PLAYSTATION recently announced a new portable console to pair with the PS5.
Codenamed Project Q, the upcoming handheld system is Sony’s first since the PS Vita.
Project Q is more an accessory to the PS5 than a standalone console.
Sony gave up on the Vita after a bumpy release led to commercial failure.
Here’s what we know about Project Q and the differences to the PS Vita.
How does Project Q work?
Project Q will only be able to play games if the user also owns a PS5.
When both the user’s PS5 and Project Q are connected to a stable internet connection, they will be able to play PS5 games on the handheld.
This doesn’t need to be the same internet connection, and players will be able to stream from anywhere in the world.
This needs to be the same internet connection, so players won’t be able to stream from anywhere in the world, like they could with the Vita.
The Vita has this compatibility with the PS4. Users can play PS4 games on the go by streaming to their Vita.
Project Q vs Vita console comparison
Both the Vita and Project Q have very different looks. The Vita is a compact console whereas Project Q focuses on screen size.
The Vita has a 5-inch screen compared to Project Q’s massive 8-inch screen. This is even bigger than the already bulky Steam Deck.
Another difference is that the Vita was clearly designed with portability in mind.
It’s very light and oval shaped, though this means that it has very small thumbsticks and no triggers.
Project Q clearly puts an emphasis on the controls over the portability.
While it’s much larger and less portable than the Vita, it has the full set of controls that the PS5 DualSense has.
In fact, it looks as if someone sawed a DualSense in half, and stuck each part on either side of a tablet.
Project Q vs Vita specs comparison
Official specs for Project Q have not been announced, but it is sure to be an upgrade over the Vita, which was released during the PS3 era.
One of the Vita’s downfalls was the hugely expensive proprietary memory cards, which cost almost the price of the console.
As Project Q only streams it will not require a memory card, which will be a huge benefit.
However, another thing the Vita is known for is its impressive battery life.
On standby a Vita can last for literally months without charging, allowing players to Quick Start games from months prior.
While playing, it is easy to get around 10 hours of game time, which is far beyond what the Switch and the Steam Deck are capable of.
Given that the DualSense has a measly battery life of just four hours, we can’t see Project Q approaching anything close to the Vita.
It would also require an internet connection at all times, which is a huge drain on a system’s battery life.
Project Q vs Vita conclusions
It’s too early to tell if Project Q will be a success at this point, and flourish where the Vita failed.
The upcoming console will have a number of benefits over Sony’s last portable, but also a number of drawbacks too.
Project Q’s success will likely live or die on its price point, and if sold for the right amount, could be a great accessory to add to the PS5.
However, looking at the price of the base console, the DualSense Edge, and the PS VR2, it’s likely to be something that few people can afford.
Written by Georgina Young on behalf of GLHF.
