When Sony launched the PlayStation 4 (PS4) in 2013, it revolutionized gaming with its powerful hardware and impressive lineup of games. Three years later, in 2016, Sony released the PS4 Slim, a more compact version of the original console. While both systems offer a similar gaming experience, there are key differences between the two that potential buyers should consider. This article will provide a comprehensive comparison between the PS4 and PS4 Slim, covering aspects such as design, performance, features, and value for money.
1. Design and Build
One of the most noticeable differences between the PS4 and the PS4 Slim is their physical appearance. The PS4 Slim, as its name suggests, is a smaller and more streamlined version of the original PS4. Let’s break down the differences:
PS4 Original:
- Dimensions: The original PS4 measures approximately 275mm x 53mm x 305mm (width x height x depth).
- Weight: It weighs around 2.8 kg.
- Design: The PS4 features a sharp, angular design with a split glossy and matte finish. It has a more industrial look with its angular edges and a prominent LED light strip running across the top.
- Ports: It has two front-facing USB 3.0 ports, an HDMI port, an Ethernet port, an optical audio output, and an auxiliary port for the PlayStation Camera.
PS4 Slim:
- Dimensions: The PS4 Slim measures approximately 265mm x 39mm x 288mm (width x height x depth), making it 40% smaller in volume than the original.
- Weight: It is significantly lighter, weighing around 2.1 kg.
- Design: The PS4 Slim has a more rounded, softer design with a fully matte finish, giving it a more modern and minimalist appearance. The LED light strip from the original is removed, replaced with smaller indicator lights on the power button.
- Ports: Similar to the original PS4, but the optical audio output has been removed in the Slim version. It retains the two USB 3.0 ports, HDMI, Ethernet, and auxiliary ports.
Overall, the PS4 Slim’s design is more compact, making it easier to fit into entertainment centers. Its lighter weight also makes it more portable, which is a bonus for gamers who frequently move their console around.
2. Performance and Hardware
Under the hood, the PS4 and PS4 Slim are nearly identical in terms of hardware. Both consoles are powered by the same custom AMD Jaguar x86-64 8-core CPU and an AMD Radeon GPU with 1.84 teraflops of processing power. However, there are a few subtle differences worth noting:
Graphics and Processing Power:
- Both the original PS4 and PS4 Slim offer the same performance, running games at up to 1080p resolution with stable frame rates. They both support HDR (High Dynamic Range) for games that are compatible, offering improved color and contrast on HDR-capable TVs.
Cooling and Noise Levels:
- The PS4 Slim is quieter and more efficient when it comes to cooling. Sony redesigned the internal components of the Slim to reduce heat output and noise. While the original PS4 could get noisy during intense gaming sessions, the Slim is noticeably quieter, making for a more pleasant gaming experience.
Power Consumption:
- The PS4 Slim is more energy-efficient than the original PS4. The Slim model consumes about 165W at maximum load, compared to the original PS4’s 250W. This not only makes the Slim more eco-friendly but can also save users money on their electricity bills over time.
3. Storage Options
Both the PS4 and PS4 Slim originally offered 500GB of internal storage, though 1TB versions are also available for both models. The storage size is important for gamers who download a lot of digital games, as modern titles can take up a significant amount of space.
Upgrading Storage:
- Both consoles allow for the internal hard drive to be upgraded with a standard 2.5-inch SATA drive. This is a straightforward process and can be beneficial for those who need more storage space without relying on external drives.
- External storage support via USB 3.0 is available on both the PS4 and PS4 Slim, making it easy to expand your storage by simply plugging in an external hard drive.
4. Controllers and Accessories
Both the PS4 and PS4 Slim come with the DualShock 4 controller, but there is a slight difference between the controllers included with each console:
DualShock 4:
- Original PS4 Controller: The original DualShock 4 controller has a solid, matte finish on the touchpad, and the light bar is only visible from the top of the controller.
- PS4 Slim Controller: The controller that comes with the PS4 Slim has a minor revision. The light bar can now be seen through the touchpad, offering a subtle change that allows players to see the color of the light bar while playing. This is a minor difference but can enhance the gameplay experience in certain games that use the light bar for in-game notifications.
Accessories Compatibility:
- Both the PS4 and PS4 Slim are compatible with the same range of accessories, including the PlayStation Camera, VR headset, and various other peripherals. If you’re upgrading from a PS4 to a PS4 Slim, all your existing accessories will work seamlessly with the Slim model.
5. Software and User Interface
There is no difference between the PS4 and PS4 Slim when it comes to software. Both consoles run on the same PlayStation operating system and offer identical features, including access to the PlayStation Store, PlayStation Plus, and all the various apps and services.
Operating System and Updates:
- Both consoles receive the same system updates, ensuring that they both have access to the latest features and security patches. The user interface on both consoles is smooth, intuitive, and regularly updated by Sony to improve performance and add new functionalities.
6. Price and Value
When considering which console to purchase, price is often a deciding factor. At launch, the PS4 was priced higher than the PS4 Slim, but since the Slim’s release, the original PS4 is no longer in production, making it harder to find new.
PS4 Slim Pricing:
- The PS4 Slim is generally more affordable and often comes bundled with games or additional controllers, offering better value for money. It’s an excellent choice for gamers looking for a cost-effective entry into the PlayStation ecosystem.
PS4 Original Pricing:
- The original PS4 can still be found on the second-hand market, sometimes at a lower price than the Slim. However, given the Slim’s improvements in energy efficiency, noise reduction, and compact design, the Slim is usually the better deal.
7. Final Verdict: PS4 vs. PS4 Slim
Choosing between the PS4 and PS4 Slim ultimately comes down to your priorities. If you’re looking for a more compact, quieter, and energy-efficient console, the PS4 Slim is the clear winner. It offers the same gaming experience as the original PS4 but with a few refinements that make it more user-friendly.
On the other hand, if you find a good deal on an original PS4 and don’t mind the larger size and slightly higher power consumption, it’s still a solid choice that will run all the same games with the same performance. However, given the availability and the improved design of the Slim, it’s hard to justify choosing the original PS4 over the Slim unless you have a specific reason, such as nostalgia or finding a significantly cheaper option.
In conclusion, the PS4 Slim is the more practical and modern choice for most gamers. It combines all the features that made the original PS4 great with a more refined design, making it a worthy successor in the PlayStation lineup. Whether you’re new to PlayStation or looking to upgrade, the PS4 Slim offers excellent value and a fantastic gaming experience.