Sony today launched a suped-up upgrade to the PlayStation 4 video game console dubbed the ‘PS4 Pro’. Packing in a faster CPU, an upgraded graphics processor and a 1TB hard-drive as standard, it has been tailor-made for the next wave of virtual-reality, 4K and HDR content. Here’s a rundown of the specification for the new console, where to buy it and how much it costs in Australia.
Specifications
Like Microsoft’s Xbox Scorpio, the PlayStation 4 Pro is a minor hardware upgrade to Sony’s existing console. This is not a “next generation” replacement for the PS4. Instead, it’s compatible with all PlayStation 4 games and will be sold concurrently with its predecessor.
In the words of lead architect Mark Cerny, it’s primary goal is to deliver “high-fidelity graphical experiences” for so-called hardcore gamers and vidoephiles. This is achieved via some extra grunt beneath the hood. Let’s take a look at the chief specifications:
| CPU | Custome-built x86-64 AMD “Jaguar,” 8 cores |
| GPU | 4.20 TFLOPS, AMD Radeon-based graphics engine |
| Memory/Storage | GDDR5 8GB |
| Storage | 1TB |
| Connectivity | x3 USB 3.1, AUX x1, HDMI x1 (supports 4K/HDR), Digital Optical x1, Ethernet (10BASE-T, 100BASE-TX, 1000BASE-T), IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, Bluetooth 4.0 (LE) |
| Optical drive | BD × 6 CAV, DVD × 8 CAV |
| Weight | 3.3 kg |
| Dimensions | 295×55×327mm |
The most noteworthy addition is the AMD Polaris-derived GPU which provides roughly double the processing power of the original PS4’s graphics chip. This will deliver reliable 4K video, boost the native resolution of games and should also improve virtual-reality experiences with Sony’s incoming PlayStation VR headset. The CPU’s core clockspeed has also received a slight boost.
If you’re chiefly interested in 4K video playback, it’s worth noting that the PS4 Pro’s optical drive does not support 4K Blu-Ray discs. Instead, you’ll need to rely on video streaming for your 4K content. This seems pretty miserly of Sony, especially considering that the $399 Xbox One S comes with a 4K Bluray player. People are getting upset — and we don’t blame them.
PS4 Pro Release Date In Australia
The PlayStation 4 Pro will launches in Australia today (November 10). Unlike the original PlayStation 4 launch, the available stock is expected to meet demand, so it shouldn’t sell out any time soon. (Yay!)
PS4 Pro Australian Pricing
The PlayStation 4 Pro will set you back $559.95 in Australia. In the US, it’s priced at a more reasonable sounding $399, but it’s important to factor in the exchange rate, shipping and GST. Compared to the PlayStation 3, the “Australia tax” isn’t too outrageous this time around.
There aren’t any noteworthy bundles or discounts at the moment, although JB Hi-Fi has a related deal that could be worth considering: if you pick up a PS4 Pro at JB Hi-Fi, you’ll be able to buy the Pro-optimised games Rise of the Tomb Raider, Dishonored 2, Skyrim: Special Edition and Watch Dogs 2 for $39 each. Kotaku has more details.
PS4 Pro games
Several video game studios are currently hard at work adding enhancements to new and existing titles. This includes Call of Duty: Infinite Warfare, Black Ops 3, FIFA 17, Battlefield 1 and the aforementioned Rise of the Tomb Raider, Dishonored 2, Skyrim: Special Edition and Watch Dogs 2. You won’t need to buy special versions of any of these games — instead, the extra graphics and effects will be delivered via a patch to PS4 Pro owners.
Will you be upgrading to the PS4 Pro? Share your thoughts in the comments!
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