Everything New on The New PS5 Slim Console

The new PS5 console is without a doubt the “Slim” version of this generation. Sony says the gaming console will be the only version you can pick up once the stock of the current phat model sells out. This also means Sony is only manufacturing the PS5 Slim going forward. But with a detachable Ultra HD Blu-Ray Disc Drive and some minor internal tweaks here and there, what exactly is “new” on the new PS5 Slim and what are you missing out on if you don’t get one?

Here’s a guide on everything the new PS5 Slim does and includes that the launch model doesn’t have.

New PS5 Slim Versus Launch PS5

It is Lighter and Smaller

Of course, the first thing you’ll notice about the new PS5 Slim is that it is substantially smaller and lighter than the launch model. Sony says the new console is 30% smaller in form factor and 24% lighter depending on the model. When you put the consoles side-to-side, you’ll notice the difference. The new PS5 is much shorter than the launch model and even with the disc drive attached, it is slightly thinner too.

The real sleekness of the console is seen when you compare the new Digital Edition to the launch Digital Edition. The new model is much slimmer.

In terms of weight, the new PS5 disc model weighs 3.2 kg while the Digital Edition weighs 2.6 kg. This is compared to the launch models which came in at 4.5 kg for the disc model and 3.9 kg for the Digital Edition.

It Comes With a New Port

The new PS5 console does include an additional USB C port on the front of the console. The launch model came with one USB C Super-Speed 10Gbps port whereas the new PS5 console includes the additional Hi-Speed USB C port on the front now too. You’ll still need to use the 10Gbps port for PlayStation VR2. This port is marked with a “SS” underneath it so you know where to plug your unit into. It would be the lower port in this case.

It Has More Storage… Sort of

The new PS5 does come with a slightly larger SSD compared to the launch model. Sony has increased the console’s internal storage from 825GB to 1TB. While the console won’t have exactly 1TB of free storage (due to the OS and other pre-installed data), the slight bump in storage space is definitely good news.

You can, of course, still upgrade your PS5 Slim with an additional SSD. Sony has confirmed the console still uses the same expandable SSD slot.

It Doesn’t Include The Verticle Stand

If you want to stand your new PS5 upright you’ll now need to purchase an additional accessory. Sony isn’t including the PS5 verticle stand in the box of the new PS5 console. Instead, it will be an additional purchase of $30 (local pricing TBC).

The stand does look a lot better than the included version on the launch console. It features a metal ring design and looks super premium. The stand is also compatible with both the disc model and Digital Edition so you won’t need to purchase a separate one if you decide to add the disc drive to your unit.

Whereas the launch PS5 console stand functioned as both a horizontal and verticle option for users, this isn’t the case with the new PS5. Instead, in the box, you’ll get a small kickstand with your new PS5 which will let you prop the console up on your table in a horizontal position.

It Has More Detachable Cover Plates

You’ll be able to swap and change four console covers on the new PS5. Where the launch model lets users change two faceplates, the new console has sliced these up and doubled up on the customization options available. The upper two faceplates, which are now glossy (prepare for instant scratches), can be removed alongside the lower matter cover plates.

The Disc Drive is Optional

The biggest change on the new PS5 is that you can purchase the Digital Edition and buy the disc drive for the console at a later date. Of course, Sony is shipping the disc model with the detachable disc drive on the console but if you don’t think you’ll need it, you can always pick it up as an optional purchase.

Here are the official specs for both new PS5 models. The console is expected to launch in the US in November with a global rollout following in December onwards.

PS5 Disc Model

PS5 Digital Edition