PS5 vs Xbox Series X: See a Comparison Between the Best-Selling Consoles of the New Generation
Are you torn between the two most powerful gaming consoles available today? This PS5 vs Xbox Series X comparison breaks down everything you need to know before choosing your next-gen console.
Whether you’re after immersive graphics, a massive game library, or simply the best value for your money, this guide will help you make an informed decision based on performance, features, and overall experience.
PS5 vs Xbox Series X – Specs and Performance: Next-Level Gaming
Specs and Performance: Next-Level Gaming Power ⚡
When it comes to hardware specifications, both consoles push the limits of gaming performance, but the PS5 Pro brings several upgrades over the original PS5 and even gives the Xbox Series X a run for its money.
The PS5 Pro features a faster version of the same AMD Zen 2 CPU, improved GPU with 67% more compute units than the base PS5, and an innovative AI-powered upscaling technology called PSSR (PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution). This allows the console to render graphics up to 45% faster, improve Ray Tracing, and support resolutions up to 4K at 120 FPS with smoother transitions and lighting effects.
The Xbox Series X, in contrast, has been the benchmark for power since its launch. Its GPU delivers 12 TFLOPs of performance, ensuring crisp 4K gameplay, and it’s fully capable of 120Hz refresh rates. However, it lacks AI-driven upscaling. That said, Microsoft’s optimization and support across its entire console ecosystem ensure smooth and stable performance across all titles.
Both consoles include 16 GB of GDDR6 RAM, but the PS5 Pro’s memory operates about 28% faster. When it comes to connectivity, the PS5 Pro supports Wi-Fi 7, offering future-proof speed and stability, whereas the Xbox Series X sticks with Wi-Fi 6, still more than capable for online gaming.
Game Library, Exclusives, and Enhancements – PS5 vs Xbox Series X🎮
The PS5 vs Xbox Series X debate wouldn’t be complete without diving into their game catalogs. Both consoles feature hundreds of titles, but exclusives and enhanced content truly define the experience.
Sony has focused heavily on story-driven exclusives, and the PS5 Pro brings even more to the table. At launch, it will support enhanced versions of major games like Assassin’s Creed Shadows, Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, Hogwarts Legacy, and Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart. In total, around 30 to 40 titles will be optimized for the Pro version right from the start.
PlayStation’s exclusive catalog continues to dominate in single-player storytelling, with beloved franchises like:
- God of War
- The Last of Us
- Horizon
- Final Fantasy (select titles)
The Xbox Series X, meanwhile, boasts powerful exclusives of its own, including:
- Halo Infinite
- Starfield
- Gears of War
- Forza Horizon 5
- Microsoft Flight Simulator
Xbox has taken a more open approach in recent months, releasing games like Hi-Fi Rush and Sea of Thieves on other platforms, but Xbox Game Studios continues to offer first-party games on day one through Game Pass, which is a major win for subscribers.
It’s worth noting that while Xbox offers performance consistency across Series S and Series X, the PS5 Pro enhances visuals specifically for compatible games, giving it an edge in graphic fidelity.
Design, Storage, and Media Compatibility 💾
Design is subjective, but each console takes a different approach. The Xbox Series X features a clean, monolithic tower design that can stand vertically or lay horizontally without extra accessories. It’s compact but powerful, built with airflow efficiency in mind.
The PS5 Pro sports a futuristic look, slimmer than the original PS5 but taller than the Series X. It’s available only in a horizontal design out of the box, and requires a separate stand if you want to place it vertically—something to consider for your setup.
In terms of storage, Sony steps up with 2 TB of internal SSD, doubling the Series X’s 1 TB capacity. While exact usable storage hasn’t been confirmed for the PS5 Pro, it’s expected to offer significantly more room than the Xbox Series X, which reserves around 198 GB of its 1 TB for system files, leaving about 802 GB for games and apps.
Both consoles support expandable storage via proprietary SSD cards—Seagate for Xbox and standard NVMe for PlayStation, though Sony’s method is generally more cost-efficient and flexible.
As for media, the Xbox Series X includes a built-in 4K UHD Blu-ray drive, allowing it to play physical games and movies right out of the box. The PS5 Pro is digital-only, unless you purchase the optional external disc drive, which costs R$ 539,99 in Brazil. This drive attaches seamlessly to the console’s chassis but does add to the overall cost.
Subscriptions and Pricing: Which One Offers More Value? 💰
Both Microsoft and Sony offer premium gaming subscription services, but they differ in what they provide.
Xbox Game Pass is widely considered the best value in gaming. It offers:
- Game Pass Core (R$ 34.99/month) – Online play + basic catalog
- Game Pass Standard (R$ 44.99/month) – Expansive game library
- Game Pass Ultimate (R$ 59.99/month) – Includes EA Play, cloud gaming, PC access, and day-one titles
On the PlayStation side, there’s PS Plus, divided into:
- Essential (R$ 34.90/month) – Online multiplayer + 3 monthly games
- Extra (R$ 52.90/month) – Adds full game catalog
- Deluxe (R$ 59.90/month) – Adds retro games, early trials, and PS VR2 support
When it comes to pricing, the Xbox Series X is currently more affordable, retailing for R$ 4,000 to R$ 4,500 in Brazil. The PS5 Pro, launching at US$ 699.99, is expected to land between R$ 5,000 and R$ 7,000 after taxes and import costs.
That said, PS5 Pro offers future-proof tech and expanded internal storage, which may justify the higher cost for some players.
PS5 vs Xbox Series X – Which Should You Choose? 🏆
So, which console is the better buy in 2024? The answer depends on your gaming style and what matters most to you.
Choose the PS5 Pro if you want:
- AI-enhanced visuals and upscaling (PSSR)
- Higher storage (2 TB)
- Exclusive single-player experiences
- Future-focused connectivity (Wi-Fi 7)
Go for the Xbox Series X if you value:
- Better price-to-performance ratio
- Built-in 4K disc drive
- Day-one titles via Game Pass Ultimate
- Physical media and better vertical support
Both consoles are exceptional in their own right, and no matter which one you choose, you’re guaranteed an amazing next-gen experience.
FAQs About PS5 vs Xbox Series X
1. Is the PS5 Pro much better than the original PS5?
- Yes. It offers better performance, more storage, improved Ray Tracing, and new AI upscaling technology.
2. Can Xbox Series X still compete with the newer PS5 Pro?
- Absolutely. Its consistent performance, Game Pass access, and lower price make it a strong competitor.
3. Does the PS5 Pro come with a disc drive?
- No, but you can purchase an external one separately.
4. Which console is better for digital games?
- Both are great for digital gaming, but PlayStation’s faster memory and upscaling give it a slight edge.
