How the Specs Compare For The Cost

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  PlayStation 5 Pro
  

  A better value than it first appears

  The PlayStation 5 Pro is the highly anticipated upgrade for the popular Sony PS5 console. Some improvements gamers can expect include enhanced image clarity through PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution and wider use of ray tracing. The PS5 Pro also boasts 2 TBs of blazing-fast storage, perfect for this all-digital console. GPU upgrades are significant, which makes it more challenging to assemble a comparable gaming PC alternative. At the same time, the PS5 Pro won’t offer a PC’s customization and upgrade potential.  

  Pros

  • Higher refresh rate 4K gaming
  • Improved ray-tracing support
  • Double the storage of the PS5 Slim
  • Avoids the hassle of assembling a gaming PC

  Cons

  • Very expensive for a gaming console
  • Doesn’t include disc drive or vertical stand

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  Skytech Azure 2 Gaming PC- Ryzen 7, RX 7800 XT
  

  Simple gateway to the PC gaming world

  $1150 $1400 Save
  $250

  With the high asking price of the PS5 Pro, a gaming PC becomes a more attractive alternative. The prebuilt Skytech Azure 2 rig matches or exceeds the capabilities of the PS5 Pro, offering more customization and upgrade paths. Its AMD Ryzen 7 5700 CPU and RX 7800 XT GPU have similar performance potential as the console. Buyers also can avoid the tedious process of selecting and assembling individual components required with custom builds. However, the PS5 Pro is an efficient gaming machine with minimal maintenance. Also, the Azure 2 is significantly more expensive without superior 4K framerates. 

  Pros

  • More recent AMD Zen 3 CPU
  • RX 7800 XT GPU has some performance advantages
  • Much easier to swap parts and customize look
  • Provides access to huge PC gaming catalog

  Cons

  • Significantly more expensive
  • Takes up more space

When it became clear that the PS5 Pro was in development, projections about its cost varied. Now that Sony has revealed the PS5 Pro’s price to be $699.99, making it the most expensive console ever, at least before inflation adjustments. Unhappy gamers have voiced their displeasure, with some considering gaming PCs as an alternative.

When PC gamers confront console users, they often boast about having a superior selection of titles and hardware. Even so, the question remains if buyers can find a reasonably priced gaming PC with capabilities similar to the PS5 Pro specs. To see how the two options stack up, it’s critical to calculate the cost of achieving the same 4K gaming performance with a PC. Gamers considering this route can choose from convenient prebuilt systems or assemble custom-builds, so the comparison below includes both.

Key Specs Comparison

GPU

For a console or gaming PC, a system’s graphical processor will have the largest impact on supported resolutions and framerates. While there are some questions about the PS5 Pro’s capabilities, it appears to still share characteristics of AMD RDNA 3 GPUs. One of the most important comparisons between the PS5 and the PS5 Pro specs is with the GPU’s number of Compute Units. These units are the best way to judge how an AMD chip can handle complicated graphical processing. The PS5 Pro boasts a 67 percent increase in Compute Units over the PS5, which puts it on par with the AMD Radeon RX 7800 XT’s 60 mark.

Since more details about the PS5 Pro were announced, there has been debate about what graphics cards it will best emulate. The general consensus is that it’s at least as powerful as an RX 7700 XT, but it might trail the RX 7800 XT in overall performance. Another similar graphics card outside of the AMD family is the NVIDIA RTX 4070. In a suitable gaming PC, these GPUs have the advantage of larger PSUs and the potential for unthrottled horsepower. On the other hand, consoles are hyper-focused on gaming and are efficient enough to maximize their often less potent GPUs.

As it turns out, the PS5 Pro might also benefit from features of AMD RDNA 4 architecture, which is expected to debut in early 2025. AMD plans to release mid-range graphics cards with improved ray tracing to cut into some advantages of its NVIDIA rival. The PS5 Pro will showcase ray tracing effects in games like Gran Turismo 7 during races that are potentially superior to the RX 7700 XT or RX 7800 XT.

Another factor to consider is Sony’s PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution. One of the key graphical upgrades with the PS5 Pro, PSSR uses AI technology to boost image resolution without overtaxing a GPU. PC gamers have enjoyed similar capabilities with AMD’s FSR and NVIDIA’s DLSS. PSSR is likely one reason The Last of Us Part II was showcased on the PS5 Pro at 4K and 60 fps. Spider-Man 2 should also enjoy improved graphical fidelity. With less demanding titles, it may even be possible to run them at 120 fps without sacrificing eerily realistic ray tracing lighting.

XFX Speedster QICK319 RX 7800 XT CORE

$480 $520 Save
$40

XFX Speedster QICK319 RX 7800 XT CORE is a big GPU that measures 335mm in length and features a triple fan design for enhanced cooling. RX 7800 XT is a competitive mid-range GPU that comes pretty close to the RTX 4070 in performance but costs a little less. The card features 3840 SPs and a 16GB VRAM on a 256-bit bus.

Brand

XFX

Cooling Method

Triple fan air cooling

GPU Speed

1295MHz(Base), 2124MHz(Game)

Slot Size

2.5

Interface

PCI-E 4.0

Memory

16GB GDDR6

Power

263W

Boost Speed

2430MHz

Stream Processors

3840

Expand

Now that we have some context about how the PS5 Pro compares to existing graphics cards, it’s easier to compare costs. The Skytech Azure 2 prebuilt gaming PC includes an unnamed AMD Radeon RX 7800 XT. Although buyers might be able to find a system with an RX 7700 XT for less, gamers will need to build a PC to beat the Skytech’s overall value. The least expensive non-overclocked RX 7800 XT cards, like the XFX Speedster QICK319, can be found for $500 or less. Obviously, this is a significant chunk of the overall asking price for any build or prebuilt gaming PC. With an RX 7800 XT, PC players can expect impressive framerates on most games at 1440p. It also performs decently as an entry-level 4K gaming GPU, though gamers will need to lower detail settings on intensive titles like Starfield.

To experience similar performance on the PS5 Pro, gamers only have to spend a few hundred more than the cost of a discrete GPU. The console will likely underperform the RX 7800 XT in some ways but can be boosted by newer features like PSSR. In this category, it’s difficult for the PS5 Pro not to top a gaming PC like the Skytech Azure 2 from a value perspective.

CPU

The PS5 Pro is seeing significant GPU improvements, but its CPU is expected to remain largely unchanged from the PS5. That’s not a huge negative, as the AMD Zen 2 processor shouldn’t bottleneck the PS5 Pro’s graphical capabilities. That said, this eight-core CPU debuted in 2019 and now looks a little dated. Before the recent technical presentation, there were rumors about a performance mode that would boost its clock speed from 3.5 GHz to 3.85 GHz. This could be advantageous for CPU-heavy tasks and games, but the console would slightly reduce power to the GPU, throttling its performance.

Among the noted PS5 Pro specs, gamers didn’t receive confirmation of an evolved CPU from Mark Cerny, the Lead PS5 Architect. This provides further confirmation for analysts that there will be no significant advancements. Most insiders believe a costly CPU upgrade wouldn’t justify in-game performance gains, with the PS5 Pro priced at a hefty $700.

AMD Ryzen 7 5700X CPU

$157 $162 Save
$5

The AMD Ryzen 7 5700X is a mid-to-high-end gaming CPU that has a maximum clock speed of 4.6 GHz. According to AMD, it can deliver over 100 FPS performance in some of the world’s most popular games with a compatible graphics card. The processor has 8 cores and 16 processing threads, which are based on the AMD Zen 3 architecture.

Other specs include 36 MB of cache, DDR4-3200 support, and overclocking capability. The AMD Ryzen 7 5700X CPU is compatible with a Socket AM4 motherboard.

Brand

AMD

CPU Model

Ryzen 7 5700X

CPU Socket

AM4

Cores

8

Threads

16

Architecture

Zen 3

Process

7nm

Base Clock Speed

3.4 GHz

Boost Clock Speed

4.6 GHz

Cache

L3: 32MB, L2, 4MB

Graphics

No iGPU

TDP

65W

iGPU

N/A

Expand

System builders can invest in a more than comparable gaming CPU without threatening modest budgets. The Skytech Azure 2 ships with an AMD Ryzen 7 5700 processor with more recent Zen 3 architecture. However, with negligible price differences, choosing a Ryzen 7 5700X is recommended. With discounts, buyers can expect to pay $175 or less for a CPU that won’t hold back a RX 7700 XT or RX 7800 XT graphics card.

With more raw power than the AMD Zen 2 processor in the PS5 and likely the PS5 Pro, the Ryzen 7 5700X can reach a boosted clock speed of 4.6 GHz. Released in 2022, the CPU changes how its 32 MB of L3 cache is distributed and is more efficient, leading to improved overall performance. Players can expect an increase of 20-30% in gaming performance with the Ryzen 7 5700X. Still, this assumes a PC build has the other necessary hardware to maximize its potential.

PCs notch a victory over the PS5 Pro in the CPU department with more modern, cost-effective processors that don’t significantly inflate the price of builds. Nevertheless, with an RX 7800 XT and a Ryzen 7 5700X alone, buyers find themselves shelling out $650.

Memory and Storage

Comparing memory with the PS5 Pro and PCs is complicated because the console uses 16 GB of GDDR6 RAM. Not having to support the multitude of tasks like DDR memory on PCs, the PS5 Pro’s memory is more oriented toward gaming. GDDR memory has higher latency but a larger bit bus and more bandwidth to deal with the repetitive GPU functions.

The good news is that the PS5 Pro specs include improved memory performance. Although the RAM technology is unchanged from the PS5, it will have 16GB of GDDR6 memory, achieving a higher bandwidth of 587 GB/s. Consequently, its GPU can better handle higher-resolution textures without gameplay becoming choppy.

With PCs like Skytech Azure 2, gamers won’t need excess funds for memory to achieve smooth gameplay. The prebuilt PC comes with 16GB of 3200 MHz DDR4 RAM, an excellent match for its B550 Socket AM4 motherboard. Buyers can add this memory to a similar system for only $30-40, so memory is not a huge contributor to the cost of the PS5 Pro or a PC.

Moving onto storage, Sony has responded to concerns over too little room to store digital downloads. Hard drive capacity has doubled from 1 TB on the PS5 Slim to 2 TB with an M.2 NVME SSD. This is necessary because the PS5 Pro lacks a disc drive without purchasing separately. The SSD standard is still PCI-Express Gen 4×4, and gamers can add another drive in the PS5 Pro’s second SSD slot. At least relative to the Xbox, gamers have enjoyed more flexibility with PS5 Pro storage upgrades. Although it requires partially dissembling the console, many Gen 4×4 M.2 NVME drives are compatible, but gamers should ensure speeds are sufficient.

Kingston FURY Renegade 2TB PCIe Gen 4.0 NVMe M.2 Internal Gaming SSD

$150 $196 Save
$46

This Kingston FURY Renegade Series device is a 2 TB internal SSD targeted at gaming setups. It operates on the newest PCIe Gen 4.0 NVMe technology. The device achieves read speeds up to 7300 MB/s and write speeds up to 7000 MB/s. The SSD features a slim M.2 2280 form factor.  It also has a low-profile graphene aluminum heat spreader for cooling instead of a heat sink. This product is specifically designed for desktop computers.

Brand

Kingston

Storage capacity

2 TB

Hardware Interface

PCIe 4.0 x4 NVMe

Controller

Phison E18

Read/Write Speeds

7300 MBps/7000 MBps

The Azure 2 prebuilt system also offers a Gen 4 M.2 NVME, but only 1 TB in size. Buyers can find similar drives for as little as $60, but to match PS5 speed and storage capacity, the Kingston Fury Renegade 2 TB is more appealing. Still, the PS5 Pro has a faster and larger 2 TB SSD than the Azure 2 at its $700 price point.

Gaming PCs have some advantages over consoles in storage selection. Buyers can even add older 2.5″ SSDs or 3.5″ hard drives to store media or play games if read and write rates are acceptable. Most cases and motherboards accept more drives than can fit in a PS5 Pro. Regardless, gamers won’t save any money with PCs unless they can accept a downgrade in individual SSD speeds and capacity.

Other Cost Considerations

GPUs, CPUs, memory, and storage are all essential components for gaming PCs, which are encompassed in the $700 PS5 Pro price. With just the parts discussed above, buyers are looking at an investment of around $800. That doesn’t include other essential parts like a motherboard, power supply, case, and any additional case fans or cooling. With a similar configuration as the Skytech Azure 2 example, buyers must dish out another $275 for a functional gaming machine. To match or exceed PS5 Pro specs, costs now approach $1100, potentially saving some money finding discounted components.

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Gaming PCs are much more conducive to customization and creating unique-looking rigs. Even with a prebuilt PC, replacing and upgrading internal components is much easier than consoles. With the PS5 Pro, every system will look identical unless owners apply covers, skins, or wraps. Yet, when trying to match the performance of the PS5 Pro for the same cost, customization may not be a priority for many gamers.

PS5 Pro vs PC: How to Spend Your Gaming Dollars

When the PS5 Pro price was announced, many gamers understandably had sticker shock. In fact, Sony’s new gaming system ranks as one of the priciest consoles of all time. Not including a disc drive or vertical stand makes a serious investment more monumental. Still, when buyers consider the improved GPU performance and storage, finding a comparable gaming PC for $700 is nearly impossible.

Surprisingly affordable 4K gaming machine

PlayStation 5 Pro

The PS5 Pro is an enticing value for gamers who demand a premium 4K gaming experience. Features like PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution squeeze out as much performance as possible without major hardware changes. Gamers will experience improved ray tracing that AMD graphics card fans won’t have access to until the upcoming RDNA 4 architecture. That said, the PS5 Pro is a very costly upgrade for dedicated console gamers. Also, it lacks the customization potential of budget gaming PCs, even if it provides superior 4K framerates.

The PS5 Pro promises high refresh rate and smooth 4K gameplay, which budget PC builds struggle to achieve. What makes the task so daunting is mainly the stubbornly high cost of discrete graphics cards. Whether gamers shop for a prebuilt or custom PC, the price of an RX 7700 XT or RX 7800 XT GPU immediately stresses budgets. The proposition becomes more daunting when factoring in motherboards, storage, and power supplies.

PC gaming benefits don’t come cheap

Skytech Azure 2 Gaming PC- Ryzen 7, RX 7800 XT

$1150 $1400 Save
$250

For new PC gamers who want to experience performance similar to that of PS5 Pro, the Skytech Azure 2 is a simple solution. This prebuilt PC has a more modern Ryzen 7 processor than its console competitor and a discrete RX 7800 XT graphics card with more horsepower. Gamers can also choose from an unmatched selection of titles. However, when you break down the cost of individual components, it becomes clear that the PS5 Pro is a more affordable 4K gaming machine.

Despite gaming PCs falling short in value, they offer some unique advantages. Consoles like the PS5 Pro are difficult to customize, with all having the same basic design. Gaming PCs allow owners to express their individuality with cases that are dramatically different in dimensions and colors. Buyers can also upgrade parts without having to purchase a new console. Finally, the number of PS5 exclusive titles is dwindling, with many being added to a PC’s already more diverse gaming lineup.

Sadly, the most cutting-edge, high-resolution gaming is not yet accessible to every buyer. Fortunately, the original PS5 will be supported at least until the PS6 release date, allowing gamers to take advantage of 4K displays with reasonable compromises.

FAQ

Q: Will the PS5 Pro have exclusive games?

The PS5 Pro will not have exclusive games and will remain backward compatible with older PS4 titles. Still, some PS5 games will have exclusive performance upgrades that benefit from the console’s improved graphical capabilities.

Q: Do more people use a PC or console?

There are an estimated 1.86 billion PC gamers globally, roughly three times more than the console gaming audience. Even so, sales of consoles and console games combine with related subscription services to bring in more revenue.