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The colossal design of Sony's white-and-black obelisk-like console has never been one to enamor, functioning more as an acquired taste than a beloved aesthetic. The anticipated redesign for the PS5, akin to Sony's successful overhaul of the PlayStation 3's design, falls short in the $499.99 new PlayStation 5 and $449.99 new PlayStation 5 Digital Edition, offering only partial solutions.
In terms of size, the new "slim" PS5 is indeed smaller, boasting a purported reduction in volume by "more than 30 percent." Yet, upon closer inspection, the perception oscillates between acknowledging its diminished size and still recognizing its substantial stature. The intricate curves and details of the new PS5 contribute to an inconsistent perception of its design, a consequence of its overly intricate and somewhat unattractive appearance.
While the slim version exhibits refinements such as shorter white covers, a curved top, and contrasting panel lines, it introduces perplexing design choices. The protruding disc drive resembles an odd growth, the absence of vent fins lends an unfinished appearance, and the inclusion of cat ear-shaped feet for horizontal positioning appears more comical than functional. Remarkably, the console can stand vertically without the additional $29.99 stand, a departure from the original PS5's convertible stand accommodating both positions.
Beyond its design quirks, the new PS5 presents marginal improvements: a boosted 1TB built-in storage (up from 825GB), and two front-facing USB-C ports in lieu of the previous USB-C and USB-A setup. Notably, the relocated disc drive eject button alleviates the historical confusion between power and eject buttons since the PS4 era.
Regarding the detachable disc drive, Sony streamlines its attachment and detachment without necessitating tools, facilitating easy modifications compared to the complex process of adding an M.2 SSD. However, the rationale behind this feature remains questionable. While it offers a solution for Digital Edition PS5 owners experiencing buyer's remorse, the $79.99 price tag for the drive attachment increases the overall cost, considering the Digital Edition's price rise to $449.99.
Furthermore, setting up the disc drive mandates an internet connection, potentially hindering offline use and raising concerns about console pairing for secondhand drives. This enforced connectivity resembles a form of DRM, potentially complicating preservation efforts in the long run.
Ultimately, the PS5 slim's eccentricities and limited enhancements position it as a perplexing mid-cycle update. Aside from its reduced size, modest storage upgrade, and reorganized port selection, this iteration appears more beneficial for Sony's interests than for its customers. Existing PS5 owners might find scant reason to upgrade, while prospective buyers could opt for the original PS5 until the slim version becomes the sole choice available.
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