Sony has always been at the forefront of its PlayStation series of consoles since the first device was released.
With the first release of the PS3, PS4, and then the latest console, the PlayStation 5, Sony revolutionized the gaming world.
The transition from the PS3 console to the PS4 was a turning point in the history of modern games, gamers witnessed a significant jump in graphics fidelity and powerful performance.
Let’s dive into the amazing journey of these two iconic consoles and explore the differences that make the PS4 and PS3 one of the best consoles to come out so far.
Consoles have come a long way since the days of pixelated graphics and simple controls.
The gaming industry has evolved from the likes of Atari to the PlayStation series, where innovation and evolution have been the driving force behind each new release, and Sony’s PlayStation range has been a cornerstone of this evolution.
Start comparison between PS4 and PS3 console
PS3 console
After its first release console, the PS3 console has seen different types of PS3 releases from the same family, (PS3 original,PS3 slim model, and the PS3 super slim model.
The differences in the PS3 model come in some details such as the shape of the device, changing some Interior pieces, and fixing the errors found in previous versions.
Production Date | Release Date | Device Design | Device Weight | Device Dimensions | PS3’s storage sizes |
Original PS3 fat (20GB and 60GB) | November 2006 | Fat model with gloss finish | 5.5 – 11 pounds (2.5 – 5 kg) | 325 × 98 × 274 mm | 20GB,40GB,60GB, 80GB,160GB,250GB |
PS3 Slim | September 2009 | Slimmer design with matte finish | 7.1 pounds (3.22 kg) | 290 × 65 × 290 mm | 120 GB,160 GB, 250 GB,320 GB |
PS3 Super Slim | September 2012 | Super slim design with sliding disc cover | 4.63 pounds (2.1 kg) | 290 × 60 × 230 mm | 12 GB (flash memory),250 GB,500 GB |
Each PS3 model features a dedicated cellular processor and powerful NVIDIA RSX GPU, enabling it to handle complex calculations and high-quality graphics.
Graphics and performance
One of the standout features of the PS3 was its ability to offer stunning graphics, which gave developers ample opportunity to show all their creativity in game design.
PS3 has supported high resolutions of up to 1080p, allowing gamers to immerse themselves in visually pleasing game worlds.
The console’s powerful processing capabilities resulted in smooth gameplay, with smoother frame rates and detailed environments.
Exclusive gaming experience and titles
PS3 boasted an impressive library of exclusive game titles that were well received by gamers and critics alike.
Games like “Uncharted,” “The Last of Us,” and “God of War III” set new standards for storytelling and gameplay mechanics.
The Dual Shock 3 controller, with its motion sensing capabilities, has enhanced me to deliver a powerful gaming experience even better.
Online gaming and multimedia capabilities
The PS3 introduced the PlayStation Network (PSN), a powerful online gaming platform that allows players to connect, compete, and collaborate in online multiplayer games.
In addition, the console has multimedia capabilities, allowing users to play streaming videos, surf the Internet, and access digital content.
PlayStation 4 (PS4)
Sony engineered the PS4 to deliver the next-level gaming experience, elevating console gaming to unprecedented heights.
Sony has introduced several types of PS4, which are PlayStation 4 (Original Model), PlayStation 4 Slim, PlayStation 4 Pro.
Device Design | Production Date | Device Weight | Device Dimensions | Storage Size |
PlayStation 4 original | November 2013 | 6.1–7.1 pounds | 275 × 53 × 305 mm | 500 GB, 1 TB |
PlayStation 4 Slim | September 2016 | 4.6–4.8 pounds | 265 × 39 × 288 mm | 500 GB, 1 TB |
PlayStation 4 Pro | November 2016 | 7.2 pounds | 327 × 55 × 295 mm | 1 TB, 2 TB |
Graphics and performance
PS4 makes a significant graphical leap over its predecessor PS3, equipping a powerful AMD Jaguar CPU and next-generation AMD Radeon GPU.
The PS4 console delivered stunning 1080p visuals and even 4K resolution on the PS4 Pro console.
The increased processing power translated into smoother gameplay, more detailed textures, and lifelike animations.
Exclusive gaming and titles experience
The PS4 game library provided a treasure trove of exclusive titles that showcased the capabilities of the PS4 console to the fullest.
Games like “Horizon Zero Dawn,” “Marvel’s Spider-Man,” and “The Last of Us Part II” not only showcased stunning graphics, but also set new standards for storytelling and fun gameplay.
Online play and multimedia capabilities
With PS4, Sony has taken online gaming to the next level with PlayStation Plus.
This subscription service provided access to online multiplayer game deals and free monthly game offers.
The PS4 interface has also been streamlined, making it easier for users to access entertainment apps and other multimedia features.
Quick Comparison Between PS3 and PS4
PlayStation 3 | PlayStation 4 | |
Type | 7th generation console | Video game console |
Product Family | PlayStation | PlayStation |
Predecessor | PlayStation 2 | PlayStation 3 |
Price | Launch: $500 – 20 GB; $600 – 60 GB Current: $275 – 20 GB; $330 – 60 GB | $399 (US); £349 (UK); $549 (AU); €399 (EU) |
Units sold worldwide | ~87.40 million units | 116 million (as of September 2021) |
CPU | Cell Processor @ 3.23 GHz (8 Cores) | Single-chip x86 AMD “Jaguar” processor, 8 cores, clock speed 1.6GHz, A secondary Custom ARM CPU and RAM for background processing such as downloading and recording gameplay. |
Graphics | Nvidia RSX graphics processor, with 25g MB XDR main memory and 256 GDDR3 video memory. | AMD Next Gen, Radeon HD 7xxx series equivalent |
Memory (RAM) | 256 MB | 8 GB GDDR5 – 176 GB/s Bandwidth |
Media | DVD, CD, Blu-ray, downloads | Blu-ray, DVD, digital downloads |
Controllers | Supports 7 wireless and/ or wired controllers without removable batteries | Up to 4 controllers (update expected) |
Media | DVD, CD, Blu-ray, downloads | Blu-ray, DVD, digital downloads |
Connectivity | 4 x USB 2.0, Ethernet, Built-in Wi-Fi | Super-Speed USBx (USB 3.0) port x2, AUX port x1 Networking: Ethernet x1, IEEE 802.11b/g/n (2.4 GHz only), HDMI out port, digital out optical port |
Online Services | PlayStation Network for multiplayer support, downloadable movies and game, online surfing, and meeting other players. | PlayStation Plus. $59.99 annually, $17.99 quarterly or $9.99 monthly. |
PS3 vs. PS4: A Detailed Comparison
Now that we’ve figured out the main features of both the ps3 and ps4 consoles, it’s time to do a comprehensive comparison between the PS3 and PS4.
Let’s agree before starting, ps4 is stronger than ps3 in all aspects, this is very self-evident, because the newest device will be the best because it is an upgrade to an older device.
PS3 vs. PS4: hardware and performance
The PS4 hardware was a major and necessary upgrade after the PS3.
It features a more powerful processor, more advanced graphics and more memory, resulting in smoother gameplay and reduced load times.
The PS4’s hardware improvements have allowed for more complex and detailed games to be handled, providing an overall better gaming experience.
PS3: Dedicated Cell processor and NVIDIA RSX GPU.
PS4: AMD Jaguar CPU and AMD Radeon GPU.
Graphics and presentation
The PS4’s graphics capabilities were undoubtedly superior to the PS3’s.
With support for higher resolutions and more detailed textures, PS4 delivered stunning visuals, bringing games to life in ways previously unimaginable.
PS3: Supports up to 1080p resolution.
PS4: Supported at up to 1080p and 4K resolution on PS4 Pro.
Console layout
Both consoles featured the popular DualShock controllers, but the PS4’s DualShock 4 came with major improvements.
It included a touchpad, light bar, and built-in speaker, adding new dimensions to gameplay and interaction.
PS3: Dual Shock 3 with motion sensing capabilities.
DualShock 4: All the features of the Dual Shock 3, plus a touchpad, light bar, and speaker.
Online Games
PS3 introduced the PlayStation Network (PSN), laying the foundation for the most powerful online PS4 gaming experience.
While the PS3 allowed online multiplayer, the PS4 expanded on this concept by introducing PlayStation Plus, which offered free monthly games and exclusive discounts.
PS3: PlayStation Network (PSN) for online gaming.
PS4: PlayStation Plus for improved online multiplayer and exclusive benefits.
Exclusive titles
Both consoles had a diverse library of exclusive titles, each contributing significantly to their respective generations.
However, the PS4 exclusive games have received widespread critical acclaim, cementing its position as the console of choice for many gamers.
PS3: Exclusive titles like “Uncharted,” “The Last of Us,” and “God of War III”.
PS4: Exclusive titles like “Horizon Zero Dawn,” “Marvel’s Spider-Man,” and “The Last of Us Part II”.
Multimedia Capabilities
Both devices offered multimedia capabilities, allowing users to stream videos, surf the Internet, and access digital content.
However, the PS4’s interface was much more user-friendly, making it easier to switch between games and other entertainment applications.
PS3: Multimedia capabilities and Internet browsing.
PS4: Improved interface for seamless switching between games and entertainment applications.
- Play PS3 games: Of course, the PS3 can still be used to play a huge library of PS3 games, so if you own physical discs or digital copies of the games, you can continue to enjoy them on the console.
- Media Center: The PS3 can act as a media center, allowing you to stream videos and access online services like Netflix, YouTube, and more, Plus, it can also play Blu-ray discs and DVDs, making it a decent home entertainment system.
- Legacy Gaming: For gamers who want to revisit or explore older titles, PS3 provides access to classic games not available on newer consoles.
- Budget-friendly gaming: If you’re on a tight budget and don’t want to invest in a newer console, the PS3 can be a cost-effective gaming option.
Conclusion
The transition from PS3 to PS4 marks a significant milestone in the evolution of game consoles.
The PS4’s improved hardware, improved graphics, and rich gaming experience have cemented its place as a gaming powerhouse among other console novelties such as the Xbox or gaming PCs.
While PS3 left an indelible mark with its exclusive titles and groundbreaking online games, PS4 brought gaming to new heights, captivating gamers with its stunning visuals and immersive gameplay.
In the ever-evolving world of gaming, Sony continues to push boundaries with each new PlayStation release, especially the latest PlayStation 5 console.
As technology advances and gaming experiences become more immersive, the legacy of these iconic consoles will continue to inspire future generations of gamers around the world.