PlayStation 4 vs PlayStation 5 – Which Should You Buy?

Tech
By Maya Collins • April 24, 2026
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PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 are both powerful consoles, but they have some core difference. The PlayStation®5 is Sony’s more advanced console with faster load times, higher resolutions, and modern features for next-gen gaming, while the PlayStation 4 Console remains a reliable and affordable option. Let’s explore what is the difference between ps4 and ps5.

Feature-by-Feature Breakdown

Processor:

  • PlayStation®5 console features an 8-core AMD Zen 2 processor that runs at 3.5GHz to deliver smooth performance and faster load times.
  • PlayStation 4 Console uses an 8-core AMD Jaguar processor that runs at 1.6GHz.
Winner:

PlayStation 5

Disc Drive:

  • PlayStation®5 console supports a detachable Ultra HD Blu-ray drive that allows playback of 4K physical media.
  • PlayStation 4 Console features a standard Blu-ray drive with 1080p output support.
Winner:

PlayStation 5

GPU Performance:

  • PlayStation®5 console includes a 10.3 TFLOPS RDNA 2 GPU that enables 4K gaming and ray tracing for advanced visual effects.
  • PlayStation 4 Console uses a 1.84 TFLOPS GCN GPU with support for 1080p gaming.
Winner:

PlayStation 5

RAM:

  • PlayStation®5 console has 16GB of GDDR6 memory that handles large game assets for smoother multitasking and gameplay.
  • PlayStation 4 Console includes 8GB of GDDR5 memory that supports basic gaming.
Winner:

PlayStation 5

Storage Capacity:

  • PlayStation®5 console comes with a 1TB PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSD that shortens loading times and improves data access.
  • PlayStation 4 Console includes a 1TB HDD that provides slower loading speeds.
Winner:

PlayStation 5 (See Also: Xbox One Slim Vs Xbox One )

Media Playback:

  • PlayStation®5 console supports 4K streaming and UHD Blu-ray playback to enhance visual media experiences.
  • PlayStation 4 Console supports 1080p streaming and regular Blu-ray discs.
Winner:

PlayStation 5

Game Compatibility:

  • PlayStation®5 console supports backward compatibility with PS4 games to expand the playable library.
  • PlayStation 4 Console is not compatible with PS5 games.
Winner:

PlayStation 5

Audio:

  • PlayStation®5 console supports Tempest 3D AudioTech that delivers spatial sound to enhance in-game awareness.
  • PlayStation 4 Console supports Dolby Digital and DTS for basic surround sound.
Winner:

PlayStation 5

Connectivity:

  • PlayStation®5 console includes Wi-Fi 6 and a USB-C port that improves download speeds and peripheral compatibility.
  • PlayStation 4 Console includes Wi-Fi 4 and lacks USB-C support.
Winner:

PlayStation 5

Check PlayStation 5 Best Price
Check PlayStation 4 Best Price

Specs at a Glance

FeaturePlayStation®5PlayStation®4
CPU8-core AMD Zen 2 at 3.5GHz8-core AMD Jaguar at 1.6GHz
GPU10.3 TFLOPS RDNA 21.84 TFLOPS GCN
RAM16GB GDDR68GB GDDR5
Storage1TB PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSD1TB 5400RPM HDD
Disc DriveUltra HD Blu-rayStandard Blu-ray
Max ResolutionUp to 4K at 120HzUp to 1080p
Video OutputHDMI 2.1HDMI 1.4
AudioTempest 3D AudioTechDolby Digital, DTS
NetworkingWi-Fi 6, Gigabit EthernetWi-Fi 4, Ethernet
USB Ports2× USB-A, 1× USB-C2× USB 3.1
Backward CompatibilityYes (PS4 games)No

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Who Should Buy What?

Buy the PlayStation®5 if you:

  • Want the best performance for next-gen gaming with faster load times and smoother visuals.
  • Plan to play both PS5 and PS4 titles and want future-proof support.
  • Prefer higher resolution media playback and enhanced 3D audio.
  • Like the flexibility of using a detachable disc drive.
  • Need the latest wireless tech for faster downloads and online play.

Check PlayStation 5 Best Price

Buy the PlayStation®4 if you:

  • Have a smaller budget and want a reliable entry point into console gaming.
  • Do not need 4K visuals or cutting-edge graphics.
  • Plan to play only PS4 games and are okay with a smaller feature set.
  • Prefer a lightweight, compact design that fits in any setup.
  • Want a console that runs cooler and consumes less power.

Check PlayStation 4 Best Price

Winner by Category

CategoryWinner
CPUPlayStation®5 console
GPUPlayStation®5 console
Disc DrivePlayStation®5 console
System MemoryPlayStation®5 console
Optical DrivePlayStation®5 console
SSDPlayStation®5 console
PS5 Game DiscPlayStation®5 console
Video OutputPlayStation®5 console
AudioPlayStation®5 console
Input/OutputPlayStation®5 console
NetworkingPlayStation®5 console
Game Access FlexibilityPlayStation®5 console
Build FlexibilityPlayStation®5 console
ConnectivityPlayStation®5 console
Media PlaybackPlayStation®5 console

What They Have in Common

  • Game Library Compatibility: Both PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4 play popular first-party PlayStation titles and major third-party games, making them a great choice for gamers who enjoy blockbuster releases. This ensures players can access a wide range of games regardless of which console they own.
  • Blu-ray Disc Support: Both consoles feature a Blu-ray disc drive (except the PS5 Digital Edition), allowing players to enjoy physical game discs and movies. This is important for users who prefer collecting physical copies or watching Blu-ray movies on their console.
  • Online Services: Both support PlayStation Network, including PlayStation Plus subscriptions for online multiplayer and free monthly games. This keeps players connected with friends and provides ongoing value with new content.
  • Controller Features: Both consoles use DualShock/DualSense controllers with features like haptic feedback, motion controls, and a built-in speaker. This delivers an immersive and interactive gaming experience across generations.
  • Streaming Apps: Both systems allow streaming apps like Netflix, Disney+, and YouTube, turning them into home entertainment hubs. This makes them multifunctional devices beyond gaming.
  • Remote Play: Both PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 support Remote Play, letting users stream games to PCs or mobile devices. This provides flexibility for players to continue gaming even away from their main screen.

FAQ (Quick Answers)

Is the PlayStation®5 console backward compatible with PS4 games?
Yes, the PlayStation®5 console is fully backward compatible with most PlayStation 4 games, allowing users to continue playing their existing library.

Can the PlayStation 4 play PlayStation 5 games?
No, the PlayStation 4 does not support PS5 games due to hardware limitations and software incompatibility.

Does the PlayStation®5 console support physical discs?
Yes, the PS5 with disc edition supports Ultra HD Blu-ray discs. The disc drive is detachable, giving users flexibility in setup.

How much storage does each console include?
The PlayStation®5 console includes a 1TB NVMe SSD, while the PlayStation 4 comes with a 1TB HDD. The SSD in the PS5 is significantly faster. (See Also: Meta Quest 3 Vs Psvr2 )

Can I stream 4K content on both consoles?
Only the PlayStation®5 console supports 4K video streaming and playback. The PS4 is limited to 1080p resolution.

Which console is better for multiplayer gaming?
The PlayStation®5 console is better equipped for multiplayer gaming due to faster load times, improved network speeds with Wi-Fi 6, and advanced graphics.

Which console is more compact and portable?
The PlayStation 4 is smaller and lighter than the PS5, making it easier to fit into compact setups or travel with.

Do both consoles support external storage expansion?
Yes, both consoles support external USB storage, but the PS5 also allows for NVMe SSD expansion for next-gen game installs.

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Is it still worth buying a PS4 in 2025?
The PS4 is suitable for casual gamers or those on a tight budget, but the PS5 is recommended for future-proofing and next-gen performance.

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