Sony PlayStation 5 Slim 1TB (PS5)

Sony PlayStation 5 Slim Console 1TB (Disc Edition)

The current-generation PS5 in its revised chassis — around 30% smaller and 18% lighter than the launch console, with 1TB of storage and a detachable disc drive. Nothing is cut back on performance; it’s the same machine in a more sensible shape.

The ultra-high-speed SSD with integrated I/O and a custom decompressor achieves raw read bandwidth of 5.5GB/s, collapsing load times from minutes to seconds and letting developers build worlds that stream as fast as you can move through them. The custom AMD Zen 2 CPU and RDNA 2 GPU handle ray-traced lighting, reflections and shadows, 4K HDR output, and frame rates up to 120fps with 120Hz support on a compatible display. Tempest 3D AudioTech places sound positionally around you through headphones or TV speakers. The disc drive also plays 4K UHD Blu-ray.

The included DualSense wireless controller is where the generational difference is most obvious. Haptic feedback via dual actuators conveys texture and impact far more precisely than conventional rumble, while adaptive triggers add variable force and tension to L2 and R2. A built-in microphone handles voice chat without a headset.

Backwards compatibility covers over 4,000 PS4 games, with Game Boost improving frame rates in many of them. Astro’s Playroom comes pre-installed and remains the best demonstration of what the DualSense can do.

In the box

• PS5 Slim console (disc edition), 1TB
• DualSense wireless controller and USB charging cable
• HDMI cable, power cable, horizontal stand feet
• Astro’s Playroom (pre-installed)