Comparison of all PS5 models

The PlayStation 5 was released in 2020, and since then it has had several versions, from the basic model with a disc drive to the slim version. Below we will present all the PS5 generations and their differences.

PS5 Standard and Digital Edition

The two main models of the PS5 are the standard version with a built-in Ultra HD Blu-ray drive, and the Digital Edition without a disc drive. They are identical in performance: games run with the same graphics and frame rates, since the cores of the game console are identical. The only difference is how PS games are launched - from a disc or from a digital library.

Why do you need a disc drive? If you have a stable internet connection, you can easily download any game from the PS Store. Even large games (100–130 GB) can be downloaded overnight with average network speed.

Tip: Pay attention to the model designation. The name “Digital” clearly indicates that the gaming system does not have a disc drive. This means that the PS5 Digital version is always the disc-less version, while the PS5 (or standard model) is the disc-drive version.

PS5 Slim

In 2023, Sony introduced a significantly updated PlayStation 5 Slim model. It is the same PS5 in terms of power and capabilities, but in a more compact package. The Slim model was presented in two versions, with and without a disc drive, like the main models. If the PS5 with a disc drive weighed about 4.5 kg, the Slim version with a disc drive weighs a little more than 3 kg, and the Digital Slim is even lighter at 2.6 kg.

Another improvement is the increase in SSD capacity. The base PS5 has an 825 GB hard drive, of which about 667 GB is available for games, while the PS5 Slim has increased its capacity to 1 TB. This is a nice bonus, allowing for about two to three larger games. The RAM is 16 GB GDDR6, and the GPU/CPU performance has remained unchanged, which means that there is no increase in FPS or graphics performance in games on the Slim; only the size and memory have changed.

Sony engineers have changed their approach to the optical drive in the Slim version. The PS5 Slim digital version still does not come with a disc, but you can buy it separately and connect it. The drive is easily connected via a port on the side of the console. The system automatically recognizes the drive, without any complicated settings. In essence, the disc-based PS5 Slim is the same digital version, but with a disc module connected. If you bought the digital Slim and later decide to play disc-based games, you just need to buy this module and perform a one-time activation online. The original PS5 digital version does not offer this option; you cannot buy a disc at all. Please note that the PS5 Slim now only comes with a horizontal stand; if you plan to place the gaming system vertically, you will need to purchase the appropriate stand separately for the new model.

Other changes

The front panel now has two USB-C ports instead of USB-C and USB-A ports. There are no new features in terms of support for wireless modules and accessories. All games and devices compatible with the PS5 will work on the Slim version.

Ultimately, the PS5 Slim brings convenience and flexibility: it is smaller, lighter, has a larger SSD and offers freedom of choice. If you want, you can buy a digital game console and later upgrade it with a disc drive. In terms of performance, there is no difference between the Slim and the previous versions. It is still the same PlayStation 5, just in a more compact form factor.

How to distinguish PS5 models by appearance and code

It is quite easy to visually distinguish the PS5 Slim from the main PS5. The Slim version is noticeably lower and thinner. It has two USB-C ports on the front panel, while the original PS5 has one USB-C and one rectangular USB-A port on the front panel. If you see both game consoles in front of you, it is difficult to confuse them: the original is larger and has a one-piece panel design, while the Slim has a split panel with different designs.

Pay attention to the model marking. Each game console has a code (starting with CFI) that identifies the type and region. For example, the CFI-1016A code is deciphered as follows: CFI-1 is the first generation model (the first digit, "1", denotes the original large case, and "2" denotes the Slim). 0 is the revision number (0 = 2020 release). 16 is the region (16 is Europe, and 08 is Russia). The last letter, A, indicates the presence of a disc drive (B is a digital version without a disc drive). The model code for the PS5 Slim begins with CFI-2***.

PlayStation 5 Pro

The PlayStation 5 Pro is a 2024 model designed for those who want to get the most out of modern games. It has a faster processor and powerful graphics, provides more stable frame rates, and can display 4K images with greater clarity. Since the PS5 gaming experience is best enjoyed on a 4K Ultra HD or 8K TV, this is great news. To see the difference between the standard PS5 and the Pro, you need a modern 4K/8K display with a high refresh rate. Without it, all this hardware will work, but the improvements will not be as noticeable.

The increased power of the gaming system reveals the full charm of new ray tracing, improved shadows and lighting, as well as detailed images.

The Pro version offers a larger SSD, which allows you to install more games without constantly deleting old ones.

The Pro version will also provide more stable frame rates and higher details in PlayStation VR2 games. Everything runs smoother, faster, and with less system overhead.

Keep in mind that the Pro has a larger, heavier, and less elegant design than the Slim. If space is limited, consider other options. 

Most games are developed with the standard PS5 in mind. Developers don’t offer exclusive mechanics just for the Pro, simply because its user base is smaller. This means that the bonuses that come with the more powerful hardware will be limited to customization options.

So, let’s summarize

For most users, the PS5 Slim or PS5 Digital Edition are still a great choice - they are compact, convenient, and fully compatible with all games. If you are sure that you don’t need discs, you can safely buy the digital version and invest in an additional SSD. But if you want everything: maximum image quality, high capacity, and the best VR equipment, consider the PS5 Pro. Choose the option for yourself and start playing.