PS4 in 2024, Still Worth to Buy?
The longevity of the PS4, now spanning over a decade, raises questions about its relevance and performance in 2024. Is it still a viable gaming console after all these years? Let's delve into a detailed review of a renewed PS4 Slim acquired from Amazon, exploring its hardware, gaming experience, and overall value proposition.
Starting with the purchase process, acquiring a renewed PS4 Slim for $220 on Amazon seems a bit steep, considering alternative sources like eBay or local platforms such as Craigslist often offer better deals. Despite the price, the console's sales performance remains robust, indicating ongoing demand and user interest.
Upon unboxing, the console's packaging is decent, including essentials like a controller, USB to micro USB cable, AC power cord, and HDMI cable. However, the condition of the controller may vary, and some signs of wear and tear, like dirty ports and scratches on glossy surfaces, were noticeable. A thorough cleaning process, including fan cleaning using tools like the Fantic E1 Max electric screwdriver, ensured optimal performance and longevity.
Moving on to the gaming experience, the PS4 Slim demonstrated solid performance and connectivity, with Wi-Fi speeds exceeding 100 Mbps. Despite being a legacy console, the PS4 boasts a vast game library with both new releases and classic titles, catering to a diverse range of gaming preferences. The availability of over 800 GB of storage alleviates concerns about space for game installations, although purchasing used game discs or subscribing to PlayStation Plus can offer cost-effective alternatives.
Performance-wise, various games were put to the test, showcasing the console's capabilities across different genres. Titles like Fortnite and Apex Legends maintained stable frame rates, while newer games like HOG provided decent performance, albeit with occasional frame drops during intense scenes. Notably, games like Call of Duty Warzone exhibited impressive performance, with playable frame rates and acceptable image quality, highlighting the PS4's adaptability to demanding titles.
Aside from gaming, the PS4 doubles as a media center, offering access to popular streaming apps and entertainment options, enhancing its value as a multifunctional device. Additionally, considerations for 4K gaming lead to discussions about the PS4 Pro, which offers enhanced graphics capabilities and 4K resolution support, albeit at a slightly higher price point.
The PS4, particularly the Slim variant, remains a viable choice for gaming enthusiasts seeking an affordable and versatile gaming experience. Despite its age, the console's extensive game library, solid performance, and multimedia capabilities make it a worthy investment for both casual and dedicated gamers alike.