Comparison of PS5 models: The three PlayStation 5 variants available from Sony: the standard console, the Digital Edition, and the PS5 Slim. What distinguishes them, and which is the best option? Now let’s assess.
Table of Contents
History of PS5 Models
Sony’s primary next-generation gaming consoles, the PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 5 Digital Edition, were released in 2020. Sony then revealed the PS5 Slim, a new model that joins the range, in November 2023. As current stock runs out, the plan is for the PS5 Slim to gradually take the place of the first two variants.
Choosing the best model can be confusing because these three models are available at the same time. What makes one model different from the others? Let us evaluate the current state of affairs.
Comparison of PS5 models: PS5 SLIM VS PS5 VS PS5 DIGITAL EDITION
THE SAME TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Sony has a different approach from Microsoft, which has chosen to offer two quite different Xbox models: the Series S and Series X. The PlayStation 5 and the PlayStation 5 Digital Edition share the same internal features, with the exception of the latter’s lack of a Blu-ray player. Because the PS5 Digital Edition does not come with a disc drive, games must be purchased digitally.
While doing comparison of PS5 models , whichever model you choose, you should anticipate the same level of performance, display quality, and storage (825 GB). Practically speaking, 670 GB are accessible after accounting for the operating system’s occupied space.
With regard to the PS5 Slim, it keeps the same performance but stands out due to its greater internal storage capacity of 1 TB. You will have about 825 GB of available space after activation. Additionally, a disc drive is optional for this system. Selecting the version without a drive lets you install and obtain one later on because the drive is detachable and can be attached and removed with ease.
GAMES DOWNLOADED OCCUPY THE SAME SPACE
It would seem reasonable to believe that a console that is only used for in-app purchases would require a larger capacity in order to accommodate the downloads of these games. It is important to remember, though, that modern games are installed on the hard drive and are no longer launched straight from the Blu-ray. Basically, a game will take up the same amount of storage space whether it is installed from a Blu-ray disc or downloaded from the PlayStation Store.
DISTINCT DESIGNS: THE CONTRASTS BETWEEN THE INITIAL TWO PS5 MODELS
The design is where the comparison of PS5 models the first two PS5 models diverge most from one another. In essence, the two consoles have the same general construction, however the Digital variant is unique in that it doesn’t have a protrusion.
As a result, the PS5 Digital Edition has a somewhat smaller shape than its sibling. The difference is not that great, but it still makes it harder to slide the PS5 DE into a cabinet under your TV. The Digital model’s design seems more balanced from an aesthetic standpoint, but the user experience should remain the same.
Every other feature, including connectivity, is the same for both devices. Because of the accompanying stand in the package, they may be positioned in either a horizontal or vertical posture.
THE REDESIGNED AESTHETICS OF THE PS5 SLIM
The new PlayStation 5 Slim’s redesigned appearance, which reflects Sony’s dedication to producing a more portable and light console, is one of its most notable aspects helping you to easily do comparison of PS5 models.
Its dimensions also change noticeably: for the version with a disc drive, they go from 390 x 104 x 260 mm to 358 x 96 x 216 mm, and for the digital version, they go from 390 x 92 x 260 mm to 358 x 80 x 216 mm. Along with this size reduction comes a significant weight reduction: the version with the disc drive weighs 3.2 kg as opposed to 4.5 kg for the launch version, and the Digital version weighs 2.6 kg as opposed to 3.9 kg for the launch version.
The console’s style undergoes subtle changes in this Slim version as well. Both versions now feature a groove along the top two-thirds of the console, facilitating the separation and removal of the disc drive. Additionally, a dual matte/glossy texture has been introduced, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal.
BACKWARD COMPATIBILITY
The comparison of PS5 models PlayStation 5 extends backward compatibility to PlayStation 4 games. For those with an extensive collection of PS4 games on Blu-ray, it’s important to note that the PlayStation 5 Digital Edition, lacking a disc drive, won’t support backward compatibility for these physical discs.
However, it would be inaccurate to claim that the PlayStation 5 DE lacks backward compatibility altogether. PS4 games acquired from the PlayStation Store remain entirely playable on this version. Additionally, users can choose to install them on an external hard drive, as these games were not originally designed to run on an SSD and are compatible with slower storage options.
THE COST DISCREPANCY IN DIGITAL GAMES
The pricing of games plays a pivotal role in this consideration. This is a key factor behind the existence of the Digital model: Sony earns a higher profit margin on games sold through the PlayStation Store compared to physical versions, enabling them to set a higher price. However, for consumers, the decision is not as straightforward for comparison of PS5 models .
In many instances, digital versions of games are priced $10 higher than their physical counterparts. Particularly on recent games, especially Sony exclusives, a title released on the PlayStation Store may be listed at $79.99, whereas it can be found at $69.99 on e-commerce platforms in its boxed version. Owning a PS5 with a disc drive grants the advantage of having the flexibility to choose between the two versions.
THE ISSUE OF USED GAMES AND BORROWING
Another crucial consideration when making a choice is the future of your game collection. With a “Digital” console, be it the 2020 version or the new Slim, the use of physical games is not possible. Consequently, you won’t have the option to resell them later, either through specialized stores or classified ad sites. Since your digitally purchased games are tied to your PSN account, resale is not an option.
Similarly, lending your games after completing them is not feasible with a digital console. Conversely, you’ll also miss out on the opportunity to experience games borrowed from your friends.
Comparison of PS5 models base on price
The PlayStation 5 Digital Edition is available for purchase at $449. The standard PlayStation 5 costs $549, reflecting a $100 difference. The PS5 Slim is available in two variants, with or without a drive, and both options align perfectly with the prices of the aforementioned consoles. Thus, the PS5 Slim costs $449 without a drive and $549 with it.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT PS5
In summary, while the initial two PS5 models are still available, the PS5 Slim has been strategically designed to eventually replace them. Consequently, we recommend opting for the new Slim model. It offers several advantages: a more compact design, larger storage capacity, and costs the same. The only scenario where considering a first-gen PS5 might make sense is in the second-hand market if you come across a favorable price. As for the first version of the PS5 Digital Edition, there’s little rationale for choosing it. Given that the Slim model without a disc drive is available at the same price.