Sony has unveiled redesigned slimmer PlayStation 5 models set to launch in November 2023, just in time for busy holiday shopping. The new PS5 Slim line aims to replace the original 2020 models with a lighter, thinner design and improved cooling.
Keypoints
- Sony is releasing redesigned slimmer PlayStation 5 models in November 2023.
- The new PS5 with disc drive will remain $499.99. The digital edition is now $449.99 (increased by $50).
- The new models are lighter and thinner than original PS5s.
- New stand allows vertical or horizontal setup.
- Storage increased to 1 TB SSD from 825 GB.
The headline features on the newly slimmed-down PS5 console include:
- A more compact form reducing volume by 30% and weight by 18-24% from original models.
- Enhanced cooling and airflow to prevent overheating.
- 1 TB of onboard SSD storage instead of 825 GB on current models.
- A new stand allowing vertical or horizontal orientation.
- No major internal hardware changes – still powered by AMD Zen 2 and RDNA 2 chips.
The PS5 with disc drive will retain the same $499.99 price point, while the Digital Edition without disc drive sees a $50 increase to $449.99. This places the PS5 Slim models at the same or slightly higher prices than the 2020 editions.
Sony states the PS5 Slim revisions will start rolling out at select retailers in November, initially in core regions like the U.S., Europe, and Japan. Availability will then expand globally over subsequent months as inventory allows.
Once the original PS5 models sell out, the slim versions will become the new normal for Sony’s latest console. This mirrors the evolution of past PlayStation generations.
Alongside the hardware refresh, Sony is launching some new accessories like a $29.99 vertical stand and a $79.99 external Blu-ray drive add-on.
The slimmed-down PS5 console aims to ramp up Sony’s production capacity to meet the consistently high demand for the platform. While details remain limited, expect the PS5 Slim to dominate holiday wish lists for gamers seeking the latest tech.
