Sony is making waves again — but not necessarily in a good way. Sony shrinks PS5 Slim storage in the US too, following its recent European rollout of the updated console. The digital-only PS5 Slim now comes with 825GB of internal SSD storage instead of the original 1TB, sparking mixed reactions among fans.
The New PS5 Slim Model Hits The US
The revised PS5 Slim digital edition, now part of the “CFI-2100 model group,” has officially landed in the US via the PlayStation Direct website. Despite the drop in storage capacity, the console still starts at $499.99 — the same price as before.
This move mirrors Sony’s earlier launch in Europe, where the smaller-storage model first appeared. While the new version looks nearly identical to its predecessor, the key change lies under the hood — literally.
What’s Changed Inside The New PS5 Slim
Tech YouTuber Austin Evans recently tore down the updated PS5 Slim and uncovered several tweaks. Aside from the reduced storage, the center black strip and top side panels now feature a matte finish, offering a subtle design refresh. Evans also noticed minor internal adjustments, though performance remains largely the same.
The cut in storage space may be a disappointment for digital gamers who rely on downloadable titles, especially given the PS5’s hefty game file sizes.
Pricing Stays The Same Despite Less Storage
Even with 175GB less space, the price tag hasn’t budged. The 825GB PS5 Slim digital edition remains $499.99, while the disc-drive version with 1TB of storage costs $549.99. For those seeking more power and space, the PS5 Pro — priced at $749.99 — still includes 2TB of internal storage.
Sony’s Pricing Strategy Raises Eyebrows
Sony’s decision to reduce storage without lowering the price has sparked debate online. Some users argue that the company is leveraging brand loyalty and demand to maintain margins, while others see it as a necessary adjustment in production costs.
Regardless, the shift suggests Sony may be aligning its global hardware specs for consistency across regions. Still, for gamers in the US, it’s hard not to notice that the new Slim feels like a smaller upgrade at the same cost.
What It Means For PS5 Buyers
If you’re planning to buy a PS5 Slim soon, be sure to check which model you’re getting — the 825GB digital edition or the 1TB version with a disc drive. With modern games like Call of Duty or Spider-Man 2 taking up over 100GB each, that extra space can make a big difference.
For now, though, Sony shrinks PS5 Slim storage in the US too, keeping fans on their toes — and their SSDs a little more cramped.
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