Xbox Scorpio Release Date, Rumors and Specs: 45 Percent More Powerful Than PS4 Pro, Sony Official Claims

Sep 10, 2016 09:10 AM EDT

The ultimate showdown between Xbox and PlayStation is here once again. After Sony announced the PS4 Pro, Microsoft teased gamers about the capabilities of Xbox Scorpio, saying the console will have a much larger power improvement. Now, let's see the difference between Xbox Scorpio and the upcoming PS4 Pro.

In an interview with Polygon, Albert Penello, Microsoft senior director of project management and planning, said the "performance delta" between Xbox Scorpio and PS4 Pro will be obvious. This means the Scorpio will be equipped with a much powerful Graphics Processing Unit (GPU).

It is reported that the next-generation Xbox will have a 6 teraflops of GPU, which is 45% more powerful than PS4 Pro's 4.3. This power differential is especially important for these gaming consoles because it's their main selling point. In addition, both machines are aimed for enthusiast customers, so their processing capabilities should be outstanding.

Dave Thier of Forbes said the upgraded processing power of Xbox Scorpio is also important for VR. The technology needs high-performance CPU and GPU to make immersive environment to users. Interestingly, Microsoft is reportedly working with Oculus to bring virtual reality to its new console.

As for the release date of Scorpio, Penello said it may happen on December 2017 to coincide with the Christmas season. However, PS4 Pro has advantage here when it comes to timing. Sony announced their new console will be made available on November 10. Because of that, it would have one-year head start before Scorpio becomes available.

For the part of Microsoft, Penello said the company is not worried about the one-year head start that the PS4 Pro will have over Scorpio. He also added the one-year gap would give Microsoft developers more time to improve the hardware and make it more functional.

When asked if Xbox Scorpio will have a 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray drive, Xbox representatives were quick to point the console would have one. If this is true, it would be another advantage over PS4 Pro which lacks support for 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray drive.

Sony announced the Project Scorpio in June. The company described it is as "the most powerful console" that will be built. With its 4K capabilities, 6 teraflops of GPU and VR support, it will definitely have a huge impact on the gaming market once it becomes available.