Is it still worth investing in a PlayStation 5, or should you build a gaming PC instead?

When choosing between a gaming console and a PC, the decision ultimately boils down to your preferences and needs. Each option offers unique advantages and disadvantages, and in this review, I’ll break down whether the PlayStation 5 Slim is still a worthwhile investment or if building a gaming PC is the better choice for you.

Introduction
In 2020, Sony released the PlayStation 5, the fifth generation of its iconic console lineup. The PlayStation brand has gained its reputation not only for its sleek hardware design but also for its legendary exclusive titles, such as God of War, Ratchet & Clank, Horizon Zero Dawn, Spider-Man, Uncharted, and Ghost of Tsushima. These titles, along with others, are accessible on the PS5, enhanced with improved performance and visuals.

Another key feature is PlayStation Plus, which offers a vast library of games for a monthly subscription. Booting up the console and navigating its intuitive menus is an enjoyable experience in itself. But with the growing power and flexibility of gaming PCs, the question remains: is it better to invest in a console like the PS5, or is a gaming PC the way to go?

Specifications for Playstation 5 slim
Processor: 3rd generation AMD Ryzen (Zen 2, 8 cores/16 threads, 3.5 GHz, 7 nm etch)
Graphics chipset : AMD RDNA 2 Custom
Memory: 16 GB GDDR6
Indicative power: 10.3 TFLOPs
Storage : 1 TB removable SSD drive
Optical drive: 4K Blu-ray
Max resolution: 8K
Max framerate: 4K/120fps
Audio: 3D, Tempest engine
Controller with haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, USB-C port
VR support
Connections: USB Type-A port (Hi-Speed USB), USB Type-A port (Super-Speed USB 10Gbps) x2, USB Type-C port (Super-Speed USB 10Gbps)
Network: Ethernet (10BASE-T, 100BASE-TX, 1000BASE-T), IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/ax, Bluetooth 5.1
Dimensions: 358 x 96 x 216 mm
Weight : 3.2 kg

For a console priced around €650 (including tax), these specifications are impressive. To enjoy online multiplayer and access the PlayStation Plus library, you’ll need to pay an additional €15 per month, which significantly expands your gaming options.

Hardware and Performance
The PlayStation 5 Slim delivers remarkable hardware performance for its price. For instance, games like Marvel’s Spider-Man offer two graphical modes: Quality (enhanced visuals) and Performance (improved framerate). While Quality mode prioritizes visuals, Performance mode achieves smooth, stable gameplay at 60 fps.

Even demanding titles like Cyberpunk 2077 run efficiently at 60 fps on the PS5, proving that the console can handle modern AAA games. Historically, consoles have emphasized optimization, ensuring most games run smoothly on launch. However, developers occasionally fall short, as seen with Cyberpunk 2077, which required years of updates to meet expectations.

Beyond gaming, the PlayStation 5 includes built-in apps like Netflix and robust game recording features, making it a versatile entertainment hub. Its menus are intuitive and easy to navigate, enhancing the overall user experience.

PlayStation Plus

PlayStation Plus is one of the PS5’s strongest selling points. For €15 per month, you gain access to a vast library of games, including PlayStation exclusives like God of War and Spider-Man, alongside third-party hits like Assassin’s Creed, Yakuza, and Final Fantasy.

Upgrading to PlayStation Plus Premium (€19 per month) unlocks game streaming, enabling access to classic PS1, PS2, PS3, and PS4 titles. However, streaming quality heavily depends on your internet connection. In my experience, a 1 Gbps connection is necessary for smooth gameplay without noticeable input lag. While the streaming service still has room for improvement, most downloadable games run seamlessly and are highly optimized compared to PC counterparts.

PC vs. PlayStation 5

Now that we’ve examined the PS5 Slim, how does it stack up against a gaming PC?

A comparable PC setup, featuring an RTX 4060 graphics card and an AMD Ryzen 7600X CPU, offers superior performance and graphical fidelity. However, building such a PC costs at least €1,200—double the price of a PS5.

If gaming is your primary focus, the PlayStation 5 offers excellent value for money. However, PCs have the edge in versatility, enabling tasks like video editing, productivity, and access to multiple game storefronts like Steam, Epic Games, and Ubisoft Connect. PC gamers also benefit from lower game prices and higher framerates, though optimization for PC titles is often hit-or-miss.

From personal experience, I’ve used consoles my entire life until I built my first gaming PC in 2017. While I enjoy the flexibility and performance of PC gaming, there’s something uniquely relaxing about sitting on a couch and playing on a console.

How the PlayStation 5 Compares to Previous Generations
The PS5’s most significant improvement over the PS4 is its ability to run 99% of games at 60 fps, bringing console gaming closer to PC-level performance. However, its lineup of exclusive titles feels underwhelming compared to previous generations.

Since its release, the PS5 has introduced stellar exclusives like God of War: Ragnarök, Spider-Man 2, and Horizon Forbidden West. Additionally, new IPs like Returnal and Stellar Blade showcase the console’s potential. However, the majority of its library consists of remasters and cross-gen titles from the PS4. For example, Demon’s Souls (a PS5 exclusive) is a remake of a PS3 classic.

Developing new AAA games is more time-consuming and expensive than ever, which partly explains the slower pace of exclusive releases. Another consideration is that many PlayStation exclusives—like Spider-Man, God of War, and Horizon Zero Dawn—are now available on PC, reducing the PS5’s appeal to PC owners.

Summary
The PlayStation 5 is an excellent console that offers tremendous value for its €650 price tag. Coupled with a €15-per-month PlayStation Plus subscription, it grants access to a diverse library of games, smooth 60 fps performance, and user-friendly features.

However, the lack of ground-breaking exclusives and the growing availability of PlayStation titles on PC make it a less compelling choice for those already invested in PC gaming.

The PS5 delivers exceptional performance and value, but its reliance on remasters and limited exclusives hold it back. If your budget is around €1,200, a gaming PC offers more versatility and longevity. However, for those seeking an affordable and straightforward gaming experience, the PlayStation 5 is a solid choice.
Rating: 3.5/5

Rating: 3.5 out of 5.