Sonys beefed-up version of the PS4 packs a 4K punch

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PlayStation 4 Pro

Lifewire / Zach Sweat

So how does Sonys top-of-the-line console hold up now?

Browse through our review here to see if its the right console for you.

It sports a similar flattened parallelogram shape and same matte black textured plastic (with no gloss accents).

PlayStation 4 Pro

Lifewire/Zach Sweat

Initially, some people joked that the Pro appeared to be two PS4s just stacked atop each other.

As it turns out, this is actually a pretty accurate description.

The top of the console is stamped with a sleek chrome PlayStation logo.

PlayStation 4 Pro

Lifewire/Zach Sweat

This time around, Sony ditched the capacitive touch buttons for physical ones.

The rear of the Pro features most of the consoles ports.

Mostly the same as the original DS4, the newer version has a few welcome changes.

PlayStation 4 Pro

Lifewire/Zach Sweat

The triggers have also been slightly adjusted to feel lighter.

To begin, plug in the power cable, HDMI and Ethernet if you opt for that over Wi-Fi.

Now tap the power button on the front of your PlayStation and do the same for the controller.

PlayStation 4 Pro

Lifewire/Zach Sweat

It might not be for those without 4K TVs, but its undoubtedly the best PlayStation console to date.

If not, you may need to do some googling to source the issue.

That said, check that your TV is up-to-date with the latest software.

PlayStation 4 Pro

Lifewire/Zach Sweat

Assuming your TV also supports HDR, you want to also ensure its enabled on the console and TV.

This setting is found both on your TVs controls and the same sound and screen tab of your PS4.

This is an important section because you might want to consider the upgrade even without a 4K TV.

Youll experience less strain and stutters with the Pro, and its also much quieter than previous models.

Whether thats enough to justify the Pro for your Full HD gaming needs is up to you to decide.

When playing titles like these, the Pro truly shines.

We tested a range of titles from first-party games likeGod of WarandSpider-Man, to third-party greats likeApex Legends.

God of Waris undoubtedly a gorgeous game that offers a breathtaking single-player experience.

On the PS4 Pro, it is simply stunning.

The frame rates are also higher and more consistent, giving us smoother gameplay with less immersion-breaking distractions.

While some games are capable of hitting native 4K, not all games are.

Many of the titles that support the Pro Mode are instead upscaled to 4K resolution.

This means it isnt quite a true 4K resolution and will be rendering fewer pixels.

Wed have honestly preferred to see a smaller SSD instead of the larger HDD.

Its not a deal-breaker, but something to consider.

The Pro should also be a touch quicker in the Wi-Fi department, thanks to the improved antenna.

This further improves its functionality for potential buyers.

Sadly, Sony has dropped the Blu-ray player and no longer supports UHD media in that format.

One such feature is Share Play.

Beyond this, Share Play also allows for local multiplayer games.

Theres also Remote Play, which allows you to play PS4 games on both Windows and Mac.

The PS4 Pro gets all of these and they typically get an upgrade since the console can handle more.

Surprisingly, the PS4 Pro is pretty darn affordable given its hardware.

Surprisingly, the PS4 Pro is pretty darn affordable given its hardware.

The Pro also has an arguably superior library of games, but that is subjective.

Its up to you to decide what is more important here.

Final Verdict

A significantly improved PlayStation 4 with 4K capabilities.