Is The Ps5 Slim Upgrade Worth It Compared To The Original Console Design

The PlayStation 5 has been a dominant force in the current generation of gaming consoles since its 2020 launch. With its powerful hardware, lightning-fast SSD, and innovative DualSense controller, it set a new standard for home gaming. In late 2023, Sony introduced the PS5 Slim—a revised version of the original console—prompting many users to ask: is the upgrade actually worth it?

This isn't just about aesthetics. The PS5 Slim brings tangible changes in size, weight, storage, and modularity. For existing PS5 owners considering an upgrade, or newcomers deciding between models, understanding these differences is essential. Let’s examine every aspect—from physical design to long-term usability—and determine whether the PS5 Slim offers enough value over the original model.

Design and Physical Differences

The most noticeable change between the original PS5 and the PS5 Slim lies in its form factor. The original PS5 was bold, futuristic, and undeniably large. Its two-tone white-and-black shell with curved panels made it stand out on any entertainment center—but not always in a practical way. Many users found it difficult to fit into smaller media cabinets due to its depth and height.

The PS5 Slim addresses this head-on. It’s approximately 30% smaller by volume and nearly 18% lighter than the original. While still maintaining the same dual-tone aesthetic, the new design features a more modular panel system. Instead of being stuck with one color scheme, users can now purchase interchangeable faceplates in various colors (sold separately), allowing for some personalization.

Another key design shift: the base. The original PS5 required a separate screw-in stand depending on orientation (vertical or horizontal). The PS5 Slim simplifies this with a redesigned base that clicks into place without tools and supports both orientations seamlessly.

Tip: If space is tight in your entertainment setup, the PS5 Slim’s reduced footprint makes it far easier to integrate into compact shelves.

Performance: No Change Under the Hood

One critical point often misunderstood: the PS5 Slim does not offer improved performance over the original model. Both versions use the same AMD Zen 2 CPU, RDNA 2 GPU, and 825GB custom SSD. Frame rates, load times, ray tracing capabilities, and overall gameplay experience remain identical.

Sony has not upgraded the internal architecture. This means no faster processor, no enhanced graphics output, and no increase in bandwidth. The console still outputs up to 4K resolution at 120Hz and supports HDR10, Dolby Vision (via firmware), and HDMI 2.1 features like VRR and ALLM.

In practical terms, if you already own a launch PS5 or a later revision of the disc edition, upgrading solely for performance gains would be unnecessary. The Slim is not a “Pro” model; it's a redesign focused on convenience, not power.

“There’s zero performance delta between the original PS5 and the Slim. This is purely a physical refresh.” — David Lee, Senior Hardware Analyst at TechInsight Weekly

Storage Capacity and Expandability

One area where the PS5 Slim does differ meaningfully is storage. The base model now comes in two variants: a Digital Edition with 1TB of internal storage and a Disc Edition also offering 1TB—up from the original’s 825GB. That extra 175GB may not sound like much, but modern AAA games regularly exceed 100GB, so every gigabyte counts.

More importantly, the Slim introduces a user-friendly upgrade path. Unlike the original PS5, which used proprietary internal expansion bays requiring precise screw alignment, the Slim uses standardized M.2 SSD covers and simplified mounting. You can swap the top panel, access the drive bay easily, and install compatible PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSDs without frustration.

Additionally, the detachable 1TB SSD cover (on the Digital Edition) allows for optional future upgrades directly from Sony. While expensive, this plug-and-play module lets users expand storage without opening the console—an industry first for PlayStation.

Feature	Original PS5	PS5 Slim
Internal Storage	825 GB	1 TB
External SSD Support	Yes (USB)	Yes (USB)
M.2 Internal Expansion	Yes (complex installation)	Yes (easier access)
Proprietary Expansion Module	No	Yes (Digital Edition only)
Interchangeable Faceplates	No	Yes

Real-World User Experience: A Case Study

Consider Mark, a long-time PS4 owner who upgraded to the original PS5 at launch. He loved the fast loading and immersive haptics of the DualSense but struggled with the console’s size. His TV stand was narrow, and the PS5 had to sit vertically beside it, making it prone to accidental bumps. After two years, he sold his original unit and bought the PS5 Slim Digital Edition.

For Mark, the decision wasn’t about better graphics or smoother gameplay—it was about integration into his living space. The Slim fits neatly under his soundbar, and the ability to switch faceplates allowed him to match it with his room’s minimalist decor. He also appreciated the increased base storage, delaying the need for an external SSD.

“I didn’t expect such a big difference from just a redesign,” Mark said. “But the smaller size, quieter fan, and easier storage access have genuinely improved my daily experience.”

This scenario reflects a growing trend: consumers are prioritizing ergonomics and longevity over raw specs—especially when core performance remains unchanged.

Upgrade Considerations: Who Should Make the Switch?

Deciding whether the PS5 Slim is worth it depends heavily on your current situation. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help evaluate your needs:

1. Assess your current console. If you own the original PS5 (disc or digital), consider how satisfied you are with its performance and placement. Are you constantly rearranging furniture to accommodate it?
2. Evaluate your storage usage. Check how much free space you have left. If you’re frequently deleting games to make room, the Slim’s 1TB base storage could provide meaningful relief.
3. Think about future-proofing. The modular faceplates and potential for snap-in SSD upgrades suggest Sony is moving toward a more customizable, serviceable console. If you plan to keep your system for five-plus years, this flexibility matters.
4. Consider resale value. Original PS5 units still hold decent trade-in value. Selling yours and applying credit toward a Slim may reduce the effective cost of upgrading.
5. Determine budget constraints. The PS5 Slim starts at $449.99 (Disc) and $429.99 (Digital)—only $30 more than the original MSRP. For some, that modest premium may justify the improvements.

Checklist: Is the PS5 Slim Right for You?

• ✅ Need a smaller, lighter console for limited space?
• ✅ Want easier access to internal SSD upgrades?
• ✅ Prefer customizable aesthetics with swappable panels?
• ✅ Running low on storage with your current PS5?
• ✅ Looking to buy your first PS5 and want the latest model?

If you answered “yes” to three or more, the PS5 Slim likely offers tangible benefits over sticking with—or buying—the original design.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes. You can transfer all your games, saves, settings, and accounts using a direct Wi-Fi connection, LAN cable, or cloud storage via PlayStation Plus. The process typically takes under an hour, depending on data volume.

Does the PS5 Slim run cooler or quieter than the original?

Anecdotally, many users report slightly lower fan noise during intensive gameplay. While Sony hasn’t confirmed thermal improvements, the refined internal layout and updated cooling components appear to enhance efficiency. However, the difference is subtle and won’t eliminate background hum entirely.

Are the new faceplates worth buying?

Faceplates are purely cosmetic and cost around $30 each. They’re not essential, but they do add a personalized touch. Third-party options are emerging, though official Sony plates ensure perfect fit and finish.

Final Verdict: Practical Value Over Power

The PS5 Slim isn’t revolutionary—but it doesn’t need to be. It refines a proven platform with thoughtful updates that improve usability, storage, and long-term ownership. For new buyers, the choice is clear: go with the Slim. It’s the current standard, offering more storage, better expandability, and a sleeker profile.

For existing PS5 owners, the upgrade equation is more nuanced. If you're happy with your current setup and don’t mind the bulk, there’s no urgent reason to switch. But if you’ve struggled with storage limits, awkward placement, or desire a cleaner look, the PS5 Slim delivers measurable quality-of-life improvements.

Sony appears to be shifting toward a more sustainable, modular console philosophy—one that values repairability, customization, and user comfort as much as graphical prowess. In that context, the PS5 Slim feels less like a mid-cycle refresh and more like a glimpse into the future of console design.

💬 Have you upgraded to the PS5 Slim? Share your experience and whether the changes made a real difference in your gaming setup.