Ps5 Slim Vs Original Is The Smaller Size Worth Trading Your Console

The PlayStation 5 has evolved since its 2020 launch, with Sony introducing a revised model—the PS5 Slim—in late 2023. Marketed as a more compact, refined version of the original, it’s sparked debate among gamers: should you trade in your current console for this sleeker alternative? The answer isn’t just about size. It involves weighing physical changes, internal upgrades, long-term usability, and whether the benefits justify the cost of upgrading.

For many, the original PS5 was a significant investment—both financially and emotionally. Trading it in means not only spending more money but potentially parting with a machine that still performs flawlessly. So, is the PS5 Slim merely a cosmetic refresh, or does it offer meaningful improvements that make the switch worthwhile?

Design and Physical Differences

The most obvious change between the two models is size. The PS5 Slim is approximately 30% smaller in volume than the original, measuring roughly 358mm x 94mm x 216mm compared to the original’s 390mm x 92mm x 260mm. This reduction makes it easier to fit on crowded entertainment centers and improves portability for players who move their console frequently.

Beyond dimensions, the new model features a redesigned casing with detachable side panels. Unlike the original’s fixed, seamless look, the Slim allows users to swap out faceplates for different colors—a small but notable customization option. Additionally, the base stand now uses a screw-less mechanism, making setup slightly quicker and less fiddly.

Another key difference lies in the disc drive. On the PS5 Slim, the Ultra HD Blu-ray drive is optional. You can purchase a digital-only version and add the drive later via a separate $79.99 accessory. This modularity appeals to those who want flexibility, though it raises the total cost if you eventually need physical media support.

Tip: If you own physical games or Blu-rays, factor in the extra cost of the detachable disc drive when comparing prices.

Performance: No Upgrade Under the Hood

Despite the redesign, there are no performance enhancements in the PS5 Slim. Both consoles run on the same AMD Zen 2 CPU, RDNA 2 GPU, and 16GB of GDDR6 memory. Game loading times, frame rates, resolution output, and ray tracing capabilities remain identical across both models.

Sony made minor internal refinements—such as improved airflow routing and a slightly more efficient cooling system—but these don’t translate into better thermal performance or quieter operation under normal conditions. In lab tests conducted by Digital Foundry, the Slim runs marginally cooler during extended sessions, but the difference is negligible for most users.

“There’s no technical advantage to choosing the Slim purely for performance. This is an aesthetic and logistical upgrade, not a power leap.” — Mark Serrels, Senior Editor at CNET

If you’re expecting faster load times, higher fidelity graphics, or enhanced AI upscaling, you won’t find them here. The PS5 Slim is functionally equivalent to the original in every way that affects gameplay.

Storage Capacity and Expandability

One tangible improvement in the PS5 Slim is increased base storage. While the original model shipped with 825GB of SSD space (about 667GB usable), the Slim comes with either 1TB (digital edition) or 1.2TB (disc edition). That extra 200–400GB may seem modest given modern game sizes—titles like *Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III* or *Hogwarts Legacy* easily exceed 150GB—but it provides breathing room before needing to expand.

Both models support M.2 NVMe SSD expansion via the internal slot, so adding a 2TB or 4TB drive remains equally viable. However, the added base capacity in the Slim reduces the urgency to upgrade immediately, especially for casual players who don’t own dozens of AAA titles.

Feature	Original PS5	PS5 Slim
Dimensions	390 x 92 x 260 mm	358 x 94 x 216 mm
Weight (Disc Edition)	4.5 kg	3.2 kg
Base Storage (Usable)	~667 GB	~842 GB (1TB) / ~1.02 TB (1.2TB)
Disc Drive	Integrated (all models except Digital)	Optional add-on
Faceplate Design	Fixed	Interchangeable
Price (Disc Edition Equivalent)	$499	$499 + $80 (if adding drive later)

Real-World Use Case: Should You Upgrade?

Consider Sarah, a dedicated PS5 owner since day one. Her original console sits vertically in a glass cabinet, connected to a 4K OLED TV. She plays 10–15 hours per week, mostly single-player RPGs and online shooters. She owns 40+ physical discs and uses her console as a Blu-ray player for movies.

When she heard about the PS5 Slim, she considered upgrading for the smaller footprint. But upon closer inspection, she realized the trade-offs: she’d have to sell her current console (likely taking a loss), buy the Slim digital model ($499), then spend another $80 on the disc drive. That’s nearly $600 invested in a machine that performs identically to her current one.

Moreover, re-downloading her entire game library would take days due to her internet plan’s data cap. And while the interchangeable faceplates appealed to her sense of style, they didn’t justify the cost or hassle.

In Sarah’s case—and in many similar ones—the upgrade offers little practical benefit. The decision becomes emotional rather than functional: do you value aesthetics and minimalism enough to pay a premium for a near-identical experience?

When the PS5 Slim Makes Sense

The Slim isn’t universally unnecessary. There are specific scenarios where it represents a smarter choice:

• You’re buying your first PS5: For new adopters, the Slim is now the standard model. Unless you find a discounted original unit, there’s no reason to seek out the older design.
• Space is limited: If your entertainment center is cramped or you travel with your console (e.g., college students, competitive gamers), the reduced size and lighter weight are genuine advantages.
• You prefer modular hardware: The ability to start digital and add a disc drive later gives flexibility. It also future-proofs against potential discontinuation of optical drives.
• You care about customization: Interchangeable faceplates allow personalization. Sony has released official color kits, and third-party options are emerging, letting users match their gear to room decor or gaming setups.

Tip: Wait for bundle deals. Retailers often pair the Slim with the disc drive included, eliminating the need to buy separately.

Step-by-Step: Evaluating Whether to Trade In

If you're considering an upgrade, follow this logical process to avoid regret:

1. Assess your current setup: Is your original PS5 causing issues? Overheating, loud fans, or placement problems? If it works well, upgrading may be unnecessary.
2. Calculate total costs: Include selling fees (e.g., eBay, GameStop trade-in), taxes, and any additional accessories (like the disc drive).
3. Estimate time investment: Factor in redownloading games, reconfiguring settings, and transferring saves via cloud or USB.
4. Check availability and pricing: Compare the effective price of the Slim + drive versus a used original PS5 with drive already installed.
5. Determine your priorities: Are you upgrading for performance, convenience, or aesthetics? Only proceed if the motivation aligns with actual benefits.

Expert Insight on Console Evolution

Console revisions are common in the industry. Microsoft followed a similar path with the Xbox One S and Series S, offering smaller, more efficient versions without altering core performance. According to tech analyst David Ingalls,

“Mid-cycle refreshes like the PS5 Slim serve two purposes: reducing manufacturing costs for the company and appealing to consumers who want a ‘cleaner’ version. They rarely deliver transformative changes, but they do extend the product lifecycle.” — David Ingalls, Tech Industry Analyst

This perspective underscores that the Slim is less about innovation and more about refinement. It’s designed to keep the PS5 relevant as production scales and component efficiencies improve—not to compete with next-gen expectations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my original PS5 accessories with the Slim?

Yes. Controllers (DualSense), headsets, charging docks, and external hard drives are fully compatible. The only exception is the original console’s non-removable cover, which doesn’t apply to the Slim’s modular design.

Does the PS5 Slim support all PS5 games?

Absolutely. All PS5 titles, including those requiring high-speed SSD access, run identically on both models. Backward compatibility with PS4 games is unchanged.

Is the detachable disc drive easy to install?

Yes. Sony designed it as a user-installable module. It slides into the side of the console and locks in place—no tools required. Setup takes under five minutes.

Final Verdict: Is the Smaller Size Worth It?

The PS5 Slim is a thoughtful revision, not a reinvention. Its smaller size, increased storage, and customizable panels offer tangible quality-of-life improvements. For someone purchasing their first PS5, it’s the natural choice. For those upgrading from the original, however, the value proposition weakens.

If your current console functions well, replacing it solely for aesthetics or a slight size reduction is hard to justify financially. The lack of performance gains, combined with the added complexity and potential cost of the optional disc drive, means the upgrade benefits are largely superficial.

That said, technology isn’t only about raw specs. Ergonomics, design longevity, and personal preference matter. If the Slim fits better in your space, looks better in your setup, and brings you satisfaction every time you see it, that intangible benefit might be worth something too.

Ultimately, the decision hinges on individual circumstances. For most existing owners, holding onto the original PS5 remains the sensible move. But for newcomers or those constrained by space and design needs, the Slim delivers a polished, modern iteration of an already excellent console.

🚀 Ready to decide? Evaluate your needs, crunch the numbers, and choose based on real utility—not just the appeal of something new. Share your thoughts: would you trade your PS5 for the Slim?