5 compare to PS4?
The PS5 supports native 4K resolution and ray tracing, allowing for higher visual fidelity and smoother frame rates (often 60 fps or higher), whereas the PS4 generally runs games at 1080p and 30 fps.
What is the price difference between the PS4 and PS5?
At launch, the PS5 cost $499 (standard) or $399 (digital edition), while the PS4 debuted at $399. Currently, the PS4 is more affordable ($200-$300), while PS5 prices vary due to limited supply and high demand, sometimes exceeding MSRP on resale.
Is the PS5 readily available for purchase?
The PS5 has limited availability with frequent restocks in limited quantities. It often sells out quickly and may be bundled at premium prices. The PS4 is more widely available and easier to find at competitive rates.
What improvements does the PS5 DualSense controller have?
The DualSense controller adds adaptive triggers that change resistance based on gameplay, advanced haptic feedback for realistic sensations, and better ergonomics, enhancing immersion and comfort compared to the PS4’s DualShock 4.
Does the PS5 offer expandable storage?
Yes, the PS5 supports expandable storage through compatible NVMe SSDs, allowing users to increase game storage beyond the built-in 825 GB SSD, unlike the PS4, which relies on slower mechanical HDD upgrades.
How does the PS5’s cooling system differ from the PS4’s?
The PS5 features a larger, more advanced cooling system designed to keep higher-performance hardware cool and maintain stable performance during extended gaming sessions, contrasting with the PS4’s smaller, less efficient cooling design.