Atari 7800 vs Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5)

The Atari 7800 was a popular console in the 1980s known for its retro gaming experience, while the Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5) is a modern powerhouse with cutting-edge technology and graphics capabilities.

General information

Atari 7800
Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5)
Introduction :
The Atari 7800 was released in 1986 as a successor to the Atari 5200. It was popular in North America and Europe, offering backward compatibility with Atari 2600 games. Despite its short lifespan, the console has gained a cult following among retro gaming enthusiasts and collectors. Known for its library of classic arcade ports and original titles, the Atari 7800 remains a beloved piece of gaming history.
Introduction :
The Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5) is the latest generation of Sony's highly popular gaming console series. Released in 2020, the PS5 has quickly become a must-have item for gamers worldwide. With its powerful hardware, lightning-fast load times, and stunning graphics, the PS5 offers an immersive gaming experience like never before. Its innovative DualSense controller and exclusive game titles make it a standout choice for both casual and hardcore gamers.
Advantages :
  • The Atari 7800 offers a wide variety of classic games.
  • It has backward compatibility with Atari 2600 games.
  • The console has durable hardware that can withstand years of use.
  • The controllers are comfortable and easy to use for long gaming sessions.
  • The 7800 has a strong community of collectors and enthusiasts.
Advantages :
  • Faster loading times for games and applications
  • Improved graphics and performance for next-gen games
  • Backwards compatibility with PS4 games
  • DualSense controller with innovative haptic feedback
  • 4K Blu-ray player for high-quality media playback
Disadvantages :
  • Limited game library compared to newer consoles.
  • Outdated graphics and sound capabilities.
  • Lack of third-party developer support.
  • Limited online connectivity features.
  • Fragile controllers prone to wear and tear.
Disadvantages :
  • Limited backwards compatibility with older PlayStation games.
  • Higher price point compared to previous PlayStation consoles.
  • Limited availability due to high demand and production constraints.
  • Large size and bulky design may not fit well in all entertainment setups.
  • Limited storage capacity for games and media compared to other consoles.
Year launched : 1986
The Atari 7800 was launched in 1986, offering gamers a new console experience with improved graphics and gameplay compared to its predecessors. It aimed to compete with other popular consoles of the time.
Year launched : 2020
The Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5) was launched in 2020, introducing cutting-edge technology and enhanced gaming experiences to players worldwide, marking a significant advancement in the gaming console industry.
Manufacturer : Atari
Atari was the manufacturer of the Atari 7800, a popular games console released in the mid-1980s. Known for its compatibility with older Atari games and improved graphics capabilities, it was a competitor to other consoles of its time.
Manufacturer : Sony
Sony is the manufacturer of the PlayStation 5 (PS5), the latest gaming console in the PlayStation series known for its cutting-edge technology and exclusive game titles.
🔴 Popularity : Low.
The Atari 7800 had limited success in the market, with lower sales compared to other consoles of its time. It struggled to compete with more popular consoles like the Nintendo Entertainment System and Sega Master System.
🟢 Popularity : High.
The Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5) is currently one of the most popular and sought-after gaming consoles on the market. It has sold millions of units and has a significant share of the gaming console market.
Form factor : Home console.
The Atari 7800 is a home console, designed to be used in a living room or gaming setup. It is not meant to be easily portable like handheld consoles.
Form factor : Home console.
The Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5) is designed as a home console, meant to be used in a stationary location for immersive gaming experiences on a TV or monitor.
Official website : https://www.atari.com/


Market and availability

Atari 7800
Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5)
Console markets :
The Atari 7800 was primarily available in North America, with limited availability in Europe and Australia. It was not as widely distributed as other consoles of its time.
Console markets :
The Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5) is available in various markets worldwide, including North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia. It has been released in multiple countries and regions to meet global demand.
🟢 Collectible : Yes.
The Atari 7800 is considered retro and collectible due to its nostalgic appeal among gaming enthusiasts. Its limited availability and unique library of games contribute to its value in the collector's market.
⚪ Collectible : Unknown.
The Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5) is still a current generation console, so its status as retro or collectible is uncertain. However, with its popularity and limited availability, it could potentially become collectible in the future.
🟡 Console availability : Average.
The Atari 7800 is moderately available on the secondhand market, with some units in good condition but others showing signs of wear. Collectors may find it more challenging to locate specific models or accessories.
🟡 Console availability : Average.
The Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5) is currently available in limited quantities at retail stores, with occasional restocks. Secondhand market prices are high due to high demand and low supply.
🟢 Console cost : Low.
The Atari 7800 is considered a low-cost option for retro gaming enthusiasts, as it is widely available in the second-hand market at affordable prices. However, prices may vary depending on the condition and included accessories.
🔴 Console cost : High.
The relative cost of the Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5) is considered high due to its high demand, limited availability, and premium features. It may be more expensive compared to older console models.
🟡 Game availability : Average.
Games for the Atari 7800 are somewhat available through online marketplaces and retro gaming stores. While not as common as newer consoles, there is a decent selection of titles to choose from.
🟢 Game availability : Good.
Games for the Sony PlayStation 5 are readily available, with a wide selection of new releases and popular titles. Additionally, many older PS4 games are compatible with the PS5, expanding the library even further.
🟡 Game costs : Average.
Atari 7800 games can vary in price depending on rarity and condition. While some titles may be more expensive due to their collectibility, many games can be found at reasonable prices on the second-hand market.
🟡 Game costs : Average.
The relative cost of games for the Sony PlayStation 5 is average compared to other gaming consoles. While some titles may be more expensive due to high demand, there are also affordable options available.


Technology

Atari 7800
Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5)
Architecture : 8-bit.
The Atari 7800 uses an 8-bit architecture, which was common for gaming consoles in the 1980s. This architecture allowed for simple graphics and sound capabilities compared to later consoles.
Architecture : 64-bit.
The Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5) uses a 64-bit architecture, providing powerful performance for gaming and multimedia experiences. This advanced architecture allows for high-quality graphics, fast loading times, and seamless gameplay.
CPU : MOS Technology 6502C
The Atari 7800 uses the MOS Technology 6502C CPU, a popular 8-bit processor known for its use in various gaming consoles and computers during the 1980s. It has a single core and moderate performance capabilities.
CPU : AMD Ryzen Zen 2
The Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5) uses an AMD Ryzen Zen 2 CPU, featuring 8 cores and 16 threads. This powerful CPU provides high performance for gaming and multitasking on the console.
Memory : 4 KB RAM, 48 KB ROM
The Atari 7800 has 4 KB of RAM and 48 KB of ROM, allowing for storage of game data and system software. While modest by today's standards, it was sufficient for many classic games.
Memory : 825 Gb
The Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5) comes with 825 Gb of memory, providing ample storage space for games, apps, and media content, ensuring a smooth gaming experience without the need for frequent storage management.
Video output : RF and composite
The Atari 7800 has RF and composite video output connections, which may require adapters to connect to modern TVs that typically use HDMI or component inputs.
Video output : HDMI
The Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5) is equipped with HDMI output connections, which are commonly used to connect to modern TVs and monitors for high-quality video and audio transmission.
🟢 Graphics Processing : Yes.
The Atari 7800 is equipped with a dedicated GPU, which helps enhance graphics performance and overall gaming experience compared to consoles without a dedicated GPU.
🟢 Graphics Processing : Yes.
The Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5) is equipped with a dedicated GPU, the AMD RDNA 2-based custom GPU, offering advanced graphics performance and ray tracing capabilities for an immersive gaming experience.
⚪ Internet connected : Unknown.
The Atari 7800 is an older console and does not have built-in internet connectivity. It lacks features like Ethernet or Wi-Fi for online capabilities, making its internet connection status unknown.
🟢 Internet connected : Yes.
The Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5) is internet connected, featuring both Ethernet and Wi-Fi capabilities for online gaming, streaming, and downloading games and updates.
Game media format : Cartridge.
The primary game format for the Atari 7800 is cartridge-based. Games are inserted into the console via cartridges, allowing for quick and easy gameplay without the need for loading times.
Game media format : Download.
The primary game format for the Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5) is digital downloads. Players can purchase and download games directly from the PlayStation Store onto the console's internal storage.


Gaming

Atari 7800
Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5)
Controllers : 2 controllers / 2 players
The Atari 7800 supports 2 controllers for 2 players, allowing for multiplayer gaming experiences on the console. Players can enjoy competitive or cooperative gameplay together.
Controllers : 4
The Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5) supports up to 4 controllers for multiplayer gaming, allowing for a more immersive and competitive gaming experience with friends and family on a single console.
⚪ Online multiplayer : Unknown.
The Atari 7800 does not have built-in online multiplayer capabilities. However, there may be third-party options or modifications available to enable online multiplayer, but this is not a standard feature of the console.
🟢 Online multiplayer : Yes.
The Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5) allows players to enjoy multiplayer online gaming with friends and other players around the world, offering a dynamic and engaging gaming experience.
🟡 Number of titles : Average.
Game titles for the Atari 7800 were released in an average manner, with a decent selection available. Some titles may be harder to find due to the console's age, but overall, there is a reasonable variety for collectors.
🟢 Number of titles : Good.
Game titles for the Sony PlayStation 5 have been released consistently with a good variety of exclusive and third-party titles available. The console's popularity ensures a strong market for new and used games.
🟢 Featured games : Yes.
The Atari 7800 has notable exclusive games such as 'Donkey Kong Junior', 'Ms. Pac-Man', and 'Joust'. These games helped define the console's library and are still fondly remembered by fans.
🟢 Featured games : Yes.
The Sony PlayStation 5 has exclusive games such as Demon's Souls, Spider-Man: Miles Morales, and Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart, which are highly acclaimed and showcase the console's capabilities.


Ultimately, if you’re a fan of classic gaming and nostalgic experiences, the Atari 7800 may be the right choice for you. However, if you’re looking for the latest in gaming technology and a wide range of modern games, the Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5) is the clear winner for an immersive and high-quality gaming experience.