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Is 4k gaming really worth the price?

I guess I need some reassurance that going 4k is worth it. I'm about to drop almost $1,500 on a new TV and a PS4 Pro. All so I can play games that look a little bit better.

It just kills me a little bit inside knowing I won't be playing the best version of Nioh, Horizon, Nier, etc. $1,500 is a big investment though.

So what have your experiences been investing so much into 4k gaming? Has anyone regretted it?

I was basically in the same boat as you and recently bought the KS8000.

Same deal as you, just knowing that the games could look better was something that gnawed away at me everytime I turned on my Pro. It sadly would detract from my experience playing Horizon/Mass Effect/etc knowing i'm not getting it at its peak console experience.

It was pricy, but that peace of mind was worth it for me. Also, 4k/HDR isn't going anywhere, it's just going to get more prevalent as time goes on. And most importantly, the games are gorgeous. Not on the level as the initial leap to HD, but it's fantastic. I also kept my OG PS4 hooked up to a 1080 tv and the difference is noticeable. Just make sure to get a tv with low input lag.

Also, there's some games that are extremely tough to play on the OG after playing them on the Pro. Battlefield 1 and Last Guardian stick out to me and i'm sure there's some other examples.

It was pricy, but I just bit the bullet and went for it and i'm very happy right now. That "feeling" I wasn't getting the games i've wanted for years at their optimal performance wasn't going away and it only was going to get worse as time went on.
 
I've got a KS8000 and I absolutely adore it. Worth every single penny for me. Between my Pro, PC and the Scorpio coming soon, 4K HDR gaming will be glorious over the next few years.
 
Just go for it OP, and don't look back. You'll be futureproofing yourself for the foreseeable future.

GOTG2 is the first mainstream 8K movie, and old school movies will be 2K to 6K at most until we get IMAX TVs at home lol
 
If you need a new TV right now (you want to go up significantly in size, etc.), then you might as well get a 4K TV. But I don't think I'd replace a perfectly good 1080p TV just for 4K, at this point.

A PS4 Pro is a smaller expense, and it seems like the extra horsepower would be worth it even on a 1080p display. (Downsampling, better framerates, etc.)
 
I'm very happy with PS4 Pro and a 4K HDR TV.

But, the amount of improvements which are quite visible it's not really enough to jump from a 1080p. At least, not right now

The HDR support also it's a big question mark on the industry with new technologies coming from Dolby (Vision) and many others.

Until most of the companies decides which technology should carry on, don't spend your money.

And I think HDR adoption it's just too slow and can be overshadowed by Dolby Vision
 
I bought cheap 55 inch 4k HDR TV ($450) and it's absolutely worth it!!! I honestly feel like this is more of generation gap than it was from PS3/Xbox 360 to PS4! But if my TV cost $1500 I would probably expect more.
 
I highly doubt that consoles will push 120fps. But it certainly does do things for console gaming.

HDMI 2.1 allows for VRR and 4K/60Hz with 4:4:4/RGB and 10/12bit colour. Which consoles will certainly benefit from.

You can already do 4K/60Hz with 4:4:4/RGB. The problem is some cables don't work well. One benefit of HDMI 2.1 is that at least we'll get new better certified cables, which will be backwards compatible with HDMI 2.0. In any case you're not looking at a new console that will take advantage of the HDMI 2.1 spec until 2020 at the earliest. There's no point in trying to future proof for a non-existent machine and we might have HDMI 2.2 by then. There's no reason to wait.
 
A 4k TV is worth it. 4k gaming is not. Your 4k TV will automatically scale games and content to 4k. It's obviously not native 4k but it looks great. Native 4k games are hard to run and I'm not sure the boost in visual quality is worth the frame rate hit.

Just getting a 4k TV will help your existing games.
 
You can already do 4K/60Hz with 4:4:4/RGB.
You can indeed but not with 10bit, or higher, colour. Which will only become more important with the push to HDR.
One benefit of HDMI 2.1 is that at least we'll get new better certified cables, which will be backwards compatible with HDMI 2.0.
That same label exists for HDMI 2.0 rated cables, called HDMI premium.

There's no point in trying to future proof for a non-existent machine and we might have HDMI 2.2 by then.
This is true. But don't forget that HDMI 2.1 is the most future proof HDMI version we've gotten, with support for 10K/120Hz max. Previous versions were all just barely enough for their time.
 
I recently purchased the Hisense 55h8c for 500. For 360 I bought a pro. I immediately noticed the difference from my original 1080p plasma I had before. I think the 500 I paid was well worth it. I didn't go top of the line but the HDR on this set works well and the colors and contrast are decent. I went lower end though simply so that if I do decide to get a new TV in 3 years I won't feel I wasted a grand on obsolete tech.
 
For the 2nd page. Here's what I'd be getting:

Samsung KS8000 49 or 55 inch: $899-$999
PS4 Pro: $399

I've got the 65KS8000. It's a great TV. The only thing is there's a bit of a panel lottery, mainly with some light bleed problems. I replaced my first one and got one that had no light bleed at all. This was at Costco. So just go with a place that has an easy return policy if you don't get a good panel on the first try.
 
I guess I need some reassurance that going 4k is worth it. I'm about to drop almost $1,500 on a new TV and a PS4 Pro. All so I can play games that look a little bit better.

It just kills me a little bit inside knowing I won't be playing the best version of Nioh, Horizon, Nier, etc. $1,500 is a big investment though.

So what have your experiences been investing so much into 4k gaming? Has anyone regretted it?

You will be playing them, but just not now. You won't have to go out and rebuy those games again.

In PC gaming part of the fun is going back to your old games once you've gotten much more powerful hardware and seeing them look better.
Playing old PC games 4K that supports it is really fun for example!


Every person has a budget and it doesn't sound like that 1500 dollars is easy to come by for you. I'd say; look forward to the day when prices are reasonable and the tech is widely available. A big part of buying tech is not about buying and owning the latest. It's about getting optimal value for your needs.

Generally speaking it is ill advised being an early adopter of any tech. You are paying more for having the latest tech sooner than others. Prices go down over time, and the vast majority of people wait. The vast majority of people don't buy a console until it is below 150-200 dollars. That is one of the reasons why previous gen consoles sell millions in foreign markets even when a newer console has come out.
Sometimes what happens in hardcore gaming communities is that people get convinced that the only way to enjoy games are maxed out perfect on 85-inch tv screens and anything else is a less pleasant experience. It's simply not true.
 
You will be playing them, but just not now. You won't have to go out and rebuy those games again.

In PC gaming part of the fun is going back to your old games once you've gotten much more powerful hardware and seeing them look better.
Playing old PC games 4K that supports it is really fun for example!


Every person has a budget and it doesn't sound like that 1500 dollars is easy to come by for you. I'd say; look forward to the day when prices are reasonable and the tech is widely available. A big part of buying tech is not about buying and owning the latest. It's about getting optimal value for your needs.

Generally speaking it is ill advised being an early adopter of any tech. You are paying more for having the latest tech sooner than others. Prices go down over time, and the vast majority of people wait. The vast majority of people don't buy a console until it is below 150-200 dollars. That is one of the reasons why previous gen consoles sell millions in foreign markets even when a newer console has come out.
Sometimes what happens in hardcore gaming communities is that people get convinced that the only way to enjoy games are maxed out perfect on 85-inch tv screens and anything else is a less pleasant experience. It's simply not true.

The money itself isn't really an issue. I have disposable income saved. I'm just debating if I want to invest in 4k now.

Horizon and Nier are 2 of my most anticipated games, and it sounds like they get a decent upgrade if you move up to 4k gaming. Which is why I'm thinking of investing now.
 
really depends on your budget and what you are willing to buy. everyone has different values. "one mans trash is another mans treasure" and all.

personally I have a 4k capable gaming PC, a PS4, and XB1 but the pro fell short for me. I'm gonna wait for the scorpio. I have 2 4k TVs but very little true 4k content so the scorpio will be more then worth the price of admission for me. I would have gotten a pro if it had a 4k BD player and more power but since it doesn't I'm ok with my regular PS4
 
HDR implemation is so variable, but I can tell you that it's very hard for me to go back now that I've seen forza horizon and final fantasy. Forza horizon 3 was the first game to take my breath away due to HDR. I have got a 1080gtx and I still prefer the Xbox one version because of HDR.
 
Bought myself a KS8000 and a ps4 pro. Plus I have my PC connected as well pushing 4k and I don't regret it.

It's really up to you. TVs will continue to get better
And there will always be something new that TV makers will push to get consumers. I agree with other posters and say wait if you can. If you can't, go buy it and know that in 2-3 years you will have to buy another.

I have the same setup minus the PC.

HDR + 4K is actually a big game changer for me.
 
You can't buy high quality 1080p TV anyway since all high end models were replaced with 4k ones.

Yeah this.

If you're due for an upgrade, or need a larger size (I just went from five years of using a 32" to a 4k 43"), 4k is the way to go. No reason not to, because if you don't you're probably not getting a quality set.

If you aren't due for an upgrade, wait. But at this point the next TV anyone gets should be a 4k.
 
Bought myself a KS8000 and a ps4 pro. Plus I have my PC connected as well pushing 4k and I don't regret it.

It's really up to you. TVs will continue to get better
And there will always be something new that TV makers will push to get consumers. I agree with other posters and say wait if you can. If you can't, go buy it and know that in 2-3 years you will have to buy another.

Me 2 minus the PC. Looking for Scorpio to lead the way this fall. 4k looks amazing.
 
I have a OG PS4, PS4 Pro and recently bought the Sony X800D 49" HDR TV. Value is in the eyes of the beholder. For me, seeing 4K video content, HDR and playing the best version of upcoming titles from 2017 on is worth it to me. I had a $100 BB GC though and also got the TV for $200 off on boxing day.
 
Big tech guy here and was a early adopter of 4k but didn't get the HDR or low input . Recently got a ks8000 and honestly not noticing a huge difference. I want to say wait for OLED . I would get the PS pro though since it's not as huge of a price for a noticable difference
 
Me 2 minus the PC. Looking for Scorpio to lead the way this fall. 4k looks amazing.

I am also looking forward to the Scorpio and what it will push. Hopefully it's everything they say it is. If so, it will be my go to mutliplat console and the pro will continue to be for exclusives.

I have the same setup minus the PC.

HDR + 4K is actually a big game changer for me.

It definitely is. I can not go back.
 
Enough extra money.
OG PS4 and about an 8 year old Sharpe Aquos.
Play every night.
Then do it...though I would go at least 65". There's even more value added if you watch movies/stream. I use a Pro on a 1080p plasma and there's a discernable positive difference in games with Pro patches.
 
Then do it...though I would go at least 65". There's even more value added if you watch movies/stream. I use a Pro on a 1080p plasma and there's a discernable positive difference in games with Pro patches.

55 is the biggest I'd go. I sit really close to the TV.
 
I highly doubt that consoles will push 120fps. But it certainly does do things for console gaming.

HDMI 2.1 allows for VRR and 4K/60Hz with 4:4:4/RGB and 10/12bit colour. Which consoles will certainly benefit from.

I would assume a console would have to support the variable framerate feature, right? From a software and physical output perspective.
 
I got the 60 inch ks8000 and kept my old 1080p. I've been playing my pro on the 4k for a while now. Hooked it back up to my old tv just to see if I could notice a difference and holy cow, it's like night and day. To the point I can't belive I ever thought games looked great on the old set. HDR is a game changer on games alone. Movies even more so. If money is not needed for rent and food I'd pick them up.
 
So people saying wait 2 - 3 years before buy into it. What would be recommended then for just now? Needing a new TV as current one is very old and the image is starting to burn in. Will really only play the PS4 and Switch when it out but i am not a very big console gamer.
 
Interesting thread. Helps me form a decision on buying a 4k tv myself. Been eyeing the LG B6 but here, in Canada, it's still REALLY expensive. Even for a 55". Not worth it, currently.

I think what will make me jump on 4k would be (if they allowed for it but likely won't happen), games like Zelda, Granblue Fantasy Re: Link, Dragon Quest XI, Xenoblade Chronicles 2, Dark Souls etc (out of those at least Dark Souls is realistic... maybe even Dragon Quest XI if I'm lucky). I think for what I like playing, I'll likely wait longer.
 
So people saying wait 2 - 3 years before buy into it. What would be recommended then for just now? Needing a new TV as current one is very old and the image is starting to burn in. Will really only play the PS4 and Switch when it out but i am not a very big console gamer.

Right now you could pick up a big screen LCD from Samsung for about 500.
 
I guess I need some reassurance that going 4k is worth it. I'm about to drop almost $1,500 on a new TV and a PS4 Pro. All so I can play games that look a little bit better.

It just kills me a little bit inside knowing I won't be playing the best version of Nioh, Horizon, Nier, etc. $1,500 is a big investment though.

So what have your experiences been investing so much into 4k gaming? Has anyone regretted it?

OP if your wallet can spare it then I say absolutely go for it. I spent this past November $2000+ on a Samsung 4K TV and a PS4 Pro for the very same reason you mentioned above that I have bolded. Personally, if I were you OP I'd wait and save up some more coins since the 2017 4k models are just around the bend.

Also I cannot stress this enough, do your research when buying your 4K TV if you do decide to take the leap. Please do your research, your homework if you're not familiar with the different type of display technologies. OLED, vs LED etc. Some 4K HDR TVs are sold as HDR capable when in fact they have 8bit panels which don't truly support HDR. Things like this you should be on the lookout for.

I bought my TV fully knowing that in the next 12-18 months, better more fully capable TV's would be available but I decided to make the jump because I wanted to have the latest and greatest at the time. I do not regret my purchase. Playing Cod IW (even if it's checkboard 4K) on PS4 Pro is such a blast. Being able to know and say that I was able to play Tlg at a steadier 30fps than base PS4 was a blast. Knowing that when the HDR patch for Hitman releases I'll be able to enjoy it will be a blast. Knowing that when Horizon Zero Dawn releases I'll be experiencing on a 4K TV with HDR will be a blast.

I paid to have the best experience right now. I say do it, but wait for the new 2017 models of televisions.
 
OP if your wallet can spare it then I say absolutely go for it. I spent this past November $2000+ on a Samsung 4K TV and a PS4 Pro for the very same reason you mentioned above that I have bolded. Personally, if I were you OP I'd wait and save up some more coins since the 2017 4k models are just around the bend.

Also I cannot stress this enough, do your research when buying your 4K TV if you do decide to take the leap. Please do your research, your homework if you're not familiar with the different type of display technologies. OLED, vs LED etc. Some 4K HDR TVs are sold as HDR capable when in fact they have 8bit panels which don't truly support HDR. Things like this you should be on the lookout for.

I bought my TV fully knowing that in the next 12-18 months, better more fully capable TV's would be available but I decided to make the jump because I wanted to have the latest and greatest at the time. I do not regret my purchase. Playing Cod IW (even if it's checkboard 4K) on PS4 Pro is such a blast. Being able to know and say that I was able to play Tlg at a steadier 30fps than base PS4 was a blast. Knowing that when the HDR patch for Hitman releases I'll be able to enjoy it will be a blast. Knowing that when Horizon Zero Dawn releases I'll be experiencing on a 4K TV with HDR will be a blast.

I paid to have the best experience right now. I say do it, but wait for the new 2017 models of televisions.

To follow up on this, I have a few questions.

1. Will the 2017 models be drastically better?

2. Will the 2017 models be the same price that the 2016s are at now? My budget for a TV is approx $1,000, which gets me a KS8000.

3. When do the 2017 models usually come out? Ideally I want a new TV before Horizon and Nier, which is late February.

Thanks!
 
So people saying wait 2 - 3 years before buy into it. What would be recommended then for just now? Needing a new TV as current one is very old and the image is starting to burn in. Will really only play the PS4 and Switch when it out but i am not a very big console gamer.
I'd say buy a 4k TV like the KS8000 as the Superbowl discounts approach. You need the TV now, and the pricing is reasonable. Nothing you buy ever will be future proof, but nice affordable 4k TVs do exist, and just because the content is sparse doesn't mean that you should actively avoid it.
 
To follow up on this, I have a few questions.

1. Will the 2017 models be drastically better?

2. Will the 2017 models be the same price that the 2016s are at now? My budget for a TV is approx $1,000, which gets me a KS8000.

3. When do the 2017 models usually come out? Ideally I want a new TV before Horizon and Nier, which is late February.

Thanks!

Speaking for all the TV's I'd imagine they'd all be better and improve on the 2016 models. For example, Samsung's 2017 offerings will have better viewing angles than the 2016 models and will have a wider color gamut (good for HDR) than the 2016 models. I'm hopping manufacturers like Sony also focus on bringing down input lag on their TV's as well. The input lag on 2016 Sony models were unacceptable to me.

The 2017 models will definitely not be around your budget of $1000. I'd say they would be more expensive especially at launch. And new models definitely will not be out around the release of Horizon Zero Dawn.

I myself own a KS9000 (model above the KS8000 and differences are negligible) but if your budget is $1000 and you want the KS8000 I'd say go for it. It's an awesome TV and the HDR on some titles (Uncharted 4 and Ratchet and Clank especially have blown me away) look sooo good. There's even thread thanks to Haines were he has posted a template on which settings to use. It's super helpful and I can't believe it's reached 100+pgs.

You won't go wrong with a KS8000 if you plan on getting a 4K TV now.
 
To follow up on this, I have a few questions.

1. Will the 2017 models be drastically better?

2. Will the 2017 models be the same price that the 2016s are at now? My budget for a TV is approx $1,000, which gets me a KS8000.

3. When do the 2017 models usually come out? Ideally I want a new TV before Horizon and Nier, which is late February.

Thanks!

I share the same concerns with questions 1 and 2 (as, again, I don't own a 4k tv yet myself) but from what I hear, regarding your first question, they'll be a bit brighter and you're paying more for design.

As for question 2, I doubt it. Rumor has it these new ones are probably going to be on par for the same price as when the LG B6 launched (if I understand correctly).

As for your 3rd question, seems like anywhere from March-June is when they plan to launch.

Feel free to correct me if I'm wrong about any of this. :P
 
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