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New Slimmer PlayStation 5 Arrives in November With Detachable Drive

The new "PS5 Slim" lets you snap on a Blu-ray drive later for $80 more.

Scott Stein Editor at Large
I started with CNET reviewing laptops in 2009. Now I explore wearable tech, VR/AR, tablets, gaming and future/emerging trends in our changing world. Other obsessions include magic, immersive theater, puzzles, board games, cooking, improv and the New York Jets. My background includes an MFA in theater which I apply to thinking about immersive experiences of the future.
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  • Nearly 20 years writing about tech, and over a decade reviewing wearable tech, VR, and AR products and apps
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Sean Booker Video Producer
As a Video Producer at CNET, Sean has worked on more videos than he can count. He covers video games and video game hardware along with the occasional electric bike. He covers games both on and off camera, through livestreams, press events, and podcasts.
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Scott Stein
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2 min read
ps5-slim

The slimmer PS5 has a similar look, but less bulk (and a detachable Blu-ray drive).

 Sony Interactive Entertainment

It's been three years since the PS5 first went on sale, and a new upgraded design should help one fit a lot more easily in your TV cabinet. The suddenly announced redesigned PS5 arrives in November, is 30% smaller and weighs anywhere from 18% to 24% less  depending on which model you pick.

For months, Sony had been expected to release a new slimmer PS5. And that's exactly what's happening, although right now the price doesn't seem to be dropping. In fact, for the digital version, it's going up by $50.

This new PS5 has an optional snap-on Ultra HD Blu-ray drive, meaning you could choose to upgrade a new digital model with disc function later on. That's great news on decision-making FOMO. The new PS5 with disc drive is $500, and the digital-only model is $450, while the Ultra HD Blu-ray drive on its own will cost $80.

While the updated PS5 with a Blu-ray drive is the same price as the current model, the new digital-only PS5 is $50 more expensive. The new PS5s do come with larger 1TB hard drives.

Both models will come packaged with a horizontal stand for laying the systems flat. If you want to stand the console upright, you'll need to buy a separate vertical stand for $30. 

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PS5 Vertical Stand

 Sony Interactive Entertainment

Console covers will also make a return, although with a new design to match the updated form factor. Starting in early 2024, PS5 owners can choose from an all-matte black, volcanic red, cobalt blue or sterling silver cover colors priced at $55.

Sony's already having a big hardware year for PlayStation, with the PSVR 2 launching back in February and a second-screen controller handheld accessory, PlayStation Portal, also arriving in November. 

Sony hasn't mentioned a specific launch date for the redesigned models but mentioned that the current stock of older PS5s will be gradually replaced with the newer slimmer models.

Watch this: PlayStation 5 Slim Announced: Everything You Need to Know