PS5 Pro Upgrades: What’s New and Improved?
▼ Summary
– Sony has released a new PS5 Pro model with slight improvements over the original version.
– It is 3% to 4% more energy efficient during gameplay and runs slightly cooler and quieter.
– Despite manufacturing cost reductions, the console is now $50 more expensive than at launch.
Sony Interactive Entertainment has introduced a refreshed version of its premium gaming hardware, the PS5 Pro, bringing a series of modest but meaningful refinements to the platform. While the console now carries a higher price tag than at its initial launch, those waiting to upgrade will find several worthwhile enhancements in this latest iteration.
A detailed analysis by tech reviewer Austin Evans compared the new PS5 Pro directly against the earlier version, evaluating weight, energy consumption, operating temperatures, and acoustic performance. Evans also performed a full teardown, revealing several internal component upgrades that contribute to the overall changes.
One of the most immediate differences is the console’s weight. The original PS5 Pro tipped the scales at 3103 grams, while the new model comes in at 3016 grams, a reduction of 87 grams. This weight saving stems from revised internal hardware, including a lighter cooling fan, a more compact motherboard, and a redesigned power supply unit. These modifications not only trim physical bulk but also point toward more efficient manufacturing processes.
Earlier speculation suggested the new PS5 Pro would be 2% to 3% more energy efficient, and real-world testing confirmed this. While power draw at idle remains comparable, during active gameplay with titles like Astro’s Playroom and Gran Turismo 7, the new console showed a 3% to 4% improvement in efficiency. Additionally, the updated model operates at a marginally lower temperature and produces slightly less fan noise during use.
The review also highlighted a revised DualSense controller accompanying the new console, which features its own set of internal tweaks compared to the original model.
It appears many of these alterations were implemented to streamline production and reduce assembly costs. However, two key observations stand out. First, while the improvements are measurable, they represent an evolutionary step rather than a revolutionary leap. Second, despite potential savings in manufacturing, the retail price for the PS5 Pro is now fifty dollars higher than its original launch price, meaning any cost benefits have not been passed on to the consumer.
(Source: Playstation Lifestyle)
