Is Upgrading To Ps5 Slim From Ps4 Worth It For Casual Gamers Who Hate Loading Screens

For many casual gamers, the console upgrade cycle feels more like a luxury than a necessity. If you're still enjoying your PS4 and only play a few hours a week, the idea of spending hundreds on a PS5 Slim might seem excessive—especially if your main frustration is long loading times. But technology has evolved significantly between generations, and one of the most tangible improvements lies in system performance, particularly load speeds. So, is making the jump truly worthwhile just to skip those interminable loading screens?

The answer isn’t a simple yes or no. It depends on how much friction those loading delays create in your gaming experience, what types of games you play, and whether other next-gen features enhance your enjoyment. Let’s break down the real-world impact of upgrading from PS4 to PS5 Slim, with a focus on eliminating loading frustrations while keeping expectations grounded for the casual player.

Why Loading Screens Matter More Than You Think

Loading screens are more than just dead time—they disrupt immersion, momentum, and overall enjoyment. On a PS4, loading a game like Marvel’s Spider-Man can take 30 to 60 seconds after launching the title, and fast-traveling across the map may trigger another 15–20 second wait. For someone who plays in short bursts, these pauses fragment the experience.

The PS5’s custom SSD (Solid State Drive) drastically reduces this downtime. Games built for the PS5 often load in under 5 seconds, and some—like Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart—demonstrate near-instant transitions between entire worlds. Even PS4-era titles played on a PS5 benefit from Game Boost, which uses the newer hardware to improve frame rates and reduce load times by up to 60% in many cases.

“Reducing load times isn’t just about convenience—it changes how players engage with a game. Faster access means less temptation to quit mid-session.” — Mark Delgado, UX Designer at Insomniac Games

This psychological shift matters. Casual gamers, who often fit gameplay into limited windows—during lunch breaks, before bed, or between chores—benefit greatly from systems that get them into the action quickly and keep them there.

Tip: Enable Rest Mode on your PS5 to allow background downloads and updates without fully shutting down.

PS5 Slim vs. Original PS4: A Performance Breakdown

The PS5 Slim, released in late 2023, maintains the same internal specs as the original PS5 but in a more compact form factor. It supports ultra-fast SSD storage, ray tracing, 4K gaming, and 120Hz output. In contrast, the standard PS4 uses a slow mechanical hard drive and lacks modern rendering capabilities.

To illustrate the difference, here's a comparison of real-world load times across popular cross-generation titles:

Game	PS4 Load Time (Average)	PS5 Load Time (Average)	Time Saved
Ghost of Tsushima	52 seconds	8 seconds	44 seconds
Spider-Man: Miles Morales	38 seconds	3 seconds	35 seconds
Red Dead Redemption 2	75 seconds	18 seconds	57 seconds
Horizon Forbidden West	60 seconds	5 seconds	55 seconds
God of War (2018)	45 seconds	12 seconds	33 seconds

These aren't edge cases. Across the board, PS5 users report spending significantly less time waiting and more time playing. For a casual gamer who values efficiency and smooth transitions, this alone can justify the upgrade—even without diving deep into graphics or new exclusives.

Real-World Example: Sarah’s Gaming Routine

Sarah, a 34-year-old graphic designer, plays games mainly on weekends and during weekday evenings after dinner. She owns a PS4 Pro and enjoys story-driven adventures like The Last of Us Part II and Uncharted 4. But she often found herself frustrated by long load times when resuming her game after a short break.

“I’d sit down for 20 minutes before bed,” she says, “and just getting into the game took half that time. By the time I was back in control, I’d lose interest.” After upgrading to the PS5 Slim, her routine changed. With faster boots and near-instant resume times, she now fits in meaningful play sessions even on busy nights.

“It’s not that I’m playing more,” she explains. “It’s that I feel like I’m actually *getting* to play. The game doesn’t make me wait anymore.”

This anecdote reflects a broader trend: for low-time players, reducing friction increases engagement. When starting a session feels effortless, you’re more likely to do it.

Additional Benefits Beyond Loading Speeds

While reduced load times are the standout advantage, the PS5 Slim offers several other quality-of-life upgrades that enhance the casual experience:

• Improved controller (DualSense): Haptic feedback and adaptive triggers add subtle immersion—even in simple platformers or puzzle games.
• Better UI responsiveness: Navigating menus, switching apps, and returning to games is noticeably snappier.
• Backward compatibility: Nearly all PS4 games work on PS5, often with enhanced performance.
• Auto-save and suspend features: Some games let you switch between titles instantly, preserving your exact position.
• Smaller, quieter design (Slim model): Takes up less space and runs more quietly than the original PS5 or older PS4 models.

These refinements compound over time. You may not notice any single feature dramatically, but together they create a smoother, more enjoyable experience—one where technical limitations rarely interfere with fun.

What About Cost and Value?

The PS5 Slim retails at $449.99 for the standard version (with disc drive). That’s a significant investment, especially if you're not chasing cutting-edge graphics or online multiplayer. However, consider the long-term value:

• PS4 support is winding down; future games will be PS5-only.
• You’ll likely own this console for 5–7 years.
• Used PS4 games and accessories hold little resale value today.
• Digital deals and bundles often include free games or subscription trials.

If you spend $100 annually on games, the upgrade pays for itself in saved time and enhanced enjoyment within two to three years. And if loading screens have been a consistent pain point, the immediate relief may be worth the price alone.

Tip: Look for retailer bundles that include a game and PS Plus subscription—this can save $70+ compared to buying separately.

Step-by-Step Guide to Upgrading Smoothly

If you decide to move forward, follow this plan to transition seamlessly from PS4 to PS5 Slim:

1. Back up your data: Use cloud storage via PlayStation Plus or transfer files directly using Wi-Fi or LAN cable.
2. Gather your essentials: Keep your account login, payment methods, and license keys handy.
3. Set up the PS5 Slim: Insert the disc (if applicable), connect to power and HDMI, then follow on-screen setup prompts.
4. Restore your profile and data: Sign in and choose to download saved games from the cloud or transfer from your old console.
5. Reinstall your favorite games: Digital purchases sync automatically; physical discs install quickly thanks to the SSD.
6. Adjust settings: Customize audio, video (enable 4K HDR if supported), and enable Game Boost for PS4 titles.
7. Test performance: Launch a few games and note the difference in boot and load times.

This process typically takes under an hour. Once complete, you’ll immediately feel the performance leap.

Checklist: Is the PS5 Slim Right for You?

Answer the following to determine if upgrading makes sense:

• ☐ Do you frequently abandon short gaming sessions due to long load times?
• ☐ Are you still buying new PS4 games regularly?
• ☐ Do you own a 4K TV or plan to get one soon?
• ☐ Have you noticed your PS4 struggling with recent titles?
• ☐ Would faster navigation and smoother performance improve your enjoyment?
• ☐ Can you budget for the console without financial strain?

If you answered “yes” to three or more, the upgrade is likely justified—even as a casual player.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my old PS4 controllers on the PS5?

Only for PS4 games played on the PS5. Native PS5 games require the DualSense controller due to advanced haptics and system integration.

Will my digital PS4 games transfer automatically?

Yes. As long as you’re logged into the same PlayStation Network account, all your digital purchases are accessible through your library. Re-downloading is fast thanks to the SSD.

Is the PS5 Slim less powerful than the original PS5?

No. The internals are identical. The Slim model simply has a smaller chassis, slightly redesigned disc drive (removable), and more efficient cooling. Performance is unchanged.

Final Verdict: Worth It for Frustration-Free Play

Upgrading from PS4 to PS5 Slim isn’t about chasing graphical perfection or competitive multiplayer dominance. For casual gamers, it’s about removing barriers between you and the games you love. If loading screens have repeatedly broken your immersion, shortened your play sessions, or made gaming feel like a chore, the PS5 Slim offers a genuinely transformative fix.

The speed, reliability, and refined user experience mean you can start playing almost instantly, stay engaged longer, and enjoy modern enhancements—even in older titles. While the upfront cost is real, the long-term gains in convenience, satisfaction, and access to future games make this one of the most practical upgrades in console history.

Technology should serve the user, not frustrate them. If your current setup makes gaming feel slow or cumbersome, stepping up to the PS5 Slim isn’t indulgence—it’s smart, sustainable enjoyment.

🚀 Ready to eliminate loading lag and reclaim your playtime? Consider the PS5 Slim not just an upgrade—but a smoother, smarter way to game. Share your thoughts or upgrade experience in the comments below.