PlayStation fans have a lot to celebrate this time around as the next console upgrade is coming this November 10. The PlayStation 4 Pro is definitely enticing for most especially that it can augment the PlayStation VR experience. Aside from the PSVR and the added HDR support, PlayStation 4 Pro also boasts hardware improvements that ensure 1080p at 30 fps gaming experience. So who wouldn't want that?
Indeed PlayStation 4 Pro is an "upgrade" of its predecessor but it doesn't always mean that you'll have to jump into the bandwagon and buy any upgrades that are available in the market. Ask yourself first, is it worth it? This question might be subjective and to help you decide whether it's a yes or a no (which pretty much everybody would say the former), we've compiled 5 reasons as to why you shouldn't rush and buy the PlayStation 4 Pro the moment it comes out.
Hardware Upgrade
As most of the people would say, PlayStation 4 Pro has a considerable upgrade from the original version. But first, how much of an upgrade did will the Pro get? For a clear comparison, here are the specs of the two platforms:
PlayStation 4
Product code: CUH-2000 series
Main processor: Single-chip custom processor
CPU : x86-64 AMD "Jaguar", 8 cores
GPU : 1.84 TFLOPS, AMD RadeonTM based graphics engine
Memory: GDDR5 8GB
Storage size: 500GB, 1TB
External dimensions: Approx. 265×39×288 mm (width × height × length) (excludes largest projection)
Mass: Approx. 2.1 kg
BD/ DVD drive: BD × 6 CAV, DVD × 8 CAV
Input/ Output: Super-Speed USB (USB 3.1 Gen1) port × 2, AUX port × 1
Networking: Ethernet（10BASE-T, 100BASE-TX, 1000BASE-T）×1, IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, Bluetooth®v4.0
Power: AC 100-240V, 50/60Hz
Power consumption: Max. 165W
Operating Temperature: 5 ºC - 35ºC
AV output: HDMITM out port (HDR output supported)
PlayStation 4 Pro
Product code CUH-7000 series
Main processor: Single-chip custom processor
CPU: x86-64 AMD "Jaguar", 8 cores
GPU: 4.20 TFLOPS, AMD RadeonTM based graphics engine
Memory: GDDR5 8GB
Storage size: 1TB
External dimensions: Approx. 295×55×327 mm (width × height × length)
(excludes largest projection)
Mass: Approx. 3.3 kg
BD/ DVD drive: BD × 6 CAV, DVD × 8 CAV
Input/ Output: Super-Speed USB (USB 3.1 Gen.1) port × 3, AUX port × 1
Networking: Ethernet (10BASE-T, 100BASE-TX, 1000BASE-T)×1, IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, Bluetooth® 4.0 (LE)
Power: AC 100V, 50/60Hz
Power consumption: Max. 310W
Operating temperature: 5ºC - 35ºC
AV output: HDMITM out port (supports 4K/HDR), DIGITAL OUT (OPTICAL) port
As you notice, the only major differences between the PS4 and PS4 Pro are the processors, (Sony didn't disclosed any information about the chip as of yet but they claim that it'll provide a major upgrade), GPU, Storage (500 GB bump), dimensions (which makes the Pro slightly lighter and slicker), and of course, the AV output. Aside from those, there's not much of a hardware change from the original version.
PS4 Pro Frame Rate Stability
As mentioned above, one of the advantages of the PS4 Pro is that all of the games running on this platform can be played at 1080p at 30 fps guaranteed. Sony claimed that all of the games from the former version will also be able to provide PS4 Pro support. But the point of the matter is that, if you don't have an HD TV, then you wouldn't be able to maximize the effectiveness of this feature yet. Also for those of you that may already have an HD TV at the very least, this feature isn't that much of a deal-breaker, unless you're really into HD gaming.
HDR and 4K TV Support
Another interesting feature of the PS4 Pro is its HDR and 4K support. Although this is truly a magnificent feature to have, in reality, if you still don't have that crisp 4K TVs, then this support is pretty much useless. You might as well get your very own 4K TV first before considering for an upgrade. After all, the PS4 still rocks, doesn't it?
PlayStation VR
PlayStation 4 Pro is undoubtedly created to provide a better VR experience for the fans. And while it can be true, especially with the FPS and hardware upgrades, it boils down as to how much of an "improvement" it can provide for its user. Personally, without my own HD TV, I wouldn't benefit much from the added features of the PlayStation 4 Pro.
PS4 Pro Price
The price for PS4 Pro is expected to be sitting at $399. If you already own a PlayStation 4 and are considering for an upgrade, then you should be thinking about all the added features and if they outweigh the near-400 bucks upgrade. If your answer is yes and if you have that much of an extra to spend, then the Pro is definitely an "upgrade" for you; but if the odds are just 50:50, then you might want to reconsider your purchasing decision.
Playstation 4 Pro has indeed a lot of new features on its caliber. It's technically better and more preferable from its predecessor but your purchasing decision must first come with contemplation. Be a wise buyer.
