Teardown of New PlayStation 5 Pro Model Reveals Improved Power Efficiency and Minor Hardware Updates

Introducing the PlayStation 5 Pro CFI-7121 Model: Key Upgrades and Insights

The newly released PlayStation 5 Pro CFI-7121 model is now available throughout Europe, showcasing notable enhancements over its predecessor. A recent teardown conducted by tech expert Austin Evans has provided an in-depth look at these upgrades.

Enhanced Power Efficiency

One of the standout features of the CFI-7121 model is its improved power efficiency compared to the original PlayStation 5 Pro. During testing with demanding titles like Astro’s Playroom and Gran Turismo 7, this new model displayed a power efficiency increase of approximately 2 to 3%.This efficiency is particularly evident when running intensive scenarios, such as full ray tracing in Gran Turismo 7. As a consequence of this advancement, the CFI-7121 also operates cooler than its 2024 counterpart.

Quieter Performance

Another significant improvement is the CFI-7121’s acoustics. The new unit is reported to be 20% quieter than the initial launch model, translating to a reduction of about 2 decibels. This quieter operation is aided by a revamped fan design that produces a lower-pitched sound profile, enhancing the overall gaming experience.

Minor Hardware Adjustments

Although the main enhancements are clear, the differences between the CFI-7121 and the earlier PS5 Pro models are relatively minor. Updates include a fan sourced from a different manufacturer, a shift from a metal to a plastic fan grid, a lighter rear heat sink, the removal of certain VMM components from the motherboard, and potentially more efficient power supply. These alterations contribute to an overall weight reduction, with the CFI-7121 clocking in at 3016 grams compared to the 3103 grams of its predecessor.

DualSense Controller Revisions

In addition to the console itself, the new revision of the DualSense controller has seen few changes. Aside from minor internal modifications and a shift in component manufacturing, the major alteration involves the elimination of the back microphone. This change, intended to control production costs, does not significantly affect the controller’s performance or functionality, which is likely a welcome adjustment given recent price increases for gaming consoles, including both the PlayStation 5 and the Xbox Series X|S.

Watch the Teardown

For a comprehensive overview of these hardware changes, including detailed visual examinations of the fan and heatsink modifications, check out Austin Evans’ full teardown video linked below:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kk3oxSQ_UwM

The New PS5 Pro is…Better? (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kk3oxSQ_UwM)

Final Thoughts

While the expected power efficiency enhancement of around 3% has been confirmed, the limited revisions to the DualSense V3 controller may not meet some gamers’ expectations. Nevertheless, retaining its functionality and managing to keep costs down is advantageous amid rising prices in the gaming market.

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