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

The PlayStation 5 has been a cornerstone of next-gen gaming since its 2020 launch, delivering powerful hardware, lightning-fast load times, and immersive gameplay. In late 2023, Sony introduced the PS5 Slim, a redesigned version of the original console that’s smaller, lighter, and slightly more affordable. But for current PS5 owners wondering whether to upgrade, the real question isn’t just about size—it’s about value. Is the PS5 Slim’s compact form factor enough reason to trade in a fully functional original model? The answer depends on several factors: physical space, storage needs, aesthetics, and long-term usage.

This comprehensive breakdown compares the PS5 Slim and the original PS5 across key dimensions—design, performance, storage, price, and user experience—to help you decide if upgrading makes sense for your setup and lifestyle.

Design and Physical Differences

The most immediate difference between the two consoles is their size. The original PS5, with its bold, futuristic curves and dual-tone panels, was designed to stand out. But it’s also large—nearly 15 inches tall and weighing around 9.9 pounds (4.5 kg) for the disc edition. Its footprint can dominate entertainment centers, especially in tighter spaces.

The PS5 Slim reduces volume by approximately 30% and weight by about 18%. It stands at roughly 12 inches tall and weighs 6.9 pounds (3.1 kg) for the disc version. The redesign breaks the console into two symmetrical side panels that can be removed and reattached, allowing users to swap color covers in the future—a feature teased by Sony as part of a broader customization initiative.

Another notable change: the detachable disc drive. On the Slim, the Ultra HD Blu-ray drive is optional. You can buy a digital-only base model and add the drive later via a $79.99 upgrade kit. This modular approach offers flexibility but adds complexity for those who already own physical media.

Tip: If you’re tight on shelf space or plan to mount your console vertically, the PS5 Slim’s reduced depth and weight make it significantly easier to fit and stabilize.

Performance: Identical Under the Hood

Despite the smaller size, the PS5 Slim does not sacrifice performance. It uses the same custom AMD Zen 2 CPU, RDNA 2 GPU, and 825GB SSD as the original model. Frame rates, resolution, ray tracing capabilities, and overall system responsiveness remain identical across both versions.

Sony did not boost clock speeds, increase memory bandwidth, or integrate faster storage. The cooling solution has been refined—smaller heat pipes and a more compact fan—but thermal performance remains on par. Internal benchmarks and third-party teardowns confirm that the Slim maintains similar operating temperatures under load, thanks to improved airflow engineering within the denser chassis.

“From a performance standpoint, there's no benefit to upgrading unless your current unit is failing. The experience is bit-for-bit identical.” — Mark Cerny, Lead System Architect, Sony Interactive Entertainment (paraphrased from technical presentations)

Gamers seeking higher frame rates or enhanced graphical fidelity won't find it in the Slim. For that, the rumored PS5 Pro remains the expected upgrade path. As it stands, the Slim is purely a form-factor refresh, not a performance leap.

Storage Comparison: Bigger Base, Expandable Options

One meaningful upgrade in the PS5 Slim is internal storage. The original PS5 came with 825GB of SSD storage, of which only about 667GB is usable after system files. The PS5 Slim increases this to 1TB (approximately 848GB available), giving users an extra 180GB of space—enough for several additional AAA titles.

This may seem minor, but given that modern games regularly exceed 100GB (e.g., *Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III* at 230GB, *Final Fantasy VII Rebirth* at 155GB), even incremental gains matter. With the average PS5 owner installing 15–20 games at a time, expanded storage reduces the frequency of offloading and redownloading.

Both models support M.2 NVMe SSD expansion via the internal slot, compatible with PCIe Gen4 drives up to 8TB. However, the PS5 Slim simplifies installation: the cover removal mechanism is tool-free, making upgrades more accessible to non-technical users.

Feature	Original PS5	PS5 Slim
Internal Storage	825GB (667GB usable)	1TB (848GB usable)
Expandable SSD Slot	Yes (PCIe Gen4)	Yes (PCIe Gen4, tool-free access)
Disc Drive	Built-in (disc model)	Removable module (optional)
External USB Support	Yes (HDD/SSD for PS4 games & archive)	Yes (same functionality)

Price and Value Considerations

The PS5 Slim carries a modest premium over the original at launch pricing. The digital edition starts at $449.99 (up from $399.99), while the disc version is priced at $499.99 (up from $449.99). While this reflects inflation and supply stabilization, it means upgrading isn’t cost-neutral.

For existing PS5 owners, trading in your original console typically yields $200–$300 depending on condition and retailer programs. After applying credit, the out-of-pocket cost to upgrade ranges from $150 to $250. That’s a significant investment for a device that performs identically.

However, resale value for the original PS5 has stabilized. Units in good condition retain value better than early-generation consoles due to ongoing demand in emerging markets and among budget-conscious buyers. Selling privately can net $50–$100 more than trade-in options.

Tip: If you're considering an upgrade, sell your original PS5 privately and bundle it with accessories (extra controllers, charging dock) to maximize return.

Real-World Scenario: Should You Upgrade?

Consider the case of Jordan, a gamer living in a small apartment with a crowded entertainment center. His original PS5 sits horizontally beneath a TV stand, forcing him to angle the screen forward for ventilation. He frequently plays multiplayer titles requiring frequent game swaps, and his SSD is nearly full. He also owns a growing collection of PS5 discs.

After researching the PS5 Slim, Jordan opts to upgrade. The smaller footprint allows vertical placement without obstructing airflow. The added 180GB of storage delays the need for an external SSD purchase. And because he bought the disc version of the Slim, he avoids the hassle of managing a modular drive.

In contrast, Maya, a casual gamer with a spacious home theater setup, sees no benefit. Her original PS5 fits comfortably, she downloads games infrequently, and she rarely runs out of space. For her, the upgrade offers no tangible improvement—only unnecessary expense.

Your decision should follow a similar logic: assess your physical constraints, usage patterns, and priorities. The PS5 Slim isn’t a mandatory upgrade; it’s a lifestyle refinement.

Step-by-Step Guide: Deciding Whether to Upgrade

1. Evaluate your current setup: Measure the space where your PS5 sits. Is it cramped? Do you struggle with cable management or heat dissipation?
2. Check your storage usage: Go to Settings > Storage. If you’re consistently below 20% free space, the Slim’s extra capacity could help.
3. Assess your media habits: Do you rely on physical discs? If yes, confirm you’re purchasing the Slim with the disc drive or budget for the add-on later.
4. Research trade-in values: Compare offers from GameStop, Amazon, Best Buy, and local resellers. Factor in shipping costs and condition requirements.
5. Calculate total cost: Subtract your trade-in value from the Slim’s price. If the net cost exceeds $200, ask whether the benefits justify the spend.
6. Consider timing: Wait for holiday sales or bundle deals (e.g., console + game + controller) to improve value.

FAQ

Can I use my original PS5 accessories with the PS5 Slim?

Yes. All official DualSense controllers, Pulse 3D headsets, charging stations, and Media Remotes are fully compatible with the PS5 Slim.

Does the removable disc drive affect performance?

No. The external drive connects via a high-speed internal interface and delivers identical read speeds to the built-in drive on the original model. There is no performance penalty.

Will the PS5 Slim support future color panels?

Sony has confirmed plans for swappable faceplates, similar to the Xbox Series X. While only black is available at launch, additional colors and limited editions are expected in 2024 and beyond.

Checklist: Is the PS5 Slim Right for You?

• ✅ Need a smaller console for tight spaces
• ✅ Frequently run out of internal storage
• ✅ Prefer vertical orientation or wall mounting
• ✅ Want easier SSD expansion without tools
• ✅ Interested in future customization (color panels)
• ❌ Satisfied with current PS5 performance and fit
• ❌ Don’t mind managing storage with external drives
• ❌ Unwilling to spend $150+ after trade-in

Conclusion: A Refined Experience, Not a Revolution

The PS5 Slim isn’t a replacement for the original—it’s an evolution. It refines the design, improves storage, and introduces modularity without altering the core gaming experience. For new buyers, it’s the clear choice: sleeker, slightly more capable, and built with future customization in mind.

But for existing PS5 owners, the upgrade calculus is personal. If space is tight, storage is strained, or you simply appreciate the aesthetic of a cleaner, more compact console, the Slim offers meaningful quality-of-life improvements. However, if your current setup works well and you’re not facing practical limitations, holding onto your original PS5 is not just reasonable—it’s financially smart.

The size reduction alone isn’t enough to justify trading in a working console. But when combined with better storage, easier maintenance, and long-term usability, the PS5 Slim becomes more than just a cosmetic update. It’s a thoughtful iteration for those who value efficiency and elegance in their tech.

💬 Have you upgraded to the PS5 Slim? Share your experience—was the trade-in worth it for your gaming setup? Join the conversation and help others decide.