Sony PlayStation PS4 1TB Review: Reliable but No 4K
The PlayStation 4’s decade-long run is still impressing buyers today — the Sony PlayStation PS4 1TB Console consistently earns ratings above 4.8/5, with reports calling it “super reliable” and “perfect for casual or hardcore gamers.” Based on aggregated feedback across platforms, it scores an 8.9/10 for overall value, balancing strong performance and game library breadth against its lack of native 4K support.
Quick Verdict: Conditional buy — ideal for players prioritizing exclusive titles and proven durability, but less suited if 4K gaming is a must-have.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Large 1TB storage, reduces need for external drives | No native 4K support (Pro model required) |
| Extensive library of acclaimed exclusives | Paid subscription required for online play |
| Slim, quiet design fits most setups | Occasional heat build-up under load |
| Reliable Wi-Fi connectivity | Fan noise noticeable in long sessions |
| DualShock 4’s comfortable ergonomics | Controller durability issues reported |
| Highly rated for performance across platforms | 1TB can fill quickly with modern game sizes |
Claims vs Reality
Sony’s marketing touts “incredible games, non-stop entertainment” along with “vibrant HDR technology.” On function, this aligns with reports from buyers who value exclusives like God of War, Horizon Zero Dawn, and Persona 5. Reddit user u/Anonymous enthused: “It’s nice to relax in my recliner and play awesome exclusives like Horizon and Persona 5,” highlighting the console’s appeal for those shifting from PC setups to a more casual living-room environment.
However, while HDR is part of the package, multiple Best Buy users noted that the PS4 Slim’s absence of native 4K output makes it less future-proof. One described it as “awesome at HDMI 1080p with HDR,” but still waiting for PS4 Pro or PS5 to make the jump to UHD. This gap is meaningful for players with premium displays — the HDR enhances visuals but isn’t a match for full 4K resolution offered elsewhere.
The console’s “up to 1TB storage” claim is accurate, but some caution that modern titles regularly breach 80GB. A verified customer explained, “I’m glad I waited and not bought the 500GB model since some games can take 50–80GB,” underscoring how 1TB is more comfortable yet still finite without game pruning or external storage.
Cross-Platform Consensus
Universally Praised
Strong performance is the PS4’s most consistent win. Best Buy reviewers repeatedly note that it “runs smoothly and quietly,” with “beautiful graphics” that hold up even after years in service. For families, the PS4’s role as a multimedia hub is a major plus, with Blu-ray support and integrated streaming apps. One Trustpilot reviewer shared: “We have been wanting to get a PS4 for the Blu-ray player for our living room… it works out lovely.”
Casual players benefit from its intuitive setup. A Zavvi UK buyer praised it as “excellent games console and easy to install and use,” while PSVR owners enjoy responsive performance: “Beat Saber and others are quick and responsive! And fun!” High reliability is echoed across Reddit, where long-term owners say it “stood the time for the past 10 years” with minimal trouble.
Common Complaints
Heat and fan noise appear in multiple Best Buy and Quora-linked reports, usually after extended gaming sessions or in warmer climates. One owner replaced a PS4 Pro with the Slim explicitly for better Wi-Fi reliability, saying, “It doesn’t disconnect me off the Wi-Fi… works great.” While this suggests hardware variation, it also points to occasional overheating affecting connectivity.
Lack of 4K output frustrates display enthusiasts, and the paid PlayStation Plus requirement limits appeal for those who primarily play online. Storage, though generous, still fills quickly; heavy library builders often turn to external drives.
Controller concerns include sticky buttons and durability issues with newer DualShock 4 models. One buyer liked the lit touchpad but admitted “it isn’t as durable” as previous iterations.
Divisive Features
The PS4 Slim’s compact, cooler-running design splits opinion. Some praise it as “light weight… doesn’t take much space,” while a few feel functionality regressed from older models due to features like automatic TV-on via HDMI being absent. Color-specific editions — Gold, Days of Play Blue — inspire delight among collectors, but utilitarian buyers downplay their importance compared to the standard Jet Black model.
Trust & Reliability
Long-running reliability tales bolster trust. Several Reddit posts document half-decade ownership without major failures, and older Zavvi UK buyers mention smooth transitions from PS3: “I finally decided to make the move… really happy with my purchase.” Retail handling occasionally falls short, with one Best Buy buyer noting a corner-dented box on arrival, though the console itself remained intact.
Expired game codes occasionally surface in bundle purchases, frustrating buyers who expected playable inclusions. Still, hardware consistency is high, with most Trustpilot reviews confirming “works perfectly” and “worth buying.”
Alternatives
Within Sony’s lineup, the PS4 Pro offers full 4K gaming with HDR — appealing for UHD display owners. However, buyers like Reddit’s contributors note that if “4K isn’t a priority, Slim’s compact design and quietness win.” For new-gen seekers, the PS5 looms as an upgrade path, often cited in community threads as worth waiting for if budget allows, due to backward compatibility for PS4 games.
Price & Value
Recent market listings place used PS4 Slim 1TB units between NZD 180–400, AU$199–439, and C$176–420 depending on condition and bundles. Limited editions fetch premiums well above base model value, especially with extra controllers or games. Reddit users point to promotional prices — such as $250 for the Gold 1TB — as “steal” moments. Resale value remains strong, aided by demand from those unable or unwilling to source a PS5.
Buying tips center on verifying bundled game code validity, considering PlayStation Plus add-on costs, and checking for storage expansion needs before committing.
FAQ
Q: Can the PS4 Slim output 4K video?
A: No, the Slim supports up to 1080p with HDR. Only the PS4 Pro model offers native 4K gaming.
Q: Does the 1TB drive eliminate the need for external storage?
A: For light to moderate gaming libraries, yes. Heavy users with large AAA collections may still need an external drive.
Q: How loud is the fan under load?
A: Most report quiet operation, but in long sessions or hot rooms it can become audible.
Q: Can I play PS3 discs on the PS4 Slim?
A: No, but you can access some PS3 titles via PlayStation Now’s streaming service.
Q: Is PlayStation Plus required for all online gameplay?
A: Yes, for most multiplayer titles. Single-player and streaming apps remain accessible without it.
Final Verdict: Buy if you want a stable, high-performance console with a world-class exclusive library and don’t mind the absence of native 4K. Avoid if you’re investing in a UHD setup and demand future-proof resolution. Pro tip from community: wait for promotional pricing or limited editions to maximize value, and budget for PlayStation Plus if online gaming is part of your plan.
