11 October 2023 , 16:00
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There are some differences between the PS5 Slim and PS5 but the specs of the two look identical on paper.
With Sony finally confirming its new PS5 Slim model, the question on everyone's mind is how it stacks up against the current PS5. Rumours about the PS5 Slim console had been doing rounds since last year, with reports suggesting it would feature a new attachable disc drive, differing it from the current model. We now know that the PS5 Slim is set to hit the shelves this November.
Alongside the PS5 Slim announcement was news that the current PS5 models will no longer be sold once the current stock depletes. We already had this theory in mind after the recent PlayStation Summer Sale that saw the PS5 price drop to an all-time low. It certainly seemed like Sony was clearing out PS5 stock to make way for the rumoured new PS5 Slim models.
There are a few key differences between the PS5 Slim and PS5 including the size, weight, and the fact that you can get your hands on an attachable disc drive. However, we're covering all of these so you know which console is right for you.
PS5 Slim vs PS5: specs
The PS5 Slim specs are actually identical to those of the PS5 aside from the external dimensions and weight which are smaller to make the new console more streamlined. The processing power of both consoles is exactly the same, meaning that picking up the new console isn't actually an upgrade.
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PS5 specs
- External dimensions: Approx. 358 × 96 × 216 mm (width × height × depth)
- Mass: Approx. 3.2 kg
- CPU: x86-64-AMD Ryzen™ “Zen 2” 8 Cores / 16 Threads
- GPU: Radeon™ RDNA 2-based graphics engine
- System Memory: GDDR6 16GB
- SSD: 1TB
- Video Out: Support of 4K 120Hz TVs, 8K TVs, VRR (specified by HDMI ver.2.1)
PS5 Slim specs
- External dimensions: Approx. 358 × 80 × 216 mm (width × height × depth)
- Mass: Approx. 2.6 kg
- CPU: x86-64-AMD Ryzen™ “Zen 2” 8 Cores / 16 Threads
- GPU: Radeon™ RDNA 2-based graphics engine
- System Memory: GDDR6 16GB
- SSD: 1TB
- Video Out: Support of 4K 120Hz TVs, 8K TVs, VRR (specified by HDMI ver.2.1)
Another key difference the new PS5 Slim will feature is the attachable UHD Blu-ray disc drive which you can either pick up with the console or purchase separately should you choose to opt for the digital edition without it. The attachable disc drive connects straight to the side of the PS5 Slim console.
PS5 Slim vs PS5: price
The PS5 Slim with the disc drive included costs £479.99 / $499.99, while the PS5 Slim Digital Edition is priced at £389.99 / $449.99. Australian prices haven't been confirmed right now, but given these figures are in the same ballpark as the current PS5 pricing, we can assume the PS5 Slim Australian price will be AU$799.99 for the disc version and AU$649.95 for the PS5 Slim Digital Edition. The PS5 Slim attachable disc drive can be picked up for £99.99 / $79.99 which converts to roughly AU$125.
As there are no changes to the PS5 Slim specs, it was kind of expected to see the price point stay the same as the current PS5. However, one thing that is worth keeping in mind is the fact that you can already find a wide range of bundle deals and sales on the current model of the PS5 allowing you to get it much cheaper or paired with free and discounted goodies or games.
PS5 Slim vs PS5: verdict
Both of these consoles are pretty much identical so if you're considering upgrading from your PS5 to a PS5 Slim, it's definitely not worth the effort or energy. However, if you're still running previous-generation gear and considering whether the PS5 or PS5 Slim is the best option for you then it's worth shopping around.
Considering you can currently find bundle deals with bring the PS5 down to some of the lowest prices we've ever seen, it's likely worth picking up a standard PS5 console right now. However, if you feel like the detachable disc drive is calling your name and you prefer the sleeker design of the PS5 Slim then there's nothing wrong with waiting given that it's the same price.