Kane William 
Overview
When Sony’s flagship system, the PlayStation 5 (PS5), debuted in November 2020, the gaming industry was in a frenzy. Its performance was unmatched by its peers, and it came with a number of groundbreaking features and an impressive selection of games. With the formal release of a PS5 Slim in late 2023, however, the scenario has just flipped, offering gamers a choice where there was previously little variation to choose from.
Below, we go into immense detail comparing the PS5 versus the PS5 Slim on design, hardware, pricing, and performance. You will clearly see which console fits your gaming needs by the end.
Design and Build
PS5
The original PS5 is, without a doubt, bold and futuristic in design. Coming in at 15.4 inches tall and 10.2 inches deep, weighing roughly 4.5 kg (9.9 lbs), it happens to be one of the biggest gaming consoles in existence. It blends sleek white panels with an austere black core, standing out as beautiful in any setup imaginable for entertainment; the sheer size of the console, however, has posed a challenge to many due to a lack of space.
PS5 Slim
As the name would suggest, the PS5 Slim is a more compact version of its predecessor. Sony was able to shave 30% off the volume of the console, and it weighs about 3.2 kg (7.1 lbs). That makes this Slim model way easier on space and more capable of fitting into smaller setups. It also retains the iconic two tone color scheme but with slightly rounded edges for a more streamlined look.
The detachable disc drive adds versatility, making the PS5 Slim more modular than its predecessor.
Verdict: The PS5 Slim is the undisputed winner if space is a premium or if you generally like subtle designs. However, for those that like the bold looks of the original, it may still favor the PS5.
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Performance and Hardware
Processing Power
Both PS5 and PS5 Slim house the same custom AMD Ryzen Zen 2 CPU and RDNA 2 GPU. That means both run at identical performance, such that it is capable of 4K gaming at 60 FPS and up to 120 FPS for some titles. Ray tracing, variable refresh rate, and ultra-high-speed SSDs are some other features that remain the same.
Cooling System
Where this slim edition shines, however, is the updated cooling solution on offer much quieter and efficient than previously employed. Though very great, the cooling solution on the original PS5 sometimes faced complaints about being a bit louder in case of longer intensive sessions. It does better in respect to thermal design with Slim.
Storage
The only real difference between both models is that both carry an 825GB SSD, but with system files, that number comes down to about 667GB of actual usable storage. Thankfully, both consoles offer expandable storage through an M.2 SSD slot, allowing users to add more capacity when needed.
Verdict: The PS5 and PS5 Slim are identical in terms of raw performance, but the Slim’s quieter cooling system gives it a slight edge for those who value a more subdued gaming experience.
Game Library and Backward Compatibility
PS5
The original PS5 launched with a solid library of exclusives, including Demon’s Souls, Spider Man, Miles Morales, and Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart. It also plays almost the entire PS4 library, so you’ll have no issues upgrading from last gen.
PS5 Slim
The PS5 Slim has the same library of games and compatibility as the original model. Because both consoles possess very similar hardware, they will provide the same gaming experience, whether you’re diving into the latest exclusives or revisiting PS4 classics.
Verdict: There’s literally no difference between PS5 or PS5 Slim for game library and compatibility, so both machines promise pretty great gameplay experiences.
Controller and Accessories
DualSense Controller
With both, you get the new DualSense controller that includes adaptive triggers, haptic feedback, and even a microphone. That controller gives much more to feel, and better, more immersive feedback while gaming, thus making it arguably one of the best features to define this PS5 generation.
Accessories
The Pulse 3D headset, media remote, and DualSense charging station are all compatible with both the PS5 and PS5 Slim, with no difference in functionality between the two models.
Verdict: The DualSense controller and accessories remain consistent across both models, so there’s no clear advantage here.
Price and Availability
PS5
The original PS5 launched with two variants-the standard edition bundled with a disc drive for $499 and the Digital Edition sans disc drive for $399-and has since largely been plagued by inconsistent supply due to production chain issues paired with increased demand. Restocking often occurs in very short minutes.
PS5 Slim
The PS5 Slim is costlier than the original at launch as Sony has priced the disc-detachable drive model at $499, while its Digital Edition price has been kept at $449. Admittedly, this will be a wee bit high on the price scale, and yet, at the same place, it guarantees a Slim-a reason behind justification for such an advanced design with up-to-date modular disc drives.
Verdict: The PS5 Slim is slightly more expensive, but for new buyers, it might be worth basically that extra investment, considering its modern design and modular feature set.
Energy Efficiency
PS5
Original PS5 consumes from about 220 to 350 watts during gaming. That is not much for such a powerful console, but it is a big energy draw, especially if one estimates that this happens in longer game sessions.
PS5 Slim
By reusing already made components on slim consoles, much was done towards energy efficiency on the PS5 Slim, says Sony. It redesigns the components along with an efficient heat extraction system; such design reduces around 25 percent power consumption of consoles. Now this slender device becomes ecology-friendly, as the gamers finally get concerned for nature.
Verdict: The improved energy efficiency of the PS5 Slim is a boon to your electricity bill and the environment.
Palworld Ancient Technology Points
Who Should Buy A PS5?
The original PS5 is still a great option for:
- For Existing PS5 Owners: If you have the original PS5, there is little reason to upgrade unless you are especially attracted to the compact design of the Slim.
- Collectors find it very appealing since the bold and iconic design of the PS5 became a trademark of this generation.
Who Should Buy the PS5 Slim?
The PS5 Slim is perfect for:
- New Buyers: If you are buying a PS5 for the first time, then Slim has some serious improved design and features to go for.
- Space-Conscious Gamers: Those with limited space will appreciate the Slim’s smaller footprint.
- Eco-Friendly Gamers: The Slim is more energy-efficient, hence eco-friendly.
Final Thoughts
Which to buy between PS5 and PS5 Slim is up to the priorities of an individual. With identical performance, a library of games, and accessories in both consoles, the slim version seems newer with its compact design and quieter, power-saving operation. However, in case you have already purchased PS5, you don’t really need to switch over to the Slim unless seeking some specific benefits from it.
FAQs
What will be the capacity of the PS5 Slim?
The PS5 Slim usually features the same 825GB internal SSD as the original PS5. Storage expansion via an NVMe SSD is also supported.
Is the disc drive sold separately?
The detachable disc drive of PS5 Slim can also be purchased separately, and will be versatile for every owner who wants an upgrade from the Digital Edition.
What colors is the PS5 Slim available in?
For one, the PS5 Slim is said to come in the same standard white color, although Sony may offer more colors for the console later on.
