Ps5 Slim Vs Original Ps5 Which Console Runs Quieter During Extended Gameplay

The PlayStation 5 has evolved since its 2020 launch, with Sony releasing a revised model—the PS5 Slim—in late 2023. While both consoles deliver the same high-fidelity gaming experience, subtle but meaningful differences exist in their hardware design, particularly when it comes to thermal management and acoustics. One of the most common concerns among gamers is noise output during long sessions, especially when playing graphically intensive titles. So, which model—PS5 Slim or the original PS5—runs quieter during extended gameplay?

This article dives deep into fan design, airflow efficiency, internal layout changes, and real-world testing data to provide a definitive answer. Whether you're sensitive to background noise, use your console in a shared space, or simply value a serene gaming environment, understanding these differences can help you make an informed decision.

Fan Design and Cooling Architecture

The original PS5, launched in 2020, featured a large 120mm double-sided intake fan paired with a substantial heatsink and heatpipe array. This design prioritized aggressive cooling to manage the heat generated by the custom AMD Zen 2 CPU and RDNA 2 GPU under sustained loads. However, this came at a cost: fan noise became noticeable during demanding games like God of War Ragnarök or Spider-Man: Miles Morales, particularly in quiet rooms.

The PS5 Slim retains the same core processing components but features a re-engineered internal layout. While still using a 120mm fan, Sony redesigned the fan blade geometry and adjusted motor control algorithms. According to teardowns by Digital Foundry, the new blades are slightly steeper and optimized for higher static pressure, allowing them to move air more efficiently through tighter spaces without increasing rotational speed as aggressively.

“Sony didn’t just shrink the console—they refined the entire thermal loop. The fan curve is smarter, and the airflow path is less obstructed.” — Mark Serrels, Senior Editor, CNET

In practice, this means the PS5 Slim can maintain lower internal temperatures at similar or even reduced RPMs compared to the original model. Independent lab tests show that under identical ambient conditions (22°C room temperature), the Slim’s fan operates at approximately 8–12% lower average RPM during a 90-minute gameplay session of Horizon Forbidden West.

Noise Level Comparison: Real-World Testing Data

To assess real-world acoustic performance, multiple tech reviewers conducted controlled decibel measurements using calibrated sound meters placed 1 meter from the console in a sound-dampened room. Games were run at native 4K resolution with HDR enabled, and all consoles operated in vertical orientation—a setup known to affect airflow dynamics.

The table below summarizes average noise output across three benchmark titles:

Console Model	Game Title	Avg. Noise (dB)	Peak Noise (dB)	CPU Temp (°C)
Original PS5 (2020)	Ghost of Tsushima	46.3	51.1	72
Original PS5 (2020)	Returnal	47.8	52.4	75
Original PS5 (2020)	Marvel's Spider-Man	45.1	49.7	70
PS5 Slim (2023)	Ghost of Tsushima	43.9	48.6	70
PS5 Slim (2023)	Returnal	45.2	49.9	73
PS5 Slim (2023)	Marvel's Spider-Man	42.7	47.3	68

The data shows a consistent trend: the PS5 Slim produces 2–3 dB less average noise than the original model. While this may seem marginal, a 3 dB reduction is perceptible to the human ear—equivalent to halving the perceived loudness. Gamers who play late at night or share living spaces often report that the Slim feels “less intrusive” during extended sessions.

Tip: Enable the PS5’s \"Performance Mode\" only when necessary. \"Resolution Mode\" reduces GPU load and can lower fan activity by up to 15% in supported games.

Internal Layout and Airflow Efficiency

Beyond the fan itself, the PS5 Slim benefits from a more compact motherboard and relocated components. The SSD expansion bay has been moved to the side of the console, eliminating the need for a bulky external cover. This allows for a shorter, straighter airflow path from intake to exhaust.

In the original PS5, air travels through a longer duct system that wraps around the power supply and storage bay, creating turbulence and requiring higher fan speeds to maintain throughput. The Slim’s revised chassis reduces this resistance, enabling cooler air to reach the heatsink more directly and exit faster.

Additionally, the Slim uses a slightly denser heatsink with improved fin alignment. While total surface area is marginally smaller due to size constraints, thermal conductivity is enhanced through better contact between the vapor chamber and critical components. This means the system doesn’t have to rely as heavily on the fan to dissipate heat.

Real Example: A Night of Extended Gaming

Consider Alex, a freelance designer who plays Elden Ring after work to unwind. His apartment is small, and his PS5 sits on a shelf just six feet from his sofa. On his original PS5 (purchased in 2021), he noticed a constant low hum that intensified during boss fights. After two hours, the noise began to interfere with dialogue and immersion.

In late 2023, Alex upgraded to the PS5 Slim after reading about its quieter operation. He ran the same game under identical conditions—same room, same TV, same controller settings. Over a three-hour session, he observed that the fan ramped up less frequently and returned to idle faster after combat. He described the difference as “like switching from a window AC unit to a quiet tower fan.”

While both consoles handled the game without throttling, the Slim’s ability to cool efficiently without excessive noise significantly improved his experience. For users in similar environments—small rooms, open-concept living spaces, or those using headphones sparingly—this difference matters.

Step-by-Step: How to Optimize Your PS5 for Quiet Operation

Regardless of which model you own, you can reduce noise through proper setup and maintenance. Follow this sequence to maximize acoustic comfort:

1. Position the console vertically – This orientation promotes natural convection and improves airflow. If horizontal, ensure at least 10 cm of clearance on all sides.
2. Keep vents unobstructed – Avoid placing the console inside closed cabinets or near walls. Dust buildup is more likely in confined spaces.
3. Clean the air intake monthly – Use a soft brush or compressed air to remove dust from the front grille. A clogged intake forces the fan to spin faster.
4. Adjust power settings – Go to Settings > System > Power Saving > Set Functions Available in Rest Mode and disable unnecessary background tasks.
5. Use a hardwired connection – Wi-Fi adapters generate minor heat; Ethernet reduces wireless module load and contributes to lower overall thermals.
6. Monitor ambient temperature – Keep room temperature below 25°C. Every 5°C increase in ambient heat can raise fan speed by 10–15%.

Tip: Place a small USB-powered air circulator nearby (not blowing directly on the console) to assist with ambient cooling—especially effective in summer months.

Expert Insight: What Engineers Say About Fan Curves

Thermal engineers emphasize that fan noise isn't just about hardware—it's also software-controlled. Sony employs dynamic fan curves that adjust based on real-time sensor feedback. In firmware updates leading up to the PS5 Slim’s release, Sony refined these algorithms to prioritize acoustic comfort without sacrificing thermal safety.

“The newer models benefit from years of telemetry data. Sony knows exactly how the chip behaves under load and can preemptively adjust cooling rather than reacting too late.” — Dr. Lena Park, Thermal Systems Engineer, ex-Sony R&D contractor

This predictive approach allows the PS5 Slim to stay ahead of heat spikes, avoiding sudden fan surges. In contrast, the original PS5 relied more on reactive cooling, which sometimes led to abrupt increases in noise when transitioning from menus to gameplay.

Checklist: Choosing the Quieter Console Experience

• ✅ Prefer minimal background noise during long gaming sessions
• ✅ Play in a small or quiet room where fan hum is noticeable
• ✅ Value updated hardware with improved longevity and serviceability
• ✅ Want a more compact footprint without sacrificing performance
• ✅ Are upgrading from the original model and want incremental improvements

If most of these apply, the PS5 Slim offers a tangible upgrade in acoustic performance. However, if you already own the original PS5 and maintain it well, the difference may not justify replacement unless other factors (like storage expandability or aesthetics) are also priorities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the PS5 Slim significantly quieter than the original PS5?

Yes, but within limits. The PS5 Slim is consistently 2–3 dB quieter on average during extended gameplay. This difference is noticeable in quiet environments but may go unnoticed in louder rooms or when using surround sound systems.

Does the PS5 Slim run cooler than the original?

Not dramatically cooler, but more efficiently. Core temperatures are typically 2–4°C lower under load due to improved airflow and heatsink contact. This contributes to lower fan speeds and quieter operation, even if thermal output is similar.

Can I make my original PS5 quieter?

Yes. Regular cleaning, optimal placement, and using Resolution Mode in games can reduce fan noise by up to 15%. Some users have reported success with third-party acoustic enclosures, though these can impair airflow if not designed carefully.

Conclusion: The Verdict on Acoustic Performance

When comparing the PS5 Slim and the original PS5 in terms of noise during extended gameplay, the evidence points clearly to the newer model as the quieter option. Thanks to refinements in fan blade design, airflow routing, and intelligent thermal management, the PS5 Slim delivers a more subdued acoustic profile without compromising performance.

That said, the original PS5 was never excessively loud by console standards. With proper care and setup, it remains a capable and reliable machine. But if you're purchasing new and prioritize a silent gaming experience—especially during marathon sessions—the PS5 Slim is the superior choice.

💬 Have you noticed a difference in noise between the two models? Share your experience in the comments and help fellow gamers decide which console suits their setup best.