Is The New Ps5 Slim Worth Upgrading From Original For Storage Alone

The PlayStation 5 has evolved since its 2020 launch, with Sony releasing a revised \"Slim\" model in late 2023. Among the most notable changes is an increase in internal storage—from 825GB on the original model to 1TB on the Slim. For many players still using the launch version, that extra space raises a pressing question: Is upgrading to the new PS5 Slim justified if storage is your only motivation?

At first glance, more storage sounds like a straightforward win. Modern AAA games routinely consume 80–120GB each, and downloadable content, updates, and saved data add up quickly. But before swapping consoles, it’s essential to assess not just raw capacity, but also how much you actually need, what alternatives exist, and whether the upgrade delivers tangible benefits beyond gigabytes.

Understanding Storage Needs on the PS5

The original PS5 launched with an 825GB SSD, but only about 667GB is available to users after system files, firmware, and pre-installed software take their share. That may have seemed generous in 2020, but today’s gaming landscape is far more demanding. Titles like Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II, Hogwarts Legacy, and Final Fantasy VII Rebirth exceed 100GB, with some reaching nearly 140GB after patches.

If you own 5–6 large games simultaneously—common for players who juggle multiplayer titles, story campaigns, and seasonal content—you’ll likely hit the limit fast. This forces constant game management: deleting and redownloading titles, which wastes time and bandwidth, especially on slower internet connections.

The PS5 Slim bumps internal storage to 1TB, offering roughly 842GB of usable space—a 26% increase over the original. While this isn’t double the capacity, it does provide breathing room. You could store two or three additional full-sized games without resorting to external drives or frequent cleanups.

Tip: Use the PS5’s built-in storage analysis tool (Settings > Storage) to see exactly how much space each game and app consumes. This helps prioritize what to keep or archive.

Alternatives to Upgrading for More Storage

Before investing in a new console, consider less expensive ways to expand your existing PS5’s storage. Sony designed the original model with expandable storage in mind, allowing users to install compatible M.2 NVMe SSDs directly into the internal slot.

Adding a 1TB or even 2TB SSD to your current PS5 costs between $70 and $150, depending on speed and brand. High-performance drives like the Samsung 980 Pro, WD Black SN850, or Seagate FireCuda 530 are fully compatible and deliver the same load times and performance as the internal SSD. This option preserves your current setup while giving you more flexibility than the Slim’s modest internal bump.

Alternatively, you can use an external USB drive for PS4 and PS5 game backups. While you can’t play PS5 titles directly from USB storage, you can offload games you’re not currently playing and swap them back when needed. External HDDs are cheap—1TB models start under $50—and ideal for archiving.

“Upgrading your SSD is often smarter than upgrading your whole console. The performance gain is identical, and you save hundreds.” — Mark Tran, Hardware Analyst at GameTech Weekly

Comparing the Original PS5 and PS5 Slim: Beyond Storage

To determine if the Slim is worth it for storage alone, it’s crucial to understand all the differences between the two models. The storage increase is just one part of a broader redesign.

Feature	Original PS5	PS5 Slim
Internal Storage	825GB (667GB usable)	1TB (842GB usable)
Design & Size	Larger, heavier (4.5kg)	Smaller, lighter (3.2kg), modular disc drive
Expandable Storage	M.2 NVMe slot (supports up to 8TB)	M.2 NVMe slot (same, now supports larger drives)
Disc Drive	Built-in, non-removable	Sold separately; optional add-on
Price (Launch)	$499 (disc), $399 (digital)	$499 (disc + drive), $399 (digital)

The Slim is notably smaller and lighter, with a redesigned aesthetic that splits the outer panels for easier customization. It also introduces a detachable Ultra HD Blu-ray disc drive—an innovative move that lets digital edition owners upgrade later by purchasing the drive separately. However, this convenience comes at a cost: the base digital model no longer includes the drive, and adding it later runs $80.

In terms of raw performance, there is no difference. Both models use the same CPU, GPU, and SSD speeds. Load times, frame rates, and features like ray tracing and 3D audio remain identical. So, if you're seeking faster gameplay or better graphics, the Slim offers no advantage.

A Realistic Scenario: When the Upgrade Makes Sense

Consider Alex, a dedicated PS5 owner since day one. He plays across genres—competitive shooters, expansive RPGs, and narrative adventures. His library includes Elden Ring, Spider-Man 2, Warzone, and Horizon Forbidden West. Between games, updates, and captured clips, his 667GB fills up within weeks.

Initially, Alex used an external 2TB HDD to back up games. But he grew frustrated with the routine: deleting God of War Ragnarök to install Starfield, then waiting hours to re-download the former when he wanted to continue his campaign. He considered an M.2 upgrade but hesitated due to installation concerns.

When the PS5 Slim launched, Alex saw the 1TB storage as a chance to reduce friction. He upgraded, keeping his old console as a backup. In practice, the extra 175GB of usable space allowed him to keep five major titles installed simultaneously—enough to eliminate daily deletions. While he eventually added a 2TB SSD anyway, the Slim’s base storage delayed the need by several months.

For users like Alex—who value convenience, dislike managing storage, and play multiple large games—the Slim’s extra space provides meaningful relief, even if it’s not transformative.

Step-by-Step: Evaluating Your Upgrade Path

Deciding whether to upgrade should be based on your usage, budget, and long-term plans. Follow this sequence to make an informed choice:

1. Assess your current storage usage. Go to Settings > Storage and review how much space you’re using and what’s consuming the most.
2. List your most-played games. How many do you regularly switch between? If you typically play one game at a time, extra internal storage matters less.
3. Calculate expansion costs. Compare the price of a new PS5 Slim (~$500) vs. a 1TB M.2 SSD (~$90). The latter saves over $400.
4. Check your internet speed. If downloads take hours, minimizing redownloads becomes more valuable—potentially justifying the upgrade.
5. Consider future-proofing. Games will only get larger. A 1TB internal drive buys more headroom for next-gen releases through 2026 and beyond.
6. Weigh physical benefits. Do you want a smaller console? Easier panel swaps? A removable disc drive? These are bonuses, not primary reasons.
7. Make your decision. If storage is your only concern, upgrading internally is almost always better. If you also want design improvements and peace of mind, the Slim may be worth it.

FAQ: Common Questions About PS5 Storage and Upgrades

Can I use any SSD in my PS5?

No. Only M.2 NVMe SSDs that meet Sony’s specifications work. The drive must support PCIe Gen4, have a heatsink (or space for one), and offer sequential read speeds of at least 5,500 MB/s. Drives below this threshold won’t function.

Does the PS5 Slim allow more expandable storage than the original?

Slightly. While both support up to 8TB via M.2, the Slim officially supports drives up to 8TB (the original capped at 4TB in early firmware). Most users won’t need that much, but it’s a small technical improvement.

Is the digital PS5 Slim still cheaper than the disc version?

Yes, but with a catch. The digital edition is $399, but if you later want a disc drive, it’s an $80 add-on. That brings the total to $479—nearly the same as the $499 disc model, which includes the drive upfront.

Final Verdict: Should You Upgrade for Storage Alone?

The short answer: probably not. If your sole goal is more storage, buying an M.2 SSD for your original PS5 is significantly cheaper and equally effective. You gain the same performance, more total capacity, and retain your current console’s functionality.

The PS5 Slim’s 1TB drive is a welcome improvement, but it doesn’t solve the fundamental storage crunch long-term. Even 842GB fills quickly with modern games. The real benefit lies in the combination of slightly more space, a sleeker design, and modular features—not storage alone.

However, if you’ve been wanting to refresh your setup, value the smaller footprint, or appreciate the option to customize or relocate the disc drive, the Slim becomes a more compelling package. In that case, the added storage is a bonus, not the main attraction.

Ultimately, upgrading purely for 175GB of extra space isn’t cost-effective. But if you’re already considering a hardware refresh for other reasons, the increased base storage makes the Slim a smarter starting point than its predecessor.

🚀 Ready to optimize your PS5 experience? Whether you upgrade the console or just the SSD, taking control of your storage means less waiting and more playing. Share your setup tips or upgrade story in the comments!