Ps5 Slim Vs Original Ps5 Heat And Noise Is The Smaller Size Actually Hotter

The PlayStation 5 has undergone a significant design shift with the introduction of the PS5 Slim. As Sony transitions from the original bulky model to a more compact version, one question keeps surfacing among gamers and tech enthusiasts alike: Does the smaller size compromise thermal performance? More specifically, does the PS5 Slim run hotter or louder than its predecessor? This isn’t just a matter of aesthetics—thermal management directly affects system longevity, fan noise, and even sustained gaming performance.

To answer this thoroughly, we need to look beyond marketing claims and examine real-world testing, internal engineering changes, user reports, and how both consoles handle extended gameplay sessions under load. The goal here is not to declare a winner but to provide clear, evidence-based insight into whether the reduced footprint of the PS5 Slim comes at the cost of increased heat and noise.

Design Evolution: From Original PS5 to PS5 Slim

Sony’s original PS5, released in 2020, was notable for its bold, futuristic design—but also for its sheer size. Standing over 39 cm tall, it became something of a cultural talking point, often compared to home appliances rather than gaming consoles. Internally, the large chassis allowed for generous airflow, a substantial heatsink, and a relatively slow-spinning 120mm cooling fan. These elements worked together to keep temperatures under control, even during long gaming sessions.

The PS5 Slim, introduced in late 2023, reduces volume by nearly 30% and weight by about 18%. It achieves this through a redesigned motherboard, a smaller internal power supply, and a restructured internal layout. Most notably, the cooling system has been revised: while still using forced-air convection, the new model features a smaller heatsink and a slightly thinner, higher-RPM fan. These changes raise legitimate questions about thermals and acoustics.

Tip: Always leave at least 4 inches of clearance around your PS5, especially on the intake vents (sides), regardless of model.

Thermal Performance: How Hot Do They Really Get?

Heat output in gaming consoles is primarily determined by three factors: the efficiency of the SoC (system-on-a-chip), the quality of the thermal interface material (TIM), and the effectiveness of the cooling solution. Both the original and Slim PS5 use the same AMD Zen 2 CPU and RDNA 2 GPU architecture, meaning the core heat generation should be similar—assuming identical silicon.

However, Sony made subtle improvements in manufacturing. The PS5 Slim uses a newer 6nm process node for its SoC (down from 7nm), which inherently runs cooler and consumes less power under the same load. According to Digital Foundry's thermal benchmarks, the Slim’s GPU package temperature peaks around 5–7°C lower than the original model during extended gameplay in demanding titles like *Spider-Man: Miles Morales* or *Horizon Forbidden West*.

This improvement offsets the smaller heatsink and tighter internal spacing. While the Slim has less metal mass to absorb heat, the underlying chip runs cooler, reducing the total thermal load. Additionally, Sony optimized the internal airflow path, directing air more efficiently across critical components. Independent teardowns confirm that despite the compact form, no major components are placed directly above the SoC, preventing localized hot spots.

“Even with a smaller heatsink, the combination of die shrink and refined airflow means the PS5 Slim doesn't sacrifice thermal headroom.” — Austin Evans, Hardware Analyst

Noise Levels: Is the PS5 Slim Louder?

Noise perception is subjective, but measurable decibel (dB) levels and frequency profiles offer objective data. The original PS5 earned praise for its near-silent idle state and moderate fan ramp-up during gameplay. Its large fan could move sufficient air at low RPMs, minimizing high-pitched whine.

The PS5 Slim, equipped with a smaller 98mm fan (down from 120mm), must spin faster to achieve equivalent airflow. Testing by multiple outlets shows the Slim’s fan operates at approximately 1,800–2,200 RPM under load, compared to 1,500–1,800 RPM on the original. Despite this, measured sound levels remain within 1–2 dBA of the original model—well below the threshold of noticeable difference in most environments.

More importantly, the tonal quality of the noise has shifted. Some users report a slightly “sharper” or more noticeable pitch due to the smaller fan blades and higher frequency output. However, this is rarely intrusive unless you're in a quiet room with the console nearby. At typical living room distances (3+ feet), the difference blends into ambient background noise.

Metric	Original PS5	PS5 Slim
Idle Temperature (GPU)	~45°C	~42°C
Peak Load Temperature (GPU)	~78°C	~72°C
Fan Size	120mm	98mm
Average Noise Under Load	42 dBA	43 dBA
SoC Process Node	7nm	6nm

Real-World Usage: A Mini Case Study

Consider Mark, a dedicated gamer who owns both PS5 models. He upgraded to the PS5 Slim primarily for space-saving reasons—he uses a compact entertainment center where the original PS5 barely fit. Over six weeks of daily use, he ran identical games (*Elden Ring*, *Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III*, and *Final Fantasy XVI*) on both systems, monitoring surface temperatures with an infrared thermometer and recording perceived noise levels via voice memos.

Mark found that after two hours of continuous play, the top surface of the original PS5 reached 46°C, while the Slim stayed at 44°C. He noted that the Slim’s fan became audible sooner but didn’t escalate as dramatically. “The original felt quieter at first, but once it warmed up, the fan ramped up noticeably,” he said. “The Slim maintains a steadier, gentler hum.”

He concluded that the Slim not only saved space but also delivered marginally better sustained performance, with fewer frame rate dips in GPU-intensive scenes—likely due to more stable thermal throttling behavior.

Expert Engineering Insights: Why Smaller Doesn’t Mean Hotter

It’s intuitive to assume that shrinking a device leads to overheating, but modern electronics defy that logic through smarter integration and process refinement. The PS5 Slim benefits from what engineers call “density optimization”—achieving equal or better performance in less space by improving individual components.

The switch to a 6nm SoC reduces power draw by approximately 10–15% under peak load. That may not sound dramatic, but it translates to several watts less heat generation—a critical factor when confined in a small enclosure. Additionally, Sony improved the thermal pad composition between the SoC and heatsink, enhancing heat transfer efficiency.

Another key change is the relocation of the optical drive (on the disc edition) and modular storage bay, allowing for better symmetry in airflow. Air enters from the side grills, passes directly over the SoC and VRMs, and exits through the rear without turbulence. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations suggest this path is more efficient than in the original model, despite the shorter distance.

Tip: Place your PS5 vertically if possible—the airflow path is designed to work best in this orientation, especially on the Slim.

Step-by-Step: Optimizing Your PS5’s Thermal Environment

Regardless of model, how you place and maintain your PS5 significantly impacts its thermal and acoustic performance. Follow these steps to ensure optimal operation:

1. Evaluate placement: Avoid enclosing the console in tight shelves or cabinets. Leave at least 10 cm (4 inches) of clearance on all sides, especially near the intake vents (left and right when vertical).
2. Keep vents clean: Dust buildup restricts airflow. Use a soft brush or compressed air every 2–3 months to gently clean the side grills.
3. Monitor ambient temperature: Room temps above 27°C (80°F) force the fan to work harder. Consider climate control during summer months.
4. Use a hard surface: Never place the PS5 on carpet, fabric, or soft furniture that can block bottom vents or insulate heat.
5. Enable rest mode wisely: While convenient, leaving the console in rest mode for days generates passive heat. Fully shut down if not used for over 12 hours.

Common Misconceptions About Console Cooling

• Myth: “Smaller fans always mean louder noise.” Reality: Fan noise depends on blade design, motor quality, and RPM. Modern small fans can be very quiet with proper tuning.
• Myth: “Higher temperatures reduce console lifespan.” Reality: PS5s are designed to operate safely up to 90°C internally. Thermal throttling kicks in well before dangerous levels.
• Myth: “Vertical orientation causes overheating.” Reality: Both orientations are tested and approved. Vertical positioning often improves convection flow.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the PS5 Slim overheat more than the original?

No. Despite its smaller size, the PS5 Slim runs slightly cooler due to a more efficient 6nm chip and improved thermal design. Real-world tests show lower peak temperatures under load.

Is the PS5 Slim fan louder during gameplay?

Marginally, yes—but the difference is minimal (about 1 dBA). The fan spins faster but maintains a consistent tone. Most users won’t notice the increase unless listening closely in a quiet room.

Can I upgrade the PS5 Slim’s cooling system?

Not practically. The cooling assembly is tightly integrated, and modifying it voids the warranty. Focus instead on environmental optimizations like ventilation and dust control.

Final Verdict: Size Isn’t the Whole Story

The PS5 Slim proves that thoughtful engineering can overcome the challenges of miniaturization. Far from being “hotter” due to its smaller size, it leverages advancements in semiconductor technology and thermal design to match—and in some cases exceed—the cooling efficiency of the original PS5. The slight increase in fan pitch is a minor trade-off for a sleeker, lighter, and more energy-efficient console.

Noise and heat concerns were valid questions at launch, but real-world data and expert analysis confirm that Sony did not cut corners. The PS5 Slim maintains the same reliability standards while offering better integration into modern living spaces. For most users, the transition will be seamless, with no perceptible downgrade in comfort or performance.

🚀 Ready to optimize your gaming setup? Share your PS5 placement tips or thermal experiences in the comments—your insights could help fellow players make smarter choices!