It’s common for Sony to release a Pro and Slim version a few years after the release of a new console. Accordingly, gaming fans are now eagerly awaiting news about a PlayStation 5 Slim. TECHBOOK collects all rumors and facts.
On November 19, just in time for the Christmas business, Sony launched its high-end PlayStation 5 console. As of now, they are available in two versions: the “normal” version and the so-called “digital edition”. The latter costs a little less, but has no drive and is otherwise a bit slimmer. However, since the 2020 release, the PS5 has been sold out almost everywhere. Supply chains interrupted by Corona are to blame. Many are therefore eagerly awaiting a new model that can end the supply bottleneck.
When could the PlayStation 5 Slim appear?
In fact, nothing has been officially confirmed yet. Nevertheless, it is considered fairly certain that a slim version of the PS5 will come. Otherwise, Sony would have to break with long-standing traditions. If you look at the release cycles of previous generations, you could assume that the new PS5 Slim will be released in 2023.
This thesis is also supported by the revision of the PlayStation 5 published in early September. It’s by no means uncommon for Sony to release a revamped version of its console alongside a new series. The current september version is slightly lighter and more energy efficient than the original. Industry experts therefore suspect that the new model contains the first indications of a slim variant and is, to a certain extent, a prototype.
Also interesting: All rumors and facts about the PlayStation 5 Pro
Flexible drive rumor
The biggest difference between the regular PlayStation and the Digital Edition is the disc drive. While the basic model has one inside its white case, the cheaper version doesn’t have one at all. Accordingly, players are fully dependent on the PlayStation Store and the download function or cloud gaming.
According to the well-known Insider Tom Henderson The PS5 Slim, on the other hand, should have a drive that users can then flexibly remove and put on again. This information probably comes from a Sony insider, according to Henderson. The drive is then connected to the console via USB-C. A bundle version would also be conceivable in this scenario, so that you either buy a model with a drive right from the start or buy an extra one later.
Slim model is designed to look like PlayStation 5
Insider Henderson also wants information about the design of a possible new console. Visually, you want to be clearly based on the PS5. That would make sense, since the console offers a high recognition value with its white color and the new housing shape.
How much should the new PS5 Slim cost?
Since Sony has not yet confirmed a new console, nothing is known about the price. Based on the procedure with previous models and the current developments around the PS5, one can of course make assumptions.
After a price increase in the summer of 2022, the current PlayStation 5 currently costs 549.99 euros and the Digital Edition without a drive costs 449.99 euros. An upcoming Slim could also be located in this price range. For comparison: The PS4 cost 399.00 euros at the start, the PS4 Slim 299.00 euros.