PS5 Pro Review: Powerful Upgrade Brings Enhanced Graphics and Performance Worth $700

BigGo Editorial Team
PS5 Pro Review: Powerful Upgrade Brings Enhanced Graphics and Performance Worth $700

Sony's latest mid-generation console refresh has arrived with significant improvements in graphics processing and storage capacity, positioning itself as the most powerful gaming console in the market. The PS5 Pro represents a substantial leap forward in console gaming technology, though it comes with a premium price point of $700.

Introducing the PS5 Pro, the latest powerhouse in gaming consoles
Introducing the PS5 Pro, the latest powerhouse in gaming consoles

Enhanced Graphics Processing

The PS5 Pro boasts impressive hardware upgrades, featuring a GPU with 67% more Compute Units and 28% faster memory compared to the base PS5. This translates to up to 45% faster rendering during gameplay. The console introduces PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution (PSSR), an AI-driven upscaling technology similar to Nvidia DLSS, which maintains high frame rates while delivering sharper graphics.

Ray Tracing and Visual Fidelity

Ray tracing capabilities have received a significant boost on the PS5 Pro, resulting in more realistic light reflection and refraction effects. Games like Marvel's Spider-Man 2 showcase these improvements with enhanced reflections on glass buildings and water surfaces. The console supports both Fidelity Pro mode at native 4K resolution and Performance Pro mode upscaling from 1440p to 4K, with ray tracing available in both modes.

Storage Solutions

One of the most practical upgrades is the inclusion of a 2TB SSD, addressing a common criticism of the original PS5's limited storage. This generous capacity allows users to maintain a substantial game library without constant storage management. Even with large titles like Final Fantasy VII: Rebirth (146.5GB), users can expect to store numerous games simultaneously.

Unreal Engine 5 Performance

The PS5 Pro demonstrates superior handling of Unreal Engine 5, as evidenced by its performance with The Matrix Awakens demo. Even without specific optimization patches, the console manages to run this demanding demonstration significantly better than the base PS5, though some resolution scaling is noticeable during intensive sequences.

Design and Connectivity

The PS5 Pro maintains a similar aesthetic to its predecessors with a slightly taller profile than the PS5 Slim. It features the same port configuration, including dual USB-C ports on the front and two USB-A ports with an Ethernet port on the rear. The console supports customization through four removable faceplates, though these are not compatible with PS5 Slim accessories.

The sleek design of the PS5 Pro displayed in a modern gaming setup
The sleek design of the PS5 Pro displayed in a modern gaming setup

Value Proposition

While the $700 price tag represents a significant investment, the PS5 Pro offers tangible benefits for enthusiast gamers, particularly those with 120Hz TVs supporting VRR. The combination of enhanced graphics, improved performance, and generous storage makes it an attractive option for players seeking the ultimate console gaming experience.