Ps5 Slim Vs Original Ps5 Is The Size Difference Worth Trading In Your Console

The PlayStation 5 has evolved. Sony’s introduction of the PS5 Slim marks a deliberate shift toward sleeker, more space-efficient hardware. But for owners of the original PS5, the question isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about value. Is the smaller footprint of the PS5 Slim enough to justify trading in a fully functional console? The answer depends on more than just size. It involves assessing real-world usability, long-term benefits, and whether the upgrades offer meaningful improvements or mere refinements.

This analysis dives deep into the differences between the PS5 Slim and the original PS5, breaking down physical design, internal changes, storage options, pricing, and practical implications for current and prospective users. By the end, you’ll have a clear picture of whether upgrading is a smart move—or an unnecessary expense.

Design and Physical Dimensions: A Noticeable Reduction

The most immediate difference between the PS5 Slim and the original model is its size. Sony redesigned the console with compactness in mind. The original PS5 was criticized at launch for being bulky—measuring approximately 390mm (H) x 260mm (W) x 104mm (D) and weighing around 4.5 kg (9.9 lbs). Its large form factor made it challenging to fit into some entertainment centers and raised concerns about placement stability.

The PS5 Slim addresses this directly. It reduces volume by nearly 30%, measuring roughly 358mm (H) x 216mm (W) x 96mm (D) and weighing about 3.2 kg (7.1 lbs) for the standard model. That’s a significant drop in both height and depth. The disc drive is now detachable, allowing the base unit to be even slimmer when used digitally.

Tip: If you’re tight on shelf space or plan to mount your console vertically in a narrow cabinet, the PS5 Slim’s reduced width makes it far more practical than the original.

The redesign isn’t just cosmetic. The new casing features a modular disc drive that can be added or removed depending on preference. This flexibility allows users to start digital and upgrade later—a feature absent from the original launch model. Additionally, the faceplates are easier to swap, continuing Sony’s emphasis on personalization.

Performance: Identical Power, Same Experience

One critical point often misunderstood is that there is no performance difference between the PS5 Slim and the original PS5. Both models use the same custom AMD Zen 2 CPU, RDNA 2 GPU, and 16GB of GDDR6 memory. Game load times, frame rates, resolution output, and ray tracing capabilities remain unchanged.

Sony did not upgrade the core hardware. This means you won’t see improved FPS in Spider-Man: Miles Morales, faster SSD read speeds, or enhanced 4K rendering. The system-on-a-chip (SoC) is identical, as is the 825GB SSD (with ~667GB usable space). Any perceived improvement in thermal management or noise levels is marginal and attributed to refined internal layout rather than superior components.

“There’s no technical advantage to choosing the PS5 Slim over the original if performance is your priority. It’s the same machine in a smaller shell.” — David Kim, Senior Hardware Analyst at TechInsight Weekly

In practice, this means gamers who invested in the original PS5 at launch haven’t been “left behind.” The Slim is not a mid-generation refresh like the Xbox Series S; it’s a form-factor update. You won’t gain access to exclusive features, faster processing, or backward compatibility enhancements. What you get is portability and aesthetics—not power.

Storage and Expandability: More Built-In Space

While raw performance remains unchanged, one tangible upgrade in the PS5 Slim is internal storage. The new model comes with a larger base SSD: 1TB compared to the original’s 825GB. That extra 175GB may not sound massive, but it translates to roughly two to three additional AAA titles, which average 80–100GB each.

This change aligns with growing game file sizes. Titles like Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III and Hogwarts Legacy regularly exceed 150GB after updates. Having more onboard storage delays the need to invest in an external NVMe expansion drive—an optional upgrade that typically costs $80–$150 depending on capacity.

Feature	Original PS5	PS5 Slim
Internal Storage	825GB SSD (~667GB usable)	1TB SSD (~840GB usable)
Expandable Storage	Yes (NVMe M.2 slot)	Yes (NVMe M.2 slot)
External USB Support	Yes (for PS4 games & backups)	Yes (same functionality)
Disc Drive Included	Standard model only	Sold separately; modular attachment

The expandability options remain identical. Both consoles support M.2 NVMe SSDs up to 8TB via the internal slot and allow external USB drives for storing PS4 games or archiving PS5 titles. No changes were made to bandwidth or supported PCIe generations, so read/write speeds stay capped at around 5.5 GB/s.

Real-World Use Case: Should You Upgrade?

Consider Sarah, a working professional living in a compact urban apartment. Her entertainment setup includes a wall-mounted TV and a narrow media console. When she bought the original PS5 in 2021, she had to place it vertically beside her TV because the horizontal footprint was too wide for the shelf. Over time, dust accumulated due to poor airflow, and the console became a visual eyesore amid her minimalist decor.

When the PS5 Slim launched, she considered upgrading—not for better graphics, but for integration. The smaller size allowed her to place the console horizontally under the TV without crowding other devices. She also appreciated the ability to remove the disc drive (she primarily uses digital purchases) and save even more space. For Sarah, the trade-in wasn’t about performance gains; it was about harmony with her lifestyle.

Her story illustrates a key insight: the value of the PS5 Slim lies in ergonomics, not engineering. If your original PS5 fits well, performs reliably, and meets your storage needs, upgrading offers minimal benefit. However, if space constraints, aesthetic preferences, or the desire for modularity matter, the Slim provides legitimate quality-of-life improvements.

Cost-Benefit Analysis: Is the Trade-In Worth It?

Let’s break down the financial reality. The PS5 Slim retails at $499.99 for the standard edition (with disc drive) and $449.99 for the Digital Edition. The original PS5 models are no longer sold new, but used units retain decent resale value—typically $250–$350 depending on condition and included accessories.

If you trade in your original PS5, you might receive credit toward the new model. Retailers like GameStop or Amazon Trade-In offer $200–$300, meaning you’d pay roughly $200–$300 out of pocket to upgrade. For that price, you gain:

• A 30% smaller console
• An extra 175GB of internal storage
• Modular disc drive option
• Easier faceplate swapping
• Slightly improved cable management (shorter power cord)

Compare that to alternative uses of the same funds:

• Purchasing a 1TB NVMe SSD ($90) to expand your original PS5
• Buying two to three full-price games
• Investing in a high-quality cooling stand or protective cover

Unless space is a critical issue or you strongly prefer the new design, the cost-to-benefit ratio leans against upgrading. The money saved could enhance your gaming experience more directly through software or accessories.

Checklist: Should You Upgrade to the PS5 Slim?

Use this checklist to determine if switching makes sense for your situation:

1. Is your current PS5 difficult to fit in your entertainment center?
2. Do you frequently move your console (e.g., between home and dorm room)?
3. Are you running out of internal storage and不愿 investing in an NVMe drive?
4. Do you prefer a cleaner, more modern aesthetic in your setup?
5. Have you experienced overheating or fan noise issues with the original model?
6. Are you planning to buy a new console anyway due to damage or wear?

If you answered “yes” to three or more, the PS5 Slim may be a worthwhile upgrade. Otherwise, sticking with your original PS5 is the more economical and environmentally responsible choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes. You can transfer all your games, saves, and settings using Wi-Fi, a LAN cable, or a compatible USB drive. The process is seamless and takes under an hour for most users. Cloud saves (via PlayStation Plus) also make migration easy.

Does the PS5 Slim run cooler than the original?

Not significantly. While Sony optimized internal airflow, temperatures and fan noise are largely comparable under load. Some users report slightly quieter operation, but no major thermal advantages have been confirmed in independent tests.

Is the detachable disc drive worth it?

It depends on your usage. If you own many physical games but also want the option to go digital later, the modular drive adds flexibility. However, it costs $79.99 separately, so buying the standard bundle is usually cheaper.

Conclusion: Practicality Over Hype

The PS5 Slim isn’t a revolution—it’s an evolution. It refines the original design with smarter dimensions, increased storage, and greater modularity. But it doesn’t redefine what the PlayStation 5 can do. For first-time buyers, the Slim is clearly the better choice: newer, more compact, and with more built-in space. For existing owners, the decision must be grounded in practical needs, not marketing appeal.

If your original PS5 works well and fits your space, keep it. Invest your money in games, accessories, or future tech. But if clutter bothers you, portability matters, or you simply love having the latest version, upgrading can bring genuine satisfaction—even without performance gains.

🚀 Ready to optimize your gaming setup? Share your thoughts on the PS5 Slim vs. original debate in the comments below—your experience could help others decide!