On September 10, during the PS5 Technical Presentation, the PlayStation 5 Pro was unveiled as an enhanced variant of Sony’s ninth-generation console. This article summarizes the key points shared by Mark Cerny, Sony’s lead system architect, and weighs whether upgrading to the PS5 Pro makes financial sense for prospective buyers.
How do pro versions of consoles differ from regular versions
Pro editions emerged in the previous generation, where Sony and Microsoft offered stronger hardware alongside larger storage without overhauling the fundamental architecture. For example, the PlayStation 4 Pro arrived three years after the base PS4, delivering higher graphics fidelity and smoother frame rates. Yet, developers released titles for both standard and pro consoles, so most games ran on either system. A parallel pattern occurred with the Xbox One X.
Did you buy the pro versions of previous generations of consoles?
What was shown during the PS5 technical presentation
The PS5 Pro is described with a modern RDNA 3 graphics chip delivering around 33.5 teraflops, an 8-core AMD Zen 2 processor with 16 threads capable of 3.5 GHz, and 16 GB of GDDR6 RAM operating at 18 Gbps. Sony asserts the console can render graphics about 45 percent faster than the standard PS5, includes upscaling through PSSR, and accelerates ray tracing.
The aim is to let players enjoy high frame rates without sacrificing image quality. PS5 Pro targets 4K resolution at 60 frames per second, and major PlayStation titles are expected to receive patches that utilize the new hardware. For instance, Gran Turismo 7 is anticipated to gain an enhanced reflection system that shows vehicle outlines in windows, among other improvements. Beginning with several titles, the updated features will arrive in patches ahead of new releases.
The PS5 Pro is scheduled to release on November 7, with a price tag around 700 USD or 800 EUR.
Is it worth saving for the PS5 Pro
If a preferred game is not among the titles receiving a pro patch, the experience on the Pro will resemble the standard PS5. The omission of a disc drive is notable; physical media remains a key way many players access new games, but the PS5 Pro model does not include a disc drive by default. A separate disc drive accessory can be added for about 100 USD.
The pattern observed with the PS4 and its pro version suggests that most new games will not be exclusive to the PS5 Pro. The base PS5 will likely continue to be supported for several years until the next generation arrives.
For households already owning a PlayStation 5, there is no pressing reason to upgrade to the Pro unless the user values the latest hardware enhancements and can justify the cost. The upgrade is a full device purchase rather than an add-on module. However, for those who did not purchase the original PS5 and are eager to explore Sony’s library with the newest features, the PS5 Pro might merit consideration if budget allows.
User response to PlayStation 5 Pro
The price prompted strong reactions from fans. Critics noted the library of exclusives on the PS5 remains limited and argued the graphical differences between the Pro and standard models are not dramatic in many cases.
One observer remarked, I’m trying to see the real difference between the graphics on PS5 and PS5 Pro, while another noted the price tag of 700 USD and that the first showcased game ran on a PS4 title. Comments varied from skepticism about value to curiosity about performance gains. Some quotes echoed the sentiment that the Pro offers clear limits and costs, while others speculated about future titles designed to showcase Pro features.
In one take, the idea surfaced that PS5 Pro might be a stepping stone rather than a final destination for the current generation. Practical questions about the need to upgrade—especially for players content with their current PS5 and games—drove the discussion. The consensus across community opinions emphasized affordability, current game availability, and the pace of future software optimizations.
Are you planning to buy a PS5 Pro, or do you prefer sticking with other systems? Share thoughts in the comments.
Source: VG Times