PS4 vs Xbox One – choose which console is better. PS4 Pro vs Xbox One S: choosing the best console

For a long time now, owners of xbox one s and ps4 pro have been arguing with each other about whose console is better. So that you don’t have to understand the characteristics and nuances of each console for a long time, in this article we will tell you what is better xbox one s or ps4 pro.

The difference between the PRO version and the standard Playstation 4

Before you figure out which console is better, it’s worth finding out how the PS4 PRO differs from the PS4. Overall, the Playstation 4 PRO is just a slightly improved version of the PS 4 and has similar specifications. The main difference between PRO and its predecessor is the ability to use a set-top box for 4K screens. If you don't have a 4K screen, then it's not worth buying a PRO or a PS4.

The difference between the S version and the standard XBox One

The same thing happens with xbox one s. The fact is that xbox one s is also an improved version of the simple xbox one, which has an 8 core processor, graphics AMD card Radeon GCN, and 8 GB of RAM. Also, a simple xbox one has HDD with 500 GB of memory, and the S version has variations of 1 and 2 TB. The main differences between the S version and its predecessor are the smaller body by 40%, the ability to watch movies on a 4K screen and the absence of a power supply.

In general, consoles are radically different from previous consoles, but they all have their own pros and cons; you need to pay attention to the “price/quality” indicator; you can do this yourself using the link http://game-pristavka.ru/xbox-360. The previous generation of consoles is still as popular as the new ones.

Comparison based on the main criteria xbox one s and ps4 pro

If we compare xbox one s and ps4 pro, then definitely the latter console is significantly superior to the first, but not in everything. Below we present the main criteria by which the ps4 pro is superior or inferior to the xbox one s:

1. Specifications. Despite almost equal characteristics, the XBox One S is inferior to the PS4 PRO. After all, XBox is primarily designed to run media, and only then games. But the Playstation 4 PRO positions itself exclusively as a gaming device. It should also be noted that many features intended for XBox are not supported in Russia, but are created exclusively for the English-speaking audience.
2. Exclusive games. Many gamers buy consoles solely for exclusive games that are not supported on PC. Microsoft, which developed the XBox One S, mainly produces games for both consoles and PCs. Therefore, most often there is no point in buying an XBox, because you can wait a little and download it to your computer. PS4 PRO owners feel more privileged, since Sony most often releases games only for consoles.
3. Control. There are no differences in the structure of the joysticks between the compared consoles. The only differences are the power sources, the Xbox one has batteries that need to be changed, and the PS 4 has a small rechargeable battery.
4. Price. But in terms of price, PS4 will be a little more expensive than XBOX. The approximate cost of Sony PlayStation 4 Pro is 28,000 rubles, and Xbox One S – 22,000 rubles.

Summing up

So, in the question of which is better xbox one s or ps4 pro, Playstation 4 PRO wins. Despite its price, buying a PS4 PRO will be more profitable, but do not forget that this version of the console should only be purchased if you have a large 4K monitor. Good luck!

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The new generation of game consoles again confuses users. Which console should I buy? Which one has the best technical characteristics? Which console will the exclusives appear on? And these are just the first questions that come to mind. It's time to deal with them by conducting a kind of comparison between Xbox One and PS4.

A little history

First, we need to put in a good word about the past generation. This example clearly shows how large corporations react to their own mistakes. PlayStation-3 launched later than its competitor. The characteristics of the console were almost identical to those of the Xbox-360. But the price tag was much less humane. Few people dared to spend five hundred bucks on a console in those years. Later, the cost of the console fell, the price was reduced, but it was already difficult to fix anything. The biggest sales came only in the current decade, when the best exclusives began to appear on the console.

Due to the high price tag, the Xbox-360, if it didn’t win the console war, at least felt noticeably better. The console sold well in the first years of its life. Then a certain recession began, which was solved by the introduction of a device called Kinect to the market. It allowed you to control the gameplay without any accessories, using only your own hands.

IN last years There are some problems with Xbox 360 sales. It seems that the gaming console has exhausted its capabilities. A meager number of exclusives began to be released, and questions arose about their quality.

As you understand, both manufacturers had certain problems. Sony has priced its console too high. Microsoft, after a while, seemed to have lost interest in their creation. The company stopped incentivizing developers, which is why the release of exclusives has become a very rare occurrence. It is very interesting how manufacturers reacted to their own mistakes.

Announcements of new consoles

Sony clearly made the best conclusions. The PS4 game console received a very “tasty” price tag, which was emphasized during the presentation. Also during the announcements, they talked about a lot of impressive games that await gamers in the future. And even if these were not always exclusives. However, playing them on the new gamepad is a pleasure.

The announcement of the Xbox One caused mixed feelings, unless those watching the presentation were an ardent fan of American television. Microsoft devoted a minimum of time to games. The emphasis was mainly on other entertainment services. The price also turned out to be too high. The manufacturer brazenly charged a hundred bucks for the obligatory Kinect, which many people really didn’t like. Contrary to popular belief, many players like to control with a gamepad rather than jumping and waving their arms in front of the TV like a monkey.

Have any conclusions been drawn?

Sony won the war preparations without much effort. She remembered own mistakes, preventing them from announcing their new console. The price turned out to be not very high. When compared, the technical characteristics of the Xbox One and PS4 turned out to be far from equal (this will be discussed a little later). The manufacturer did not force its own camera on the consumer. Also, the Japanese continued to push the idea of ​​exclusives, thanks to which a new part of Killzone with excellent graphics appeared at the start of sales.

Microsoft doesn’t seem to follow the development of technology. They presented the public with a huge “box”. It surpassed the size of the standard Xbox-360, although this seemed impossible! Questions also arose regarding the design of the device. Microsoft is also not going to solve the problem with the low number of exclusives. Forza, Halo - that's all that awaits Xbox One in the near future. And before them, gamers are provided mainly with sports games and other multi-platforms. There is a feeling that the American corporation is tired of all this, that it wants to gradually exit the game console market. But without unnecessary noise.

Buying consoles

But let's get down to finding out which is better: PS4 or Xbox One. Announcements are a thing of the past. Now both consoles can be purchased if desired. However, this can also be difficult. For unknown reasons, Microsoft is delaying the start of sales of its new console in some markets. For example, in Russia the console is still impossible to find in stores. It is expected that sales in our country will begin only in September. Almost a year after the start of sales in the USA! The only solution for a persistent gamer is to buy a console in another country.

With Sony's console everything is much easier. It has been officially sold in our country for several months. But the severe shortage affected the price tag. In Russia, they are already asking more than five hundred dollars for a PS4. The price will definitely decrease, but it is unknown when this will happen.

Appearance

Evaluate a game console by its appearance stupid. However, some people do just that. They are wondering which is better: PS4 or Xbox One. And they answer it only after becoming familiar with the design of the devices. This idea looks stupid. But not in the case of the current generation.

The fact is that the PS4 turned out to be both more beautiful and more compact. Current technology has reached such a level that thin smartphones can fit up to three gigabytes of RAM and a quad-core processor. Everyone would be very surprised if the PS4 was the size of its predecessor. The beveled edges also gave the console a certain style.

So what about Xbox One? The answer to this question is deplorable. Microsoft has released a huge box that only lacks wheels. Moreover, the power supply didn’t even fit into this giant box! It will take up additional space on the table or floor.

Menu interface

It would be interesting to ask the developers from Microsoft about what Xbox One is better PS4. They will probably point to the software interface of the set-top box. In fact, the new console has as many as three operating systems. The main one is the redesigned version of Windows 8. It is responsible for the selection of games and all kinds of services. The second system is working on displaying games. The third is designed to keep certain processes in the background.

Theoretically, Microsoft's operating system can be considered an advantage of the console. But Sony PS4 is doing quite well in this regard. The menu looks nice, everything works quickly. Therefore, in the battle “Xbox One vs PS4” on this front, we can assign one point to both consoles.

Ease of use

Everyday use of game consoles evokes two impressions. Here you immediately understand which is better: PS4 or Xbox One. Of course, the first option is much preferable. Japanese Sony company even before the release, it presented an updated PSN service, which began to work much faster. You can access it not only from the set-top box, but also from your mobile device! This way you can check out your achievements and find out what your friends are doing. You can also buy a game from your smartphone, after which it will automatically start downloading to the console.

The most important advantage of the PS4 is its speed. Games launch instantly. The speed of downloading them from the PSN service depends only on your operator. But now you don’t have to wait for the purchased game to be completely downloaded to your hard drive. In most cases, only ten percent loaded is enough, after which the toy can be launched! This is an unprecedented opportunity that completely changes the entire experience of digital purchasing of goods!

Specifications

PS4 or Xbox One? If you are still undecided, then take a look at the technical characteristics of both devices. They seem very similar. But in practice it turns out that PS4 is a more powerful console.

The secret lies in RAM. Both consoles have 8 GB of this type of memory. But in PS4 it belongs to the faster GDDR5 standard. In fact, this is video memory; the block with RAM (512 MB) is located at a distance from it. The Xbox One uses DDR3 RAM, which is much cheaper, but its speed characteristics do not meet modern requirements.

Summarizing

There are a lot of things you can remember about the Xbox One by not purchasing it. But in most cases this is not necessary. It is very difficult to buy it without this. Sony sells new console already in 57 countries. Its owners have already become 5.3 million people. Microsoft cannot boast of this. It supplies its products to only a few countries. But even there they rarely buy it, which is why they may soon stop producing the console for a while in order to get rid of its oversupply.

We discussed with you which is better: PS4 or Xbox One. Perhaps we missed something? The graphics also deserve special mention. Xbox One vs PS4 - It turns out to be a kind of battle of the graphics chips installed inside. This war is also won by Sony's console.

A simplified architecture, close to that of a computer, and a detailed manual provided by game developers allow her to do this. As a result, many games on PS4 run in Full HD resolution. The developers say that slow RAM does not allow this to be achieved on Xbox One. Therefore, on this console the maximum resolution is most often 720p. The exception is when the owner of the console launches indie projects and simple sports games. When developing them, achieving maximum resolution is the easiest way.

The winner of our comparison is the PS4. There is not an ounce of doubt about this. The winner is so clear that in the future Microsoft may have problems promoting its console and creating games for it. Or the Americans will have to release an improved version with faster memory. But gamers definitely won’t wait for this.

Quite a lot of time has passed since the presentation of the Sony PlayStation 4 and Xbox One game consoles. The two companies managed to release updated versions of the devices, but the question is still relevant - which is better Xbox One or PS4

Xbox One

Xbox One was developed as a replacement for the eighth generation Xbox 360. The console was released on May 21, 2013.

Microsoft chose the name "One" due to the console's positioning as an all-in-one device, including various features directly related to the development of entertainment content.

Xbox One allows watch movies, music, television, use the Internet through a personalized home screen. To facilitate interaction with the device, voice and gesture control through an external Kinect sensor was developed.

Sony PlayStation 4

PS4 was introduced in 2013 and is still one of the most popular gaming consoles on the market. With a large library of games, an advanced controller and design, and a host of connected services for online gaming and media streaming, the device is excellent choice as the main gaming system.

Besides the console itself, an important piece of hardware is the controller DualShock 4. The standard system comes with one controller, but two can be included. The user can always purchase additional devices separately. PS4 supports up to four controllers simultaneously.

Specifications

Both consoles use the same x86-64 architecture. The devices are equipped with an 8-core Jaguar processor from AMD. The only difference is in the frequencies: on Xbox One, 1.75 GHz, while on PS4, 1.6 GHz. In practice there is almost no difference between the two processors. Unlike standard PCs, console processors and their GPU systems share memory, giving developers much more flexibility in how they allocate resources.

PlayStation 4 has more powerful RAM - 8 GB fast memory GDDR5 with high-speed 32 MB cache versus slow DDR3 from Xbox One. It seems that Sony's console has an advantage here, too, but you should also take into account the fact that the PlayStation 4 operating system requires more RAM.

When comparing the two consoles, there are many differences that need to be taken into account when choosing a device. However, in terms of hardware characteristics, the choice between Xbox One or PlayStation 4 is not so obvious. To make things easier, the main characteristics are included in the following table:

	PlayStation 4	Xbox One
CPU(CPU)	8-core AMD "Jaguar" 1.6 GHz	8-core AMD "Jaguar" 1.75 GHz
Video card(GPU)	AMD GCN 800 MHz, 18 compute modules	AMD GCN 853 MHz, 12 compute modules
RAM(RAM)	8 GB DDR5 (5500 MHz)	8GB DDR3 (2133 MHz)
HDD	500 GB, removable	500 GB non-replaceable + external hard drive connection
Drive unit	Blu-ray/DVD	Blu-ray/DVD
Wireless modules	Wi-Fi and Bluetooth	WiFi
External ports	USB 3.0 (2 pcs.)	USB 3.0 (3 pcs.)
Controller	DualShock 4	Xbox One controller
average price	29,000 rubles	26,000 rubles

Graphic arts

It’s impossible to say unequivocally that the graphics are better on Xbox one or Playstation 4. Each console has its own characteristics.

The PS4 graphics core contains 50% more compute units, providing parallel graphics power that is used for in-game effects, including real-time in-game physics calculations.

Many cross-platform games on PS4 launch with resolution 1920×1080, while on Xbox One there is a limit on the maximum allowed resolution - 1600x900. This difference is offset by stable frame rates in some areas on the Xbox One, but overall Sony's device remains far superior when it comes to fully immersive gaming experiences. game process.

Appearance and equipment

Now let's move on to the comparison between Xbox One and PS4.

Sony has packed all of the console's components into a compact and flat body, focusing the user's attention on the retro-futuristic design. The thin body makes the console space-saving. The only drawback The compact design means that the audibility of the cooler, even during idle moments, leaves much to be desired.

Included PlayStation 4 includes:

• PS4 (500 GB, internal power supply);
• DualShock 4 controller (battery installed)
• mono headset;
• HDMI cable;
• management
• Micro-USB cable

On the front panel there are two USB 3.0 ports that can be used to charge DualShock 4 wireless controllers, or to connect accessories and external devices. The device connects to your TV via HDMI and supports media playback at up to 4K resolution, but gaming resolution is limited to 1080p. In addition to audio, the PlayStation 4 has an optical output for digital surround sound.

Xbox One has more bulky design and takes up a lot of space for a modern gadget. This design move is explained by the fact that a significant part of the console is empty, which was done to provide the necessary space for good ventilation.

The One's design is dominated by matte and glossy black halves, on which there is a slot for Blu-ray discs and an LED touch button indicating the device brand. The button serves as a system switch if it is not possible to use the controller. Given voice controls, the user does not need to directly interact with the device unless it involves changing the drive or adjusting the gamepad.

Due to the structural features, ventilation holes on the top side should not be closed - it is better to leave the device free, but not in a vertical position. TO positive aspects designs include the following: console almost inaudible while working.

The package includes:

• Xbox One (500 GB, external power adapter);
• Xbox One Controller (two AA batteries);
• HDMI cable;
• power cable.

On the Xboxe One, the USB port is located to the left of the device, next to the controller registration pairing button. The rear panel houses an HDMI port, a Kinect port, an Ethernet port, an optical audio port, two USB ports, and a power jack.

Comparison of gamepads

Both Sony and Microsoft have developed good and ergonomic controllers. Xbox One controller is a revision of the Xbox 360 gamepad, so there is nothing unique in its form factor: for example, it does not have additional functions or special buttons for interacting with content that can be found on the DualShock controller from PlayStation 4.

DualShock 4 connects wirelessly via Bluetooth and can be charged via micro-USB. A glowing light strip along the front of the controller can be used in conjunction with the PlayStation's optional camera to control motion and provide atmospheric lighting in games. In addition to the standard Jet Black, the controller is available in a variety of colors including Magma Red, Glacier White, Wave Blue or Urban Camouflage, as well as unique limited edition color designs.

The DualShock 4 has two analog sticks, four directional buttons, four action buttons (triangle, circle, cross, square), two bumpers and two triggers. New features in this version include capacitive touch panel, built-in speaker and 3.5 mm audio jack.

Both controls are as convenient as possible and do not have any serious distinctive flaws. But still, the PlayStation 4 gamepad is functionally more convenient and ergonomic.

Convenience of interfaces

PS4 is designed for use with PlayStation Network, an online platform for purchasing and downloading games, demos and media. The console includes some social features such as online multiplayer games, voice chats, messaging, and other multiplayer services.

The user can access PSN if they pay a recurring subscription fee. Payment can be made either monthly or annually, but prices are distributed for each month. Provided upon connection access to a line of free games, which change monthly, as well as discounts for club members.

With a built-in Blu-ray drive and online connectivity, the PS4 is well positioned as a central device as a home entertainment hub. In addition to Blu-ray playback and DVD discs, the device supports a variety of online entertainment services, including YouTube, Netflix, Amazon, HBO GO, Hulu and Plex.

Multitasking is well developed in both systems. Switching between apps is a little faster on the PlayStation, while the Xbox One has the advantage of screen sharing technology. picture in picture" Microsoft is committed to wrapping all apps in its ecosystem, making the proprietary windowed experience more complex than the PlayStation 4 menu. Sony is better manages to highlight what is happening around the user - showing new activities of friends, recommended video games or download suggestions based on recommendations.

After years of updates, the Xbox interface has gone from sluggish and cluttered to fast and customizable. Microsoft continues to introduce new useful features such as possibility of gift games, receiving instant technical support with Xbox Assist and other important features.

However, the PS4 menu is much more suitable for navigational interactions. That said, it's still the best console when it comes to capturing gaming moments and sharing them with friends. With a quick press of the DualShock 4's share button, you can record a video clip, stream gameplay to Twitch and Youtube, or instantly take a screenshot. In this regard, the Xboxe One has its limitations.

Available games

Both consoles boast significant game libraries. PS4 has just over 1600 titles, of which more 500 console exclusives, while the Xbox One has about 1300 games, of which only 150 are exclusive.

With hits like Uncharted 4, Horizon: Zero Dawn and God of War, PS4 exclusive offerings include some of the biggest and highest AAA ratings of this generation.

On top of that, over 200 video games have been released for PS4, including beloved favorites like Grand Theft Auto, Overwatch, Battlefield, and The Last of Us, and popular sports franchises like FIFA Soccer and Madden NFL. This extensive library also includes several exclusives: Infamous, Bloodborne, Driveclub and Uncharted.

At the same time, it cannot be said that the Microsoft console does not have exclusive titles: Halo 5, Forza Horizon3, Gears of War 4 and other sensational games. The hit product PUBG, the unique Tacoma or Cuphead are launched only on Microsoft consoles.

Multiplatform games tend to run better on PS4. Frame capture, screenshots, and sharing of these elements are smoother on PlayStation 4.

So which is better PS4 or Xbox One?

An objective assessment of the choice of consoles depends on many factors that were discussed above.

If the user buys a console only for games, there are many arguments in favor of the PS4. These include:

• high hardware performance, which manifests itself in stable versions of multi-platform games;
• universal game controller, including new control options and good propositions PlayStation Plus premium service.

If the user requires the device mainly multimedia content, Xbox One has the best video and music services today, as well as SkyDrive online storage and integration with TV content.

The main competing consoles at the moment are the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One. Sony's console is generally ahead of the American system. And if we consider the characteristics and, then the Japanese console will also have advantages.

Let's try to find out what is better from different points of view.

Why PS4 is better than Xbox One

So, let's find out:

There are more good games on PS4 than on Xbox One

It's quite debatable, but it's really more than that. However, both game libraries are worthy of close attention. Both have their hits. Well, it’s multiplatform and multiplatform in Africa. However, some games run better on PS4 and also look a little more perfect on it. However, this only applies to the simple version; in the case of PS4 Slim and Xbox One S, things are different.

TFLOPS are higher on PS4

Indeed, PS4 has as much as 1.84 TFLOPS and Xbox One has 1.31 TFLOPS. The PS4 GPU is more powerful, hands down.

The hard drive can be replaced on PS4, but not on Xbox One

The PS4 can work with other hard drives, whereas the Xbox One cannot be replaced. In addition, you can install a high-speed SSD drive on your PS4.

PS4 has significantly higher memory bandwidth

PS4 has a whopping 176 GB/s versus 68.3 GB/s for Xbox One. Because of this, the overall performance is much higher.

PS4 Has Much More Stream Processors

The difference is 1152 versus 768. This also makes the picture look better on PS4.

PS4 has a built-in power supply

PS4 has it, Xbox One doesn't. This saves space and looks more aesthetically pleasing. The Xbox One has a very large block.

PS4 has a 3.5 mm mini-jack socket

But Xbox One doesn't have it. You can't connect simple headphones...

PS4 is narrower than Xbox One

305 mm versus 343 mm.

PS4 is shorter than Xbox One

53 mm versus 74 mm. Overall, the PS4 is smaller in size and weight. It is more convenient to place it at home.

PS4 and Xbox One sizes

4445 cm? versus 5990 cm?

PS4 has a touchpad

But Xbox One doesn't have it. Many features in Xbox One games are missing because of this.

Stream video without subscription

On PS4, you can access video services like Netflix and Hulu Plus without a subscription.

PS4 has more compute units

18 GPU computing units for PS4 and only 12 for Xbox One.

There are also more ROPs visualization blocks

32 versus 16. They are responsible for some of the final steps of the visualization process. Responsible for graphics.

It is possible to use motion detection control

Xbox One doesn't have this. And this is important for sports games.

PS4 has Bluetooth

But Xbox One doesn't.

Joystick with a battery, not a battery

And it is much more convenient and economical.

How is Xbox One better than PS4?

So, the Microsoft console also has advantages:

Higher processor clock speed

1.75 GHz for Xbox One and 1.6 GHz for PS4

Its own excellent library of games

Again, a controversial issue. There are exclusives here and there.

Faster GPU

The frequency of the Xbox One is 853 MHz, and the PS4 is only 800 MHz

In the world game consoles 2013 is quite rich in important events. Two of the three leading manufacturers of game consoles (Sony and Microsoft) announced completely new models of video consoles in the spring. This, and the product from. The third player, Nintendo, after the release of Wii U in 2012, apparently took a break and is unlikely to please its adherents with anything. But new participants intend to settle in the video console market: the leading manufacturer of graphics processors, NVIDIA, with the Shield project, and independent developers with the OUYA prototype, who received funding and worldwide fame using the popular fundraising service Kickstarter.

Why have we all been waiting so long for new consoles? Because quite a lot of reasons have accumulated for their improvement. Well, of course, this primarily concerns graphics, which can no longer compete with modern combinations of processors and video cards used in personal computers. Microsoft and Sony have already revealed latest secrets their new consoles, you can read about this in the PS4 and XBOX One sections. Microsoft is preparing TV content for the XBox, powerful online services and is developing the concept of centralizing home entertainment. With the release of the PlayStation 4, Sony is going to abandon all restrictions, placing its main bet on gamers. There's also Nintendo's Wii U, which you can buy today. However, the new Wii is still far from sane competition with other market players.

Before we pit Sony and Microsoft against each other, let's go back to where it all began.

If you look closely, you will notice that in the last generation there was a lot in common between the consoles from Sony and Microsoft:

• 512 MB RAM
• HDD
• optical drive
• support for wireless networks and Bluetooth.

Of course there were differences. For example, processors with a common architecture based on IBM PowerPC have different configurations of actuators. RAM, unlike Xbox, where the CPU and graphics processor share the entire available space, in Sony's set-top box the memory is divided in half - into the system and video parts (256 + 256 MB). And the video processors in the consoles are different, Microsoft in the XBOX 360 generation preferred development from ATI (Xenos chip), and Sony chose a solution from NVIDIA called RSX Reality Synthesizer.

The optical drives installed in the consoles were also taken from competing companies. These are Blu-ray Disc for PlayStation and regular DVD-ROM (later failed HD-DVD) for Xbox. Compared to personal computers of that time, both consoles were powerful, advanced gaming solutions that were almost as good as top-end configurations. In terms of CPU computing power, the consoles were not inferior to the latest dual-core processors AMD Athlon X2 and Intel Core 2 Duo, and in terms of peak power they were significantly superior to them. The video subsystem also successfully competed with its desktop counterparts.

CPU in Xbox 360

• Developer: IBM.
• Name: Cell.
• Architecture: IBM PowerPC.
• Frequency: 3200 MHz.
• Number of execution devices: 3 cores * SMT technology (two threads per core, 6 threads in total).
• Peak performance: 115 GFL0PS double precision.
• Manufacturing technology: 90 nm (later 65 and 45 nm).

CPU in PlayStation 3

• Developers: Sony, Toshiba and IBM.
• Name: Cell.
• Architecture: IBM PowerPC.
• Frequency: 3200 MHz.
• Number of actuators: 1 main core + 8 auxiliary coprocessors.
• Peak performance: 230.4 GFLoPS single precision and 100 GFL0PS double precision.

Another important point to note is that having one consistent hardware configuration allows game developers to very effectively optimize their products, getting the most out of the hardware. In terms of multimedia capabilities, game consoles were significantly ahead of personal computers of that time. For example, the presence of a Blu-ray drive in the PlayStation 3 was often the decisive factor when purchasing, since a disc drive of this type, purchased separately, was comparable in price to the console itself. And the presence of an HDMI output made it possible to get by with just one cable to connect a large-diagonal TV and a multi-channel sound system. Wireless network technologies such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, flash card reader, etc., began to be widely used in the PC world only after a few years.

Video processor in Xbox 360

• Developer: ATI (AMD).
• Name: Xenos (C1).
• Frequency: 500 MHz.
• Number of transistors: 232 million
• Production technology: 65 nm.
• Shader processors: 240 (5x48, VLIW5 architecture).
• Rasterizers: 8.
• Memory size and type: up to 512 MB DDR3.
• Memory bus: 128 bits.

The Xenos chip, despite supporting unified shaders, is only compatible with DirectX 9 Shader Model 3.0. This processor is a transitional processor between the generations of desktop chips R500 and R600. The latter already have a unified architecture and are compatible with DirectX 10 Shader Model 4.0.

Video processor in PS 3

• Developer: NVIDIA.
• Title: RSX Reality Synthesis.
• Frequency: 550 MHz.
• Number of transistors: 278 million
• Manufacturing technology: 90 nm (later 65 nm).
• Shader processors: 24 pixel and 8 vertex.
• Rasterizers: 8.
• Memory size and type: 256 MB GDDR3.
• Memory bus: 128 bits.

The RSX processor, in fact, is one of the modifications of the G70/G71 generation graphics chips (GeForce 7800/7900), having similar functionality and slightly lower performance due to the use of a narrower memory bus. Supports multi-threaded shader pipeline processing.

New generation of game consoles: XBOX One vs PS4, which is better?

Sony was the first to announce its console, so we’ll start the review with it. There have been rumors for a long time that the latest consoles from manufacturers will be based on a specially designed next-generation processor from AMD. After the official presentations of the consoles, this information was confirmed.

Sony console: PS4

The basis of the PlayStation 4 was an 8-core APU (Acceleration Processor Unit) based on the economical Jaguar architecture developed by AMD and integrated into a single chip with a graphics part very close in characteristics to the desktop video adapter Radeon HD7850.

One more distinctive feature This processor is able to work with high-speed GDDR5 memory, which until now was only possible for graphics processors. Thus, the use of ultra-fast GDDR5 memory and a single address space allow you to perform non-graphical calculations much more quickly. As is known, modern graphics processors in a certain range of tasks are capable of calculating digital data tens and sometimes hundreds of times faster than universal central processors. Therefore, today video processors are increasingly used not only for their intended purpose, but also for a variety of calculations. AMD and Intel are paying great attention to this technology, introducing an open standard called OpenCL for their APUs, which regulates non-graphics computing.

The video processor, located on the same chip with the CPU, is currently the undisputed leader in performance and graphics power among all embedded video cores. AMD has always been good at integrating a graphics processor that is significantly faster and often more functional than its competitor's counterparts. However, this time AMD engineers have outdone themselves by doubling the number of cores in the consoles compared to the most powerful desktop APU. Due to the fact that console games have a higher level of optimization, the graphics in the games promise to be unsurpassed. In addition, support for the standard (aka 4K) with a resolution of 3840x2160 and higher is announced, so such a powerful GPU will clearly not be superfluous.

The console will come with a new DualShock 4 controller with rich equipment:

• touchpad
• gyroscope
• accelerometer
• vibration function
• 4-color backlight
• speaker

The console is equipped with two cameras with a resolution of up to 1280x800 pixels and a viewing angle of 85 degrees (PlayStation 4 Eye technology), which can track the position of the DualShock controller in space.

The system on a chip that formed the basis of the Xbox One is very similar to its direct competitor. Current characteristics known at the moment:

• 8-core AMD processor based on Jaguar architecture
• 8 GB RAM
• GCN architecture video card with 768 cores
• 500 GB hard drive and Blu-ray drive
• full set network interfaces: Gambit Ethernet, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.

However, there is a rather noticeable difference - the platform works with the “usual” type of memory: DDR3. There will be no support for fast GDDR5, as in the PlayStation 4. So far Microsoft is silent about the intricacies of the system. For example, when talking about some changes to the graphics part of the processor, the developers paid attention to such a factor as the number of simultaneously executed tasks. If the desktop video card Radeon 7000 generation is capable of solving one graphic task or two computing ones, then the processor designed for Xbox One can simultaneously solve up to 64 non-graphical tasks. The Xbox One CPU and GPU have one distinctive feature - it is accelerated from 1.6 GHz to 1.75 GHz. Microsoft also accelerated the GPU by 6%.

The developers promise us an improved Kinect game controller built into the console. It is an HD camera that allows you to shoot video in resolutions up to 1080p and control the console using gestures. In addition, at the presentation it was especially noted that they tried to make the new console as quiet as possible.

It is likely that there are other interesting details that will become known closer to the start of sales. new generation consoles. The operating system, as expected, will be of its own design, based on the Windows 8 kernel and, according to the Redmond people, taking all the best from the OS used in the Xbox 360. We are also promised native support for Skype, some expanded TV functionality and improved social services based on Xbox Live. Fortunately, alarming rumors about the mandatory connection of the console to the Internet. This feature can only be implemented on the initiative of individual developers.

Learn more about AMD's Jaguar processor

Jaguar is the successor to the cost-effective Bobcat architecture, widely used in netbooks, nettops, home theaters and a variety of embedded systems. According to the developers, processors based on the Jaguar architecture have a higher rate of instruction execution per clock compared to their predecessors while simultaneously reducing power consumption. Considering the compact bodies of set-top boxes, the moderate heat dissipation of the processor will come in handy. In addition, playmakers now have access to eight full-fledged computing cores, which, according to optimistic estimates, will have a positive effect on modern game engines supporting “real” multi-cores. And the use of the popular and well-known x86 architecture will significantly reduce the barrier to entry into the gaming market for new developers who will not have to master the specific architecture of the previous generation of consoles. Moreover, now the process of porting games from one console platform to another and to personal computers will be greatly simplified, which will make it possible to quickly and cost-effectively release games that can run on both consoles and PCs. It is important to note that Jaguar-based solutions have a modular design and consist of Compute Units containing 4 cores. The PlayStation 4 processor includes two modules. Jaguar has added new streaming SIMD extensions SSE 4.1 and SSE 4.2, advanced AES encryption instructions, the AVX instruction set and other extensions.

Central processing unit used in PlayStation 4

• Developer: AMD.
• Name: unknown.
• Frequency: unknown.
• Memory type: GDDR5.

CPU used in Xbox One

• Developer: AMD.
• Architecture: AMD x86-64.
• Frequency: supposedly 1600 MHz.
• Number of actuators: 8 cores.
• Memory size and type: 8 GB GDDR3.
• Peak performance: 1.23 TFL0PS.
• Production technology: 28 nm.

Video processor used in PlayStation 4

• Developer: AMD.
• Name: unknown.
• Frequency: unknown.
• Production technology: 28 nm.
• Computing cores: supposedly 768.
• Memory type: GDDR5.
• Memory bandwidth: 176 GB/s.

Video processor used in XBOX One

• Developer: AMD.
• Name: unknown.
• Frequency: unknown.
• Production technology: 28 nm.
• Computing cores: 768.
• Memory type: DDR3.
• Memory bandwidth: 68.3 GB/s.

Comparison table of technical characteristics of PS4 and XBOX One

	Sony PlayStation 4	Microsoft XBOX One
Processor (CPU)	AMD Jaguar. 8 cores 1.6 GHz	AMD Jaguar. 8 cores 1.75 GHz
RAM
Video Processor (GPU)		AMD. 768 core (GCN architecture)
Hard disk drive (HDD)
Optical drive
Peripheral ports	USB 3.0. HDMI, audio 7.1	USB 3.0, HDMI. audio 7.1
Cameras	PlayStation Eye. 1280p
Network devices	Ethernet 10/100/1000, 802.11b/g/n. Bluetooth 2.1/1Gbit Ethernet. WiFi 802.11n	Ethernet 10/100/1000, 802.11b/g/n, Bluetooth 2.1 / 1Gbit Ethernet. WiFi 802.11n
Input Devices	DualShock 4. PlayStation Move	XBOX One Controller. Kinect 2.0
operating system

Comparison of functionality between PS4 and XBOX One

PlayStation 4. Sony PlayStation 4 is no longer a secret object: it is known that the console is equipped with powerful hardware (see comparison table above) and scores additional points due to the possibility of free use of classic games and a full offline mode. The PS4 has a modern, angular design. Classic game discs can be exchanged, gifted or sold without restrictions, at least. for single player mode ( single player). PS4 will be able to work offline without restrictions and will not have regional restrictions. All these innovations became a clear challenge to the main competitor - Microsoft, which intended to bind the user with strict restrictions.
Sony representatives say they want to make PS4 the ideal platform for further development and give game makers a variety of tools. A special role is given to integration with social networks. The DualSliock 4 controller comes with a Share button that makes it easy for gamers to upload their gaming episodes and favorite videos to Facebook, YouTube or Sony's video portal. The user interface will also provide access to numerous social functions - from downloads and chats to home-made screenshot galleries.
As for the games announced for the future PS4, there are many multiplatform ones among them, but work is also underway on exclusive products. The imminent release of many of them has already been confirmed, information about others has not yet been clarified. We are talking, in particular, about the new Uncharted, LittleBigPlanet 3, Motorstorm 3. Multiplatform games, the release of which has already been announced, include, for example. Watch Dogs, Metro Last Light, Destiny and Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag.

XBOX One. Microsoft wants even more, and if the Xbox 360 primarily satisfies the needs of passionate gamers. then the Xbox One should become the central element of the living room, connected to all kinds of communication networks. The concept is based on the Xbox live online service and the Kinect motion sensor. Along with series and other TV content, Xbox Live will soon offer sports broadcasts, such as NFL (American football) competitions, at least in the United States. A Blu-ray drive and its own video service (Video on Demand Service) will allow you to watch high-definition movies at any time. The Kinect motion sensor will allow you to get rid of the remote control. Its improved version offers the use of voice commands and gestures to navigate menus, launch games, movies or applications. If voice and movements are not enough, special software for tablets and smartphones will come to the rescue.

Initially, it was stated that when playing offline, the Xbox One must be checked on the Microsoft server every 24 hours. In addition, games purchased for first use were planned to be strictly linked to an Xbox Live account. Fortunately, Microsoft got rid of these restrictions - the company changed its policy and abolished the requirement for a constant connection to the Internet, regional blocking and linking games to an account.

When Microsoft announced that a Kinect sensor would be required to run the Xbox One, it also came under fire. Information has been revealed that Kinect can act as a tool for spying on users. However, a little later the company clarified the matter by clarifying the scope of the sensor’s functions. Kinect, they claim, is integral part Xbox One and can be turned on using the "Xbox on" voice command. When turned off, the Kinect should only respond to these two words. While the console is not active, all other conversations are completely ignored. It is also noteworthy that the Xbox One will not be sold without Kinect.

The release of PlayStation 4 consoles from Sony and Xbox One from Microsoft is getting closer and I don’t want to postpone the choice of a future next-gen console. According to its characteristics, it looks like a game console, while the Xbox One console looks more like a multimedia center. Let's try to understand the difference in performance between both consoles and how to compensate for them in the future.

Comparison of XBOX One and PS4: photos

Differences between consoles: PS4 vs XBOX One

From the information in the first half of the article, it became clear that the performance of the PlayStation 4 in games will be higher than that of the Xbox One. It should be noted that after the announcement of the technical features of the new generation consoles, Sony and Microsoft decided to quickly change some of the characteristics of their consoles. Now we have to look at and compare all the key features that play a significant role in performance.

CPU

An interesting fact is that Microsoft, since the announcement technical characteristics its Xbox One overclocked the console's processor from 1.6 GHz to 1.75 GHz. Despite the fact that Sony has not yet officially announced what frequency the processor of its PS4 operates at, most believe that the clock frequency of the crystal is the same base 1.6 GHz. The difference of 150 MHz is indeed insignificant, and these 150 MHz will not affect the overall performance picture, but still.

Video card

Both consoles use AMD Radeon graphics chips. The Xbox One GPU clocks at 853 MHz, while the PlayStation 4 runs at 800 MHz. But more importantly, the PlayStation 4 graphics chip has 18 computing units, while the Xbox One GPU has only 12. In total, the Sony console's GPU uses 1,152 stream processors, as opposed to the 768 that Microsoft's console uses. If we consider the issue from the point of view of performance in games in which the main work is assigned to the graphics subsystem of the console, it turns out that it is almost one and a half times higher for the PlayStation 4 than for the Xbox One. It is worth noting that an important indicator here is the frequency of the graphics core, which in total gives about 40 percent of the advantage over the competitor.

RAM

New generation consoles are equipped with 8 GB of RAM. However, in the case of Xbox One, DDR3 memory is used. In the case of the PlayStation - GDDR5, which promises to increase the overall graphics processing speed. The stumbling block in this case is the additional 32 MB of ultra-fast ESRAM memory used in the Xbox One, which in theory should tip the scales in terms of actual bandwidth towards the console from Microsoft. But Sony's GDDR5 is faster.

Gaming performance

Nowhere performance differences between PS4 and XBOX One consoles are not as noticeable as the resolutions that consoles support, especially when considering the results in multi-platform games. A striking example is Call game of Duty: Ghosts. The game runs very smoothly on the XBOX One (60 fps) at 720p resolution. In turn, the version for PlayStation 4 is capable of running at 1080p (although it should be noted that some journalists who had the opportunity to get to PS4 and Call of Duty: Ghosts before everyone else noted some drops in frames). The same difference applies to Battlefield 4. The game from DICE will run at 720p on Xbox One, and 900p on PlayStation 4. The same 32 MB of ESRAM memory used in the Xbox One console cannot support 1080p resolution. Plus, ESRAM will add “hemorrhoids” during optimization.

New generation console capabilities

Currently, the Xbox One looks paler than its competitor. But the Xbox One has another ace up its sleeve that will allow it to compete with Sony's console - accessories. For example, the Kinect sensor, which allows you to switch between games, TV programs and the Skype messenger by voice control. True, the usefulness of this function, especially for those who do not know English language doubtful. The important thing is that these functions use 10 percent of the console's graphics subsystem, which will be taken away from game developers. Previously, most developers noted that, compared to the PlayStation 3, developing games for the Xbox 360 was much easier. Now Sony has created a game console with a simple architecture, and Microsoft has done the opposite. As we already know, games on the XBOX One are low resolution compared to the PS4, and the reason for the lower resolution is the previously vaunted eSRAM from the Xbox One.

Graphics in games on next-gen consoles

To “hush up” resolution problems, Microsoft is now “broadcasting” on all corners about the extensive multimedia capabilities of the Xbox One. Microsoft is forgetting about the main target audience of consoles - ordinary gamers. As you have now seen, there are indeed differences in the performance of both consoles. And time will tell us their importance. No one is betting on the XBOX One's merits as a multimedia center, but gamers who don't require this functionality may be disappointed. The two companies' sales will largely depend on pre-orders.

The PlayStation 4 was released in the US on November 15th. Europe (including Russia) and Australia received the console on November 29. The Xbox One will go on sale in these territories on November 22; in Russia you will have to wait for the console in 2014. Will you wait?

Glossary

• Texture- in fact, this is a picture that “wraps” around the “frame” of a three-dimensional model in the displayed game scene.
• ARM- a central processor architecture developed by ARM holding and licensed by third-party developers.
• DirectX- a library created by Microsoft together with video processor manufacturers to simplify and unify development computer games. Allows you to run games on video cards from different manufacturers and get almost identical display of graphic video.
• GCN- the latest architecture of AMD video cards.
• PhysX— a physics engine that processes collisions and interactions of both solid and soft bodies, as well as liquid and gas, in real time. Widely used in some games, for example in Mafia 2, Batman Arkham Asylum, etc., allowing you to achieve more realistic behavior of objects in the scene. After NVIDIA absorbed the development company Ageia, improved physics was available only to owners of the latest generation GeForce video cards.
• x86-64 is a central processor architecture developed by Intel and AMD. Until recently, it was represented mainly on the desktop PC market, and now on consoles.