After much speculation, Sony has finally pulled back the curtains on its newest variation of the PlayStation 5. Scheduled for a November release, the PlayStation 5 slim promises to cater to the “evolving needs of players,” as described by Sid Shuman, Senior Director, SIE Content Communications. However, while “slim” by name, the difference in size might not be as significant as some might expect.
The PS5 Slim comes with a notable reduction in volume by over 30%. The weight has been trimmed down by 18% for the standard model and 24% for its digital counterpart. While these percentages might seem significant, the actual size reduction translates to the console being shorter by a mere 1.25 inches and narrower by approximately 1.73 inches. For gamers who have already grappled with the towering stature of the original PS5, the new measurements might not feel like a drastic change.
While the size reduction is marginal, Sony hasn’t held back on enhancing the new model’s features. The PS5 Slim comes equipped with 1TB of internal storage, a jump from the 825GB found in its predecessor. Another significant shift is the modular design of the disc drive. Initially integrated into the console, the Ultra HD Blu-ray Disc Drive is now detachable, giving players the flexibility to purchase and attach it separately. This feature is especially intriguing for users who opt for the PS5 Digital Edition, allowing them to add the disc drive down the line for $79.99.
Externally, the PS5 Slim sports a revamped design with four interchangeable cover panels. The top panels has a glossy finish, while the bottom retains the familiar matte look. On the functionality front, Sony has added dual USB-C ports at the front, in contrast to the single USB-C and USB-A ports of the original PS5.
Yet, as much as these enhancements sound appealing, the pricing might raise eyebrows. The original PS5 Digital Edition was priced at $399.99, but the newer Slim variant will cost consumers $449.99, marking a $50 increase. For those eyeing the disc-inclusive version, the price tag reads $499.99, making it pricier than the digital-only model by $50.
However, the PS5 Slim’s introduction isn’t merely about upgrades. The underlying strategy seems to be a phase-out of the older models. Sony has made it clear that once the existing PS5 stocks deplete, the Slim will remain the sole model on offer. Perhaps this explains why the existing PS5 covers, including the ones that haven’t hit the storeshelves, aren’t compatible with the new PS5 Slim model. This move, while bold, reiterates Sony’s confidence in its new offering and the direction it envisions for the PlayStation brand.
By merging tangible enhancements with greater flexibility, Sony is poised to redefine the PlayStation experience. Yet, as always, the ultimate judgment rests with gamers worldwide, who will soon cast their votes with their wallets come November.
If you aren’t a fan of the incoming PS5 model, we’ve got good news for you. After putting them discount a few months ago, Sony is incentivizing new PS5 purchases in the United States by giving away a free game. Finally, depending on where you may live, you may get your new PS5 with a “free” PS Plus Premium/Deluxe subscription, which now comes with an added streaming park.
