Redesigned PS5 models slim down one of the bulkiest consoles ever
Enlarge / You'll need an optional $29.99 stand to display your new, slimmer PS5 vertically like this. (credit: Sony)
When we got our first glimpse of the PlayStation 5 over three years ago now, we made immediate note of how the hardware's black-and-white curves concealed the largest home game console in decades. Today, Sony is ready to do something about all that bulk, announcing new models of both the PS5 and the PS5 Digital Edition in a "new slimmer size."
The new units-which will be rolling out via "select local retailers" and PlayStation Direct this month-sport the same internal hardware power as the circa 2020 PS5. But these new models come with a 30-plus percent reduction in volume and an 18 to 24 percent reduction in weight compared to current PS5 models, according to Sony. They also feature a 1TB SSD that the PlayStation Blog describes as "more internal storage" than the original units, which officially listed 825GB of storage space.
From this angle I can't help but see the slit in the new faceplate as a bemused cartoony mouth... (credit: Sony)
Besides the thinner profile, the slimmer units also feature a striking curved slit bisecting each faceplate into "glossy" and "matte" sections (new colored faceplates for these models will be available for $54.99 starting in early 2024, Sony says). Unfortunately, the redesign means the new models won't be able to stand vertically out of the box-a $29.99 Vertical Stand will be required for that orientation now. But the front-facing USB-A port on the current PS5 has also been replaced with a second USB-C port on the new models, fully cementing the move to the new standard.