Sony Unveils PlayStation 5 Slim Models for Holiday Season Launch

Sony has unveiled a new PlayStation 5 model just in time for the holiday season. This latest iteration, known as the PS5 Slim, follows the tradition of previous PlayStation consoles getting a slimmed-down version. The PS5 Slim, which will be available next month, reduces the system’s size by approximately 30%.

Sony has announced that the PS5 Slim will become the new standard, and once the older 2020 models are sold out, the slimmer versions will be the sole option for purchase. Additionally, two new accessories will be released alongside the console, offering gamers more customization options.

While Sony has not provided an exact release date, consumers in the U.S. can expect to find the new PS5 at select retailers sometime next month.

Key Specifications of the New Sony PlayStation 5 Slim:

• The PS5 Slim introduces some minor updates to the specifications, although these changes are relatively small compared to past slim models.
• Sony states that the new PS5 has been reduced in volume by over 30%, with an 18% reduction in weight for the disc version and a 24% reduction for the digital version compared to previous models.
• The PS5 Slim is available in two versions: one with an Ultra HD Blu-ray disc drive and a digital version without a disc drive. Both models feature 1 terabyte of storage on a removable solid-state drive, a notable increase from the original 825 gigabytes.
• The disc version measures around 14 inches in height, 4 inches in width, and 8 ½ inches in depth, while the digital version is approximately 14 inches in height, 3 inches in width, and 8 ½ inches in depth. These dimensions are more compact than the original PS5 with a Blu-ray drive, which measured about 15.4 inches in height, 3 ½ inches in width, and 10.2 inches in depth.
• There are also some aesthetic updates, primarily to the front and back cover panels, which have been divided into four different pieces, with the top portion having a glossy finish while the bottom remains matte.

Release Date and Availability:

• The slimmed-down PlayStation will hit the shelves in November, with a gradual rollout in select locations followed by expansion to global markets in the subsequent months. It will also be available online at direct.playstation.com where accessible.
• Once the current PS5 model’s inventory is depleted, the newer compact version will be the only one available for purchase.

Pricing:

• The sleeker design comes with a slightly higher price tag. The cost of the Blu-ray Disc edition remains at $499.99, while the digital edition will see a $50 increase, going from $399.99 to $449.99.
• Consumers who prefer a disc drive option but want to stick to a tighter budget can opt for the digital version and later purchase the Ultra HD Blu-ray Disc Drive attachment for $79.99.

Recommended prices for the new models:

• U.S.: PlayStation 5 with Ultra HD Blu-ray disc drive ($499.99); PS5 Digital Edition ($449.99).
• Europe: PS5 with Ultra HD Blu-ray disc drive (549.99 EUR); PS5 Digital Edition (449.99 EUR).
• U.K.: PS5 with Ultra HD Blu-ray disc drive (479.99 GBP); PS5 Digital Edition (389.99 GBP)
• Japan: PS5 with Ultra HD Blu-ray disc drive (66,980 JPY, includes tax); PS5 Digital Edition (59,980 JPY, includes tax)
• Consumers can also choose to purchase a Vertical Stand compatible with all PS5 models for $29.99.