The Xbox Series X and PlayStation 5 Pro are the latest iterations of Microsoft and Sony’s flagship gaming consoles. With enhanced graphics, faster load times, and more immersive gameplay, these upgraded consoles promise to take gaming to the next level. But which one is really worth shelling out the extra cash for? Here’s an in-depth comparison of the Xbox Series X and PS5 Pro across several key factors to help you decide which advanced console is the better investment for serious gamers.
Hardware Specs and Performance
When it comes to hardware, both the Xbox Series X and PS5 Pro pack some serious punch.
The Xbox Series X boasts a custom AMD Zen 2 CPU with 8 cores clocked at 3.8GHz each. This is paired with a powerful AMD RDNA 2 GPU that delivers 12 TFLOPS of processing power. The console also comes equipped with 16GB of GDDR6 RAM and a 1TB custom NVMe SSD that virtually eliminates load times.
The PS5 Pro matches the Xbox on processing power with an 8-core AMD Zen 2 CPU and custom AMD RDNA 2 GPU that also delivers 12 TFLOPS of performance. However, Sony’s console edges out Microsoft’s with faster 10GB GDDR6 RAM and a higher bandwidth PCIe Gen 4 NVMe SSD promising even faster load times up to 5.5GB/s.
Both consoles support advanced graphics rendering techniques like ray tracing and boast 4K video output at up to 120 frames per second. The PS5 Pro has a slight advantage with its higher bandwidth SSD that could lead to faster load times, but both deliver blazing fast performance that crushes their last-gen counterparts.
Backward Compatibility
The Xbox Series X wins big when it comes to backward compatibility. The entire library of Xbox One games, plus hundreds of titles from the Xbox 360 and original Xbox, will play on Microsoft’s new console. This gives Xbox Series X owners instant access to four generations of Xbox gaming from day one.
Sony’s approach is more limited. The PS5 Pro promises backward compatibility with an “overwhelming majority” of the PS4 catalog, but support for older PlayStation games remains unclear. Sony’s focus on revolutionary SSD tech makes full backward compatibility more difficult. For those with large existing Xbox game libraries, the Series X is the way to go.
Exclusive Launch Games
Both Sony and Microsoft are coming out swinging with huge exclusive games optimized for their new consoles.
The Xbox Series X will launch alongside Halo Infinite, the next entry in Microsoft’s flagship shooter. Infinite makes full use of the Series X’s power with up to 4K 120fps gameplay and cutting-edge visuals. Other notable exclusives coming to Series X include supernatural action game Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II and fantasy RPG Avowed set in the Pillars of Eternity universe.
The PS5 Pro has its own set of heavy hitters. Spider-Man spinoff Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales will headline Sony’s launch lineup with its stunning ray-traced visuals. Other exclusives leading the charge include Horizon Forbidden West, the next chapter in the Horizon saga, and action role-playing game Demon’s Souls – a remake of the classic FromSoftware title.
Both consoles will receive strong exclusive support, so choosing between them based on software comes down to your platform preference and favorite franchises. Xbox’s Halo versus Sony’s Spider-Man!
Virtual Reality Capabilities
When it comes to cutting-edge virtual reality gaming, the PS5 Pro currently has a leg up on the Xbox Series X thanks to its compatibility with the PlayStation VR headset.
A next-gen PSVR 2 headset is also already in development for the PS5 Pro promising even more immersive VR experiences. The Xbox Series X lacks VR capabilities out of the box, though Microsoft has hinted at plans for VR gaming in the future.
For those interested in big-budget VR titles, the PS5 Pro is the only choice right now. However, it’s possible Microsoft catches up in the VR space down the line.
Multimedia Features
Both consoles offer multimedia features beyond gaming, but there are some key differences.
The Xbox Series X is a gaming-first machine, though still plays 4K Blu-Rays and 4K video streaming via apps like Netflix and Disney+. Dolby Atmos support also helps movies sound their best. The console is less focused on music and other media.
Sony packs more multimedia functionality into the PS5 Pro. Alongside 4K Blu-Ray and streaming, you also get access to a PS Music app for listening to tunes. An overhauled user interface makes navigating between gaming, video, and music smoother. Sony also offers more storage expansion options right off the bat.
If you want an all-in-one entertainment hub for gaming, movies, and music, the PS5 Pro is the better choice today. But Microsoft could expand the Series X’s media features over time.
Price and Release Date
The Xbox Series X released in November 2020 for $499. Pre-orders are already live. The PS5 Pro does not yet have a definitive launch date or price, but expectations are of a Holiday 2022 release in the $549 range.
Sony’s next-gen console may cost slightly more, but likely delivers a bit more raw performance for the price. The Series X will be more affordable for budget-focused gamers.
So Which Console Comes Out on Top?
Overall, the PlayStation 5 Pro appears to edge out the Xbox Series X if you want cutting-edge VR capabilities and multimedia features. However, the Xbox Series X is the champion when it comes to sheer backward compatibility and the lowest cost for bleeding-edge gaming performance.
It truly depends on your priorities. Those with extensive Xbox libraries will get the most long-term value out of the Series X. PS4 owners excited about PSVR 2 or Sony’s studio pedigree can justify upgrading to the PS5 Pro. You really can’t go wrong either way!
Both consoles represent tremendous leaps over their predecessors. For serious players debating which advanced system to invest in, think about your gaming preferences, value VR and media capabilities, and consider which exclusive franchises matter most. Use those factors to decide whether Microsoft’s Xbox Series X or Sony’s eventual PlayStation 5 Pro is the best upgrade for you. It’s an amazing time to be a gamer!
