Sony PlayStation 4 (PS4) vs Atari 7800

The Atari 7800 was a popular console in the 1980s known for its classic games and simple design. In contrast, the Sony PlayStation 4 (PS4) is a modern powerhouse with cutting-edge graphics and a vast library of games.

General information

Sony PlayStation 4 (PS4)
Atari 7800
Introduction :
The Sony PlayStation 4 (PS4) was released in 2013 and quickly became one of the best-selling gaming consoles of all time. With a vast library of exclusive titles, powerful hardware, and online capabilities, the PS4 has solidified its place as a staple in the gaming industry. It is highly popular in markets worldwide and continues to be a sought-after console for both casual and hardcore gamers.
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.
Advantages :
  • Powerful hardware for smooth gameplay
  • Extensive library of exclusive games
  • User-friendly interface and online services
  • Ability to stream and share gameplay
  • VR capabilities for immersive gaming experiences
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.
Disadvantages :
  • Limited backward compatibility with older PlayStation games.
  • Lack of exclusive titles compared to other consoles.
  • Higher price point compared to some competitors.
  • Limited customization options for hardware.
  • No support for external storage devices for game installations.
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  • Outdated graphics and sound capabilities.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.
Year launched : 2013
The Sony PlayStation 4 (PS4) was launched in 2013, marking the beginning of a new era in gaming with improved graphics, performance, and social features for players to enjoy.
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.
Manufacturer : Sony
Sony is the manufacturer of the PlayStation 4 (PS4), a popular gaming console known for its high-quality graphics and exclusive game titles. Sony has been a leading player in the gaming 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.
🟢 Popularity : High.
The Sony PlayStation 4 (PS4) is one of the best-selling consoles of all time, with over 110 million units sold worldwide. It has a strong market share and a large player base.
🔴 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.
Form factor : Home console.
The Sony PlayStation 4 (PS4) is designed as a home console, meant to be used in a fixed location such as a living room or entertainment center. It is not intended for portable use.
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.
Official website : https://www.atari.com/


Market and availability

Sony PlayStation 4 (PS4)
Atari 7800
Console markets :
The Sony PlayStation 4 (PS4) is available worldwide in various markets, including North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia. It is one of the best-selling consoles of all time with a wide global availability.
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.
⚪ Collectible : Unknown.
The Sony PlayStation 4 (PS4) is not yet widely considered retro or highly collectible. However, as time passes, its value may increase due to nostalgia and limited availability of certain editions.
🟢 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.
🟡 Console availability : Average.
The Sony PlayStation 4 (PS4) is readily available in both new and secondhand markets. While new units can be easily found in retail stores, secondhand consoles are also commonly available online.
🟡 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 cost : Average.
The relative cost of the Sony PlayStation 4 (PS4) is average. With the release of newer consoles, the price of the PS4 has decreased slightly, making it a good value for those looking for a reliable gaming system.
🟢 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.
🟢 Game availability : Good.
Games for the Sony PlayStation 4 are widely available, both in physical stores and online. There is a large library of games to choose from, including popular titles and indie games.
🟡 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 costs : Average.
The cost of games for the Sony PlayStation 4 (PS4) is considered average. While new games can be pricey, there is a wide selection available and the second-hand market offers more affordable options.
🟡 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.


Technology

Sony PlayStation 4 (PS4)
Atari 7800
Architecture : 64-bit.
The Sony PlayStation 4 (PS4) utilizes a 64-bit x86 architecture, providing powerful performance for gaming and multimedia experiences. This architecture allows for advanced graphics and processing capabilities.
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.
CPU : AMD Jaguar 8-core
The Sony PlayStation 4 (PS4) uses an AMD Jaguar 8-core CPU, providing solid performance for gaming and multimedia tasks. While not the latest technology, it still offers a good balance of power and efficiency.
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.
Memory : 500GB
The Sony PlayStation 4 (PS4) comes with a storage capacity of 500GB, allowing players to store a large number of games, apps, and media files 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.
Video output : HDMI
The Sony PlayStation 4 (PS4) has an HDMI output connection, which is the standard for connecting to modern TVs and provides high-quality audio and video signals.
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.
🟢 Graphics Processing : Yes.
The Sony PlayStation 4 (PS4) does have a dedicated GPU, which contributes to its impressive graphics performance and ability to handle demanding games with high visual fidelity.
🟢 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.
🟢 Internet connected : Yes.
The Sony PlayStation 4 (PS4) is internet connected, supporting both ethernet and wifi connections for online gaming, streaming, and downloading games and updates.
⚪ 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.
Game media format : Download.
The primary game format for the Sony PlayStation 4 is digital downloads. Players can purchase and download games directly from the PlayStation Store onto their console's hard drive.
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.


Gaming

Sony PlayStation 4 (PS4)
Atari 7800
Controllers : 4
The Sony PlayStation 4 (PS4) supports up to 4 controllers for multiplayer gaming, allowing for a maximum of 4 players on a single console. Players can enjoy a variety of multiplayer games together.
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.
🟢 Online multiplayer : Yes.
The Sony PlayStation 4 (PS4) allows players to enjoy multiplayer online gaming with friends and other players around the world. However, a subscription to PlayStation Plus may be required for certain games.
⚪ 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.
🟢 Number of titles : Good.
Game titles for the Sony PlayStation 4 have been released consistently with a wide variety of genres and options available. The console's popularity ensures a strong library of both physical and digital games.
🟡 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.
🟢 Featured games : Yes.
The Sony PlayStation 4 (PS4) has a variety of exclusive games such as 'The Last of Us Part II', 'God of War', 'Spider-Man', and 'Uncharted 4: A Thief's End', making it a standout console for exclusive titles.
🟢 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.


While the Atari 7800 holds nostalgic value for retro gamers, the Sony PlayStation 4 offers a more advanced gaming experience with superior graphics and a wider selection of games. For those looking for a modern gaming console with the latest technology, the PS4 is the clear choice.