Is The New Ps5 Slim Worth It Or Should You Stick With The Original

The PlayStation 5 has redefined next-gen gaming since its 2020 launch, delivering stunning visuals, lightning-fast load times, and immersive haptic feedback through the DualSense controller. In late 2023, Sony introduced a revised model—the PS5 Slim—prompting a wave of questions from gamers: Is this update substantial enough to justify an upgrade? Or is the original PS5 still the smarter choice? For those weighing their options, the answer isn’t just about specs—it’s about lifestyle, budget, and long-term gaming goals.

This guide breaks down every key difference between the original PS5 and the PS5 Slim, evaluates real-world performance, and helps you make an informed decision based on your needs. Whether you're considering your first purchase or thinking about trading up, understanding the nuances will save you time, money, and buyer's remorse.

Design and Physical Changes: Smaller, Lighter, But Still Familiar

The most noticeable change in the PS5 Slim is its physical footprint. Sony reduced the console’s volume by approximately 30% compared to the original model. The new unit measures 358mm (W) × 96mm (H) × 216mm (D), making it significantly more compact. It also weighs about 18% less—5.1 kg for the disc version versus 4.5 kg—improving portability and reducing strain on shelves or entertainment centers.

The aesthetic remains consistent with the original’s two-tone white-and-black design, but the front panel now features a removable side cover that allows users to swap out the included 1TB SSD expansion drive without tools. This modularity marks a shift toward user-friendly upgrades, a feature many enthusiasts praised.

One notable change is the removal of the base stand screw hole on the bottom. Instead, the Slim requires horizontal placement using a redesigned vertical stand or resting flat on a surface. While minor, this may inconvenience users who preferred the original’s flexible orientation options.

Tip: If space is limited in your setup, the PS5 Slim’s smaller size makes it ideal for tighter entertainment units or travel setups.

Performance: Identical Power, Same Gaming Experience

Despite the redesign, there are no changes to the core hardware. Both the original PS5 and PS5 Slim use the same AMD Zen 2 CPU, RDNA 2 GPU, and 16GB of GDDR6 RAM. Gamers will experience identical frame rates, resolution output (up to 4K), ray tracing capabilities, and fast loading thanks to the custom SSD.

Sony confirmed that thermal performance is comparable, with the Slim using a slightly larger heat sink to compensate for the reduced chassis size. Independent tests show no meaningful difference in noise levels or sustained performance during extended play sessions. Games like *God of War Ragnarök*, *Spider-Man 2*, and *Horizon Forbidden West* run identically across both models.

In essence, the PS5 Slim is not a performance upgrade. It’s a refinement—one focused on form rather than function. If you already own a PS5, upgrading solely for better graphics or faster gameplay won’t yield any benefits.

“From a technical standpoint, the PS5 Slim is a packaging evolution, not a generational leap.” — Mark Rivera, Senior Hardware Analyst at GameTech Weekly

Storage and Expandability: A Meaningful Upgrade

One area where the PS5 Slim pulls ahead is internal storage. While the original PS5 launched with an 825GB SSD (about 667GB usable), the Slim comes with a 1TB drive—offering roughly 840GB of available space. Given that modern AAA titles can exceed 100GB each (*Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III* clocks in at over 200GB), this extra capacity is welcome.

More importantly, the Slim includes a pre-installed, removable NVMe SSD. Unlike the original model, which required opening the side panel and installing third-party drives, the Slim lets users slide out the internal drive and replace it with a higher-capacity one—or even transfer data between consoles easily. This simplifies upgrades and enhances flexibility for power users.

Both models support M.2 NVMe expansion via the internal slot, allowing up to 4TB of additional storage. However, the Slim’s modular design lowers the barrier for entry-level users who might otherwise hesitate to open their console.

Internal Storage Comparison

Model	Total SSD Capacity	Usable Space	Expandable?	Modular Internal Drive
Original PS5 (Disc & Digital)	825 GB	~667 GB	Yes (M.2 slot)	No
PS5 Slim (Disc Edition)	1 TB	~840 GB	Yes (M.2 slot + removable drive)	Yes
PS5 Slim Digital Edition	1 TB	~840 GB	Yes (M.2 slot + removable drive)	Yes

Should You Upgrade? A Practical Decision Framework

Deciding whether to switch to the PS5 Slim depends on several factors: ownership status, budget, usage patterns, and future plans. Below is a step-by-step guide to help evaluate your situation.

Step 1: Assess Your Current Setup

• You don’t own a PS5: The Slim is the clear choice. It’s newer, has more storage, and offers improved serviceability. Unless you find a deep discount on leftover original stock, go for the updated model.
• You own the original PS5 and are satisfied: There’s little reason to upgrade unless you’re consistently running out of storage or want a smaller console footprint.

Step 2: Evaluate Storage Needs

If you frequently delete games to make room for new ones, the Slim’s 1TB drive provides tangible relief. Consider how many games you typically keep installed. Most players maintain 4–6 large titles at once, which can quickly consume 600GB+.

Step 3: Consider Long-Term Value

The PS5 Slim may hold resale value better due to its newer design and enhanced usability. As repairability becomes a growing consumer concern, the ability to swap drives without disassembly adds longevity.

Step 4: Factor in Cost

The PS5 Slim retails at the same price as the original did at launch: $499 for the disc version, $449 for digital. If you’d need to sell your current console to afford the upgrade, calculate net cost after trade-in. Many retailers offer around $250–$300 for a used original PS5, meaning your out-of-pocket could be $150–$200—potentially worth it for the storage and size benefits.

Step 5: Think About Future-Proofing

Sony has hinted that no further major hardware revisions are planned before the PS6 era (expected 2028). That means the Slim is likely the final iteration of the PS5 line. Buying now ensures you’re on the most supported, serviceable version for years to come.

Tip: If you plan to keep your console beyond 2027, prioritize models with easier upgrade paths—the PS5 Slim fits that need perfectly.

Real-World Example: Jamie’s Upgrade Dilemma

Jamie, a college student and avid gamer, purchased the original PS5 at launch. Over two years, they accumulated dozens of games, constantly juggling installations due to limited storage. When their roommate bought a PS5 Slim, Jamie noticed how much smaller it was and asked to try it.

After comparing both consoles side by side, Jamie realized the performance was identical—but the Slim’s extra 175GB of storage meant they could keep *Final Fantasy XVI*, *Baldur’s Gate 3*, and three multiplayer titles ready to play without constant deletions. They also appreciated the ability to remove the internal drive and back up saves externally—a feature useful when moving between dorms.

Jamie traded in their original PS5 for $280 and paid $449 for the Slim Digital Edition, totaling $169 out of pocket. For them, the convenience, space savings, and peace of mind made the upgrade worthwhile—even without performance gains.

Checklist: Should You Buy the PS5 Slim?

Use this checklist to determine if the PS5 Slim is right for you:

1. ☐ I don’t currently own a PS5.
2. ☐ I frequently run out of storage on my current console.
3. ☐ My entertainment center is tight on space.
4. ☐ I value ease of maintenance and future upgrades.
5. ☐ I’m planning to keep my console until the PS6 launches.
6. ☐ I want the latest version available from Sony.

If you checked three or more boxes, the PS5 Slim is likely a smart investment. If you own the original and only checked one or two, sticking with what you have may be the more economical choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my existing accessories with the PS5 Slim?

Yes. All PS5-compatible accessories—including the DualSense controller, Pulse 3D headset, HD Camera, and charging station—work seamlessly with the PS5 Slim. No adapter or firmware update is needed.

Does the PS5 Slim support backward compatibility?

Absolutely. Like the original, the PS5 Slim plays nearly all PS4 games, with hundreds enhanced for better performance. Disc owners can insert physical PS4 discs directly. Digital owners can redownload previously purchased titles from the cloud.

Is the fan noise quieter on the PS5 Slim?

Independent reviews show minimal difference in acoustics. Some users report slightly lower idle noise due to refined airflow, but under heavy load (e.g., playing *Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart*), both models perform similarly. Environmental factors like ventilation matter more than model differences.

Final Verdict: Who Should Upgrade and Who Should Wait

The PS5 Slim isn’t a revolutionary upgrade, but it is a thoughtful refinement. For new buyers, it’s the obvious pick—better storage, smaller size, and improved serviceability make it the definitive PS5 experience. For current owners, the decision hinges on practicality rather than performance.

If you’re frustrated by storage limits, constrained by space, or simply prefer having the latest hardware, upgrading makes sense. But if your original PS5 runs smoothly and meets your needs, there’s no urgent reason to replace it. The core gaming experience remains unchanged.

Sony’s approach reflects a mature product lifecycle: instead of chasing raw power, they’ve focused on user experience, durability, and accessibility. That philosophy aligns with how most people actually use their consoles—not as cutting-edge tech demos, but as reliable, long-term entertainment hubs.

🚀 Ready to make your move? Whether you're upgrading or buying your first PS5, choosing the Slim model future-proofs your setup with smarter design and greater flexibility. Share your thoughts below—do you prefer the original or the new Slim?