Should you get a PS4 or PS5 in 2024?

In 2024, deciding between a PS4 and a PS5 depends on your preferences, budget, and what you're looking for in terms of gaming experience. Here's a breakdown of the differences to help you make an informed decision:

1. Performance and Graphics

• PS5:
  • Next-gen console with significantly improved hardware.
  • 4K resolution gaming (up to 120Hz), Ray tracing, and faster SSD for near-instant load times.
  • Games look sharper, run smoother, and feel more immersive on the PS5.
• PS4:
  • Last-gen console that supports 1080p or 1440p gaming (PS4 Pro supports 4K for certain games but not native 4K like PS5).
  • No ray tracing and longer loading times.
  • While it still delivers a solid gaming experience, it doesn’t have the graphical fidelity or speed that the PS5 offers.

2. Game Library

• PS5:
  • Full compatibility with PS4 games (so you can still play your old PS4 library).
  • Exclusive PS5 titles like Demon’s Souls, Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart, Returnal, and Horizon Forbidden West.
  • Faster load times and upgraded versions of many PS4 games.
• PS4:
  • Massive library of games, including all the great titles from the PS4 era (many of which are still widely played and supported).
  • Most upcoming PS5 games will still be available on the PS4, but they will run with lower graphical settings and longer load times.

3. Backward Compatibility

• PS5:
  • Fully backward compatible with PS4 games. This means you can play your entire PS4 library on the PS5 with possible enhancements (better graphics, faster load times) for certain games.
• PS4:
  • Limited to PS4 games only (no backward compatibility for PS3 or older games).

4. Speed and Loading Times

• PS5:
  • Ultra-fast SSD cuts down load times drastically, making transitions between game menus and in-game levels near-instant.
• PS4:
  • Uses a traditional hard drive, so load times are much slower in comparison to the PS5. You'll notice longer waiting times when starting a game or transitioning between levels.

5. Controller

• PS5:
  • DualSense controller with adaptive triggers, haptic feedback, and advanced rumble. These features provide a more immersive and tactile gaming experience (for example, feeling resistance when drawing a bow in a game).
• PS4:
  • DualShock 4 controller, which is still a solid controller but lacks the advanced haptic feedback and adaptive triggers of the PS5’s controller.

6. Price

• PS5:

  • The PS5 is more expensive, with the standard model costing around $499 USD, and the Digital Edition priced at $399 USD.
  • It’s a premium investment for next-gen gaming.

• PS4:

  • The PS4 is much cheaper, especially if you’re looking at used or refurbished models. A new PS4 typically ranges from $250 USD to $300 USD, making it a more affordable choice for budget-conscious gamers.

7. Future-Proofing

• PS5:

  • If you plan to game for the next 5-7 years, the PS5 is the better choice, as it will receive updates, new releases, and exclusive titles for much longer.
  • It’s built to handle the next-gen games that will push the boundaries of gaming in terms of graphics, gameplay, and immersion.

• PS4:

  • The PS4 is already a bit dated, and although many games will still support it for a few more years, newer games might not be as well-optimized or may lack certain next-gen features.
  • It’s more suited for casual gaming or for someone who doesn’t want to make a significant investment right now.

Which Should You Choose in 2024?

Get the PS5 if:

• You want the best possible gaming experience with improved graphics, faster loading times, and exclusive PS5 games.
• You want to future-proof your console for the next several years.
• You have the budget for the higher price tag.

Get the PS4 if:

• You’re on a budget and want to enjoy most of the same game library without the higher upfront cost.
• You’re okay with slower load times and less graphic fidelity.
• You don’t mind waiting a bit longer for future-proofing, and don’t feel the need for cutting-edge technology right now.

Conclusion

In 2024, the PS5 is the obvious choice if you’re looking for the most advanced and future-proof gaming experience. However, if you’re looking to save some money and don’t mind a slightly older system, the PS4 is still a very solid option, with a great library of games and affordable pricing.

Ultimately, it comes down to whether you’re looking for a premium experience with the PS5, or if you’re happy with the PS4's performance at a lower price.