Ps5 Slim Vs Original Ps5 Does Size Really Affect Cooling And Noise

When Sony introduced the PS5 Slim in late 2023, it marked a significant shift in design philosophy for the PlayStation 5 lineup. Smaller, lighter, and more compact than the original model, the new console raised questions among gamers and tech enthusiasts alike: Can a slimmer form factor maintain the same thermal efficiency and acoustic performance as its bulkier predecessor? With internal components packed more tightly and a redesigned cooling system, concerns about overheating and fan noise are understandable. This article dives deep into the engineering, user experiences, and technical benchmarks behind both models to answer whether size truly affects cooling and noise—without sacrificing performance.

Design Evolution: From Bulky to Compact

The original PS5, launched in 2020, was notable not just for its power but also for its imposing size. Standing at approximately 390mm tall and weighing around 4.5kg (for the disc version), it became a talking point due to its large footprint and bold aesthetic. In contrast, the PS5 Slim reduces volume by nearly 30%, cuts weight by over 18%, and features a modular disc drive that can be added or removed. While aesthetics and space-saving benefits are clear wins, the reduction in internal volume raises valid engineering concerns—particularly regarding airflow and heat dissipation.

Sony didn’t simply shrink the original design; they re-engineered key aspects of the internal layout. The motherboard has been miniaturized using a more advanced 6nm AMD SoC, allowing for reduced power draw and lower heat output. Additionally, the heatsink is redesigned with a broader base and optimized fin density, while the fan now operates at higher RPMs with improved blade geometry. These changes suggest that Sony anticipated thermal challenges and addressed them proactively.

Tip: Always ensure at least 10cm of clearance around your PS5’s vents, regardless of model, to maintain optimal airflow.

Thermal Performance: How Do They Handle Heat?

Cooling efficiency is critical for sustained gaming performance. Overheating can trigger throttling, where the CPU or GPU reduces clock speeds to manage temperature, potentially impacting frame rates and load times. Both PS5 models use forced-air convection cooling with a single large fan pulling air through front intakes and expelling it via rear and side vents.

Benchmarks from independent testing labs show that under identical conditions—same room temperature, game workload, and placement—the PS5 Slim runs slightly warmer on average. Internal sensor data indicates CPU junction temperatures are typically 2–4°C higher during extended gameplay sessions, such as playing Spider-Man: Miles Morales or Horizon Forbidden West for two hours straight. However, these increases remain well within safe operating limits defined by AMD and Sony.

The reason the Slim stays within acceptable thermal thresholds lies in its component-level optimizations. The 6nm chip generates less heat to begin with, offsetting some of the disadvantages of tighter spacing. Furthermore, Sony increased the copper content in the heatsink and adjusted airflow channels to direct cool air more precisely over hotspots like the VRMs (voltage regulator modules).

“Smaller consoles aren’t inherently worse at cooling—if engineered correctly. Sony made smart trade-offs in the PS5 Slim that preserve reliability.” — Dr. Lena Torres, Hardware Thermal Dynamics Researcher, MIT Media Lab

Noise Levels: Is the Slim Louder?

Noise is often the most noticeable indicator of a console’s cooling behavior. A loud fan can disrupt immersion, especially during quiet gameplay moments or late-night sessions. Users frequently report subjective differences between the two models, but objective measurements paint a more nuanced picture.

In controlled environments, sound pressure levels (measured in dBA) reveal that the PS5 Slim’s fan operates about 1–3 dBA louder than the original under heavy load. For context, a 3 dBA increase is just perceptible to the human ear under ideal listening conditions—it’s equivalent to turning up background music slightly. During idle states or menu navigation, both models are nearly silent, registering below 30 dBA.

The slight increase in noise stems from the fan needing to spin faster to move the same volume of air through a denser internal layout. However, the newer fan design includes aerodynamic improvements that reduce turbulence and high-frequency whine. As a result, even when louder, the Slim’s noise profile is often described as “smoother” or “less grating” compared to the original’s occasional mid-range buzz.

User Experience Case Study: Long-Term Living Room Use

Consider Mark, a dedicated gamer in Seattle who owns both PS5 models. He upgraded to the Slim primarily for space reasons—his entertainment center is narrow, and the original PS5 barely fit. After three months of daily use, he noticed the Slim felt warmer to the touch, particularly near the top vent. Using an infrared thermometer, he recorded surface temperatures averaging 48°C versus 44°C on the original.

However, his actual gaming experience didn’t change. Frame rates remained stable, and no games crashed or stuttered. The only consistent difference was audio: during intense scenes in Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III, he could hear the fan ramp up slightly earlier and stay elevated longer. Still, he rated the noise as “tolerable,” especially with headphones on. What mattered most to him was reliability—and after six months, the Slim hasn’t disappointed.

Detailed Comparison: Key Differences at a Glance

Feature	Original PS5 (2020)	PS5 Slim (2023)
Dimensions (H×W×D)	390 × 260 × 104 mm	358 × 215 × 94 mm
Weight (Disc Version)	4.5 kg	3.2 kg
SoC Process Node	7nm	6nm
Internal Storage	825 GB SSD	1 TB SSD
Avg. Surface Temp (Load)	~44°C	~48°C
Fan Noise (Max Load)	~38 dBA	~41 dBA
Modular Disc Drive	No	Yes (optional)
Vertical Stand Required?	Yes (separate purchase)	No (built-in screw)

Maintaining Optimal Performance: Best Practices

Regardless of which model you own, proper maintenance plays a crucial role in managing heat and noise. Dust accumulation is the number one enemy of any ventilation-based cooling system. Over time, filters clog, fans strain, and temperatures creep upward. Here’s how to keep your PS5 running quietly and coolly for years:

1. Vacuum intake grills monthly: Use a soft brush attachment to remove dust from front and side vents.
2. Elevate the console: Place it on a hard, flat surface with at least 10cm clearance on all sides, especially above and behind.
3. Avoid enclosed cabinets: Closed shelves trap heat and amplify fan noise. If storage is necessary, choose open-backed furniture with active ventilation.
4. Use vertical orientation: Both models perform better upright, as this aligns with natural convection currents.
5. Update firmware regularly: Sony occasionally releases fan curve adjustments and thermal management patches.

Tip: Never place your PS5 directly on carpet or fabric—it blocks bottom intakes and restricts airflow.

Checklist: PS5 Cooling & Noise Optimization

• ✅ Position console vertically with ample space around it
• ✅ Clean air intakes every 4 weeks
• ✅ Avoid stacking devices nearby (e.g., routers, AV receivers)
• ✅ Monitor system temperature via Settings > System > Console Information
• ✅ Disable rest mode if leaving powered on for long periods
• ✅ Consider external cooling pads only if in a hot environment (>30°C)

FAQ: Common Questions About PS5 Slim Cooling

Does the PS5 Slim overheat more than the original?

No, it does not overheat. While internal components run slightly warmer due to denser packing, thermal safety mechanisms and improved chip efficiency prevent dangerous temperatures. No widespread reports of overheating-related failures exist for either model.

Can I clean the inside of my PS5 to reduce noise?

Yes, but proceed with caution. Opening the PS5 voids the warranty unless done through authorized service centers. If you’re technically skilled, carefully removing the side panels allows access to the fan and heatsink for dust removal. Always power off and unplug the unit first.

Is the PS5 Slim less durable because it’s smaller?

There’s no evidence to suggest reduced durability. The chassis uses reinforced plastic and metal brackets similar to the original. Drop tests and stress analyses conducted by third-party reviewers indicate comparable structural integrity.

Conclusion: Size Matters Less Than Smart Engineering

The PS5 Slim proves that thoughtful engineering can overcome the inherent challenges of miniaturization. While it runs marginally warmer and sounds slightly louder under load, these differences are minimal in real-world use. The switch to a 6nm chip, refined heatsink design, and aerodynamic fan improvements demonstrate Sony’s commitment to maintaining performance standards despite physical constraints.

Ultimately, the choice between the original PS5 and the Slim should be based on practical needs—space availability, preference for modularity, or aesthetic alignment—not fear of compromised cooling or excessive noise. Both consoles deliver the same powerful gaming experience, and with proper care, neither will disappoint in longevity or reliability.

🚀 Ready to optimize your setup? Share your PS5 placement tips or ask questions in the comments—let’s build a quieter, cooler gaming community together.