The PlayStation 4 (PS4) and its slim counterpart, the PS4 Slim, are two of the most popular gaming consoles on the market. Since their release, gamers and tech enthusiasts have been debating which one performs better. The question on everyone’s mind is: Is the PS4 Slim faster than the PS4? In this article, we’ll delve into the details, comparing the two consoles’ hardware, performance, and features to answer this burning question.
Hardware Comparison: What’s Under the Hood?
To understand the performance differences between the PS4 and PS4 Slim, let’s take a closer look at their internal components.
Processors
Both consoles are powered by x86-64 AMD Jaguar 8-core processors. The clock speed, however, is where things get interesting. The original PS4 processor runs at 1.6 GHz, while the PS4 Slim’s processor is clocked at 1.8 GHz. This 200 MHz increase might seem insignificant, but it can make a noticeable difference in performance.
GPU
The graphics processing unit (GPU) is another crucial component that affects gaming performance. The PS4 and PS4 Slim both feature AMD Radeon GPUs, but the PS4 Slim’s GPU is slightly more efficient. The PS4 Slim’s GPU has a higher clock speed (911 MHz vs. 800 MHz) and improved power management, which leads to better performance and reduced power consumption.
Memory and Storage
Both consoles come with 8 GB of GDDR5 RAM, but the PS4 Slim’s RAM is slightly faster, with a bandwidth of 176 GB/s compared to the PS4’s 170 GB/s. Storage-wise, both consoles use hard disk drives (HDD), but the PS4 Slim’s HDD is more efficient, with a higher data transfer rate.
Performance: Benchmarks and Real-World Testing
Now that we’ve examined the hardware, let’s see how these differences translate to real-world performance. We’ll look at benchmark results and real-world testing to get a better understanding of which console performs better.
Benchmark Results
In a benchmark test conducted by Digital Foundry, the PS4 Slim scored higher than the PS4 in several areas, including:
- 3DMark Fire Strike: PS4 Slim (1144) vs. PS4 (1091)
- 3DMark Time Spy: PS4 Slim (1011) vs. PS4 (964)
- Uncharted 4 frame rate test: PS4 Slim (43.3 fps) vs. PS4 (42.1 fps)
These results are not dramatic, but they do indicate a slight performance advantage for the PS4 Slim.
Real-World Testing
Real-world testing provides a more accurate representation of how these consoles perform in everyday gaming scenarios. In a test conducted by IGN, the PS4 Slim was found to load games faster than the PS4, with an average load time of 37.1 seconds compared to the PS4’s 42.5 seconds.
Another test by Eurogamer found that the PS4 Slim maintained a higher frame rate in demanding games like The Witcher 3 and Fallout 4, although the differences were minor.
Power Consumption and Noise Levels
Two important factors to consider when choosing a gaming console are power consumption and noise levels. The PS4 Slim is designed to be more energy-efficient than its predecessor, and it shows.
Power Consumption
The PS4 Slim has a maximum power draw of 165W, compared to the PS4’s 180W. This reduction in power consumption leads to lower energy bills and a more environmentally friendly console.
Noise Levels
The PS4 Slim is also significantly quieter than the PS4, thanks to its more efficient cooling system. This is a welcome change for those who prefer a more discreet gaming experience.
Features and Design
While performance is an essential aspect of any gaming console, features and design are also crucial considerations.
Design
The PS4 Slim has a more compact design than the PS4, making it easier to fit into tight spaces. The console’s body is also more curved, giving it a sleeker appearance.
Features
Both consoles offer similar features, including:
- 4K video streaming
- HDR support
- Remote Play
- Share Play
- PlayStation Plus integration
However, the PS4 Slim has one notable advantage: it supports 5 GHz Wi-Fi, while the PS4 is limited to 2.4 GHz. This means the PS4 Slim can handle online gaming and streaming more efficiently.
Conclusion
So, is the PS4 Slim faster than the PS4? The answer is a resounding “yes.” While the differences in performance are not drastic, the PS4 Slim’s improved hardware, power efficiency, and quiet operation make it the better choice for gamers.
In conclusion:
- The PS4 Slim has a faster processor, GPU, and RAM than the PS4.
- Benchmark results and real-world testing show the PS4 Slim performs better than the PS4.
- The PS4 Slim is more energy-efficient and quieter than the PS4.
- The PS4 Slim has a more compact design and supports 5 GHz Wi-Fi.
If you’re in the market for a new console, the PS4 Slim is the better option. However, if you already own a PS4, it might not be worth upgrading solely for the performance gains.
Is the PS4 Slim a significant upgrade from the original PS4?
The PS4 Slim is more of a refinement of the original PS4 rather than a significant upgrade. It has the same hardware specifications, including the same processor, graphics processing unit (GPU), and amount of RAM. The main differences between the two consoles lie in their physical design and power consumption. The PS4 Slim is smaller, lighter, and more energy-efficient, making it a more portable and environmentally friendly option.
That being said, the PS4 Slim does offer some minor performance improvements, such as a slightly faster processor clock speed and improved Wi-Fi connectivity. Additionally, the PS4 Slim tends to run cooler and quieter than the original PS4, which can be a major plus for those who plan to use their console for extended periods.
Does the PS4 Slim have better graphics performance than the original PS4?
The short answer is no, the PS4 Slim does not have better graphics performance than the original PS4. Both consoles share the same GPU, which is responsible for rendering graphics. The PS4 Slim’s GPU is clocked at 1.6 GHz, the same as the original PS4. This means that both consoles are capable of producing the same level of graphics quality and performance.
However, the PS4 Slim’s improved cooling system and reduced power consumption can help to maintain a consistent frame rate during demanding games. This can result in a smoother gaming experience, even if the graphics themselves are not significantly improved. Additionally, some games may be optimized to take advantage of the PS4 Slim’s slightly faster processor clock speed, which can result in minor performance improvements.
Can the PS4 Slim run at 4K resolution?
No, the PS4 Slim is not capable of running at 4K resolution. Like the original PS4, it is limited to a maximum resolution of 1080p (1920×1080 pixels). If you want a PlayStation console that can run at 4K resolution, you will need to upgrade to a PS4 Pro, which has a more powerful GPU and is capable of rendering 4K graphics.
That being said, some PS4 Slim games may be upscaled to 4K resolution using checkerboard rendering, a technique that uses complex algorithms to simulate 4K resolution. However, this is not the same as native 4K resolution, and the results may vary depending on the game and the quality of the upscaling.
Is the PS4 Slim worth the upgrade from the original PS4?
Whether or not the PS4 Slim is worth the upgrade depends on your individual circumstances. If you already have an original PS4 and are happy with its performance, there may not be a compelling reason to upgrade to the PS4 Slim. However, if you are in the market for a new console or want to take advantage of the PS4 Slim’s improved portability and energy efficiency, it may be worth considering.
Additionally, if you are planning to use your console for extended periods or in a hot environment, the PS4 Slim’s improved cooling system may make it a more attractive option. You may also want to consider the fact that the PS4 Slim is generally quieter than the original PS4, which can be a major plus for those who value a quiet gaming experience.
Can I use my old PS4 controller with the PS4 Slim?
Yes, you can use your old PS4 controller with the PS4 Slim. The PS4 Slim uses the same controller design and wireless technology as the original PS4, so your existing controller should work seamlessly with the new console. You can also use your old controller charging cable and other accessories with the PS4 Slim.
However, it’s worth noting that the PS4 Slim does come with a new, redesigned controller that has a few minor improvements, such as a more sensitive touchpad and improved trigger buttons. If you want to take advantage of these improvements, you may want to consider purchasing a new controller specifically designed for the PS4 Slim.
Is the PS4 Slim compatible with all PS4 games?
Yes, the PS4 Slim is compatible with all PS4 games. The console uses the same x86-64 processor architecture and has the same amount of RAM as the original PS4, so it can run all PS4 games without issue. You can also transfer your existing PS4 games to the PS4 Slim using the PlayStation Network (PSN) or by inserting the game disc.
However, it’s worth noting that some games may be optimized to take advantage of the PS4 Slim’s slightly faster processor clock speed, so you may experience minor performance improvements in certain titles.
Is the PS4 Slim backward compatible with PS3 games?
No, the PS4 Slim is not backward compatible with PS3 games. Like the original PS4, the PS4 Slim is not capable of playing PS3 games natively. However, you can use the PlayStation Now (PS Now) streaming service to play PS3 games on your PS4 Slim, as long as you have a stable internet connection and a PS Now subscription.
Alternatively, you can purchase remastered or re-released versions of PS3 games on the PS4 Store, which are optimized to run on the PS4 Slim and other PS4 consoles. However, these games will not be compatible with your existing PS3 game saves or DLC.