Is Ps5 Slim Worth Upgrading From Original Model Size Vs Performance

The PlayStation 5 has evolved since its 2020 launch, with Sony introducing a revised “Slim” model in late 2023. For owners of the original PS5—whether the disc or digital edition—the question arises: is it worth upgrading? The answer isn’t as simple as checking specs. It involves evaluating physical design, internal changes, long-term usability, and whether the improvements align with your gaming lifestyle.

This guide breaks down every aspect of the PS5 Slim compared to the original model, focusing on size, performance, storage, and real-world value. Whether you’re considering an upgrade or just curious about the differences, this analysis will help you make an informed decision.

Physical Design and Size Comparison

The most noticeable change in the PS5 Slim is its footprint. While the original PS5 was criticized for its bulk—measuring 390mm x 104mm x 260mm and weighing around 4.5 kg (disc version)—the Slim model trims both dimensions and weight significantly.

Sony achieved this by reengineering the internal layout, reducing the heatsink size, and splitting the base stand into two optional components. The result is a console that’s more shelf-friendly and easier to integrate into compact entertainment centers.

Model	Dimensions (W x H x D)	Weight (Disc Version)	Base Stand
PS5 Original (Disc)	390mm x 104mm x 260mm	4.5 kg	Integrated screw-on
PS5 Slim (Disc)	358mm x 96mm x 216mm	3.2 kg	Optional, sold separately
PS5 Original (Digital)	390mm x 92mm x 260mm	3.9 kg	Integrated screw-on
PS5 Slim (Digital)	358mm x 96mm x 216mm	2.6 kg	Optional, sold separately

The Slim is approximately 30% smaller in volume and up to 1.3 kg lighter. This reduction makes a tangible difference when placing the console vertically on a media shelf or horizontally in a tight cabinet. However, the trade-off is that the base stand must now be purchased separately if you plan to use the vertical orientation—a minor but notable inconvenience for existing users who expect plug-and-play simplicity.

Tip: If space is limited in your setup, the PS5 Slim's reduced depth (216mm vs 260mm) can make it fit where the original couldn't.

Performance: Is There a Noticeable Difference?

One of the most common misconceptions about the PS5 Slim is that it offers better performance. In reality, Sony did not upgrade the core hardware. Both models share identical specifications:

• CPU: 8-core AMD Zen 2 @ 3.5GHz (variable frequency)
• GPU: 10.28 TFLOPs, RDNA 2 architecture
• RAM: 16GB GDDR6
• Storage: Custom 825GB SSD (original), 1TB SSD (Slim)
• Expandable via NVMe M.2 slot

Games run at the same frame rates, resolutions, and load times across both consoles. No developer patches were required for the Slim because there are no architectural changes affecting performance. Any perceived improvement in speed or responsiveness is likely due to firmware updates or external factors like network conditions or game optimization—not the console revision itself.

“From a gameplay perspective, the PS5 Slim is functionally indistinguishable from the original. It’s a refinement, not a reinvention.” — Mark Chen, Console Hardware Analyst at GameTech Insights

Thermal performance has been scrutinized due to the smaller heatsink. Early teardowns suggested potential for higher fan noise under sustained load. However, user reports indicate that real-world temperatures remain within safe margins, and the revised cooling system appears efficient enough for typical usage patterns. Only during extended 4K gaming sessions might the fan become slightly more audible—but not to a disruptive degree.

Storage and Expandability Upgrades

One meaningful upgrade in the PS5 Slim is storage capacity. The original PS5 launched with an 825GB SSD, of which only about 667GB is usable. With modern games regularly exceeding 100GB, many users quickly ran out of space.

The PS5 Slim increases internal storage to 1TB—approximately 848GB available for games and apps. That extra 180GB provides breathing room, delaying the need to manage deletions or invest in external drives immediately.

Both models support expandable storage via the M.2 NVMe slot, allowing compatible PCIe Gen4 drives up to 8TB. However, the Slim introduces a redesigned internal bay with tool-less installation. A sliding mechanism replaces screws, making upgrades faster and more accessible for non-technical users.

Tip: When upgrading your SSD, choose a drive with a heatsink rated for PS5 compatibility—Sony requires thermal management for stability.

This design shift reflects Sony learning from early feedback. Many original PS5 owners found the SSD upgrade process fiddly, requiring precise screw alignment. The new mechanism lowers the barrier to entry for storage expansion, encouraging users to customize their experience without fear of damage.

Real-World User Scenario: Should You Upgrade?

Consider Alex, a dedicated PS5 owner since launch. He bought the original disc edition and enjoys playing AAA titles like *God of War Ragnarök*, *Spider-Man 2*, and *Final Fantasy XVI*. His console sits in a closed entertainment unit, and he’s noticed it runs warm after hours-long sessions. He’s also deleted several games recently to install new releases.

When the PS5 Slim launched, Alex debated upgrading. He appreciated the smaller size and larger SSD but questioned whether it justified the cost—especially since his current console still performs well.

After researching, he concluded that while the Slim offers quality-of-life improvements, they weren’t essential. Instead of replacing his working console, he opted to add a 2TB NVMe SSD to the original model, gaining ample storage and keeping his existing setup. He also improved airflow around the console by relocating it to a more ventilated shelf, reducing heat buildup.

For users like Alex, upgrading may offer marginal benefits but lacks compelling urgency. The decision hinges less on performance and more on personal priorities: space constraints, desire for newer design, or preference for future-proofing.

Upgrade Checklist: Is the PS5 Slim Right for You?

Before deciding, assess your situation using this checklist:

1. Are you running out of storage frequently? If yes, the 1TB drive in the Slim helps—but so does adding an M.2 SSD to your current console.
2. Is space a concern in your entertainment center? If your current PS5 doesn’t fit comfortably, the Slim’s smaller profile could be a decisive factor.
3. Do you value aesthetics and modern design? The Slim features removable side panels and updated color blocks, offering a fresher look.
4. Have you experienced hardware issues? If your original console has faults (e.g., disc drive failure, overheating), upgrading becomes more justifiable.
5. Can you resell your original model? Recouping some cost through resale improves the financial logic behind an upgrade.
6. Are you buying a second console for another room? In this case, choosing the newer model makes sense for consistency and efficiency.

If three or more apply strongly, the upgrade holds merit. Otherwise, sticking with your original PS5 is perfectly reasonable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the PS5 Slim have better load times than the original?

No. Both models use SSDs with similar read speeds. The Slim’s 1TB drive doesn’t offer faster performance—only more capacity. Load times depend on game optimization and firmware, not the console revision.

Can I transfer my games and data to a PS5 Slim?

Yes. You can transfer data via Wi-Fi, LAN cable, or external USB drive. All saved games, settings, and even installed titles can be moved seamlessly between PS5 models.

Is the base stand really sold separately?

Yes. Unlike the original, the PS5 Slim does not include the vertical stand. You’ll need to buy it separately ($29.99 MSRP) or use third-party alternatives. Horizontal placement doesn’t require the stand.

Long-Term Value and Future Considerations

As the PS5 enters its fourth year, backward compatibility ensures all current and upcoming games will run on both models. There are no plans for a “PS5 Pro” console that would render either version obsolete—at least not before 2025.

Investing in a PS5 Slim today means owning the latest standard version of the console, which may hold resale value better over time. It also reduces the likelihood of supply-chain issues if you ever need a replacement.

However, upgrading purely for the sake of having the newest model rarely pays off in practical terms. The original PS5 remains a powerful machine capable of delivering everything Sony intends for this generation. Unless physical limitations or storage frustration are actively impacting your experience, patience is a valid strategy.

“The PS5 Slim is what the original should’ve been from day one—more compact, better balanced, and slightly smarter in design. But it’s not revolutionary.” — Lisa Park, Senior Editor at Digital Frontiers

Conclusion: Making the Smart Choice

The PS5 Slim is a refined version of an already excellent console. It addresses legitimate criticisms about size and storage while maintaining the same high-level performance that defined the original. However, these improvements are evolutionary, not transformative.

For first-time buyers, the Slim is clearly the better choice—it’s newer, sleeker, and comes with more usable storage. But for existing owners, the upgrade calculus depends on individual needs. If you're constrained by space or constantly juggling game installations, the Slim offers tangible benefits. If not, your money may be better spent on games, accessories, or saving for a future PS5 Pro.

Technology upgrades shouldn’t be driven by novelty alone. They should solve real problems in your daily use. Evaluate your current setup honestly. In most cases, the original PS5 continues to deliver a premium gaming experience—one that doesn’t require replacement just because a slightly smaller version exists.

🚀 Ready to optimize your PS5 experience? Whether you keep your original or upgrade to the Slim, focus on what matters: playing great games. Share your thoughts—do you think console revisions like this enhance value, or are they just cosmetic tweaks?