Sony's QSSR upscaling technology improves image quality on the standard PlayStation 5

Sony has introduced Quick Spectral Super Resolution (QSSR), a machine learning-based upscaling algorithm, to the standard PlayStation 5. QSSR functions as a streamlined, FP16-optimized version of the PlayStation 5 Pro's PSSR, allowing it to run on the base console despite the lack of dedicated machine learning hardware. Digital Foundry's analysis of Marvel's Wolverine and Ghost of Yōtei indicates that QSSR provides a significant visual uplift, effectively cleaning up sub-pixel shimmering and improving texture detail compared to native rendering or other upscalers. While QSSR is a drop-in replacement for titles already supporting PSSR, it requires minor integration time for developers to adjust settings like mipmap streaming. Performance testing shows that while QSSR is slightly more computationally expensive than some alternatives, resulting in a frame-time cost of 1.5 to 1.8 milliseconds, the visual improvements often outweigh the performance impact. In 60 FPS modes, QSSR allows for higher internal resolutions while maintaining a stable frame rate, effectively bridging the gap between performance and fidelity modes.

QSSR is a machine learning-based upscaling algorithm adapted for the standard PlayStation 5. The technology functions as a streamlined, FP16-optimized version of the PlayStation 5 Pro's PSSR.

QSSR provides a noticeable improvement in image quality, specifically reducing sub-pixel shimmering and enhancing texture detail. Integration is relatively straightforward for developers, acting as a drop-in replacement for titles already supporting PSSR.

Performance testing reveals a frame-time cost of 1.5 to 1.8 milliseconds when using QSSR. QSSR allows for higher internal resolutions in 60 FPS modes while maintaining performance stability.