PS5 Slim in-depth disassembly: a smaller, lighter, and more heat-dissipating next-generation console

Sony has launched a new design for the PS5 Slim, which has been significantly optimized in size and weight compared to the original PS5. Dave2D, a tech channel, disassembled and reviewed the new console, revealing the internal design improvements.

Exterior design: more compact and more modern

PS5 Slim continues the iconic streamlined design of PS5, but the overall size is much smaller. The new console uses a semi-matte and semi-glossy shell material, which is divided into four independent modules, which means that the shell of the old PS5 cannot be directly applied to the new model.

Weight comparison:

Digital version of PS5 Slim: 2.6 kg (original 3.3 kg)

Optical drive version of PS5 Slim: 3.2 kg (original 3.9 kg)

Although the size is reduced, the interface layout of PS5 Slim remains basically unchanged, including USB-C, HDMI 2.1 and power interface. However, the vertical base needs to be purchased separately, while the horizontal base comes with the console.

Internal structure: optimized heat dissipation and modular design

The disassembly shows that the internal architecture of the PS5 Slim has been adjusted based on the original PS5, but the core design concept remains the same.

Key improvements:

M.2 SSD position adjustment:

The SSD slot of the original PS5 is located on the side of the motherboard, while the PS5 Slim moves it behind the fan, closer to the heat dissipation airflow, which helps to reduce the SSD temperature.

Optical drive modular design:

The optical drive part of the optical drive version of the PS5 Slim adopts a detachable design. Users only need to open the cover on the lower right to remove or install the optical drive, which is more convenient for future upgrades or repairs.

Cooling system optimization:

It still uses liquid metal heat dissipation, equipped with 5 heat pipes and 2 heat sinks to ensure efficient cooling of the APU.

A new heat pipe and a heat sink are added to the VRM power supply part to improve stability.

All heat sinks are arranged around the central blower fan, which optimizes the internal air duct and makes the airflow more concentrated.

Performance and power consumption: minor adjustments

Despite the reduced size, the chip specifications of PS5 Slim have not been upgraded, and it still uses AMD’s custom APU with 6nm process. Dave2D’s test found that the power consumption of the new machine is even slightly higher than that of the original PS5, and it is speculated that energy efficiency may be sacrificed to maintain performance.

However, thanks to the more efficient heat dissipation design, the temperature control of PS5 Slim in long-term games is better, especially the cooling effect on SSD and power supply module.

Market positioning and sales prospects

Sony said that this Christmas will be one of the busiest seasons for game console sales, and the launch of PS5 Slim is just in time. The original PS5 has been in oversupply for the first time three years after its launch, and the thinner model may attract players who have not yet started.

Suitable for:

Players with limited space: The volume is reduced by 30%, which is more suitable for small apartments or desktop placement.

Hardcore users who pursue heat dissipation: Optimize the air duct design, and long-term games are more stable.

Potential upgrade users: The removable optical drive and SSD position adjustment are convenient for future expansion.

Summary: A pragmatic iteration

PS5 Slim is not a performance upgrade, but a refinement of existing hardware by Sony. It provides more flexible options through a more compact design, improved heat dissipation and modular optical drive while maintaining the same performance.

If you already have the original PS5, there is little need to upgrade; but if you are a new player, PS5 Slim is undoubtedly a more refined choice.