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

The PlayStation 5 has evolved since its 2020 launch, with Sony introducing a revised \"Slim\" model in late 2023. This newer version offers several upgrades over the original—most notably, increased internal storage. For many gamers still using the base PS5, this raises an important question: Is it worth upgrading solely for the extra storage?

Games today are larger than ever. Titles like *Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III*, *Hogwarts Legacy*, and *Final Fantasy XVI* routinely exceed 100GB, and some even approach 200GB. With the original PS5 offering only 667GB of usable space out of an 825GB drive, managing game libraries has become a constant juggling act. The PS5 Slim bumps that up to 1TB (with approximately 848GB usable), which sounds promising—but is that difference enough to justify the cost and effort of an upgrade?

Understanding the Storage Differences

The most significant hardware change between the original PS5 and the PS5 Slim is the internal SSD capacity. While both models use custom NVMe SSDs with similar read speeds, the increase from 825GB to 1TB provides tangible breathing room.

Feature	Original PS5	PS5 Slim
Total Internal Storage	825GB	1TB
Usable Space	~667GB	~848GB
Expandable via M.2 NVMe SSD	Yes	Yes
Supports External USB Drives	Yes (for PS4 games)	Yes (for PS4 games)
Physical Design	Larger, removable side panels	Smaller, unified shell

The ~180GB increase in usable space may seem modest given how quickly modern games consume storage. However, it does allow for roughly two to three additional full-sized AAA titles without needing to delete or archive others. That can be meaningful for players who frequently switch between games or dislike the hassle of constant management.

Tip: Even with the PS5 Slim’s extra storage, consider investing in a compatible M.2 SSD expansion card early—it future-proofs your setup and reduces long-term friction.

Real-World Impact of Extra Storage

To assess whether the upgrade is worthwhile, consider how you actually use your console. Gamers who primarily play one title at a time and uninstall older games regularly may find the original PS5 sufficient—especially if they’ve already added external storage or upgraded internally.

But for those maintaining a diverse library—say, keeping *Spider-Man 2*, *God of War Ragnarök*, *Horizon Forbidden West*, and *FIFA 24* ready to launch—the extra headroom on the PS5 Slim reduces downtime spent reinstalling or transferring files.

“Storage isn’t just about capacity—it’s about convenience. Every minute spent managing space is a minute not spent playing.” — Marcus Tran, Senior Console Analyst at GameTech Insights

Another often-overlooked factor is system performance during multitasking. When your SSD is near full capacity, background processes like downloads, updates, and suspended games can slow down. Having more free space helps maintain optimal system responsiveness.

A Real Example: Sarah’s Gaming Workflow

Sarah, a mid-core gamer from Austin, TX, owns the original PS5. She plays across genres—single-player RPGs, competitive shooters, and indie platformers. Over six months, she found herself deleting and redownloading games nearly twice a week. After upgrading to the PS5 Slim, she reported saving about 45 minutes per week in download and install time. While she eventually added a 2TB M.2 SSD, the built-in increase gave her immediate relief and made the transition smoother.

Her experience illustrates a key point: while expandable storage exists, having more native space simplifies day-to-day use—even if it's not a permanent solution.

Cost-Benefit Analysis of Upgrading

The PS5 Slim retails at $499.99 for the standard edition (with disc drive) and $449.99 for the Digital Edition. If you already own the original PS5, replacing it entirely means effectively paying hundreds of dollars purely for design refinements and 180GB of extra storage—which doesn’t sound efficient.

Alternatively, upgrading the original PS5’s storage with a compatible M.2 NVMe SSD costs significantly less. A high-performance 1TB PCIe Gen4 SSD typically ranges from $60 to $90. Installation takes under 10 minutes and preserves all your existing data.

So financially, expanding your current console is far more economical. But there are non-financial factors to weigh:

• Convenience: No need to open the console or risk improper installation.
• Design: The Slim model is 30% lighter and slightly smaller, making it easier to fit in tight entertainment centers.
• Replaceable Faceplates: The new model features snap-on side panels, allowing for easy customization without tools.
• Disc Drive Flexibility: The Slim allows users to add or remove the disc drive later—a feature absent in the original model.

If you value these design improvements alongside the storage bump, the upgrade becomes more justifiable—even if storage alone isn’t the sole driver.

When the Upgrade Makes Sense

Consider the following checklist to determine if switching to the PS5 Slim is right for you:

1. You frequently run out of space and don’t want to manage internal/external drives.
2. You prefer plug-and-play solutions over DIY hardware upgrades.
3. You appreciate the updated aesthetics and modular faceplates.
4. You plan to keep your PS5 long-term and want the latest hardware revision.
5. You don’t already own a high-capacity M.2 SSD and aren’t comfortable installing one.

Tip: If you're considering selling your original PS5 to offset the cost, do so sooner rather than later—resale value tends to decline steadily after new models launch.

Step-by-Step: Evaluating Your Storage Needs

Before deciding whether to upgrade, follow this practical timeline to assess your actual usage and options:

1. Check Current Usage: Go to Settings > Storage and review how much space is used versus available.
2. List Your Active Games: Identify which titles you play weekly and their individual sizes.
3. Estimate Future Needs: Factor in upcoming releases you plan to install. Are you expecting multiple 100GB+ games?
4. Explore Expansion Options: Research M.2 SSDs that meet Sony’s requirements (PCIe Gen4, heatsink recommended).
5. Compare Total Costs: Calculate the price of a new PS5 Slim versus a new SSD plus potential labor/time.
6. Test the Waters: Try cleaning up unused games, moving PS4 titles to an external drive, or archiving saves to cloud (via PS Plus).
7. Make a Decision: Choose based on budget, technical comfort, and lifestyle preferences.

This methodical approach prevents emotional spending and ensures your decision aligns with actual needs rather than perceived limitations.

Common Misconceptions About PS5 Storage

Many users believe the PS5 Slim’s storage is dramatically better, but the reality is more nuanced. Here are some myths clarified:

• Myth: “The PS5 Slim has faster load times due to better storage.”
  Reality: Both models use similarly performing SSDs. Load times are virtually identical.
• Myth: “You can’t upgrade the original PS5’s storage.”
  Reality: Sony fully supports adding M.2 NVMe SSDs, and the process is straightforward.
• Myth: “More internal storage means longer console lifespan.”
  Reality: Lifespan depends on usage patterns and maintenance, not just capacity.

Understanding these points helps avoid overvaluing the Slim’s storage advantage.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes. You can transfer all your games, apps, and settings via Wi-Fi, LAN cable, or a USB drive. The process is seamless and well-documented in the PS5 settings menu under System > System Software > Data Transfer.

Is 848GB really enough for the long term?

For most users, no. Game file sizes continue to grow. While 848GB is better than 667GB, serious collectors will likely need expanded storage within a year or two. Think of the Slim’s drive as a temporary buffer, not a final solution.

Does the PS5 Slim support the same external drives as the original?

Yes. Both models support USB external hard drives for storing and playing PS4 games. However, PS5 games must be played from internal or M.2 SSD storage—they cannot run directly from USB drives.

Conclusion: Balancing Value and Practicality

Upgrading to the PS5 Slim solely for storage is difficult to justify when cheaper, equally effective alternatives exist. Adding a 1TB M.2 SSD to your original PS5 delivers comparable usable space for a fraction of the cost. However, if you value the refined design, lighter weight, swappable faceplates, and the convenience of pre-installed extra storage, the Slim model offers a more polished experience overall.

For the average user, enhancing the current system is smarter. But for those due for a replacement, seeking aesthetic upgrades, or uncomfortable with hardware tinkering, the PS5 Slim presents a compelling evolution—not because of storage alone, but because of what it represents: a more mature, user-friendly iteration of the console.

🚀 Ready to optimize your PS5 setup? Whether you upgrade the hardware or maximize what you have, taking control of your storage strategy enhances every gaming session. Share your experience or ask questions in the comments below—let’s build smarter gaming habits together.