Old PS5 Models vs New PS5 Models: Sony Interactive Entertainment (SIE) has recently unveiled a new version of the PlayStation 5 (PS5) the start of October 2023, and went on sale at the end of November. This new model, while reminiscent of the ‘Slim’ versions from previous console generations, is not officially labeled as a ‘PS5 Slim’. Instead, it’s referred to as the new PS5 model. Its release raises questions about the potential future introduction of an actual PS5 Slim.
Table of Contents
Size and Design
At first glance, the size difference between the original and new PS5 models is evident. When placed upright without a stand, the new model offers a 30% reduction in volume, making it more compact and easier to transport.
In this comparison, we focus on the disc version of the original PS5 model and primarily on the digital version of the new model, which features an expandable disc drive. The new model outperforms the original in terms of overall height and width, regardless of the presence of a disc drive. This advantage becomes even more pronounced during transportation, where the size difference is notably larger when positioned sideways. It almost gives the impression of a hen nurturing its chicks, with the new, sleeker model symbolizing a significant evolution in design.
Here’s a quick comparison:
- Original PS5 (Disc): 390 x 260 x 104mm, 4.5kg
- New PS5 Model (Disc): 358 x 216 x 96mm, 3.2kg
- Original PS5 (Digital): 390 x 260 x 92mm, 3.9kg
- New PS5 Model (Digital): 358 x 216 x 80mm, 2.6kg
Size Reduction: Both new PS5 models (disc and digital) are smaller in dimensions compared to the original models.
Weight Reduction: There is a significant decrease in weight in the new PS5 models, making them lighter and more portable.
Price
PS5 Slim Variants
Digital Edition
Price: £390 / $449.00 / AU$769
With Disc Drive
Price: £480 / $500 / AU$799
Additional Accessories
Detachable Disc Drive
Price: £100 / $80 / AU$159
Vertical Stand
Price: £25 / $30 / AU$49
Comparison with Original PS5 Launch Prices
Original PS5 Digital Edition
Launch Price: £360 / $400 / AU$600
Original PS5 Physical Edition
Launch Price: £450 / $500 / AU$750
The PS5 Slim, while slightly more expensive than the original PS5 at launch, aligns with the current pricing trends after the price hike earlier in the year. The vertical stand, an additional accessory, enhances the slim profile of the console but comes at an extra cost.
Aesthetic Changes
The new PS5 model showcases a split-panel design, creating a more slender and elegant look. The top half of the panel is glossy, while the bottom remains matte like the original model. This design might make the console more prone to fingerprint marks, but it adds a sleek touch to the console’s appearance.
Apart from the size difference, the most intuitive change between the old and new PS5 models is The new model splits the panel into two and uses a split method for presentation. In addition, it can also be seen that the new PS5 model seems to be more “slender” in terms of the overall body curvature.
Connectivity
Significant changes have been made to the front buttons and ports. The new model replaces the old USB-C and USB-A configuration with dual USB-C ports, maintaining the same data transfer speeds. The optical disc drive has been modularized, altering the placement of the eject button.
The cooling system in the new PS5 model is also worth noting. While it has fewer cooling fins than the original, it manages to maintain the same level of performance. This change is particularly noticeable when the panels are removed, revealing the internal layout.
For the digital version of the new PS5 model, there’s a noticeable space for the optional optical disc drive. This modular approach contrasts with the original version, where the disc drive was fixed to the body. The new model also sports a different SSD slot placement.
There is basically no big difference between the connection ports and the heat dissipation area on the rear of the PS5 dual models. However, in addition to the curvature of the heat dissipation area of the new model, there are also a few more small details on the I/O connection port.
Layout
The internal layout and structure are actually not much different. The size of the fans is also of the same level. However, it can be clearly seen here that the internal edges of the new PS5 model are not as full as the original version.
Overall Build and Support
The new PS5 model appears leaner, especially when equipped with a disc player. Despite the similar size of the optical disc player, the new model feels less bulky. The detachable nature of the disc drive in the new model adds flexibility and convenience.
The stand design has also been revised. The new PS5 model features a transparent, separate stand for horizontal placement, unlike the original version’s built-in support. For vertical positioning, a new, thinner metal stand is available, though it must be purchased separately. This stand is compatible with both the original and new models, offering a sleeker but less integrated look compared to the original’s dual-purpose stand.
In addition, although the new version of the upright stand costs extra money to purchase separately, the advantage is that the stand can support both the original version and the new model. Just connect the included adapter plate directly to the stand.
Key Differences
- The PS5 Slim is available in both disc drive and digital versions, similar to the original PS5.
- The original PS5 has a one-panel plastic matte finish on both sides.
- The PS5 Slim offers more customization, allowing different colors or themes for each panel, unlike the original PS5 which only allows two sets of colors on either side.
- The original PS5 has a USB Type-A and USB Type-C port in the front. The PS5 Slim has two USB Type-C ports in the front.
- The original PS5 has both power and eject buttons. The PS5 Slim only has a power button; the eject button is part of the removable disc drive.
- The PS5 Slim has easily removable panels, providing access to NVMe storage and the disc drive.
- The original PS5 comes with 825 GB of storage. The PS5 Slim offers 1 TB of storage.
- The PS5 Slim features a removable disc drive, which can be taken out and replaced easily.
- Some accessories like the replacement cover for the disc drive and a built-in stand, which are present in the original PS5, need to be purchased separately for the PS5 Slim.
- The PS5 Slim features improved Wi-Fi connectivity (Wi-Fi 6).
Conclusion
The new PS5 model represents a significant redesign of the original, focusing on compactness, portability, and aesthetics. While maintaining the core performance capabilities, it introduces changes in size, panel design, port configuration, and stand design, appealing to users who value space-saving and stylish consoles. The option to add or remove the disc drive in the digital version adds a layer of customization, catering to different user preferences.
As technology evolves, so do gaming consoles. The new PS5 model is a testament to Sony’s commitment to innovation, offering gamers a sleek, modern, and more flexible gaming experience. Whether you’re a fan of the original PS5 or looking to upgrade to the new model, both consoles promise to deliver an immersive and enjoyable gaming journey.
Recommended User Base: The PS5 Slim is recommended for new PS5 buyers, especially with bundle packages, but not necessarily an essential upgrade for existing PS5 owners.
