PS4 or Xbox One: the comparison

In November 2013, the basic discussion about the two popular console types starts again: PlayStation 4 or Xbox One? We introduce you to the two consoles and show you their strengths and weaknesses.

PS4: Key data of the Sony console

• Design: The PS4 looks very simple and noble. The console is comparatively narrow and can be set up both vertically and horizontally.
• Graphics: For the first time, the PS4 offers 4K quality for video and images. The graphics are much better compared to the PS3. Not only the textures are higher resolution: a greater detail density is now also possible. This is already being used in some games. However, not every launch title has the so-called "next-gen graphics". PC gamers will only smile at the graphics anyway. However, it has improved a lot compared to its predecessor.
• Performance: The console has an AMD APU, a combination of CPU and GPU, with eight cores and integrated graphics. 8 GB of GDDR5 RAM and a 500 GB hard drive are also installed. WLAN and Bluetooth are also integrated.
• Noise: The Playstation 4 is a comparatively very quiet console. The drive is barely audible. The fan can only be heard quietly when you get very close to the device. Compared to the Xbox, the fan is much quieter.
• Connections: The BluRay drive and two USB 3.0 ports are located on the front. On the back you will find a power connector, an HDMI input, Gigabit LAN, an AUX connector for the new PS camera and an optical audio output.
• Compatibility: Unfortunately the PS4 is not backwards compatible. You can therefore not play games for the PS3 on the PS4.
• PlayStation Eye camera: What Xbox 360 users already know as Kinect is now also included in a similar form with the PS4. This not only allows you to physically interact in some games, but also to operate the console using voice and gesture controls. However, the feature is not yet available, which is why we cannot make any specific statements.

Xbox One - The Microsoft console can

• Design: The Xbox One is a relatively large console that looks slightly bulky compared to the competition. Nevertheless, it is elegant and simple, but is repeatedly traversed by ventilation slots for the hardware in some places. In addition, the power supply is unfortunately not installed inside the console, so it is not enough with a simple, slim cable. Microsoft also advises against placing the console vertically.
• Graphics: Almost the same graphics is installed in the Xbox One and the PS4. The difference is therefore only marginal and does not affect the gaming and graphics experience.
• Performance: Similar to the PS4, the console has an AMD APU, a combination of CPU and GPU, with eight cores and integrated graphics. 8 GB of DDR3 RAM and a 500 GB hard drive are installed. WLAN and Bluetooth are also integrated here.
• Noise: The Xbox One is a comparatively loud console. The noise level is not disturbing. However, you can hear the fan up close, especially under full load.
• Connections: The console has a power connector on the back, an HDMI output for the TV and an HDMI input for connecting a set-top box, a PC or an Xbox 360. You will also find two USB ports there 3.0 ports, an Ethernet port, an S / PDIF-Out connection and a connection for the Kinect sensor. In addition, there is another USB 3.0 port on the left side.
• Compatibility: Unfortunately, Xbox One is not backwards compatible. You cannot play games for Xbox 360 on Xbox One. However, you can stream the Xbox 360 image via Xbox One using the HDMI input mentioned above.
• Kinect: With the new Kinect module, you can only move through the Xbox One user interface without a controller using voice or gesture controls. Simple German voice commands such as "Xbox, go to the start page" or "Xbox, start game XY" make operation even easier. Of course, Kinect continues to be used for interaction in numerous games.

Dualshock controller of the Playstation 4

Opinions differ, especially when it comes to controllers. Sony has changed a lot on the DualShock 4:

• Handling: The Dualshock 4 lies well in the hand and has not changed optically too much. As with the predecessor, all edges are rounded so that nothing disturbs when playing.
• Functions: In addition, there is now a share button, a small touchpad and the integrated PS-Move module. You can use the Share button to share certain content, such as recorded game scenes, on the PS Network. Using the touchpad, you can not only navigate in the menu, but also interact in games.

Xbox One Controller with "Force Feedback"

• Handling: Even with the Xbox One controller, the appearance has hardly changed. The two analog sticks are still offset in height.
• Functions: The two "force feedback motors" in the analog sticks are completely new. They ensure that certain circumstances in the game are transferred to you directly. So you can feel the jerking of the car, for example, when you heat up 200 things in the racing game.
• Read more about the new Microsoft controller here.

Conclusion: Playstation 4 or Xbox One?

• Playstation 4: The PS4 focuses much more on gaming. In addition, the console currently costs only 400 euros and is therefore 100 euros cheaper than the Xbox One. The console itself looks slimmer and more elegant. The controller also has several interesting additional functions.
• Xbox One: On the other hand, the Xbox One sees itself not only as a gaming console, but also as a home theater system. The price of 500 euros is set a little higher than that of the PS 4. However, Kinect offers significantly more functions than its counterpart from Sony.
• Conclusion: If you already have an Xbox One or PS4, you will probably not run into the competition. If you don't have a console, you should go for the cheaper PS4 when it comes to gaming. Xbox One shows your strengths in entertainment and home theater.

Fans of classics like the Mario and Zelda games could also be tempted by the Nintendo Wii U. A detailed test report on the third console in the league can be found in this article.