The New PS5 Slim: A Closer Look at the Changes

The PS5 Slim, a new, more compact iteration of Sony’s popular gaming console, has arrived, and gamers are eager to know what sets it apart from its predecessor. This article will delve into the key differences between the original PS5 and its slimmed-down counterpart, focusing on design, features, and storage capabilities.

Size Matters: A More Compact Design

One of the most noticeable differences is the sheer size of the console. The PS5 slim is significantly smaller and more compact than the original PS5, making it a much more appealing option for those who want a console that can fit comfortably within an entertainment center. This addresses one of the major criticisms of the original PS5, which was often deemed too large for many entertainment setups.

Front Ports: Updated Connectivity

Moving on to the front panel, we see further modifications. While the original PS5 featured a USB-C port and a USB-A port, the PS5 Slim now boasts two USB-C ports. One of these is a “super speed” port, designed to provide faster support for external storage. Notably, the PS5 Slim allows you to connect external storage to the front port for optimal speed, unlike the original PS5 where this was only possible from the rear ports.

Button Placement: Design Streamlining

The button arrangement has been adjusted as well. The original PS5 featured a power button and an eject button, while the PS5 Slim has combined the power button and eject button into a single, centrally placed button. The eject button is now located where the disc drive resides, making it more convenient to access.

Rear Ports: Orientation Flip

Turning our attention to the rear panel, the port arrangement has been subtly flipped. In the original PS5, the HDMI port was situated at the bottom, followed by the USB ports. This was likely done to make the console more cable-friendly when used vertically. However, the PS5 Slim, which is more suited for horizontal positioning, has the HDMI port at the top with the other ports below, improving cable management for a flat configuration.

Cooling and Panel Design: Enhanced Ventilation and Customization

The PS5 Slim features a revised cooling system, evident in the different air vent design. The original PS5’s signature side vents have been eliminated in favor of a more streamlined design, likely contributing to improved cooling efficiency. The side panels have also undergone a transformation. Where the original PS5 had a single, matte finish panel, the PS5 Slim features four panels, a two-part system with matte bottom panels and glossy top panels. This creates the possibility of custom panel combinations, with different colors and designs potentially becoming available in the future. The new design also enhances the ease of removing these panels, making maintenance and customization more accessible.

Removable Disc Drive: Flexibility for Gamers

One of the most significant changes is the addition of a removable disc drive. The PS5 Slim incorporates a drive that can be easily removed by pressing a button, allowing for a more streamlined look. This caters to users who prefer the digital-only experience, as Sony will offer a PS5 Slim Digital Edition, lacking a disc drive. The ability to purchase a standalone disc drive separately provides flexibility for those who wish to add this functionality later.

Increased Storage: More Room for Games

The PS5 Slim comes with a sizable leap in storage capacity. While the original PS5 offered 825GB of total storage, with about 667GB usable, the PS5 Slim boasts 1TB of storage, giving you about 825GB to 840GB of usable space, making it much more futureproof for the increasingly large game files. This makes the PS5 Slim an attractive option for those who want to eliminate the need for constant storage expansions.

Front Panel Lighting: Refined Aesthetics

The front panel lighting has also received a subtle update. The original PS5’s lighting flowed upward, while the PS5 Slim’s lighting remains at the bottom, creating a more consistent aesthetic.

The Upgrade Dilemma: Is The Slim Worth It?

The decision of whether to upgrade to the PS5 Slim from the original PS5 largely depends on your individual needs and priorities. If you’re content with your current PS5 and don’t mind its size, the upgrade may not be compelling. However, if space is a constraint or you desire faster external storage options, the PS5 Slim’s compact design and improved features might sway your decision. For new PS5 buyers, the PS5 Slim is undoubtedly a compelling choice, offering enhanced features, increased storage, and a more manageable form factor.