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You’re probably wondering – what are the differences between the PS5 original model and the PS5 slim model? Now there has been a console refresh, many of those who own or are looking to own a PlayStation 5 are curious to know what’s changed.
The updated console was rolled out in November, and so far, it’s been popular. But exactly what are the key differences to be aware of? If you’re thinking of picking one up, either as an upgrade or as your first PlayStation 5, we can tell you what you need to know. If you’re curious as to how much the new system will cost you – check out our PS5 Slim price guide.
Here’s the key differences between the PS5 Slim and PS5 consoles, starting with the obvious – the dimensions. We’ll compare like for like with the launch model (so the 2020 Digital Edition against the Digital Edition, for example), for clarity and because that’s what we have the figures for.
PlayStation 5 vs PlayStation 5 Slim Dimensions
Standard Model
| Dimensions (Approx.) | PlayStation 5 Original Model | PlayStation 5 Slim |
|---|---|---|
| Width | 390mm | 358mm |
| Height | 104mm | 96mm |
| Depth | 260mm | 216mm |
| Mass | 4.5kg | 3.2kg |
Digital Edition
| Dimensions (Approx.) | PlayStation 5 Original Model | PlayStation 5 Slim |
|---|---|---|
| Width | 390mm | 358mm |
| Height | 92mm | 80mm |
| Depth | 260mm | 216mm |
| Mass | 3.9kg | 2.6kg |
PlayStation 5 vs PlayStation 5 Slim hardware differences
Unfortunately, under the hood there’s no a great deal of differences between the original console and the slim model. Both use an identical 8-core x86-64-AMD Ryzen Zen 2 processor as its main CPU, and both are still using the same AMD Radeon RDNA 2-based graphics engine with a variable frequency of up to 2.23 GHz.
One minor difference is that the original PS5 console launched with an 835GB SSD with a 5.5GB Read Bandwidth. However, both the original and Digital Edition models of the PS5 Slim will instead arrive with a slightly larger 1TB hard drive as standard. It’s not really a huge leap – and once you take into account the amount of space taken up by the Sony OS, etc, it may in practical terms turn out to at least feel like pretty much the same size as before. Luckily, there’s a range of decent SSDs options to upgrade your PS5 console’s storage with later.
The biggest change, when it comes to technical hardware, is that the new Digital Edition console will be upgradable with a Ultra HD-Blu Ray Disc Drive. It’ll be sold separately, and will set you back around £100/$100 – about the price difference between the two consoles anyway – but it’s an excellent option for those who might change their mind about going all-Digital and want to later use disc based media.
Another minor change is that the PlayStation 5 Slim doesn’t come with a bespoke stand as the original model did. Rather, if you wish to seat the console horizontally, there is a tiny kickstand on the front of the console to support its weight. If you want something more sturdy, a Vertical Stand will be available as a separate accessory for purchase at around $30/£25.
Finally, it should be noted that it seems existing cosmetic face plates won’t be compatible with the new Slim console, as it now uses a four-part face plate configuration. However, Sony have announced the new PS5 Slim color sideplates that allow you to customize your console with three colors – Volcanic Red, Sterling Silver, and Cobalt Blue.
PlayStation 5 vs PlayStation 5 Slim – price differences
You can read the full breakdown of costs in our PlayStation 5 price guide, but the long and short of it is that, by and large, the new console comes in at around the same cost as the older console in most regions for both versions. However, it is an increase of around $50 USD more for those wanting to pick up the Digital Edition in the US.
It’s also worth noting that Sony has confirmed the new model will phase out the existing one. In other words, once all currently available stock of the older model have sold, they won’t be making any more and you’ll have no choice but to get the PS5 slim version. If you’re in the US, and are more concerned about saving your dough than the slimmer form factor or ability to add a Blu-Ray drive, you’ll want to pick up an old model Digital Edition PS5 quick before they disappear forever.
PlayStation 5 vs PlayStation 5 Slim – will the PS5 Slim play all my PlayStation 5 games?
Games wise, there is no difference between the two consoles. Every game you have that works on your PlayStation 5 should work on the PlayStation 5 Slim. If we hear of any exceptions, we’ll update this guide.
PlayStation 5 vs PlayStation 5 Slim – can I use my PlayStation 5 accessories on PS5 Slim?
Just like the games above, as far as we know so far almost all your peripherals such as controllers, headsets, PS VR 2 and the like should work just fine on the new console. The only exception is the previously mentioned cosmetic additions such as the face plates and stands due to the smaller nature of the console (though the latter may vary). Again, if we hear of any exceptions we’ll be sure to let you know.
Hopefully, that should give you everything you need to know about the PlayStation 5 versus the PlayStation 5 Slim. For more on PlayStation 5, check out our picks for the Best PS5 gaming headset in 2023 and our page on the PS5 Slim release date window.
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