PS5 vs. PS4: Is It Worth the Upgrade?

Comparing size, storage, graphics, and controller upgrades to decide if the PS5 experience is worth your investment

Hardware by Masaru Hoshino on Jul 25, 2025

PS5 and PS4 each offer distinct experiences that appeal to both casual and dedicated gamers. You will need more space for PlayStation 5 because it is significantly larger than its predecessor. Even the digital edition matches the disc edition in size, so measure your setup before upgrading.

PS4 is flat with minimal clearance, whereas PS5's adjustable side plates allow for cosmetic modifications that PS4's skins cannot match. We determined whether upgrading to PS5 is worthwhile or if sticking with PS4 still fulfills your needs.

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Hardware and Performance

PS5 features an 8-core AMD processor compared to PS4's 4-core AMD chip. Combined with the custom SSD, PS5 delivers near-zero load times, transfers hundreds of gigabytes in minutes, and offers smoother gameplay.

We noticed that transferring storage and loading different game sections on PS5 takes a fraction of the time required on PS4.

Storage Considerations

PS4 Pro's 1TB drive provides around 880GB of usable space. PS5's 825GB SSD, however, reports closer to 660GB after system use. If your PS4 storage is full, you will need additional PS5 storage to migrate all content.

Internal expansion on PS5 is possible and extremely fast, though it comes at a premium price. External drives remain an option for both consoles.

Graphics and Resolution

While both systems can display at 1080p, PS5 also supports 4K, up to 8K, and 120Hz gameplay. For most Casual Gamers, the visual difference at 1080p may not be striking. Still, features like ray tracing give PS5 a more realistic rendering of shadows, reflections, and lighting compared to PS4 Pro.

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Controllers

The DualSense and DualShock controllers offer two distinct experiences. PS5 uses a USB‑C connector, haptic feedback, an inbuilt microphone, a touch sensor, multiple microphones, and adaptive triggers, while the DualShock relies on micro‑USB, a headphone jack, and basic rumble.

DualSense feels chunkier and heavier, but its advanced features provide a next‑level gaming feel.

User Interface and Features

On the PS5 home menu, animated backgrounds and a bottom action bar for quick tasks enhance immersion. You can switch between games instantly and enjoy automatic saves in most titles.

PS5 also offers performance and fidelity modes, which prioritize either frame rate or visual quality. PS4 provides folders for organization, whereas PS5 uses game lists.

Affordability and Value

PS4 Pro still remains a budget-friendly option, offering many of the same games and even FPS boosts. A pre‑owned PS4 costs around $400, while a PS5 retails at $850. If the matter is budget, PS4 still delivers an intense gaming experience.

However, once you upgrade, PS5's faster storage, improved graphics, and immersive features make it well worth the investment.

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Final Thoughts

So, it's up to your budget–Whether you choose PS4 or PS5, and also space, and desire for the latest technology.

You can continue gaming on PS4 with minimal compromise, but PS5 offers a leap forward in speed, visuals, and interactivity that will define console gaming for years to come.

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