The PlayStation 5 (abbreviated PS5 controller) is Sony’s ninth-generation console. Sony will launch it on November 12, 2020, and it has some huge shoes to fill.

According to Statista, its predecessor, the PlayStation 4, is one of the most popular gaming consoles of all time, having sold over 116 million copies as of July 2021. The only home gaming system to outperform such figures is the famous PlayStation 2.

So, will the PS5 be able to entice players globally in the same way as the PS4 did? Everything you need to know about the PlayStation 5 is right here.

What Is the Sony PS5 in a Nutshell?

Sony’s PS5 is the company’s next-generation gaming system. Most people know the system as the Sony PlayStation 5, or PS5. Every previous iteration has used the same name approach, so this shouldn’t be a surprise.

The Sony PlayStation 5 is a huge step up from its predecessor, with more powerful specifications and a futuristic look. Its primary rivals are the Xbox Series X and Series S, as well as, to a lesser extent, the Nintendo Switch. In 2017, Sony introduced the later home handheld-hybrid console. While it is an excellent system in its own right, it is not a direct competition owing to its unique form size and drastically decreased specifications.

Compare Your Consoles: PlayStation 5 vs. Xbox Series X | PlayStation 5 vs. PlayStation 4

The PlayStation 5 comes in two varieties: the standard PlayStation 5 and the PlayStation 5 Digital Edition. The two have equal specifications, however as the name implies, the Digital Edition can only play digitally downloaded games. There is no optical drive.

The PS5, like previous systems, can also function as a media center. It supports a variety of streaming apps, which are easily accessible via buttons on the PS5 Media Remote (sold separately). However, because it does not accept multimedia CDs, you will have to rely on streaming services such as Spotify.

Is the PlayStation 5 Worth It?

Whether you’re upgrading from a PS4 or starting from scratch, a PS5 will set you back a big buck. Consoles often gain value over time with new games released, so before you invest your money, ask yourself: is the PS5 worth it?

The response is a resounding yes now that the console has been on the market for almost a year. There are several next-gen titles that take full advantage of the powerful DualSense controller, and the system itself is gradually becoming more affordable. You also get better performance on existing games rather than a really game-changing experience on day one. Better graphics and shorter load times are nice, but they aren’t game-changers.

If you don’t already own a console, it could be worth investing in a PS5. The Xbox Series X, on the other hand, will be a tough competitor. Unless you’re seeking PlayStation exclusives (which are plentiful), Xbox Game Pass offers amazing value with access to a plethora of first-party titles.

Surprisingly, the controller is one area where the Xbox Series X falls short. Sony has outdone itself with the new PlayStation 5 DualSense. While playing games, improved ergonomics, adjustable triggers, and excellent haptic feedback make a tremendous impact. C. Scott Brown of Android Authority was utterly blown away by the experience, noting that it has transformed his entire perspective on console gaming.

Even if you’re excitedly awaiting a huge release that isn’t yet out, purchasing a PlayStation 5 console now prepares you for what’s to come. There’s no point in waiting because you’re not going to save any money on the price for a few more years.

PlayStation 5 by Sony

Sony’s latest PlayStation home system is the PS5. It comes with a lightning-fast proprietary SSD and a new DualSense controller with improved haptics and adjustable triggers.

What Experts Have to Say About the PS5

A lot of other online sites have also shared their comments on the PS5. Here’s a short recap:

In a review published shortly after its release, TechRadar’s Nick Pino and Adam Vjestica dubbed it “a great system that provides a compelling next-gen gaming experience.” Great visuals and framerates were among the expected praises, with a special mention going to the new UI. They criticized the physical size of the console as well as the rather restricted capacity of the bundled SSD.

In a pre-launch review, Wired’s Jess Grey was likewise enthusiastic. She described the 120Hz capabilities as “objectively fantastic,” while adding that “purchasing a brand-new console and an expensive new TV is a little much in the middle of a worldwide epidemic.” Grey was particularly delighted by the new DualSense controller’s enhanced battery life, haptics, and adaptable triggers.

Luke Reilly of IGN was skeptical of the PS5’s “flamboyant” look but overall complimentary. “What the PlayStation 5 lacks in nuance, it more than makes up for in promise,” he believes, “thanks in part to its incredibly fast SSD, but largely to its absolutely spectacular new controller.” However, because to a launch lineup that is mostly accessible on the PS4 and limited storage, he isn’t confident that the platform lives up to that promise just yet.

In his PS5 review, Tom’s Guide’s Michael Andronico stated that the system is “a major generational leap – even if you don’t need one yet.” He appreciated the new controller, but said that it “may seem too huge for others.” Despite his criticism of the absence of actual next-generation launch titles, he said that the faster speeds offer “virtually zero friction between you and the games you want to play.”

In his latest console review, Cnet’s Dan Ackerman was “very delighted with the full PS5 controller package.” He basically echoed the previous comments, with the significant distinction of preferring the Digital Edition above the conventional one. “Save $100 and acquire the all-digital edition if you can find one.” Classic game disc collectors, old game buyers, and Blu-ray hoarders may disagree, but it is less expensive and eliminates one of the most troublesome mechanical pieces in any game console.”

Design of the Sony PlayStation 5

As shown above, the Sony PS5 controller console stands vertically (but may be set horizontally) and is designed in black and white to match the all-new DualSense controller. It’s also worth mentioning that the console comes in two flavors: normal and smaller Digital Edition. Both feature the same fundamental design, with the exception of the latter lacking an optical drive.

Both consoles are also rather large. They are the biggest home consoles ever made, with space needs comparable to a PC tower. Keep this in mind when you buy, otherwise, it may end up on the floor in front of your TV.

The console comes in a futuristic black-and-white color scheme, however, the side panels are easily removable. Sony has rejected the notion of bespoke panels several times, but Dbrand, one of the firms Sony sued, quickly began selling another version that has so far avoided additional litigation. Why, you might wonder, would Sony do such a thing? Of course, to market their own. Sony released the official console covers in black and red on January 21st, with additional stores following suit on February 18th. Pink, light blue, and purple will be available later this year at an unknown date.

Another advantage of the new detachable panels is that cleaning dust from the fans is considerably easier. This should help the console stay cool and silent over time. In our PS5 review, we mentioned that the console is quiet, although this may alter as dust accumulates over time.

The Australia-based gaming website Press Start revealed in August 2022 that Sony had surreptitiously produced updated versions of the PS5 Disk and PS5 Digital Edition consoles. While both consoles have the identical design, the updated Disk version now weighs 8.6 pounds, compared to 9.2 pounds for the 2021 version and 9.9 pounds for the launch version. The new PS5 Digital Edition is also lighter than the original version, weighing only 7.5 pounds instead of 8.6 pounds. There’s no information on how Sony managed to reduce the weight of both systems so significantly.

PS5 Controller for PlayStation 5

The DualSense PS5 controller for the PlayStation 5 is the most radical design deviation from any PlayStation controller to date. It has a new futuristic black and white look that is similar to the console itself.

Haptic feedback, adjustable triggers, and a built-in microphone array are among the features of the controller. It also has a USB-C charging connector, and Sony has replaced the Share button with a completely new Create button. The DualSense controller is included with the console, however extra gamepads may be purchased separately for $69.99.

Without holding the controller, it’s tough to tell how big of an improvement it is over the previous model. Depending on what you do or what happens in the game, the adaptive triggers give more or less resistance. Other than high-end racing wheels, this kind of tactile control is simply not accessible.

Haptic input also has a significant impact on how you feel each moment of a game. From the pitter-patter of gentle rain to the thunderous footfall of a big boss monster, you can genuinely experience the game in ways that weren’t before conceivable. Every new PS5 controller owner should immediately launch Astro’s Playroom and immerse themselves in it. Sonly also provides monthly upgrades to the PS5 controller, ensuring that your experience remains top-notch in the future.

It should be noted, however, that not every game supports these two functions. It’s quite probable that first-party firms like Naughty Dog and Insomniac Games will add support, but Sony hopes to persuade other developers to include these capabilities as well.

PS5 Connection

Sony improved the PS5’s UI, focusing on new UX features that would better serve consumers. The PS5 controller’s user experience, as that of the PS4, is still centered on the PlayStation button on the DualSense. On boot, you press it to access the user interface. But that’s about where the similarities end.

In-game, pressing the PS button brings up the Control Center. It’s a side-scrolling yet extensive bottom menu system that allows users quick access to music settings, friend lists, and other features.

The notable feature of the new menu is the Activities section. It’s a deck of cards that may direct players to certain levels or adventures inside a game. These cards also show progress, and some provide gamers advice, methods, and lessons to help them discover treasures or overcome difficult obstacles. Picture-in-picture mode can also be used to see these cards.

The Control Center itself displays recent screenshots, PlayStation news, and friends’ activity. In terms of the latter, gamers may participate in voice conversations, watch other users’ broadcasts, or join their game directly.

When customers first start up the console, they will arrive on the redesigned home screen. It now has specific Media and Games sections, which should help you keep your binge and gaming habits separate. The PlayStation Store has been merged into the latter, and it is no longer a sluggish app. Each game has its own center as well. Check out our tutorial if you need to seek a refund from the PlayStation Store.

PlayStation 5 vs. PlayStation 5 Digital Edition

As previously stated, there are two variants of the Sony PlayStation 5, one of which is significantly less expensive. Although the two are more comparable than Microsoft’s two new Xbox systems, picking a decision can be challenging.

So, what exactly is the distinction between the PS5 controller and the PS5 Digital Edition? Everything boils down to the missing optical drive and the pricing. Because of the disc drive, the designs are also slightly different. To be honest, the PS5 Digital Version looks a little better, as the drive’s bulge throws off the device’s symmetry.

Aside from that, the internals are the same. Unlike Microsoft’s inexpensive Xbox Series S, you still receive the same fast load times and performance. It is, however, $100 more costly than the Series S.

PS5 Specifications

In terms of raw hardware, the PS5 boasts significant upgrades over the PS4. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the PS5’s specifications in comparison to the PS4:

The PS5 comes with an updated CPU, the AMD Zen 2, with eight cores clocked at 3.5GHz. This could result in considerable performance improvements over the PS4’s eight-core Jaguar 1.6GHz processor. The PS5’s bespoke AMD RDNA 2 GPU is also a significant improvement over the previous generation’s custom GCN GPU.

The PS5 will be able to use ray tracing acceleration thanks to this CPU and GPU combo. Ray tracing is a cutting-edge lighting technology that can take in-game visuals to the next level by more realistically simulating how light interacts in a given area.

The PlayStation 5 also has a proprietary 825 GB SSD (667GB usable), as well as off-the-shelf NVMe SSD expandability. Not only can customers quickly extend their PS5’s storage, but it also provides quicker load rates. This enables larger maps and improved system memory management.

The April 2021 update for the PS5 does include the ability to save your PS5 and PS4 games on an external hard drive connected through USB. However, PS5 games cannot be played via USB storage, whereas PS4 titles can.

The console also has a new unique AMD compute unit-based Tempest Engine. This innovative technology, which uses bespoke Head-related Transfer Function (HRTF) maps, allows players to hear high-quality 3D in-game audio with even the most basic headphones or speakers. Mark Cerny, the PS5’s chief architect, revealed in a deep dive before launch that the Tempest Engine is still in its early phases and that it might take years to completely develop.

Users of the PS5 controller will be able to choose one of five bespoke HRTF maps that best match their sound profile.

PS5 Video Games

What distinguishes one console from another? The competitions!

Almost every game in the PS4 catalog is backwards compatible with the PS5. Initially, the firm stated that it will support virtually all of the top 100 games from the previous generation consoles. It was subsequently emphasized, however, that “99%” of PS4 games may be played on the PS5.

According to Sony, the PS5 will benefit from greater, more steady frame rates and/or higher resolutions than the PS4. It cannot promise that every game will operate, but it has already tested hundreds of games and plans to test thousands more. And the aforementioned 99% percentage indicates that your intended title has a good probability of working. Early testing has yielded some promising results.

At launch, the PS5 controller is backward compatible with practically every PlayStation 4 title.

Those of you hoping for even more backward compatibility will most certainly be disappointed. You will not be able to play PS3, PS2, or PS1 games on the PS5 unless they have already been converted to the PS4 or are accessible through the PlayStation Now streaming service. The good news is that gameshare exists, making it easy to access games you didn’t purchase in a shop.