The PlayStation 5 Pro (PS5 Pro) is of course fully compatible with all titles available on the classic PlayStation 5. However, the hardware improvements made to this newcomer allow for significantly better graphics, characterized by a more homogeneous dynamic resolution and higher frame rates. Mark Cerny, principal architect of the PS5, specified that Sony has focused its efforts on three main axes.
PS5 Pro, significant hardware improvements££££
First of all, the GPU (graphics processing chip) has been significantly improved, offering 67% more computing units compared to the standard PS5, as well as 28% faster memory. The result is up to 45% faster graphics rendering, guaranteeing a smoother gaming experience. Secondly, the Ray Tracing has been optimized for significantly more dynamic management of light reflection and refraction. This technical advancement allows rays to be projected at speeds two to three times higher than those of the classic PS5.
PS5 Pro, advanced upscaling technology££££
Another notable aspect of the PS5 Pro is the introduction of PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution technology, an [abc]Upscaling[/abc] process driven by artificial intelligence (AI). This innovation, based on machine learning algorithms, aims to offer exceptional image clarity by integrating a remarkable level of detail. In addition to supporting [abc]Ultra HD[/abc] [abc]4K[/abc] resolution up to 120 frames per second, with or without [abc]VRR[/abc] (variable refresh rate), the PS5 Pro will also be able to handle games in [abc]8K[/abc], according to Sony's statements.
PS5 Pro, game performance improvements££££
In addition, Sony is introducing PS5 Pro Game Boost mode, which affects over 8,500 PS4/PS5 games, automatically improving their performance. In addition, select PS5 titles will receive a free upgrade to take full advantage of the PS5 Pro's capabilities, identifiable by the "PS5 Pro Enhanced" label. These games include notable references such as Alan Wake 2, Assassin's Creed: Shadows, Demon's Souls, Dragon's Dogma 2, Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth, Gran Turismo 7, Horizon Forbidden West, Hogwarts Legacy, Marvel's Spider-Man 2, Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart, The Crew Motorfest, The First Descendant and The Last of Us Part II Remastered. Mark Cerny, the architect of the PS5, devoted a significant portion of his presentation (below) to demonstrating how the upgraded hardware will boost the frame rate and visual quality of PlayStation games.
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PS5 Pro, technical requirements and connectivity££££
Like the regular PS5, the PS5 Pro requires a TV with an [abc]HDMI[/abc] [abc]2.1[/abc] port to benefit from 4K/120 and VRR features. In terms of connectivity, the PS5 Pro integrates [abc]Wi-Fi 7[/abc] for the first time while maintaining a user interface and network services similar to those of the PS5. In addition, it has 2TB of SSD storage space offering increased capacity for games and applications. The PS5 Pro in its standard configuration does not have an optical drive, but it is possible to add one, just like the PS5 Slim.
PS5 Pro, Sony has its say££££
“We’ve kept the look of PS5 Pro consistent with the entire PS5 product family. You’ll notice that the height is the same size as the original PS5 and the width is the same size as the current PS5 model to accommodate higher performance specifications. Players can add an Ultra HD Blu-Ray disc drive or change the console’s shells when new ones become available,” Sony said. As you can see in the photo above, the PlayStation 5 Pro takes the design of the PlayStation 5 Slim modulo a few specific aesthetic elements. For example, three distinct lines instead of a single…
The PS5 Pro will be available from November 7. Recommended price: €800, including a DualSense wireless controller. Pre-orders will begin on September 26, 2024.
