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Can PS4 Go Above 1080p? Understanding PlayStation 4 Resolutions

The simple answer to the question “Can PS4 go above 1080p?” is yes, but with a significant caveat. The original PlayStation 4 (PS4) is limited to a maximum output resolution of 1080p, also known as Full HD. However, the PlayStation 4 Pro (PS4 Pro) is capable of going beyond 1080p and can output in 4K (Ultra HD) resolution. This difference is crucial and dictates the visual experience you will have with each console. This article will delve deeper into the nuances of PS4 resolutions, explaining what they mean, how they work, and what you can expect from each console model.

PS4 vs. PS4 Pro: A Tale of Two Resolutions

The primary distinction between the two PS4 models lies in their graphic processing capabilities. The original PS4 was designed primarily for 1080p gaming, and while it can technically output 4K signals, it does not render games at that resolution. Instead, it upscales 1080p content, resulting in a slightly improved visual experience, but not true 4K. On the other hand, the PS4 Pro was built with 4K resolution in mind. It has a more powerful GPU that is capable of rendering games and other content at native 4K resolution (3840 x 2160 pixels).

Understanding Upscaling

When we talk about the original PS4 outputting a 4K signal, what we are really referring to is upscaling. Upscaling is a process where the console takes a lower resolution image, such as 1080p, and artificially increases its pixel count to fit a 4K display. This can make the image appear sharper and less blurry on a 4K TV, but it doesn’t provide the same clarity and detail as a true native 4K image. The TV itself also does some of the heavy lifting by upscaling the image further.

The Advantage of Native 4K

A native 4K image, as produced by the PS4 Pro, is rendered at a resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels. This provides far superior detail, sharpness, and clarity compared to a 1080p image. The higher resolution means that there are more pixels in the picture, which in turn allows for finer details and more realistic images.

Enhanced Image Quality on PS4 Pro

Even if you don’t have a 4K display, the PS4 Pro still offers benefits. It is capable of rendering games at resolutions somewhere between 1080p and 4K and then downscales that to 1080p if that is your display. This process called supersampling can result in a sharper, less aliased image on a 1080p TV, providing a noticeable visual upgrade compared to the original PS4.

Refresh Rates and Frame Rates: What You Need to Know

While resolution is vital to visual quality, understanding refresh rate (Hz) and frame rate (FPS) is equally important. Refresh rate is the number of times per second a display refreshes the image, measured in Hertz (Hz). The PS4 and PS4 Pro are limited to a maximum refresh rate of 60Hz. This means they can output a maximum of 60 frames per second (FPS).

Frame Rate Limitations

The frame rate, measured in FPS, determines how smooth the visuals appear. The PS4 Pro, while capable of outputting 4K, often runs 4K games at 30 FPS for demanding titles. However, many games at lower resolutions can run at 60 FPS on the PS4 Pro, providing a smoother and more responsive experience. The original PS4 typically runs most games at a maximum of 60 FPS, usually at 1080p or less, though some titles may fluctuate between 30 and 60 FPS depending on their requirements.

The 60Hz Cap

It’s important to note that both the original PS4 and PS4 Pro have an output cap of 60Hz. Even if you connect them to a monitor capable of 144Hz or higher, the consoles will not be able to output at those refresh rates. This is because the consoles are not built to support those refresh rates and are designed with televisions in mind, which historically have been 60Hz.

Setting Your Resolution

You can adjust the video output settings on your PS4 through the system settings menu. Navigating to Settings > Sound and Screen > Video Output Settings, you can choose your desired resolution. While the PS4 Pro is set up to output in 4k by default, it can be adjusted to output in lower resolutions if you wish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are 15 frequently asked questions to further clarify PS4 resolutions:

What is the maximum resolution of the original PS4?
The original PS4 is limited to a maximum resolution of 1080p (Full HD).
What is the maximum resolution of the PS4 Pro?
The PS4 Pro supports a maximum resolution of 4K (Ultra HD).
Can the PS4 output 4K?
While the original PS4 can output a 4K signal, it is upscaled from 1080p and not a native 4K image. The PS4 Pro can output native 4K resolution.
Does the PS4 support HDR?
Yes, all PS4 consoles, including the original PS4, support High Dynamic Range (HDR) capabilities, providing enhanced color and contrast.
Can the PS4 Pro downscale to 1080p?
Yes, the PS4 Pro can downscale a higher resolution image to 1080p which results in better anti-aliasing and is useful if you’re using a 1080p monitor or TV.
Can a PS4 run at 1440p?
No, neither the original PS4 nor the PS4 Pro supports a 1440p output.
What is the maximum FPS for PS4 games?
The maximum FPS for games on the PS4 Pro is 60 FPS, but it is common to see games running at 30 FPS, especially if in 4K. The original PS4 can also run games at 60 FPS, usually at a lower resolution.
Can PS4 run 120 FPS?
No, the PS4 and PS4 Pro consoles are limited to 60 FPS due to their 60Hz refresh rate cap.
Is the PS4 FPS capped?
Yes, the FPS is capped depending on the specific game and console, often fluctuating between 30-60 fps.
Can you use a 144Hz monitor with a PS4?
Yes, you can use a 144Hz monitor, but the PS4 and PS4 Pro will still output a maximum of 60Hz.
What refresh rate does the PS4 support?
The PS4 and PS4 Pro are limited to a maximum refresh rate of 60Hz.
Why does 1080p look bad on a 4K TV?
When a 1080p image is displayed on a 4K TV, the TV has to upscale the image, which may sometimes lead to blurriness if done poorly.
Is PS4 better on a monitor or TV?
Monitors typically have lower input lag and faster response times than TVs, which can be better for competitive gaming. However, TVs can offer a larger viewing experience. It really depends on your gaming and viewing needs.
Does a higher resolution affect gaming performance?
Yes, higher resolutions can increase the demands on the console’s GPU, which can sometimes result in lower frame rates, as seen with 4k gaming on PS4 Pro.
If I want to play in 4K on PS4 what do I need?
To play in 4K, you will need a PS4 Pro and a 4K-capable display (TV or monitor).

Conclusion

The ability of a PS4 to go above 1080p depends heavily on whether you have the original model or the PS4 Pro. While the original PS4 maxes out at 1080p, the PS4 Pro can deliver a true 4K gaming experience. While both consoles are limited to a maximum refresh rate of 60Hz, the PS4 Pro provides a sharper visual experience due to its higher rendering resolution, making it the superior choice for gamers seeking the highest visual fidelity on the PS4 platform. Understanding these nuances of PS4 resolutions can help you choose the right console for your gaming needs, whether you prioritize higher resolution or smoother frame rates.