As a PlayStation gamer, you may be weighing whether to go with the more affordable PS4 Slim or pricier but more powerful PS4 Pro. This guide will arm you with everything to make the right decision. We’ll compare specs, capabilities and real-world performance across nine key areas.
PS4 Models Overview
Sony has offered several PS4 revisions since launch but the Slim and Pro represent the two finalize editions, summarized below:
PS4 Slim – Originally released in 2016, the Slim delivers solid 1080p gaming and complete PS4 game/accessory support in a smaller package vs. old bulky models. It focused on energy efficiency and noise reduction rather than raw power.
PS4 Pro – Launching later in 2016, the Pro tweaks PS4 internals for improved 4K and HDR gaming. Significantly faster graphics allow higher resolutions and smoother framerates. It caters specifically to high-end display owners.
While priced $100 lower, the Slim trails the Pro considerably regarding technical abilities. But you’ll need specific gear to benefit, so let’s explore how their capabilities align with various setups and buyer needs.
1. Processing and Graphics Performance
The PS4 Pro achieves its headline 4K gaming abilities thanks to more powerful internal processing, especially its graphics chip. Let‘s analyze the precise performance differences.
CPU
- PS4 Slim – Eight-core x86 AMD Jaguar CPU @1.6GHz
- PS4 Pro – Eight-core x86 AMD Jaguar CPU @ 2.1GHz, 30% faster
The Pro’s CPU edge results in routine task savings of 1-2 seconds in areas like launching apps or loading game levels. While not revolutionary, the snappiness adds up over long play sessions.
GPU
- PS4 Slim – Integrated AMD graphics with 1.84 teraflops performance
- PS4 Pro – Integrated AMD “Polaris” graphics with 4.2 teraflops, 2x the graphics power
This chart visualizes the immense GPU leap that lets the Pro push way more pixels while maintaining smooth framerates.
GPU power advantage over PS4 Slim – Image credit: PCMag
We‘ll next explore how this hardware translates into real-world gaming improvements.
2. 4K and HDR Gaming Capabilities
The PS4 Pro‘s additional graphics bandwidth enables native 4K gaming and high dynamic range (HDR) color, given compatible displays. The Slim maxes out at 1080p graphics without HDR.
Native 4K Gaming
When hooked up to a 4K television or monitor via HDMI 2.0, the PS4 Pro automatically detects and outputs at the peak resolution available, up to full 3840 x 2160 4K.
Near-native 4K in Horizon: Zero Dawn – Image credit: PCMag
Resolution bumps apply to gameplay, game menus and system apps like Media Player. As of late 2022, over 400 games support PS4 Pro enhancements whether rendering natively at 4K or improving visuals through better textures and anti-aliasing.
HDR Color
The PS4 Pro also bolsters color output to leverage high dynamic range televisions and monitors. HDR significantly expands the color spectrum for punchier contrast and vibrant hues closer to real life. Skin tones pop while neon effects dazzle with boosted luminosity thanks to brighter whites and deeper blacks.
3. PlayStation VR Enhancements
Both PS4 models work with PlayStation VR but the Pro offers subtle benefits thanks to its faster rendering capabilities.
Although the core VR experiences feel similar across models, Pro-enhanced games like Borderlands 2 VR and No Man‘s Sky push sharper resolutions more comfortably during VR play. You’re less likely to notice distracting pixelation or muddiness.
The Pro’s extra rear USB port also proves handy for connecting PS VR’s processing unit, keeping two front USBs freed up for charging controllers.
4. “Boost Mode” for Smoother Legacy Gaming
The PS4 Pro incorporates a “Boost Mode” that harnesses its faster CPU and GPU to smooth out performance dips in games released before the Pro.
It helps notoriously inconsistent titles like Bloodborne and both Dark Souls sequels stick closer to their 30fps or 60fps targets. Even locked 30fps games benefit from fewer prolonged frame pacing irregularities.
So even sans 4K, the Pro delivers a preferable gameplay experience for some older titles prone to framerate hitches. Here you see Bloodborne suffering less on the Pro:
Smoother Bloodborne performance via Boost Mode – Image credit: NeoGAF
Just note Boost Mode affects games unpredictably and rarely boosts framrates above designed caps. Think smoother overall consistency versus radically higher peaks.
5. Storage Expansion Options
Both PS4 models ship with 1TB hard drives by default, adequate for storing 15-25 average-size games. But expanding the internal storage down the road works identically across versions.
Your upgrade options include:
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Replacing the 2.5-inch internal drive completely with a larger 2TB Firecuda or SSHD. Straightforward but requires re-downloading everything.
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Using an external USB hard drive or SSD (requires 256GB+ capacity). Super simple plug-and-play for more storage but doesn‘t improve load times.
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Inserting a aftermarket solid state drive (SSD) into the PS4‘s internal hard drive bay via SATA adapter. sleekest option offering both more capacity and drastically faster loading.
So neither model boasts an on-paper storage advantage. But internally modifying them to reduce game load times is equally achievable after the fact.
6. Physical Size, Weight and Power Draw
The PS4 Pro dimensions make it a bit chunkier externally to house the beefier internal hardware.
Relative size difference – Image credit: PCMag
Specifically, its measurements and mass exceed the Slim by around 15% and 50% respectively:
| Model | Dimensions | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| PS4 Slim | 10.4 x 11.3 x 1.5 in | 4.6 lbs |
| PS4 Pro | 12 x 11.6 x 2.2 in | 7.2 lbs |
Accommodating the larger Pro just requires a bit more shelf space. Note as well that the Pro‘s beefed-up graphics and processor also draw more power – around 180W under typical gaming loads based on hands-on testing analysis by Digital Foundry. The PS4 Slim on averages under 140W when gaming.
Expect slightly higher energy bills keeping a PS4 Pro powered on. Plus it outputs more heat and fan noise as the extra hardware crunches through tasks.
7. Rear Ports and Connectivity
For hooking up cables and accessories, the Pro includes a few additional ports over the Slim:
- Extra USB 3.1 port (3 total) – Accommodates VR headset adapter or more controllers
- Optical S/PDIF audio out – For surround speaker systems
Rear port arrangement – Image credit: PCMag
Otherwise both systems share the same wireless features and ethernet jack. The Pro simply tacks on some legacy display connections absent on the Slim. Nice to have, but not huge considerations for most.
One final but substantial difference: the PS4 Pro HDMI output supports the highest-bandwidth HDMI 2.0 standard versus 1.4 on the Slim. This enables transfer of pristine 4K 60fps signals. So those desiring 4K must factor supporting display inputs.
8. Pricing and Value Comparison
MSRP sees a $100 gulf between the models, with recent check-ins showing real-world prices around:
- PS4 Slim – $299 MSRP, roughly $249 sale price
- PS4 Pro – $399 MSRP, roughly $349 sale price
No mainstream console prices remain static forever though. With the PlayStation 5 replacing the PS4 generation entirely, supply constraints ease over time, allowing steeper markdowns.
So determine the visual experience you want now and down the road, then weight that against shelling out another $100-150 for the Pro. Casual 1080p gamers are often perfectly happy saving their money. Players eyeing 4K or maximum fidelity for PSVR need to determine if the boost justifies the added cost.
Note as well that upcoming titles releasing exclusively on PS5 could make the Pro feel dated quicker since key franchises shift focus. Nonetheless, its 4K abilities help offset risk somewhat provided you have the gear.
The Verdict – Match the Console to Your Setup
Ultimately, the PS4 Pro beats the Slim on all objective performance and capability fronts outside pricing. But you need supporting equipment to benefit.
- For players still gaming on 1080p screens, the Slim delivers comparable core gaming experiences at solid framerates while costing less.
- Gamers who recently upgraded to 4K TVs can fully unlock the PS4 Pro‘s potential via dramatically improved resolutions and visuals.
- PlayStation VR early adopters may appreciate the subtle Pro enhancements as well.
While no longer Sony‘s flagship system, both PS4 models host tremendous libraries with complete accessory and game support. So weigh your personal setup, performance needs and budget when choosing. Hopefully breaking down their key similarities and differences helps guide your buying decision between two great consoles.
Let me know if you have any other questions!
