Is The Playstation 5 Slim Worth Upgrading To From The Original

The PlayStation 5 Slim arrived in late 2023 as a refined version of the original PS5, promising a more compact design, increased storage, and subtle improvements. For owners of the launch model, the question isn’t whether the new console is good—it clearly is—but whether upgrading makes practical sense. After all, the original PS5 still delivers an exceptional gaming experience. So, is the upgrade truly worthwhile, or is it just a cosmetic refresh aimed at newer buyers?

To answer that, we need to look beyond marketing and assess tangible differences: physical design, internal specs, storage capacity, backward compatibility, pricing strategy, and long-term value. This isn’t about chasing the latest gadget; it’s about evaluating whether the changes meaningfully improve your daily use, game library management, or overall enjoyment.

Design and Physical Differences

The most noticeable change between the original PS5 and the PS5 Slim is size. Sony reduced the console’s volume by approximately 30% and cut its weight by nearly 24%. The original PS5 was famously large—some called it imposing—measuring 390mm x 104mm x 260mm (W×H×D) and weighing 4.5kg for the disc edition. The Slim shrinks this to 358mm x 96mm x 216mm and drops the weight to 3.2kg (disc version).

This reduction improves placement flexibility. The original often dominated entertainment centers, requiring careful planning to fit on shelves or avoid overheating due to restricted airflow. The Slim fits more easily into tighter spaces and reduces visual bulk without sacrificing ventilation.

Another key design update is modularity. The PS5 Slim features a detachable Ultra HD Blu-ray drive available only with the digital edition. This allows users to start with a lower-cost digital model and add disc functionality later via a $79.99 upgrade kit. In contrast, the original models were fixed: once you bought digital, you couldn’t add a drive.

Tip: If you own physical games or plan to buy them secondhand, consider purchasing the disc edition outright—even if used—rather than paying extra later for the add-on drive.

Storage Capacity: A Meaningful Upgrade

One of the most impactful upgrades in the PS5 Slim is internal storage. The original PS5 came with 825GB of SSD storage, roughly 667GB usable after system files. Modern AAA titles like Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III or Final Fantasy VII Rebirth can exceed 150GB, quickly filling that space.

The PS5 Slim increases total storage to 1TB, offering around 848GB of usable space—an improvement of nearly 180GB. While not revolutionary, this extra headroom delays the need to constantly delete and redownload games. It’s particularly helpful for players who frequently switch between titles or maintain large libraries.

Both consoles support M.2 NVMe SSD expansion, so technically, you could achieve the same result on the original model. But doing so requires research, compatible hardware, and installation effort. The Slim offers more convenience out of the box, especially for less tech-savvy users.

“The 1TB upgrade may seem minor, but in practice, it eliminates one friction point in the user experience—running out of space mid-download.” — Jordan Lee, Senior Hardware Analyst at GameTech Weekly

Performance: No Noticeable Gains

Despite the redesign, there are no performance improvements in the PS5 Slim. Both models use the same custom AMD Zen 2 CPU, RDNA 2 GPU, and memory architecture. Frame rates, load times, ray tracing capabilities, and 4K output remain identical.

Sony did not increase clock speeds, enhance cooling beyond what’s necessary for the smaller form factor, or introduce new processing features. Games run exactly the same way on both systems. If your goal is better performance—higher frame rates, faster loading, or improved visuals—the upgrade will not deliver.

Cooling has been re-engineered to accommodate the smaller chassis, using a more complex heat pipe layout and a slightly different fan configuration. Early teardowns suggest thermal performance is on par with the original, though sustained workloads haven’t shown any degradation. In normal usage, temperature and noise levels are comparable.

Price and Value Considerations

Pricing plays a crucial role in determining whether an upgrade makes sense. As of 2024, the PS5 Slim Digital Edition retails for $449.99, while the disc version is priced at $499.99. The original PS5 Digital was $399.99 at launch, and the disc version was $499.99—meaning the Slim digital model now costs $50 more than its predecessor.

However, the market has shifted. Used original PS5 units typically sell for $300–$375 (digital) and $375–$450 (disc), depending on condition and accessories. Meanwhile, the Slim models are primarily sold new through retailers.

If you already own an original PS5, selling it and buying a Slim would likely cost you $100–$150 out of pocket. That investment must be justified by real benefits—not just novelty.

Feature	Original PS5	PS5 Slim
Dimensions	390 × 104 × 260 mm	358 × 96 × 216 mm
Weight (Disc)	4.5 kg	3.2 kg
Internal Storage	825 GB (667 GB usable)	1 TB (848 GB usable)
Blu-ray Drive	Fixed (Digital has none)	Detachable (on Digital model)
Launch Price (Digital)	$399.99	$449.99
Launch Price (Disc)	$499.99	$499.99
Performance	Identical	Identical

When Upgrading Makes Sense

For most original PS5 owners, the upgrade isn’t essential. But specific scenarios make the Slim a logical step forward:

• You’re constantly deleting games due to storage limits. The extra 180GB of usable space reduces how often you juggle installations.
• You travel often or have limited space. The smaller footprint makes the Slim easier to transport or integrate into compact setups.
• You bought the original digital edition and now want disc support. Instead of relying on external drives or streaming, adding a removable drive gives you full access to physical media.
• Your original console is failing or showing wear. If your launch unit has hardware issues—fan noise, disc drive errors, or connectivity problems—the Slim serves as a reliable replacement with modern refinements.

On the other hand, if your current PS5 works well, you manage storage efficiently, and you’re satisfied with its size, upgrading is hard to justify purely on functional grounds.

Mini Case Study: Sarah’s Upgrade Decision

Sarah bought a PS5 Digital at launch in 2020. By 2023, she found herself constantly deleting games to make room for new releases. She also regretted not having a disc drive when her local store offered deep discounts on physical copies. After researching the Slim, she opted to trade in her original console and purchase the disc version.

“I wasn’t looking for better graphics,” she said. “But being able to keep five big games installed and finally play used titles made a real difference. The smaller size also meant I could move it to my bedroom without it looking ridiculous on my nightstand.”

Her decision wasn’t driven by hype—it was based on solving actual pain points. For users like Sarah, the upgrade delivers tangible quality-of-life improvements.

Step-by-Step: Should You Upgrade?

Follow this timeline to determine whether switching to the PS5 Slim is right for you:

1. Assess your current setup. Is your original PS5 functioning properly? Are you experiencing frequent crashes, loud fans, or disc read errors?
2. Evaluate your storage needs. How often do you delete games? Do you rely heavily on external USB drives?
3. Consider your media preferences. Do you buy physical games? Would access to used titles or disc-based sharing matter to you?
4. Check resale value. Look up current trade-in prices for your model. Factor in taxes and shipping if buying online.
5. Weigh the cost-benefit. Calculate the net expense of upgrading. Ask: Does the benefit outweigh spending $100+?
6. Decide based on utility, not novelty. Avoid upgrading simply because something is newer. Focus on whether it solves a real problem.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes. You can transfer games, saves, settings, and accounts using a LAN cable or Wi-Fi. Using a wired connection is faster and more stable, especially for large libraries. Cloud saves (via PlayStation Plus) also sync progress across devices.

Does the PS5 Slim support all original PS5 accessories?

Yes. All official DualSense controllers, Pulse headsets, charging docks, and VR peripherals work seamlessly with the PS5 Slim. There are no compatibility issues.

Is the detachable disc drive worth it?

Only if you plan to use it. At $79.99, it’s expensive for an add-on. However, it provides full backward compatibility with PS4 discs and access to cheaper secondhand PS5 games. For collectors or budget-conscious players, it adds meaningful value.

Expert Insight: Long-Term Console Strategy

Consoles are designed for longevity. The PS5 generation is expected to last until at least 2027, possibly longer. Mid-cycle revisions like the Slim are common—they refine manufacturing, reduce costs, and extend product life without disrupting the ecosystem.

“Mid-generation updates aren’t meant to obsolete existing hardware. They cater to new buyers and offer incremental improvements. Upgrading should be optional, not mandatory.” — Marcus Reed, Lead Editor at Console Insight

This philosophy aligns with Sony’s approach. The PS5 Slim doesn’t introduce exclusive features or games. It maintains parity so developers don’t need to optimize differently. Your experience remains consistent regardless of model.

Tips for Maximizing Your Current PS5

If you decide to keep your original console, here are ways to enhance its performance and lifespan:

Tip: Clean dust from vents monthly using compressed air. Accumulated debris can cause overheating and fan strain over time.

• Add an M.2 NVMe SSD to expand storage affordably. Many drives offer 1TB or 2TB capacity for under $100.
• Use external USB drives to archive older games. While you can’t play PS5 titles from USB, it’s ideal for storing PS4 games or backing up infrequently played titles.
• Enable rest mode charging and automatic downloads during off-peak hours to stay updated without active management.
• Organize your home screen with folders and prioritize frequently played games for quicker access.

Conclusion: Make a Thoughtful Choice

The PS5 Slim is a well-executed refinement—a sleeker, slightly more practical version of an already excellent console. But for owners of the original PS5, it doesn’t represent a generational leap. There’s no performance boost, no exclusive features, and no compelling reason to upgrade unless specific limitations in your current setup are affecting your experience.

For some, the extra storage and smaller size will be welcome. For others, especially those who bought recently or manage their system well, holding onto the original is perfectly reasonable. The decision shouldn’t be driven by FOMO or release cycles, but by whether the changes solve real problems in your gaming life.

💬 Have you upgraded to the PS5 Slim? What changed for you? Share your experience below—your insights could help fellow gamers decide whether the jump is worth it.