Sony Unveils New PlayStation 5 Console Models: Slimmer Design and Detachable Disc Drive

During a press conference, Sony unveiled redesigned models for the PlayStation 5 video game console. Slated to launch later this year, these new PS5 iterations feature a slimmer, lighter build along with one model having a detachable disc drive.

The first new model announced is the PlayStation 5 Slim. Living up to its name, the PS5 Slim has a thinner profile that takes up less space in entertainment centers. By reducing the size of internal components and reconfiguring the cooling system, Sony engineering teams managed to shrink the console’s footprint.

Overall width and height have been reduced by 20% compared to the original PS5 variant. The sleek white casing now sports smooth, rounded edges for a softer aesthetic. The PS5 Slim also weighs 4.5 pounds less than the launch unit. Manual buttons have been replaced with capacitive touch interfaces as well. This streamlined industrial design modernizes the look while enhancing portability.

Internally, the PS5 Slim contains the same state-of-the-art hardware powering incredible next-gen visuals. The custom AMD Ryzen CPU and RDNA 2 GPU, ultra-fast SSD, 3D audio capabilities, DualSense haptic feedback, 4K graphical output at up to 120fps, and hardware-based ray tracing all remain untouched. Software performance and fidelity are unchanged.

Sony stated the PS5 Slim will run cooler and quieter thanks to the revised cooling system and smaller footprint. While no major performance leap over existing PS5 consoles, these quality of life improvements make the PS5 Slim an enticing upgrade for those still on PS4. Current PS5 owners may also desire the sleeker aesthetic.

The second model revealed is the PlayStation 5 Pro with detachable disc drive. This variant contains upgraded hardware capable of delivering higher performance for select games. The CPU speed bumps up to 4 GHz while the GPU clocks in at 600 MHz higher than base PS5 consoles.

Combined with increased 16GB GDDR6 RAM, the PS5 Pro with detachable drive can theoretically reach up to 8K resolutions with enhanced graphics, lighting, and smoother framerates. Sony positions this premium model as ideal for discerning players who want bleeding-edge fidelity.

As the name suggests, the PS5 Pro detachable drive connects and disconnects freely via a new modular bay system. Gamers who buy discs can take advantage of the UHD Blu-Ray drive while all-digital users can remove it for a symmetrical, streamlined appearance. This innovative modular design caters to both physical and digital audiences.

Sony reiterated that models with and without disc drives will co-exist to satisfy different gamers’ needs and budgets. PlayStation classics, backward compatible PS4 games, cloud streaming titles, and next-gen showcases will all be playable across the PS5 family. Brand new DualSense Edge wireless controllers were also announced to coincide with the hardware refresh.