PS4 vs. PS5: What’s the Difference and Should You Upgrade?

Visual graphics are one of the most important aspects of gaming. If the console you choose doesn’t have an updated graphic processing unit (GPU) — also known as a video graphics card —, the images on your screen may appear low-quality or have difficulty loading altogether. Your console’s GPU is especially important if you want to play video games that utilize complex world-building, fast movement or elaborate settings.

When comparing the graphics for PS5 vs. PS4, the differences are stark. The processing capabilities are twice as strong for the PS5 (36 CU GPU) as they are for the PS4 (18 CU GPU). The PS5 also leads the way in teraflops — the unit of measurement that dictates how fast your GPU can process floating-point operations. The PS5 comes with 10.3 teraflops, almost nine times more processing power than the PS4, which has only 1.84 teraflops.

So, does this mean the PS4 has shoddy graphics? Not at all. The PS4 still delivers clear and precise gameplay imaging suitable for all PS4 games. But if you’d like to play games with more detail or faster movement, the PS5 will most likely be a better fit. And with the right gaming TV, the PS5 can even produce a video output in 4K or 8K. This can make your graphics look so real, you’ll forget you’re playing a game.

Memory (RAM) and storage capacity are two important details to consider when it comes to playing and saving your favorite games. Your device uses memory to temporarily store video game data for easy retrieval and gameplay. But when your memory is too low or all used up, your PlayStation console can have especially long load times or may not be able to run the game at all. That’s why it can be handy to have internal and external storage options, such as a PS5 game drive, so you can save your game progress there, and leave your memory unburdened for future gameplay.

Similar to graphics, memory and storage space vary depending on the PlayStation system you choose. The PS4 comes with 8 GB of memory — the minimum amount of RAM you need for gameplay, and the PS5 console has double the memory with 16 GB. However, for internal storage, the PS4 Pro reigns supreme with 1 TB of space compared to the PS4 Slim with 500 GB and the PS5 with 825 GB. You can also get a PS4 game drive to save recordings of games. Although, the PS5 does come with the option to use an SSD as external storage, which can be quick and convenient when retrieving files.

Whether you decide to invest in a PS4 or PS5, you’ll want to make sure the console you choose can play your favorite games. With a wide selection of titles, you can enjoy simple puzzle games like Tetris, classic platform games like Sonic, or action role-playing games like Elden Ring — just to name a few.

But if you already own the PS4 and are hoping to upgrade, you may be wondering, “Can you play PS4 games on PS5?”. Thankfully, the PS5 is backward compatible with the PS4, so you can play most PS4 games on the PS5. But can you play PS4 disc games on PS5? Yes, even PS4 game discs can be played on a PS5 console. However, there are a few titles that only work on the PS4, so make sure you do your research if you have a specific game in mind.

With the advanced graphic capabilities of the PS5, you may be wondering, “Do PS4 games look better on PS5?”. While some PS4 games may have an upgrade patch, allowing for improved visuals and gameplay on the PS5, most PS4 games will look the same whether you play them on the PS4 or PS5. But if you want a PlayStation game with enhanced graphics and visual effects, there are plenty of PS5 games that can take your visual experience to the next level.

The price of a new console can often be the deciding factor when choosing the best gaming system for you and your family. Once you’ve compared PS4 vs. PS5 specs and determined which features are most important for the games you like to play, it’s time to consider your budget.

Since the PS5 is newer than the PS4 or PS4 Pro, you should expect to pay more for this advanced model. So, how much does a PS5 cost? Prices may vary depending on where you buy your PlayStation console, but typically the PS5 will cost you a couple of hundred dollars more than the PS4. When it comes to the PS4 Pro vs. PS5, the Pro lands firmly in the middle, costing only about $100 less than the PS5. And no matter which system you’re shopping for, it’s always helpful to keep an eye out for any cost-saving video game deals.

When considering your budget for gaming, don’t forget to account for the cost of any gaming accessories you might need. If you like to play with friends or family, you may want an extra PS4 controller, gaming headset, or other PS4 and PS5 accessories. Or you may want to optimize your gaming setup with a new monitor, speakers or an ergonomic gaming chair.