Is The Playstation 5 Slim Worth Upgrading From The Original Model For Space Savings

The PlayStation 5 has undergone a notable redesign with the release of the PS5 Slim, offering a more compact form factor than the original bulky console. For many gamers, space is a premium—especially in smaller entertainment centers or shared living spaces. The question arises: Is upgrading from the original PS5 to the Slim version justified solely for the sake of saving space? The answer isn't as simple as measuring cubic inches. It involves evaluating design improvements, long-term usability, resale trade-offs, and whether the physical reduction translates into meaningful lifestyle benefits.

This article breaks down every angle of the upgrade decision, focusing on spatial efficiency while also considering performance parity, storage expansion, and overall value. Whether you're rearranging your media setup or simply curious about the new hardware, this guide delivers a realistic assessment grounded in practical use.

Size and Design: Measurable Differences That Matter

The most obvious change between the original PS5 and the PS5 Slim is physical footprint. Sony redesigned both the disc and digital editions to be significantly smaller and lighter. The reduction isn’t just cosmetic—it’s structural. The new chassis reorganizes internal components, allowing for tighter integration without compromising cooling performance.

Here's a direct comparison:

Model	Height (cm)	Width (cm)	Depth (cm)	Volume (approx. L)	Weight (kg)
PS5 Original (Disc)	92	39	26	9.4	4.5
PS5 Slim (Disc)	78	36	22	6.1	3.2
PS5 Slim (Digital)	78	36	22	6.1	2.6

The Slim models are approximately 30% smaller in volume and nearly 1.3 kg lighter for the disc version. This makes vertical or horizontal placement easier, especially in cabinets with tight clearances. The unified base stand (now sold separately) allows flexible orientation without requiring different attachment mechanisms like the original model.

Tip: If your entertainment unit has less than 90 cm of vertical clearance, the PS5 Slim will fit where the original likely won’t—without tilting or removing shelves.

Performance: No Trade-Offs for Smaller Size

Despite its reduced dimensions, the PS5 Slim maintains identical internal specs to the original. It uses the same custom AMD Zen 2 CPU, RDNA 2 GPU, and 825GB SSD. There is no difference in processing power, loading times, or graphical fidelity. Games run exactly the same way across both models.

Cooling has been re-engineered, not compromised. The Slim features a revised heatsink layout and airflow path, which Sony claims improves thermal efficiency. Independent tests show similar or slightly better sustained performance under load, with marginally lower surface temperatures during extended gameplay sessions.

One subtle but important change: the optical drive in the Slim is now detachable. You can purchase the digital edition and later add a disc drive if needed—something impossible with the original digital model. This modularity adds flexibility, especially for users who may want to start digital and expand later.

“Miniaturization in console design often raises concerns about heat and longevity, but the PS5 Slim demonstrates that smarter engineering can reduce size without sacrificing reliability.” — David Chen, Hardware Analyst at GameTech Review

Storage Expansion: A Key Upgrade Consideration

The PS5 Slim increases internal storage from 825GB to 1TB—a modest but welcome improvement. Given that modern AAA titles can exceed 100GB each, even after compression, this extra 175GB provides breathing room for two or three additional games.

Both models support M.2 NVMe SSD expansion via the internal bay, so expanding beyond the base storage remains equally viable. However, the Slim ships with more usable space out of the box, reducing the immediate need to invest in a third-party drive.

For those upgrading from the original PS5, consider this: if you’ve already installed a 1TB or larger SSD, the built-in increase may not be a major factor. But if you’re still relying on the internal drive, the Slim offers a slight edge in convenience.

Real-World Example: Space Constraints in a Shared Living Room

Consider Mark, a gamer living in a compact apartment with a wall-mounted TV and a narrow media console. His original PS5 barely fits upright beside a soundbar receiver and streaming box. The top of the cabinet is only 95 cm high—just enough for the original PS5 when placed vertically with minimal clearance.

After dust buildup caused overheating warnings during a marathon gaming session, he realized the tight space was restricting airflow. He considered switching to horizontal placement, but the depth would push the console too far forward, risking accidental bumps.

When the PS5 Slim launched, Mark measured again. At 78 cm tall, the Slim gave him 17 cm of extra overhead space—enough for proper ventilation and easy cable access. He traded in his original model through a retailer program and upgraded. The result? Better airflow, quieter operation, and a cleaner-looking setup. For Mark, the space savings weren’t just aesthetic—they improved system stability.

Cost-Benefit Analysis: What You Gain and What You Lose

Upgrading means financial investment. As of 2024, the PS5 Slim retails for $499 (disc) and $449 (digital), while used original models sell for $300–$375 depending on condition. Factoring in trade-in value, the effective cost of upgrading ranges from $125 to $200.

So what do you get for that?

• ~30% smaller footprint – Enables placement in tighter spaces.
• Detachable disc drive option – Future-proof flexibility.
• Extra 175GB internal storage – Delays need for external SSD purchase.
• Improved base stand design – Consistent mounting regardless of orientation.
• Slightly better thermals – Marginal gain, but contributes to longevity.

What you don’t get:

• No performance boost.
• No exclusive features or early access.
• No backward compatibility improvements.

If space is your primary constraint, the upgrade pays off. But if your current PS5 fits comfortably and runs well, the benefits are incremental rather than transformative.

Tip: Before upgrading, measure your entertainment center’s internal dimensions—including clearance for cables and ventilation. Even 5 cm can make a difference.

Step-by-Step Guide: Deciding Whether to Upgrade

Follow this sequence to determine if the PS5 Slim is right for your situation:

1. Measure your current setup. Note height, width, depth, and surrounding devices. Include space needed for HDMI, power, and USB cables.
2. Assess airflow. Is your original PS5 in an enclosed cabinet? Does it get hot during long sessions? Poor ventilation reduces lifespan.
3. Evaluate your usage patterns. Do you frequently move the console? Store it vertically? The Slim is easier to handle and position.
4. Check your storage needs. Are you constantly deleting games to make room? The extra 175GB helps, but an M.2 SSD might be cheaper than a full console swap.
5. Research trade-in values. Compare what your original PS5 is worth versus the cost of a new Slim. Online retailers and local stores offer varying rates.
6. Consider future plans. Will you eventually upgrade to a larger TV or new audio system? Timing upgrades together can save effort.
7. Make your decision. If space is tight and your current console causes setup friction, the Slim is a worthwhile upgrade. Otherwise, wait until replacement is necessary.

Checklist: Is the PS5 Slim Right for You?

Answer “yes” to two or more of these to justify an upgrade focused on space savings:

• ✅ My entertainment center has less than 90 cm of vertical clearance.
• ✅ I want to place the console vertically but lack space above it.
• ✅ My current PS5 overheats or throttles due to poor airflow.
• ✅ I frequently rearrange or transport my setup (e.g., dorm, shared space).
• ✅ I prefer a cleaner, less obtrusive look in my living area.
• ✅ I plan to keep this console for 4+ years and value long-term ergonomics.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my original PS5 accessories with the Slim?

Most accessories are compatible, including controllers, headsets, and charging docks. However, the new base stand is not included and must be purchased separately if you need one. Older stands won’t fit the Slim’s redesigned bottom panel.

Does the PS5 Slim have worse cooling because it’s smaller?

No. Despite its size, the Slim uses a re-engineered cooling solution with optimized airflow and a larger heatsink surface area relative to volume. Thermal performance is on par with or slightly better than the original model under sustained loads.

Is it worth upgrading just for the extra storage?

Not solely. The 1TB drive is helpful, but you can achieve the same result by installing an affordable M.2 SSD in your original PS5 for under $60. If space isn’t an issue, expanding storage is more cost-effective than replacing the entire console.

Final Verdict: When Space Savings Justify the Upgrade

The PS5 Slim is not a revolutionary leap, but a thoughtful refinement. For users with constrained spaces, it solves real problems: fitting into smaller cabinets, improving airflow, and offering greater placement flexibility. The 30% reduction in volume is significant in practice, especially when every centimeter counts.

If your original PS5 already fits well, runs cool, and doesn’t interfere with your environment, upgrading purely for size may not be cost-effective. However, if you’ve struggled with placement, overheating, or cable management, the Slim offers tangible quality-of-life improvements.

Moreover, the modular disc drive and increased base storage enhance long-term usability. These features suggest Sony is shifting toward more sustainable, user-friendly design principles. By upgrading now, you align with that trajectory—potentially delaying the next hardware refresh.

💬 Have you upgraded to the PS5 Slim? Did the space savings make a difference in your setup? Share your experience and help others decide whether the switch is worth it!