Is The New Ps5 Slim Upgrade Worth It If You Already Own The Original Model

The PlayStation 5 has been a defining console of this generation, delivering immersive gaming experiences since its 2020 launch. In late 2023, Sony introduced a revised version: the PS5 Slim. Sleeker, slightly lighter, and with more built-in storage, it’s designed to replace the original model. But for those who already own the standard PS5, the question arises — is upgrading truly worthwhile? The answer depends on your priorities, usage habits, and expectations from the hardware.

This article breaks down every practical difference between the original PS5 and the PS5 Slim, evaluates real-world benefits, and helps you decide whether an upgrade makes financial and functional sense.

Design and Physical Differences

The most noticeable change in the PS5 Slim is its physical footprint. Sony reduced the overall volume by approximately 30% compared to the original model. While both versions maintain the same white-and-black futuristic aesthetic, the Slim is less imposing on entertainment centers. It measures about 358mm (W) × 96mm (H) × 216mm (D), making it significantly shorter in height and depth.

The disc drive is now detachable. Instead of buying two separate models (disc and digital), Sony sells the base Slim unit without a drive. You can purchase the optical drive separately and install it yourself using a screwdriver. This modular approach allows flexibility but adds a minor inconvenience for physical media users.

Tip: If you plan to mount your console vertically, the PS5 Slim's redesigned stand requires repositioning depending on orientation — keep the included screwdriver handy.

The internal layout has also been optimized. Components are more tightly integrated, allowing for better airflow despite the smaller chassis. However, thermal performance remains nearly identical; both consoles use advanced liquid metal cooling and large heatsinks. Independent tests show no meaningful difference in sustained performance or noise levels during gameplay.

Storage Capacity and Expandability

One of the most tangible upgrades is storage. The original PS5 launched with 825GB of SSD storage, of which only about 667GB is usable. The PS5 Slim increases that to 1TB, giving users roughly 848GB of available space. That extra 180GB may not sound like much, but modern AAA games regularly exceed 100GB each. For players who frequently juggle game installations, this added capacity reduces how often they need to delete and redownload titles.

Both models support M.2 NVMe SSD expansion via the internal slot. The PS5 Slim retains full compatibility with existing drives, so if you’ve already upgraded your original console, the benefit here is marginal. However, if you haven’t expanded yet, the base increase alone could delay the need for additional investment.

“While the PS5 Slim isn’t a performance leap, the doubled base storage is a welcome fix to one of the original’s biggest pain points.” — James Chen, Senior Hardware Analyst at TechInsider

Performance: Identical Under the Hood

Despite the redesign, the core specifications remain unchanged. The PS5 Slim uses the same AMD Zen 2 CPU, RDNA 2 GPU, and 16GB of GDDR6 memory as the original. There is no improvement in frame rates, load times, ray tracing, or resolution output. Games run identically across both models. Whether you're playing *Spider-Man 2*, *Final Fantasy XVI*, or *Resident Evil Village*, visual fidelity and responsiveness are indistinguishable.

Sony focused on refinement, not reinvention. The SSD speed is unchanged at 5.5 GB/s raw bandwidth, meaning boot times and fast travel mechanics perform the same. Firmware updates and system menus respond just as quickly on both units.

If you were hoping for a “Pro”-level boost similar to previous mid-cycle refreshes (like the PS4 Pro), the PS5 Slim is not that. It doesn’t support 1440p VRR passthrough or enhanced upscaling algorithms. It’s purely a hardware revision aimed at manufacturing efficiency and consumer convenience.

Comparison Table: Original PS5 vs. PS5 Slim

Feature	Original PS5	PS5 Slim
Release Year	2020	2023
Size (Volume)	Full-size tower	~30% smaller
Weight (Disc Version)	4.5 kg (horizontal)	3.2 kg (horizontal)
Internal Storage	825GB SSD (~667GB usable)	1TB SSD (~848GB usable)
Disc Drive	Built-in (on disc model)	Optional, sold separately
M.2 SSD Expansion	Supported	Supported
CPU/GPU Performance	Same specs	No change
Backward Compatibility	PS4 games supported	Same support
Controller	DualSense	DualSense (slightly lighter battery)

Real-World Scenario: Should You Upgrade?

Consider Sarah, a long-time PS5 owner who bought the original disc edition at launch. She plays about 15–20 hours per week, mostly single-player story-driven titles. Her current SSD is nearly full, but she recently installed a 2TB M.2 drive, solving her storage concerns. She values quiet operation and dislikes clutter, so the smaller size of the Slim appeals to her.

However, switching would mean selling her current console, purchasing the new Slim ($449.99), and buying the disc drive separately ($79.99). Even if she recoups $300 from her used PS5, the net cost exceeds $200. For no gain in performance, and with her storage already upgraded, the switch offers minimal benefit.

In contrast, Alex owns the original Digital Edition and regrets not having a disc drive. He buys multiple physical games on sale and rents titles from local shops. For him, the PS5 Slim’s modular drive is a game-changer. He can now buy the base unit and add the drive only once, rather than owning two separate consoles over time. The upgrade becomes more rational when it solves a specific limitation he’s experienced.

When the Upgrade Makes Sense

Not all owners should dismiss the PS5 Slim outright. Certain situations make the transition logical:

• You’re still on the waitlist or replacing a broken unit: If you haven’t acquired a PS5 yet, the Slim is the default choice. It’s newer, more compact, and has more storage.
• You want a cleaner setup: The smaller form factor integrates better into minimalist entertainment centers or tight spaces.
• You never upgraded internal storage: The extra 180GB of usable space eliminates early frustrations with game management.
• You prefer modularity: Being able to add or remove the disc drive gives future flexibility, especially if you switch between digital and physical libraries.

On the other hand, if you’re happy with your current setup, have already expanded storage, and don’t care about aesthetics, upgrading is hard to justify financially.

Step-by-Step: How to Decide If You Should Upgrade

1. Assess your current setup: Are you running out of storage? Is the size of the console an issue?
2. Evaluate your usage: Do you rely on physical discs? Would a removable drive improve your experience?
3. Check your expansion status: Have you already added an M.2 SSD? If yes, the storage advantage diminishes.
4. Calculate total cost: Include resale value of your current console, price of the Slim, and optional drive.
5. Compare alternatives: Could that money be better spent on games, accessories, or saving for a future PS5 Pro?
6. Make your decision: Only proceed if the benefits clearly outweigh the cost and effort.

Checklist: Is the PS5 Slim Right for You?

• ☐ I am still waiting to buy my first PS5
• ☐ I find the original PS5 too bulky
• ☐ I haven’t upgraded my internal storage
• ☐ I want the option to add/remove a disc drive later
• ☐ I frequently swap games due to limited space
• ☐ I’m experiencing hardware issues with my current console

If three or more apply, the PS5 Slim may be worth considering. If none do, staying put is the smarter move.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I transfer my data from the original PS5 to the PS5 Slim?

Yes. You can transfer games, saves, and settings via Wi-Fi, LAN cable, or USB drive. The process is seamless and takes under an hour for most users, depending on data volume.

Does the PS5 Slim come with a DualSense controller?

Yes, one DualSense controller is included in the box, identical in functionality to the original. Some users report a slightly lighter weight due to a smaller battery, but haptic feedback and battery life remain consistent.

Will there be a PS5 Pro, and should I wait?

Rumors suggest a PS5 Pro may launch in late 2024 or 2025, potentially offering improved ray tracing, higher frame rates, and AI upscaling. If you’re seeking real performance gains, holding off for a Pro model might be more beneficial than upgrading to the Slim.

Conclusion: Value Over Novelty

The PS5 Slim is a refinement, not a revolution. It addresses some of the original’s practical shortcomings — bulkiness and limited base storage — while introducing modular flexibility with the disc drive. But for existing owners, these improvements rarely translate into meaningful upgrades in daily use.

Unless you’re constrained by space, frustrated by storage limits, or replacing a faulty unit, the financial and logistical cost of upgrading outweighs the benefits. Your money may be better invested in expanding your game library, upgrading your display, or saving for the next true generational leap.

Technology evolves, but smart ownership means knowing when to upgrade — and when to hold steady. The PS5 Slim is a solid console, but for most original owners, it’s an unnecessary step.

🚀 Have thoughts on the PS5 Slim? Share your experience below — are you sticking with your original, or did you make the switch? Let’s discuss what really matters in console upgrades.