It’s been exactly four years since the PS5 launched way back in 2020, bringing with it a host of new games, updates, accessories, a PS5 Slim and a more recent PS5 Pro. But here’s the question: Is the PS5 still worth buying today, and is it worth the extra cost for the new models? Let’s dive in.
When the PS5 was first released, getting one was tough. Supply chain issues, a chip shortage, and the pandemic made prices skyrocket, with some buying the console at twice its retail price. Fast forward to today, with over 40 million units sold, and PS5s are finally accessible and reasonably priced. So, if you’re thinking of grabbing one, it’s a great time to do so.
Upgrading from the PS4 to the PS5 is like night and day. The PS5 is impressively quiet compared to the PS4’s jet-engine fan noise, and the UI is cleaner with haptic feedback on menu navigation. And who could forget the PS4's long load times? On the PS5, loading screens are almost non-existent, letting you jump straight into the action.
Backward compatibility is another win for Sony, with the PS5 supporting PS4 games, many of which have been updated to make the most of the PS5’s power and unique DualSense controller features.
With the recent release of the PS5 Slim and Pro models, there’s been a lot of buzz about potential upgrades. However, the differences in performance between these models and the base PS5 aren’t that significant. The graphics improvements on the Pro model, while nice, are not game-changing, and most players won’t notice a dramatic difference. For anyone weighing their options, the base PS5 is still the best value and performs incredibly well for all current and upcoming games.
The PS5 ecosystem offers some fantastic accessories. The DualSense controller is a standout, with customizable haptic feedback that you can tailor to your preferences. Sony also offers the PS VR 2, a customizable DualSense Edge wireless controller, PULSE Explore earbuds, PULSE Elite headsets, and the PS Portal for remote gaming.
No PS5 review would be complete without some game recommendations. Astro’s Playroom is perfect for new PS5 users to experience the DualSense controller’s capabilities. For PS4 classics, titles like Mafia: Definitive Edition, Days Gone, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, and Red Dead Redemption have been updated for the PS5, breathing new life into these fan favorites.
Exclusive PS5 games like God of War: Ragnarok, Spider-Man: Miles Morales, Ghost of Tsushima, Ratchet & Clank, The Last of Us Part I & II, Uncharted series, Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora, and Stray offer stellar stories, graphics, and gameplay. And with GTA 6 rumored to arrive in 2025, the excitement keeps building for the PS5’s future.
The PS5’s original 1TB storage can feel limiting, especially for those who play large games like GTA V and Call of Duty campaigns. Thankfully, Sony now offers an option to expand storage up to 8TB. Other updates include the option to mute the boot-up sound, a new PS App for managing subscriptions, and PS Remote Play, which allows you to play PS5 games on other devices like an iPad or the PS Portal.
In 2022, Sony introduced three PS Plus options: PS Essential (for monthly games and multiplayer access), PS Extra (offering a larger game library), and PS Premium (with added perks like share play and unlimited game trials).
The PS5 isn’t without its downsides. Its large size can make it challenging to fit into smaller spaces, and it lacks a Quick Resume feature, which means starting from scratch if you close a game without saving. The 1TB storage only provides about 600GB of usable space, but this can be expanded by installing an NVMe SSD.
We’re likely just past the halfway mark of the PS5’s lifecycle, as consoles typically last 6-7 years before the next gen. With the release of the PS5 Slim and Pro, we may not see any further updates until the next generation console, possibly a PS6, bringing with it even more advancements in VR and AI technology.
If you’re upgrading from a PS4, the PS5 is absolutely worth it. It offers improved graphics, faster load times, and a vast library of games. However, the Slim and Pro models don’t offer enough of a performance boost over the base PS5 to make them essential. The base PS5 delivers a fantastic experience that will keep you gaming happily for years.
So, do you own a PS5? Or are you waiting for the PS6? Let me know, Happy gaming!