We’ve been talking for several months about Sony working on launching a modern, lighter, and cheaper-to-produce version of the PS5, adapting to modern times. Three years is a long time for console hardware.
So today, Sony has officially announced a new model of PS5 with a removable disc drive and 1 TB of internal storage. This new model, often referred to as PS5 “Slim,” is slightly slimmer and shorter than the current version.
What’s new is that this time both models won’t coexist, as it will replace both the PS5 and the PS5 Digital Edition.
Prices and features of Sony’s new console
In the USA, the new model will cost $499.99 with the included disc drive, while the PS5 Digital Edition costs $449.99.
The new PS5 features a significant overall volume reduction of over 30% and a weight reduction of up to 24% (depending on the model you choose). Sony has included a protrusion on the side of the PS5 for the disc drive, which can be removed and replaced with a side panel.
“There are four separate cover panels, with the top part in a glossy look, while the bottom remains matte,” says Sid Shuman, Senior Director of Content Communications at SIE, in a blog post.
If you purchase the basic PS5 Digital Edition, you can add the Blu-ray disc drive later, as Sony sells it separately for $79.99 (€119.99 / £99.99).
Now there are two slots on each side and dual USB-C ports on the front instead of the individual USB-C and USB-A ports that are available on the current PS5.
With this new PS5 model, a horizontal stand will be included, and a vertical stand that works with all PS5 models will be sold separately for $29.99 (€29.99 / £24.99). The two new PS5 models also now include 1 TB of storage, instead of the current PS5’s 825 GB.
The new PS5 model will be released first in the United States in November, available in stores and on Sony’s PlayStation Direct website for $449.99 without the unit or $499.99 with it. “In the following months, it will continue to be marketed worldwide,” Shuman states.
“Once the inventory of the current PS5 model is depleted, the new PS5 will become the only available model.” In Europe, its price will be €449.99 for the Digital Edition / €549.99 with the unit, and in the UK, it will be £479.99 with the unit or £389.99 for the PS5 Digital Edition.
