Such is the gap between the PlayStation 5 and the Xbox Series S/X (and even the Nintendo Switch) these days that Sony isn’t worried about its competitors outselling its flagship console in the coming spendthrift-friendly months. Instead, its biggest competition is itself.
For what it’s worth, Sony has tried its best to clear out inventory of the incumbent consoles to prepare for the arrival of its replacement. It cut the price of the PlayStation 5 for the first time in August and it’s even giving away free games this month. However, the likelihood of these two consoles not fighting for shelf space are slim (get it?).
With the unveiling of the PlayStation 5 Slim, which comes with a Digital Edition that costs $50 more than the one it will be replacing, it’s worth asking the question, “is the PS5 Slim worth getting in November?”
A customary move for Sony, introducing refined versions of its consoles is no surprise. This has been the trend since the PSOne, followed by the PS2, PS3, and PS4. However, unlike in previous years, the PS5 Slim doesn’t provide enough value over the PS5 to warrant an upgrade or a new purchase.
Previously, it wasn’t uncommon for early adopters to ditch the bulkier launch models for the slimmed down versions of the console that usually came out after 2-3 years. The advantage is that the slimmer variants were noticeably lighter and took up less space. This isn’t the case with the PS5 Slim.
By the numbers, the PS5 Slim carries notable physical changes. The weight has been reduced by 18% for the standard model and a more substantial 24% for the Digital Edition. Size-wise, there’s a 30% reduction in volume, which might be appealing for those who found the original PS5’s presence beside their television rather domineering. Unfortunately, a deeper look shows that the PS5 Slim’s dimensions reflect a difference that may not be as dramatic as the percentages suggest. The standard model has shrunk from 390 x 104 x 260 mm to 358 x 96 x 216 mm, and the Digital Edition from 390 x 92 x 260 mm to 358 x 80 x 216 mm.
Internally, the main enhancement is the shift from an 825GB SSD to a 1TB SSD. This incremental upgrade provides more storage for games, but in an era where game installations and updates frequently exceed 100GB, the additional space is still restrictive. Beyond that, the internals remain virtually unchanged. The CPU, GPU, and RAM specifications are identical, as do the SSD read speeds.
One major change, however, is the modular approach to the disc drive. Originally, one had to choose between having a disc drive or not. Now, the PS5 Slim offers the flexibility of attaching or detaching the Ultra HD Blu-ray Disc Drive. While this may seem like a step towards versatility, the pricing structure is questionable. Youbuy the detachable drive for $79.99, which means that purchasing the Digital Edition for $449.99 and then when deciding to add the drive later would make the total expenditure $529.98 – $30 more than the standard PS5 with the pre-attached disc drive at $499.99.
Additionally, the new PS5 Slim Digital Edition is priced $50 higher than the original Digital Edition’s launch price. This is a surprise as the price adjustment somewhat diminishes the value proposition of the new model, especially when we consider that the original PS5, if still available, offers nearly the same features for a more competitive price.
On the cosmetic front, the PS5 Slim offers four separate cover panels, with glossy finishes on the top panels and a matte finish at the bottom. While this offers a fresh aesthetic, it’s a superficial change. Those considering the new console may want to know that it requires an updated vertical stand sold separately for $30, although a horizontal stand is included. And, while the new PS5 might seem enticing for those who love customizing their consoles with faceplates, it’s worth noting that it won’t be compatible with faceplates designed for the original PS5.
Ultimately, the only way that the PS5 Slim is considered a “better” value compared to the outgoing model is if you can no longer find one by next month. Of course, if storage is a pivotal factor, the additional 175GB might seem attractive. However, in terms of sheer value, the original PS5, with almost identical specs, a more inclusive price structure, and a slightly bulkier but still contemporary design, seems to offer a better bang for your buck.
For those still contemplating which model to invest in come November, it may be prudent to weigh these factors and decide if the PS5 Slim’s marginal improvements justify its price tag.
Either way, the real winner here is Sony after it meets its quota for PS5 unit sales this fiscal year with room to spare.
