Which PS5 Should You Buy?

Consider your gaming habits when choosing: Standard for physical media, Digital for streaming, Slim for versatility.

The PlayStation 5 has solidified its position as a gaming powerhouse, offering stunning visuals, immersive sound, and lightning-fast performance. But with several models now available, deciding which console is right for you can be a challenge. Should you opt for the classic disc-based PS5, the digital-only edition, or the newly released, more compact PS5 Slim?

This guide will delve into the core differences between these consoles, helping you make an informed decision. We’ll explore the advantages and disadvantages of each model, considering factors like storage, cost, and gaming preferences.

What Are The Different PS5 Models?

Feature	Standard PS5	PS5 Digital Edition	PS5 Slim
Price (Approx.)	$499	$399	$499 (Disc), $449 (Digital)
Disc Drive	Included	Not available	Optional add-on
Design	Larger, futuristic	Sleeker, disc-less	Compact, modular
Dimensions	Bulkier	Less bulky than the Standard model	Smallest of the three
Weight	4.5 kg (9.9 lbs)	3.9 kg (8.6 lbs)	3.6 kg (7.9 lbs) Standard, 3.4 kg (7.5 lbs) Digital
Storage	825GB SSD	825GB SSD	1TB SSD
Graphics	4K, up to 120Hz	4K, up to 120Hz	4K, up to 120Hz
Performance Enhancements	VRR, 1440p support	VRR, 1440p support	VRR, 1440p support
Media Compatibility	Physical and digital media	Digital media only	Physical (with add-on) and digital media
Primary Use Case	Media enthusiasts, gamers who prefer physical copies	Digital-only gamers	Flexible media usage, space-saving
Accessories	DualSense controller, 3D Pulse headset, media remote	Same as Standard	Same, plus optional disc drive, vertical stand

Standard PS5

Features:

• Disc Drive: Equipped with an Ultra HD Blu-ray disc drive, allowing you to play physical games and Blu-ray movies.
• Backward Compatibility: Supports physical PS4 game discs, making it a great choice if you have an existing library.
• Full Package: Includes everything you need to get started—one DualSense wireless controller, a base, HDMI cable, AC power cord, USB cable, and pre-installed Astro’s Playroom game.

Price: Approximately $499. This higher price point reflects the added hardware and versatility of the disc drive.

Ideal For: Gamers who prefer physical media, enjoy collecting games and movies, or want the flexibility of trading and lending discs.

PS5 Digital Edition

Features:

• Disc-Free Design: Lacks a disc drive, resulting in a slimmer and lighter console.
• Digital Library: Exclusively supports digital downloads and streaming, offering a streamlined and modern gaming experience.
• Cost-Effective: Generally comes with a lower price tag, making it more budget-friendly.

Price: Around $399, making it $100 cheaper than the Standard Edition.

Ideal For: Players who are comfortable with a fully digital library, prefer a sleeker design, and want to save some money on the console itself.

PS5 Slim

Features:

• Compact Design: Smaller and more energy-efficient, making it easier to fit into tighter spaces.
• Optional Disc Drive: Can be purchased with or without a disc drive. If you choose the Digital Slim, you can add a disc drive later if you change your mind.
• Energy Efficiency: Uses less power compared to the original models, potentially reducing energy costs.

Price: Priced similarly to the Standard Edition, around $499 for the version with the disc drive, and $399 for the digital-only version.

Ideal For: Gamers looking for a space-saving solution without sacrificing the option for physical media. The flexibility to add a disc drive later makes it a versatile choice.

PS5 Specs And Features

Sony’s PS5 lineup doesn’t skimp on performance, ensuring that all models are equipped to deliver top-tier gaming experiences. Here’s what makes each model a powerhouse:

Processor

Each model is powered by the custom AMD Zen 2 CPU, designed to handle high-fidelity gaming with ease. This processor ensures that games not only look beautiful but run smoothly, maintaining high frame rates for a seamless gaming experience. With eight cores and 16 threads, it provides the necessary power for complex game mechanics and advanced graphics.

RAM

With 16GB of GDDR6 memory, all PS5 models offer ample bandwidth to manage complex game worlds and high-speed action without lag. This high-speed RAM ensures that multitasking between games and media is quick and efficient, providing a responsive and fluid gaming experience.

Storage

The super-fast SSD in each model revolutionizes loading times, making game installs, saves, and startup almost instantaneous. Here are the storage specifics for each model:

• Standard and Digital Editions: Both come with 825GB of storage. While this provides ample space for several games, you might need to manage your library actively due to the growing size of game files.
• PS5 Slim: Boosts the storage capacity to 1TB, offering additional space for games and media. This extra storage is particularly useful for those who download a lot of digital content or prefer not to frequently delete and reinstall games.

PS5 Accessories And Extras

The right PS5 accessories can significantly enhance your gaming experience, whether you’re looking for comfort, convenience, or immersion:

Universal Accessories

• DualSense Controllers: These are a highlight for all models, being one of the best controllers for the PS5. They offer immersive haptic feedback and dynamic adaptive triggers that respond to your in-game activities for a tactile experience.
• Pulse 3D Wireless Headset: Tune into the high-fidelity sound that captures the multi-dimensional audio landscapes of modern games, designed to take advantage of the PS5’s Tempest 3D AudioTech.
• Media Remote: Streamline your navigation on streaming services with this handy remote, making media control as simple as a press of a button.

Storage Expansions

• External Hard Drives: Extend your console’s storage capacity for PS4 games. While you can store PS5 games on an external hard drive, they must be transferred back to the internal SSD for playback due to the high-speed requirements of the console.
• M.2 NVMe SSDs: For those looking to expand their storage for PS5 games directly, installing an M.2 NVMe SSD into the PS5’s expansion slot is the way to go. Ensure the SSD meets Sony’s specifications for speed and compatibility to function properly.

Customization Options

• Faceplates: These Snap-on covers come in various colors and designs, enabling you to personalize your console to match your style or room décor. Currently, PS5 faceplates are designed to fit the specific contours and vent layouts of the Standard and Slim models, ensuring a perfect fit.

Slim Specials

• Vertical Stand: This accessory is particularly useful for the Slim, optimizing its footprint in your gaming area and improving airflow around the console.
• Detachable Disc Drive: A revolutionary feature for the Slim, this allows you to buy the console as a digital-only version and have the option to add a physical media drive later, offering flexibility as your needs or preferences change.

Game Compatibility Across PS5 Models

All three PS5 models — the Standard, Digital Edition, and Slim — offer robust backward compatibility with a vast majority of PS4 games. This means almost every game you loved playing on the PS4 should work just fine on your new PS5, no matter which model you choose. Here’s what you need to know:

PS4 Game Compatibility

Sony has confirmed that the PS5 supports thousands of PS4 titles, leveraging the new hardware’s more powerful specs to potentially improve game load times, visual fidelity, and overall performance. Whether you’re playing on a PS5 Standard with a disc or using the digital downloads on the PS5 Digital Edition or Slim, the gaming experience is designed to be seamless.

Enhancements On PS5

For many PS4 games, you’ll notice enhancements when played on the PS5. These improvements include higher and more stable frame rates and resolutions, taking advantage of the PS5’s more powerful hardware. Games like The Last of Us Part 2 and Ghost of Tsushima have received specific PS5 updates that boost performance and visuals.

PS5 Game Exclusives

While backward compatibility is a huge plus, the PS5 also offers games built specifically to take advantage of its next-gen hardware. These titles often feature advanced haptic feedback and adaptive trigger functionalities of the DualSense controller, which are only available on PS5.

WARNING:

If you opt for the PS5 Digital Edition or the PS5 Slim in its digital-only setup, remember that you won’t be able to play any physical PS4 game discs. This could be a significant consideration if you have a large library of physical games. However, if you upgrade the Slim with its optional disc drive later, you can restore that capability.

Sony allows you to transfer digital games and save data from a PS4 to a PS5 using WiFi data transfer. For those with the Standard PS5 or Slim with a disc drive, you can also use physical discs to install the games and then download any PS5 upgrades that are available.

Which PS5 Should You Buy?

Choosing the right PS5 model depends on your gaming and media consumption preferences. Let’s break down the pros and cons of each model to help you make an informed decision.

PS5 Standard Edition

Pros	Cons
Ideal for those who prefer physical copies of games and movies. You can buy, sell, trade, or lend your discs, providing flexibility that digital-only options don’t offer.	The inclusion of the disc drive makes the Standard Edition slightly larger and heavier.
The disc drive allows you to play physical copies of PS4 games, which is great if you have an existing library of games.
Physical copies can be a great addition for collectors who value box art and physical game libraries.	It’s generally more expensive than the Digital Edition due to the added disc drive.

PS5 Digital Edition

Pros	Cons
Without the disc drive, the Digital Edition is slimmer and more aesthetically pleasing, fitting seamlessly into minimalist setups.	You’re limited to digital purchases only, which can be restrictive if you prefer owning physical copies.
It’s cheaper than the Standard Edition, making it a great choice for budget-conscious gamers.
Managing a digital library means no physical discs to deal with — just download your games and start playing.	You might miss out on second-hand game deals or borrowing games from friends.

PS5 Slim (Standard And Digital)

Pros	Cons
The Slim version saves space and has a more modern, streamlined look, making it ideal for smaller setups.	Similar to the Standard Edition, the inclusion of a disc drive in a smaller form factor may still come at a premium.
Generally uses less power than the original versions, making it more eco-friendly and potentially reducing energy costs.
If you choose the Standard Slim, you still have the flexibility of a disc drive in a more compact form.	While it’s more efficient, there could be slight compromises in terms of cooling or performance compared to the original models.

When deciding which PS5 to buy, consider your gaming habits and how you consume media. If you love collecting physical games and movies, the Standard Edition is perfect for you. If you prefer a sleek design and an all-digital approach, the Digital Edition is your best bet. And if you’re looking for a space-saving, energy-efficient option with flexible choices, the PS5 Slim offers a modern twist on a beloved console. Each model has its unique advantages, so choose the one that best fits your lifestyle and gaming needs.

Shopping Tips: Where To Buy A PS5

1. Check Out Major Retailers

• Amazon: Often has bundles that include games and accessories.
• Walmart: Look for exclusive deals and member-only offers.
• PlayStation Direct: Sometimes has PS5 stock that other retailers don’t.

2. Consider Special Bundles

For the best bang for your buck, keep an eye out for special bundles. These often include popular games and essential accessories at a discount. It’s a great way to get a head start on your gaming adventures with everything you need right out of the box.

3. Use Stock Tracking Tools

Tools like NowInStock or Zoolert can alert you when new stock arrives at various retailers, giving you a better chance to grab a console before they sell out.

4. Stay Updated on Restocks

Follow tech blogs, gaming forums, and retailer social media pages where announcements about restocks are often made first.

5. Consider Refurbished or Open-Box Models

If you’re looking to save a bit of money, refurbished or open-box PS5 consoles can be a great option. These are often products returned and certified by the retailer or manufacturer, available at a lower price.

Source: The Gamer