PlayStation 5 Slim (Pinterest/@whatifgaming.com)
Sony has officially unveiled a new PlayStation 5 (PS5) model, commonly referred to as the PS5 “Slim”, featuring a detachable disk drive. This Blu-ray removable tray renders the new PS5 slightly sleeker and shorter than the existing model.
Sony has unveiled two models of the PS5 “Slim”: one featuring an Ultra HD Blu-ray Disc Drive and another as a Digital Edition. The anticipated release of the console in the United States is scheduled for November 2023, with plans to expand its availability globally in the following months.
Distinctive Features
Detachable Disk Drive: The new PS5 model boasts a detachable Drive Disc Blu-ray Ultra HD via a USB-C connector. This feature caters to users who typically rely on physical discs for gaming or watching Blu-ray and DVD movies. Once removed, the PS5 “Slim” becomes more portable. Moreover, this detachable disk tray can be integrated with the PS5 Digital Edition, enabling gamers to enjoy both digital and physical game formats. This distinct add-on for the PS5 Digital Edition retails independently for $79.99 and doesn’t align with the earlier versions of the PS5 Digital Edition.
Size-wise, the PS5 “Slim” has been crafted to occupy less space, marking a notable reduction in size compared to the previous model. According to Sid Shuman, Senior Director of SIE Content Communications PlayStation, the new model is up to 30% smaller in volume and 24% lighter in weight.
Enhanced Storage Capacity: The upgraded PS5 “Slim” boasts a significant increase in storage, offering 1 TB compared to the 825 GB available in its predecessor, catering to the growing demands for more game and media storage space.
Advanced Ray Tracing Capabilities: The PS5 “Slim” shares the same CPU and GPU as the original model, but it stands out with an improved GPU that supports Ray Tracing Acceleration. This feature elevates the gaming experience with more realistic and immersive visuals.
Upgraded Connectivity Options: In terms of ports, the PS5 “Slim” has upgraded its connectivity, featuring two USB-C ports. This is a step up from the earlier model, which included only one USB-C and one USB-A port.
Versatile Stand Design: The new PS5 “Slim” comes with a horizontal stand for more flexible placement options. Additionally, for those preferring a vertical setup, a separate vertical stand is available for purchase at $30. This stand is compatible with all PS5 models.
Pricing Details
The new PS5 model will be available from November 2023 in the US through select retailers and direct.playstation.com. For the PS5 “Slim” model, the pricing across different markets is listed below:
In the United States:
The PS5 Slim with Ultra HD Blu-ray Disc Drive is priced at $499.99.
The PS5 Slim Digital Edition comes at a cost of $449.99.
Europe:
PS5 with Ultra HD Blu-ray Disc Drive: €549.99
PS5 Digital Edition: €449.99
UK:
PS5 with Ultra HD Blu-ray Disc Drive: £479.99
PS5 Digital Edition: £389.99
Japan:
PS5 with Ultra HD Blu-ray Disc Drive: ¥66,980 (inclusive of tax)
The PS5 Digital Edition is priced at ¥59,980, tax included. Priced at ¥59,980, including taxes, the PS5 Digital Edition has seen its cost adjust globally. In the US, the price for the PS5 “Slim” Digital Edition has escalated from $399.99, reflecting a similar trend in Japan for both editions. The launch and pricing details for the other markets regarding the PS5 “Slim” remain unclear.
