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Upgrade to a PS4 Pro if you want sharper output or game-specific visual and performance enhancements, and you find a used console in good condition at a price that makes sense. A 4K TV is not required: Sony says some games can benefit from supersampling on an HD television. But the Pro does not add a separate PS4 game library, and HDR alone is not a reason to switch because standard PS4 supports HDR too.
What does PS4 Pro add over a standard PS4?
The PS4 Pro is the higher-end PS4 model, with the ability to output up to 4K in supported situations and additional capability that developers can use to enhance games. Sony says many games have Pro enhancements, but each developer decides how to use the hardware. The result can vary by title; “Pro enhanced” does not guarantee native 4K rendering or a higher frame rate in every game. Sony’s PS4 Pro product page describes 4K output, title-specific enhancements and supersampling.
- Resolution: Pro can provide up to 4K output when the game and display support it. Standard PS4 is the HD-class option.
- Game presentation: Some games offer Pro-specific visual or performance enhancements; the exact effect is game-dependent.
- Game access: Both consoles play the PS4 library. Sony said the original PS4, slimmer PS4 and Pro have access to the same games and features. Sony Interactive Entertainment’s announcement explains the shared access.
Do you need a 4K TV for PS4 Pro?
No. A 4K TV is needed to see a game’s 4K output as 4K, but Sony also describes supersampling for certain games on an HD television. In that process, higher-resolution game information is downscaled to the screen’s resolution, which can produce smoother edges and more refined detail. The benefit depends on the game, so an HD TV can still make the Pro worthwhile, but it will not show a 4K image.
Sony does not give a universal recommended TV size: room dimensions, seating distance and the media being watched all affect the choice. If buying a display specifically for HDR games and movies, Sony recommends an HDR10-compatible TV. Sony’s PS4 Pro FAQ gives that conditional guidance.
#1 Best Overall
- PlayStation 4 Pro - the super charged PS4 - take play to the next level with PS4 Pro: See every detail explode into life with 4K gaming and entertainment, experience faster, smoother frame rates and more powerful gaming performance and enjoy richer, more vibrant colours with HDR technology
- 4K gaming and entertainment - games and movies shine with amazing 4K clarity
- graphics become sharper and more realistic, skin tones become warmer and more lifelike, while textures and environments burst into life like never before
- High dynamic range - With an HDR enabled TV, compatible PS4 games display an intensely vibrant range of colours, closer to the full spectrum that the human eye can see
- Enhanced games - PS4 Pro games burst into life with intensely sharp graphics, stunningly vibrant colours, textures and environments and smoother, more stable performance
Is HDR a reason to upgrade?
Not by itself. HDR support is available on standard PS4 as well as PS4 Pro, as Sony stated in a PlayStation Blog post. The Pro’s case rests more on its 4K output capability and the enhancements developers choose to add to particular games.
How to check whether your games benefit
Start with the games you actually play, rather than assuming the console will improve every title in the same way. Look for an official Pro-enhancement description for each game and check which options it offers. Enhancements may concern resolution, performance or other visual details; a broad claim that Pro always means native 4K or a faster frame rate is not warranted.
Rank #2
- This Certified Refurbished product is tested and certified to look and work like new. The refurbishing process includes functionality testing, basic cleaning, inspection, and repackaging. The product ships with all relevant accessories, a minimum 90-day warranty, and may arrive in a generic box. Only select sellers who maintain a high performance bar may offer Certified Refurbished products on Amazon.com
- Spectacular graphics – Explore vivid game worlds with rich visuals heightened by PS4 Pro.
- Enhanced gameplay – Support for faster frame rates delivers super-sharp action for select PS4 games.
- One unified gaming community – Compatible with every PS4 game. Play online with other PS4 players with PlayStation Plus.
- Extraordinary entertainment – With up to 4K streaming and 4K auto-upscaling for video content.
If the expected 4K or HDR signal does not appear, check both the console’s display settings and the game’s own menu. Sony notes that some games require 4K or HDR to be enabled in-game as well as on the console. Follow the PlayStation Support setup guide for the relevant settings.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.When is a PS4 Pro upgrade worth it?
Choose the Pro if…
- You have a 4K display and want supported games to output at higher resolutions.
- You play titles with Pro enhancements that matter to you.
- You use an HD TV but are interested in the possible supersampling benefit in supported games.
Keep your standard PS4 if…
- You are satisfied with its current picture and performance.
- The games you care about do not offer enhancements you value.
- You would be upgrading mainly for HDR, which standard PS4 also supports.
- A Pro in suitable condition costs more than its added features are worth to you.
For a second-hand purchase, compare local listings and inspect the console’s condition, included controller and cables, and return coverage. Current resale prices, availability, warranty and remaining service life vary by seller and are not established by Sony’s product-feature information, so assess those details for the specific offer.
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Quick Recap
Best Value
- Call of Duty: Modern Warfare PS4 Pro Bundle includes a jet black 1TB PS4 Pro system, a matching DUALSHOCK 4 wireless controller, and Call of Duty: Modern Warfare on Blu-ray Disc
- Prepare to go dark, Modern Warfare is back! In the visceral and dramatic single-player story campaign, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare pushes boundaries and breaks rules the way only Modern Warfare can
- Experience the ultimate online playground with classic multiplayer, or squad-up and play cooperatively in a collection of elite operations accessible to all skill levels
Rank #4
- Heighten your experiences. Enrich your adventures. Let the super charged PS4 Pro lead the way
- 4K TV Gaming : PS4 Pro outputs gameplay to your 4K TV
- More HD Power: Turn on Boost Mode to give PS4 games access to the increased power of PS4 Pro
- HDR Technology : With an HDR TV, compatible PS4 games display an unbelievably vibrant and life like range of colors
- Turn on Boost Mode to give PS4 games access to the increased power of PS4 Pro
Rank #3
- Heighten your experiences. Enrich your adventures. Let the super charged PS4 Pro lead the way
- 4K TV Gaming : PS4 Pro outputs gameplay to your 4K TV
- More HD Power: Turn on Boost Mode to give PS4 games access to the increased power of PS4 Pro
- HDR Technology : With an HDR TV, compatible PS4 games display an unbelievably vibrant and life like range of colors
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
