Table of Contents

Does PS4 Pro Have Higher FPS? Understanding Frame Rates on Sony’s Enhanced Console

The short answer is: yes, the PS4 Pro can deliver higher frame rates compared to the base PS4, but it’s not a guarantee for every game. The extent to which you see an improvement depends heavily on the game itself and how the developers have optimized it for the Pro’s more powerful hardware. Let’s dive deeper into the nuances of frame rates on the PS4 Pro.

The Power Under the Hood

The PS4 Pro boasts a significantly more powerful GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) than the standard PS4. This extra horsepower allows developers to target higher resolutions, improved graphical fidelity, or, crucially, higher frame rates. Think of it like this: the base PS4 is a reliable sedan, while the PS4 Pro is a souped-up sports car. Both can get you to your destination, but the sports car has the potential to get you there faster and with more visual flair.

However, it’s essential to understand that the PS4 Pro doesn’t magically boost the frame rate of every game. Developers need to specifically patch or optimize their games to take advantage of the Pro’s capabilities. This optimization can take various forms:

Unlocking the Frame Rate: In some cases, developers unlock the frame rate entirely, allowing the game to run as fast as the hardware can handle. This often results in a variable frame rate, fluctuating depending on the complexity of the scene.
Targeting a Higher Frame Rate: Developers might specifically target 60 frames per second (FPS) on the PS4 Pro, whereas the base PS4 might target 30 FPS. This provides a much smoother and more responsive gaming experience.
Offering Performance Modes: Many games offer options that allow players to choose between higher resolution or higher frame rates. This allows players to customize their experience based on their preferences and display capabilities.

The 60 FPS Target

While the PS4 Pro’s hardware can technically push beyond 60 FPS in certain scenarios, the console is generally capped at 60 FPS. This is due to a combination of factors, including HDMI output limitations and the architecture of the console.

This means that even if a game could theoretically run at 80 or 90 FPS on the PS4 Pro, it will still be limited to 60 FPS. The benefit of having performance headroom in this situation is increased stability. The game is more likely to maintain a consistent 60 FPS without dips, providing a smoother overall experience.

The 4K Factor

One of the PS4 Pro’s major selling points is its ability to output games at 4K resolution. However, running games at 4K is much more demanding on the hardware. As a result, many games that offer 4K visuals on the PS4 Pro often do so at the expense of frame rate. It is common for games to run at 30 FPS when outputting in 4K.

Some games utilize techniques like dynamic resolution scaling to maintain a relatively stable frame rate while still delivering a sharper image. This involves the game dynamically adjusting the resolution on the fly, reducing it when the scene becomes more demanding and increasing it when possible.

Display Considerations: Refresh Rate

The refresh rate of your display plays a crucial role in how you perceive frame rates. A 60Hz display can only show a maximum of 60 frames per second. Therefore, even if your PS4 Pro is outputting 60 FPS, a 60Hz display is all you need to see the full benefit.

While a monitor with a higher refresh rate (e.g., 144Hz) can improve input lag due to faster response times, the PS4 Pro will still only output a maximum of 60 FPS. The extra refresh rate won’t magically increase the console’s frame rate. So, investing in a high-refresh-rate monitor primarily benefits PC gamers.

Optimization is Key

Ultimately, the frame rate you experience on the PS4 Pro depends on how well the game is optimized. Some older games that received Pro patches saw significant frame rate improvements, while others only offered modest enhancements. Newer games are often designed with the PS4 Pro in mind, allowing developers to take full advantage of the console’s capabilities.

You can also learn more from experts at the Games Learning Society and explore the relationship between technology and the interactive entertainment industry. Visit GamesLearningSociety.org for more information.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about PS4 Pro Frame Rates

Here are 15 frequently asked questions to further clarify the topic of frame rates on the PS4 Pro:

Can the PS4 Pro run games at 120 FPS?

No. The PS4 Pro is capped at 60 FPS. The console’s hardware and HDMI output limitations prevent it from outputting frame rates higher than 60 FPS.

Does the PS4 Pro always improve frame rates compared to the base PS4?

No. The extent to which you see a frame rate improvement depends heavily on the game itself and how the developers have optimized it for the Pro’s hardware. Some games may see significant improvements, while others may see only minor enhancements.

Is it worth getting a 144Hz monitor for a PS4 Pro?

Not really, as the PS4 Pro’s maximum output is 60 frames per second, so there’s nothing to see on a monitor above the 60Hz refresh rate.

Does the PS4 Pro support 1440p resolution?

The PS4 Pro can output a simulated 1440p resolution, but not natively. It upscales the resolution to look better than 1080p on a 1440p display, but it’s not a true 1440p output.

Can the PS4 Pro run games at 4K and 60 FPS simultaneously?

Only a few less graphically demanding games can manage native 4K at 60 FPS.

How can I check the frame rate of a game on my PS4 Pro?

There is no built-in frame rate counter on the PS4 Pro. However, some games may offer an option to display a frame rate counter in the game settings. You can also use external tools or software to monitor frame rates if you are streaming or recording gameplay.

Does HDR affect frame rates on the PS4 Pro?

Enabling HDR (High Dynamic Range) can slightly impact performance in some games, as it requires additional processing power. However, the impact is usually minimal and may not be noticeable in most cases.

Will overclocking the PS4 Pro increase frame rates?

No, it is not recommended to overclock the PS4 Pro. Overclocking can void your warranty and potentially damage the console. The PS4 Pro is designed to run at its stock speeds, and attempting to overclock it can lead to instability and overheating.

Is it better to choose higher resolution or higher frame rates on the PS4 Pro?

This is a matter of personal preference. Some players prioritize visual fidelity and prefer to play at 4K resolution, even if it means sacrificing frame rate. Others prefer a smoother and more responsive experience and opt for higher frame rates at a lower resolution. Many games offer options that allow you to choose between these priorities.

Does upgrading the internal storage affect frame rates on the PS4 Pro?

Upgrading to a Solid State Drive (SSD) can improve loading times and reduce stuttering in some games, but it will not directly increase frame rates. The frame rate is primarily determined by the GPU and CPU.

Are newer PS4 Pro models better for frame rates than older models?

Not really. There were some minor hardware revisions throughout the PS4 Pro’s lifespan, but these revisions did not significantly impact performance or frame rates.

How does dynamic resolution scaling work on the PS4 Pro?

Dynamic resolution scaling involves the game dynamically adjusting the resolution on the fly, reducing it when the scene becomes more demanding and increasing it when possible. This helps to maintain a relatively stable frame rate while still delivering a sharper image.

Why are some games capped at 30 FPS on the PS4 Pro?

Some developers choose to cap their games at 30 FPS for various reasons, including artistic vision, resource limitations, or compatibility with the base PS4.

Will the PlayStation 5 improve frame rates for PS4 games?

Yes, the PlayStation 5 is significantly more powerful than the PS4 Pro, and it can improve frame rates for many PS4 games through backward compatibility. Some games may even receive specific enhancements to take advantage of the PS5’s hardware.

Is the PS4 Pro worth buying in 2024, considering the PS5 is available?

The PS4 Pro is still a capable console and can be found at a lower price point than the PS5. If you’re on a tight budget and don’t mind playing games at lower resolutions or frame rates, the PS4 Pro can still provide a decent gaming experience. However, if you want the best possible performance and access to the latest games, the PS5 is the better choice.

By understanding these nuances, you can better appreciate the PS4 Pro’s capabilities and make informed decisions about your gaming setup.

Does PS4 Pro have higher FPS?