Can The PS4 Play Blu-ray Discs?

The PlayStation 4 offers a host of impressive features, and the console is used for much more than just gaming. Many owners use the console as part of their media station for movies, TV shows, and music. So, is it possible to play Blu-ray discs on the PlayStation 4?

The PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 4 Pro can play HD and 3D Blu-ray discs. PS4 consoles unfortunately aren’t compatible with 4K UHD Blu-ray discs — which require a specialized drive — even though the PS4 Pro console can technically stream games and media in 4K.

There’s a lot to consider when selecting discs for your PlayStation 4. Let’s take a deeper look at everything you need to know about PS4 Blu-ray compatibility.

Can a PS4 Play Blu-Ray Discs?

Yes, the PlayStation 4 console is compatible with Blu-ray discs, but there are certain factors to keep in mind. Here are a few considerations when using Blu-ray discs on the PS4:

• The PS4 can use Blu-ray discs as long as they’re not 4K UHD discs.

• All models of the PlayStation 4, including the standard model and the PS4 Pro, have the same Blu-ray compatibility.

• Be sure your PlayStation 4 is up-to-date and connected to the internet before playing any Blu-ray discs.

The PlayStation 4 (on Amazon) and PlayStation 4 Pro (also on Amazon) can use HD and 3D Blu-ray discs. The standard resolution for these discs is 1080p.

The PS4 Pro can play games and stream media in 4K, but neither model can play 4K UHD Blu-rays. These discs provide higher-quality video and audio than standard discs but require a particular drive that the PlayStation 4 unfortunately doesn’t have.

How to Use Blu-ray Discs on the PlayStation 4

The PlayStation 4 can play HD and 3D Blu-ray discs, regardless of the model. Here’s how you can play these discs on your console:

1. Before you start, ensure your console is up to date and connected to the internet.
   
2. Afterward, Insert the Blu-ray disc into the PlayStation 4’s disk drive. If there’s a game inside, press the black button beside the power button to eject it.
   
3. A new option will appear on the PlayStation 4’s menu. It will display either ‘Blue-ray Disc‘ or have the same name as the disc you just inserted. Select the option and click the X Button to start the disc.

Once the Blu-ray is playing, you can play, pause, fast-forward, or use other functions with the PlayStation 4 DualShock controller.

Can a PS4 Handle 4K?

Unfortunately, the PlayStation 4 can’t handle 4K UHD Blu-ray discs. The PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 4 Pro are only compatible with HD and 3D Blu-ray discs at 1080p.

As we mentioned earlier, the PS4 Pro can play games and stream media in 4K, but it doesn’t have a specialized drive for 4k UHD Blu-ray discs. To play games and stream content at 4K on the PlayStation 4 Pro, you’ll need a 4K-compatible display.

Blu-ray vs. DVDs: What’s the Difference?

There are a few important differences between Blu-ray and DVD discs. Let’s take a look at some of the significant differences between the two below:

• Storage Capacity: Blu-ray discs can store much larger amounts of data than DVD discs. Standard DVDs can hold around 4.7 GB of information, while a Blu-ray can store up to 25 GB of information in a single-layer disc.

• Image Resolution: DVDs have a standard picture quality of 480SD, and it’s impossible to obtain high-definition video quality using a DVD. Blu-rays can provide high-definition video quality with 1080HD. Some Blu-rays also go up to 4K.

• Laser Technology: Both types of discs use optical storage and laser technology to read the stored information. DVDs use a red laser that operates at 650nm. Blu-rays use a blue laser at 450nm, meaning they can read data more accurately.

• Disc Construction: Both types of discs look identical to the naked eye. That said, Blu-ray discs are much more scratch resistant than DVDs.

These are the significant differences between Blu-ray and DVD. Essentially, Blu-ray discs can hold more data at a higher quality than DVDs.

Are Blu-ray Discs Region-Locked?

It’s possible for some Blu-rays to be region-locked or copy-protected. Many discs have region codes, like A, B, or C. If you try to play a Blu-ray disc from region A on a disc drive from region B, you’ll encounter issues.

This means if you try to play these discs on a PlayStation 4 from a different region, the console will reject the Blu-ray.

That said, some Blu-ray discs are region-free and can be used on a compatible media player. These discs are typically Ultra HD Blu-ray and can be played on all compatible drives, regardless of where they were initially bought.