As we move further into 2025, PlayStation fans are faced with an important decision: Should they go for the original PS5, or opt for the newer, more compact PS5 Slim? Sony has introduced both consoles with the aim of catering to different gaming needs and preferences. However, with subtle and not-so-subtle differences between the two, it can be difficult to decide which one suits your needs best.
In this article, we’ll compare the two consoles across several key factors: design, performance, storage, pricing, and more. Our goal is to help you make an informed decision about which PlayStation 5 console is the better choice for you in 2025.
Overview of the PS5 and PS5 Slim
Before diving into the details, it’s important to understand the basics. The PS5 was initially launched in November 2020, introducing gamers to a powerhouse of a console with superior graphics, fast load times, and seamless performance. While the original PS5 received praise for its performance, its large size and somewhat unwieldy design made it difficult for some gamers to find a place for it in their entertainment setups.
Fast forward to 2023, and Sony unveiled the PS5 Slim. This model maintains the same powerful specs as the original PS5 but is more compact, lighter, and offers additional flexibility, such as a detachable disc drive. Despite these changes, both consoles deliver virtually identical performance, which raises the question: Which one is the better choice?
Design: Size and Aesthetics
One of the most obvious differences in PS5 vs PS5 Slim is the size. The original PS5 is a big, bulky console with dimensions that make it stand out—almost too much so. While the design was striking in terms of futuristic appeal, it was also somewhat impractical for many. The PS5 is about 15.4 inches tall, 10.2 inches deep, and 4.1 inches wide, which made it a challenge to fit in smaller spaces.
The PS5 Slim, on the other hand, is about 30% smaller than its predecessor. The new model measures roughly 13.4 inches tall, 9.4 inches deep, and 3.9 inches wide. This drastic reduction in size makes the PS5 Slim far more compact and suitable for tight entertainment spaces. The Slim also boasts a sleeker, less bulky appearance, which could appeal to gamers looking for something that blends better with their home decor.
Both consoles retain a sleek, modern look, but the PS5 Slim is definitely the winner if you’re after a more discreet console that takes up less space in your living room or gaming area.
Performance: Are They Really That Different?
One of the most significant questions many potential buyers have is whether the PS5 Slim compromises on performance to achieve its smaller form factor. The answer is a resounding no. Sony made sure that the PS5 Slim retains the same processing power as the original PS5. Both consoles are powered by a custom AMD Ryzen CPU and RDNA 2 GPU, meaning they offer 4K resolution gaming, Ray tracing, and high refresh rates without a noticeable dip in performance.
In terms of gameplay, you won’t notice any real difference between the two consoles. Both feature the Ultra High-Speed SSD, allowing for incredibly fast load times, and both are fully capable of running demanding titles like Demon’s Souls, Spider-Man: Miles Morales, and Horizon Forbidden West without any stutter or frame drops. The performance of the PS5 Slim is virtually identical to the original PS5, making the decision a matter of design, size, and additional features rather than any performance-based trade-off.
Storage: What’s Better for Gamers?
Storage has become an increasingly important factor for gamers as the size of modern games continues to grow. The PS5 comes with an 825GB SSD, which, while fast, may not be enough for players who want to store a wide variety of games on their console.
The PS5 Slim, however, offers a significant upgrade with a 1TB SSD. The increase in storage capacity is a welcome addition for gamers who prefer to download large titles without worrying about running out of space too quickly. Whether you enjoy exploring vast open worlds or playing multiple AAA games at once, the PS5 Slim’s 1TB of storage provides ample room for your gaming library.
While both consoles allow you to expand your storage with an external hard drive or additional internal SSD, the larger internal SSD in the PS5 Slim is a definite perk for those who want more space straight out of the box.
Disc Drive Options: Flexibility with the Slim
Another major difference between the two models is the disc drive. The PS5 comes with a built-in Ultra HD Blu-ray disc drive, making it the perfect choice for those who prefer physical copies of games, movies, or TV shows. The disc drive also enables you to play 4K Ultra HD movies, making it a well-rounded option for home entertainment.
The PS5 Slim, however, offers more flexibility. It is available in two versions: one with the same built-in disc drive and another with a detachable disc drive. This means that if you opt for the disc-less version of the PS5 Slim, you can still buy the separate disc drive at a later date if you decide you want to play physical media. This gives you more control over your gaming experience and the ability to choose between digital-only or physical gaming.
The detachable disc drive also lowers the overall cost of the PS5 Slim Digital Edition, offering a more affordable entry point for gamers who are happy with downloading their games digitally.
Pricing: Is the Slim Really More Affordable?
When it comes to pricing, there are distinct differences between the two models. As of 2025, the PS5 is priced at around $499 for the version with the built-in disc drive, while the PS5 Slim with the detachable disc drive is priced at $449. The PS5 Slim Digital Edition (without the disc drive) costs $399, making it a more affordable option for gamers who don’t mind going digital-only.
While the difference in pricing isn’t vast, the PS5 Slim offers a more cost-effective solution for those looking to save a little money while still enjoying the same high-performance gaming experience. Additionally, the PS5 Slim’s 1TB SSD offers better storage capacity for a similar price, making it a solid value proposition.
Which One is the Better Choice for You in 2025?
Choosing between the PS5 and PS5 Slim comes down to personal preference and priorities. If you have limited space in your living room or gaming area, the PS5 Slim is the obvious choice. Its compact design, improved storage, and flexible disc drive options make it an ideal choice for gamers who want a sleek, modern console without compromising on performance.
On the other hand, if you prefer having a built-in disc drive and aren’t concerned with space or storage, the original PS5 still stands as a fantastic choice. Its price point and solid performance continue to make it a great option for anyone looking to get into next-gen gaming.
Conclusion
The PS5 vs PS5 Slim are both exceptional consoles in their own right. In 2025, the decision between the two will depend on your specific needs, whether you value a more compact design, greater storage capacity, or flexibility with the disc drive. Both consoles provide top-notch performance, so you won’t be sacrificing gaming quality no matter which one you choose.
For most gamers, the PS5 Slim offers the best balance of value, performance, and design. It’s a more versatile and space-saving option that also delivers all the power of the original PS5. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prefer a traditional, larger console or the more flexible, streamlined PS5 Slim—both of which deliver an incredible gaming experience in 2025 and beyond.
FAQs:
1. What’s the main difference between the PS5 and PS5 Slim?
The main difference is the size and design. The PS5 Slim is 30% smaller than the original PS5, making it more compact and easier to fit into smaller spaces. It also offers a detachable disc drive option, giving you more flexibility.
2. Does the PS5 Slim perform worse than the original PS5?
No, the PS5 Slim offers the same performance as the original PS5. Both models have the same hardware, ensuring you get the same gaming experience, including fast load times and 4K resolution gaming.
3. Which model offers more storage, the PS5 or PS5 Slim?
The PS5 Slim offers a 1TB SSD, while the original PS5 has an 825GB SSD. This gives the PS5 Slim a significant storage advantage, allowing you to store more games right out of the box.
4. Is the PS5 Slim cheaper than the PS5?
Yes, the PS5 Slim is priced lower. The PS5 Slim Digital Edition costs $399, and the model with a detachable disc drive is $449. The PS5 with a built-in disc drive is priced at $499.
5. Which one should I choose, the PS5 or PS5 Slim?
If you have limited space or prefer a more compact design, the PS5 Slim is the better choice. However, if you prefer a built-in disc drive and are not concerned with size, the original PS5 might be a better option for you.
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