Sony Announces New Slim PlayStation 5 Models With Removable Disc Drives

The gaming world is abuzz with excitement as Sony, a leading player in the gaming console industry, makes a major announcement nearly three years after the initial launch of the PlayStation 5. In a move that has left gamers eager for more details, Sony has unveiled a slimmer redesign of its beloved PlayStation 5 console.

However, what truly sets this announcement apart is the revelation that both the disc drive model and the digital model will be updated. These two models aren’t as different as they used to be; you will now have the option to purchase a disc drive separately, effectively allowing you to upgrade a digital model to a disc-compatible version. Both versions are set to hit the market this November, and they are poised to eventually replace the current model of PS5 altogether.

A Sleeker and Lighter PlayStation 5

The most noticeable change in the new PS5 redesign is its size and weight. Sony proudly states that the new PS5 has been reduced in volume by more than 30%, and its weight has seen a significant reduction as well, with an 18% decrease for the digital model and a 24% decrease for the disc drive model when compared to the previous iterations. This not only makes the new PS5 more space-efficient but also considerably lighter, making it easier to transport and set up in your gaming den.

Aesthetic Enhancements

Beyond the physical changes, the new PS5 boasts aesthetic enhancements that are sure to catch the eye of gamers and collectors alike.

The PlayStation blog post mentions that the new covers feature different textures, a detail not immediately evident from the initial images. Sony reveals that there are four separate cover panels, with the top portion sporting a glossy look, while the bottom remains in matte. This intriguing design choice raises questions about the compatibility of console shells currently sold by Sony, which allow you to customize the look of your console. Unfortunately, this question remains unanswered in the announcement.

Pricing and Availability

Gamers are always interested in pricing details, and Sony has not disappointed in this regard. The slim PS5 with a disc drive will come with a price tag of $499.99. Meanwhile, the PS5 digital edition will retail at $449.99, representing a $50 increase from the original digital edition. However, the real game-changer here is the option to upgrade from a digital version to a disc version. If you decide to make this transition, the drive will cost you $79.99 in the US, €119.99 in Europe, £99.99 in the UK, and ¥11,980 in Japan.

It’s worth noting that the total cost of a digital console and a disc drive is slightly higher than buying a disc drive version outright. To sweeten the deal, the console will include a new horizontal stand, allowing you to set the console on its side for a change of scenery. Additionally, for those who prefer the vertical setup, a vertical stand will be available for purchase at $29.99 USD, 29.99 EURO, 24.99 GBP, or 3,980 JPY.

Conclusion

Sony’s announcement of the new slim PlayStation 5 models with removable disc drives has sent shockwaves through the gaming community. With a sleeker design, reduced weight, and intriguing aesthetic changes, these updated models are sure to entice both existing PS5 owners and newcomers alike. The option to upgrade from a digital version to a disc-compatible one adds a layer of flexibility that many gamers have been eagerly awaiting. As we await the release in November, the gaming world is undoubtedly in for an exciting season of PlayStation gaming.

FAQs

1. When will the new slim PlayStation 5 models be available for purchase? The new slim PlayStation 5 models are set to be available this November.
2. What are the pricing details for the new PS5 models? The slim PS5 with a disc drive will retail at $499.99, while the PS5 digital edition will cost $449.99. To upgrade a digital version to a disc-compatible one, the drive will cost $79.99 in the US, €119.99 in Europe, £99.99 in the UK, or ¥11,980 in Japan.
3. What are the key design changes in the new PS5 models? The new PS5 models feature a slimmer and lighter design, with a reduction in volume by more than 30% and a significant decrease in weight. The covers also have different textures, with a glossy look on the top portion and a matte finish on the bottom.
4. Will the new PS5 models be compatible with existing console shells sold by Sony? Unfortunately, the announcement does not address the compatibility of the new models with existing console shells.
5. Are there any additional accessories included with the new PS5 models? Yes, the console will come with a new horizontal stand for setting it on its side. Additionally, a vertical stand will be available for purchase at $29.99 USD, 29.99 EURO, 24.99 GBP, or 3,980 JPY.

References: https://news.google.com/topics/CAAqJggKIiBDQkFTRWdvSUwyMHZNRGRqTVhZU0FtVnVHZ0pWVXlnQVAB?hl=en-US&gl=US&ceid=US%3Aen

https://alitech.io/blog/playstation-portal-remote-play-device/