PlayStation 5 is a far more capable gaming machine than PS4, even with the Pro version. With more than 10 TFLOPs, PS 5 more than doubled in raw performance from its predecessor. But there is one facet where the older console still has an edge.
PlayStation 5 doesn’t have a web browser, well, not official and easily reachable. So, when the latest Sony gaming system is still low in stock, and you can play all the games coming out, maybe it’s not wrong to get discounted PS 4 Pro, especially if you want to browse the Internet on your gaming system.
How to use the PS4 browser
When you power on the console, wait for it to load, and on the home screen, navigate to the content area. Among the big icons for games, apps and services, scroll until you find the browser icon. You will recognize it by a www sign. You can open the browser by clicking the X button on the controller.
If you can’t find the WWW button in the main panel, you can find the application in the Library under the Apps tab.
The navigation through the gaming controller isn’t the most intuitive thing. For example, the R2 button opens a new browser window. If you want to return to the previous window, click on the L2 button—square button changes between full-screen and window mode.
If you want to enter the web address, press R2 for a new window, and then navigate to the address bar with sign Enter URL. Click the X button and write the address on-screen keyboard, and then press R2. It’s much easier if you have a wireless keyboard and mouse.
You can activate Google Search with the triangle button. The cursor will appear in the search box, and once again, you can write with the on-screen keyboard.
Pros and cons of PS4 browser
While it lacks some modern browser features, the PS4 browser performs better in JavaScript pages. The browser also supports HTML 5 pages so that you can find many new games on the Internet. For example, there are various online gaming sites for casual fun, or you can go to an online casino in Canada for igaming titles and take a break from God of War boss you can’t defeat.
Aside from excellent JavaScript performance, with the PS4 browser, you can browse through pages on your big screen TV. Moreover, the system switches between games and the Internet seamlessly, which can come in handy if you need help or a walkthrough for the latest title.
The PS4 browser, however, does not support Flash and can sometimes feel slow compared to Chrome browser on smartphone or computer. The most significant issues are the tiresome use of an on-screen keyboard and navigation with the PS4 controller.
If you needed one more argument to buy a cheaper PS4 console, a functional web browser is viable. However, for those who don’t use Playstation for web browsing, PS 5 is still a much better choice. Although costlier, it’s future-proof and can give you 4K HDR performance.
This content is a joint venture between our publication and our partner. We do not endorse any product or service in the article.
