Highlights
- Sony has confirmed that the new PS5 slim models will support SSD expansion, despite having increased internal storage space.
- The PS5's storage space has become a major issue, with large games quickly filling up the console's storage.
- The slim PS5 model will have some differences compared to the original models, including a larger SSD, a lighter weight, and a smaller size.
Sony has confirmed that both new PlayStation 5 slim models will include a key feature, supporting the option to expand each console's storage via SSD expansion. There was some speculation that the new PS5 slim models might remove support for SSD expansion, since both consoles feature increased internal storage space. That isn't the case, however. Sony has officially confirmed that slim PS5 buyers will have the opportunity to upgrade with an M.2 SSD just like current PS5 gamers.
The issue of console storage space this generation has scaled out of control compared to prior console generations. While the PS5 launch console includes 667GB of usable internal storage space, that doesn't go so far these years. Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War still holds the record at a startling 175 GB, but NBA 2K23 and Star Wars Jedi: Survivor both clock in around 150GB. Suffice to say, the PS5 could theoretically fill up its storage with just five large games.
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The option to expand the PS5's storage via SSD installation is clearly an important priority and Sony has reconfirmed its understanding of that. In a recent statement to IGN, Sony confirmed that there will be no feature changes to the PS5 slim model. It will be equipped with the same features as the base PS5 model. That means the SSD expansion slot will be included in both the digital-only and disc-supporting PS5 slim models.
Sony's updated PS5 model does have some differences compared to the original PS5 models. The biggest change is the PS5 slim's upgraded 1TB SSD, which will add some much-needed space to the console. Aesthetically the PS5 slim now has a stripe down its side, but the biggest changes are internal. The slim PS5 is around 20-25% lighter than its predecessor, and around 30% less in size.
Outside those changes, Sony's confirmed that the new PS5 models contain the same hardware and features as the prior. That means the new PS5s will have the same CPU and GPU, so game performance won't improve with the new console. The only mystery was whether the SSD expansion slot was kept, and that's now been confirmed, too.
While some PS5 owners may question the necessity of a slim upgrade to the PS5 with no significant upgrades or price changes, there are likely strong business reasons for the decision. Manufacturing for the slim PS5 is likely more affordable than its predecessors, and the smaller size and lower weight likely make shipping cheaper. The target audience remains those without a PS5, and that's why retaining features like support for SSD expansion remains a priority.
The slim PS5 launches in November.
Source: IGN Africa
