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If you're thinking about upgrading your games console or simply researching which one to buy, look no further! This guide will highlight the difference between PS4 and PS4 Pro, helping you decide which PlayStation 4 is the best choice for you. Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about PS4 vs PS4 Pro.

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In this blog:

• Overview of specifications
• Gaming quality and graphics
• Performance
• Storage
• Design
• Connectivity
• Backwards compatibility
• Price
• The outcome

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Overview of specifications

Here are the specifications of both consoles:

Features	PS4	PS4 Pro
CPU Processor	AMD 8—core Jaguar CPU	AMD 8—core Jaguar CPU
Graphics Card	1.84 TFLOPS	1.84 TFLOPS
Storage	500 GB Hard Drive	1 TB
RAM	8 GB	8 GB
HDMI	Yes	4K/HDR

Storage

There's a big difference between PS4 vs PS4 Pro when it comes to storage; the standard PS4 has 500GB of storage compared to the PS4 Pro's 1TB, however, the PS4 Pro games do require greater hard drive space. If you do want to opt for the PS4, you can purchase the slightly more expensive 1TB version or plug an external USB drive into one of the ports to increase storage capabilities.

Performance

In terms of performance, when looking at the PS4 Pro vs PS4 specs, the Pro is generally the better choice. The AMD is the chosen choice for the PS4 processor with eight Jaguar cores that are clocked at 1.6GHz, whereas the PS4 Pro has a similar processor, but it can run at 2.1GHz. The PS4 RAM is the same spec as the PS4 Pro RAM- 8GB of GDDR5 RAM. However, the PS4 RAM runs at 176 GB/s and the PS4 Pro RAM runs at 218 GB/s.

For performance, when considering PS4 Pro vs PS4, the PS4 Pro runs at around 1.3x the speed of the PS4 and the PS4 Pro RAM has 24% more bandwidth. This extra power is often used to improve graphical performance and effects within games, which is great for avid gamers. All PS4 games run on both consoles, but they are smoother on PS4 Pro vs PS4.

Gaming quality and graphics

The main difference between the PS4 vs PS4 Pro is the graphics and how it looks when gaming; the PS4 Pro can run games at 4K compared to the 1080p quality that the PS4 runs. The 4K capability of the PS4 Pro paved the way for the PS5, so it's a great option to go for if you want 4K gaming at a cheaper price.

The only downside of having a games console that can operate at 4K, is that you have to have a 4K TV or monitor that is compatible. So, when considering the PS4 Pro vs PS4 specs, it depends if you have the equipment to go along with it – otherwise why pay the extra cost to have 4K, if you're not going to use it?

While the PS4 Pro can manage that output, performance varies massively depending on the games you're trying to play as most games won't get you to that 4K quality and will often checkerboard instead, where it simulates 4K quality without actually operating in native 4K. So, it's probably best to research the games you'll want to play, because if they're not compatible with 4K, then there's not much difference between PS4 and PS4 Pro.

When looking at PS4 vs PS4 Pro as a home entertainment system, the Pro can stream Ultra HD video, since it's a 4K console, whereas the PS4 is limited to 1080p. Where HDR is available, both consoles can output it so, in that regard, there's minimal difference between PS4 or PS4 Pro, although this varies on different apps and services.

Design

The size difference between PS4 and PS4 Pro is noticeable as the PS4 Pro is larger. The physical specs of the PS4 are 265 x 39 x 288mm and it weighs 2.1kg, whilst the PS4 Pro dimensions are 295 x 55 x 327mm and it weighs 3.3kg. If you have extra space for the PS4 Pro vs PS4, and will benefit from the extra performance that the PS4 Pro brings, then this could be the best match.

Connectivity

The connectivity of the PS4 Pro is better as it has three USB ports, whereas the PS4 has only two. This is extra convenient if you need to charge your phone or plug in a VR headset. The PS4 Pro also features an optical audio output, so you can connect your console to a home theatre system and get that cinema experience when watching films or TV. However, this is only a slight difference between the PS4 vs PS4 Pro, or no difference at all if you don't use the USB or audio output ports on your PlayStation.

Backwards compatibility

Unfortunately, unlike the other PlayStation models, neither the PS4 or PS4 Pro have backwards compatibility, so if you were looking to upgrade from a Playstation 2 or 3, you'd have to buy new games. However, if you did want to access your favourite older model games, you would need to use a PlayStation Plus Extra or Deluxe membership. So, there's no backwards capability difference between PS4 and PS4 Pro.

Price

Although Sony stopped making these models, there are a wide variety of refurbished models in great condition on the market; refurbished is also a lot cheaper, so if you opt for the PS4 Pro, it won't be such a hit to your bank balance. Take a look at the musicMagpie website for some brilliant options when it comes to PS4 Pro vs PS4. To give you added peace of mind, you'll also benefit from a 12-month free warranty.

The outcome

Ultimately, the difference between PS4 and PS4 Pro depends on the user and whether increased performance and visual quality are worth the jump in price. If you're going to use your new console every day, then go for the PS4 Pro as it's a better investment and you'll really enjoy the 4K gaming; however, if you'll use it once a week or just as a home entertainment system, the quality of the standard PS4 at 1080p would be perfect for your needs and you can still stream with HDR quality.

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Whether you've decided on a PS4 or PS4 Pro, shopping for refurbished consoles is a great choice to save money and be more environmentally friendly! Head to the musicMagpie Store and check out our amazing deals on refurbished PS4 and refurbished PS4 Pro consoles.