Sony announces a new $500 PS5 model with a detachable disc drive, 1TB of internal storage, and a slightly slimmer and shorter design, shipping in November
Sony officially announced a new PS5 model with a detachable disc drive and 1TB of internal storage.
The VergeTom Warren
Context & Ripple Effects
PS5 launched with separate disc and Digital Edition configurations; this revision turns that earlier two-SKU split between physical and digital media into a more modular hardware design while also raising base storage.
Buyers of the $500 model get 1TB of storage and retain access to disc-based games, while the detachable drive makes physical-media capability separable from the core console.
Sony can offer a slimmer PS5 configuration without maintaining the original fixed-drive design as the sole disc-capable option.
Second-order effects
Retailers and distributors may need to manage console and disc-drive inventory as separate items, while consumers face a clearer trade-off between a lower-entry digital setup and physical-media access.
The modular drive preserves a route for used games and Blu-ray playback even as Sony can steer more buyers toward a digital-first base configuration.
Third-order effects
If Sony extends detachable components across its console line, hardware differentiation could move from permanently distinct models toward configurable accessories and post-purchase upgrades.
The design illustrates a gradual transition in which physical media remains supported but becomes an optional layer around a digital-centered console ecosystem; the pace depends on Sony’s future pricing and software distribution choices.
The trend: Console makers are refining mature hardware through smaller chassis, more storage, and modular options that make digital-first ownership easier without immediately abandoning physical media.
✨ Introducing a new look for PlayStation 5 ✨ Smaller design with a full-power PS5 experience. Full details on model options at PS Blog: https://blog.playstation.com/ ... [image]
Let's see... - Digital Edition price increase - Kickstand required for horizontal mode - Vertical Stand required for vertical mode (Sold Separately) What else did I miss
What's interesting, is that unlike with Xbox where the all digital Series S is >50% of sell through, the PS5 digital version accounts for <20% of sell through. Although in both cases adoption rates were partially driven by production choices and constraints. The new digital versi…
Huh, so turns out that was the design lol. I'm glad the optional disc drive actually attaches and is a part of the system rather than some read plugged in via usb. Still weirded out by no USB-A on the front though, so many third party accessories use that connection type still.
the $50 hike for the digital edition seems like sonys way of increasing the console price without having to announce a price increase like they did in markets outside the US looks nice to me tho i wanna see a size comparison
I imagine this means they will phase out the faceplates for the “old” PS5 model too. Since this one is made of 4 separate panels. Time to get whatever faceplates I want now before they go away. [image]
Sony's consoles usually release Slim versions about 2 to 3 years after the original. The PS3 launched in Nov 2006, its Slim in Sep 2009, and the PS4 in Nov 2013, with the Slim arriving in Sep 2016, approx 2 yrs and 9-10 months later. The PS5 followed the pattern, taking 3 years.
Sony just announced the PS5 Slim! There are two versions: - PS5 with disc drive ($499.99) - PS5 Digital Edition ($449.99) They're: - 30% smaller - 18% lighter (24% for the digital edition) - Have 1TB storage (vs 825GB in the original) - Have 2 USB-C ports - Optional... [image]
Looks like the leaks were right on the new PS5 slim model. I like that you can upgrade to the disc drive after the initial purchase. Odd choice to go with a glossy top and matte bottom though. “Why did the new PS5 go on a diet? It wanted to shed some ‘byte’ before the holiday... …