As far as gaming consoles go, Sony’s range of Playstation consoles has always been a firm favorite in the market since its release in Japan in December 1994. We are now on the 5th generation of the console and are being spoiled for choice between 3 different variants. We have the original Playstation 5, the April 2024 released PS5 Slim and the upcoming PS5 Pro (SA release date 13 December 2024). Each model offers unique features and differences that cater to various gaming preferences and budgets.
Here’s a brief break-down between the 3:
| PS5 | PS5 Slim | PS5 Pro | |
| Design and Size | Has a striking design, characterized by its large size and curved white panels. Measuring roughly 15.4 inches tall, it is one of Sony’s largest consoles to date. | Offers a sleeker, more compact version of the original PS5. It’s around 30% smaller, making it easier to fit in smaller entertainment centers. | It is anticipated to have a slightly bulkier design than the Slim to accommodate enhanced hardware. However, it’s likely to be smaller than the original PS5. |
| Performance and Hardware | Comes with a custom AMD RDNA 2 GPU and a powerful 8-core AMD Zen 2 CPU, delivering up to 10.28 teraflops of processing power. It supports 4K gaming at 60 frames per second (fps), with some games reaching up to 120 fps. | Similar gaming experience to the original PS5. | Anticipated to be a powerhouse, rumored to include a more advanced GPU and potentially an enhanced version of AMD’s RDNA 3 architecture. This would allow for better ray tracing capabilities, smoother performance, and potentially 8K support. Higher frame rates at 4K and enhanced VR support are also expected, making it the go-to option for those seeking the highest-quality experience. |
| Storage Options | Comes with 825 GB (SSD) of storage, although actual usable space is around 667GB after system files. Expansion options are available. | Bumps up a full 1 TB with expansion options. | Starting with 2TB as the base option. Expansion options will be available. |
| Price and Affordability | Currently rather hard to find in the market but going for around R10,500 when found. | Similar price point as the original PS5 at launch, starting at around R12,000. | Projected price of around R19,500 at launch, reflecting its enhanced hardware and capabilities. |
| Gaming Experience and Target Audience | Versatile console, offering an impressive balance of performance, graphics, and speed. It’s great for most gamers and supports VR as well as some future PlayStation innovations. | Ideal for gamers who want the PS5 experience in a more compact design without sacrificing performance. It’s particularly appealing for those with limited space and who may not need the Pro’s high-end capabilities. | Aimed at enthusiasts and those with high-performance demands, the PS5 Pro is geared towards hardcore gamers and those who want the absolute best graphics and frame rates. It’s also expected to have better compatibility with future 8K TVs and VR advancements, making it more future-proof than the other two models. |
So, which PS5 Model is best for you? The choice depends on your specific needs and budget. For casual to mid-range gamers, the PS5 or PS5 Slim is the right choice, while the PS5 Pro is the go-to for serious gamers and tech enthusiasts.
Best for Most Gamers: PS5 Slim offers the same performance as the original PS5 in a more compact, user-friendly design. It’s ideal for those who want to experience next-gen gaming without high-end specs.
Best for Hardcore Gamers: PS5 Pro will deliver enhanced graphics and performance, providing a more immersive gaming experience. It’s a good choice if you prioritize future-proofing and don’t mind a higher price.
Best Value Option: Standard PS5 remains a solid choice for those who want a powerful console but don’t need the smaller size of the Slim or the extreme performance of the Pro.
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