Ps5 Digital Edition vs Regular: Which Playstation 5 Is Right?
So, you’re ready to dive into the next generation of gaming with the PlayStation 5, but you’re facing a crucial decision: which version to choose? The choice between the PS5 Digital Edition and the standard PS5 can significantly impact your gaming experience and budget.
Both consoles offer the same powerful performance, lightning-fast loading times, and stunning graphics. However, the key difference lies in the disc drive. This seemingly small detail branches into multiple considerations. Let’s explore the pros and cons of each.
This comparison will break down everything you need to know, from cost and game availability to storage and resale value. We’ll help you determine whether the sleek and streamlined PS5 Digital Edition or the versatile regular PS5 is the perfect fit for your gaming needs.
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | Digital | Regular |
|---|---|---|
| Disc Drive | No | Yes |
| Storage | Custom 825GB SSD | Custom 825GB SSD |
| CPU | AMD Zen 2-based CPU | AMD Zen 2-based CPU |
| GPU | AMD Radeon RDNA 2-based GPU | AMD Radeon RDNA 2-based GPU |
| RAM | 16GB GDDR6 | 16GB GDDR6 |
| Video Output | 4K @ 120Hz, 8K support | 4K @ 120Hz, 8K support |
| HDR Support | Yes | Yes |
| Audio | Tempest 3D AudioTech | Tempest 3D AudioTech |
| Controller | DualSense | DualSense |
| Backward Compatibility | PS4 Games | PS4 Games |
| Online Services | PlayStation Plus Required for Online Play | PlayStation Plus Required for Online Play |
| Dimensions | Slightly Smaller | Slightly Larger |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Disc Drive
- Ps5 Digital Edition: Lacks a disc drive, meaning it can only play digitally downloaded games. This results in a sleeker design and potentially lower cost, but limits your access to physical game discs and movies.
- Regular: Includes a 4K Blu-ray disc drive, allowing you to play physical games and watch movies on Blu-ray. This offers flexibility in game purchasing and access to a wider library, but adds to the console’s size and price.
- Winner: Regular
Price
- Ps5 Digital Edition: Typically priced lower than the regular PS5 due to the absence of the disc drive. This makes it a more accessible option for budget-conscious gamers.
- Regular: Priced higher than the digital edition to account for the inclusion of the 4K Blu-ray disc drive. This higher price point reflects its added functionality.
- Winner: Digital Edition
Game Purchases
- Ps5 Digital Edition: All games must be purchased and downloaded digitally from the PlayStation Store. This offers convenience but relies on a stable internet connection and requires storage space.
- Regular: Games can be purchased digitally or as physical discs. This offers flexibility, allowing you to choose based on price, availability, and preference.
- Winner: Regular
Physical Game Ownership
- Ps5 Digital Edition: You do not own physical copies of games. You are only licensed to play them via your account.
- Regular: You own the physical games. You can resell them or lend them to friends.
- Winner: Regular
Used Game Market
- Ps5 Digital Edition: Unable to participate in the used game market.
- Regular: Can buy and sell used games.
- Winner: Regular
Size and Design
- Ps5 Digital Edition: Generally smaller and sleeker due to the absence of the disc drive, offering a cleaner aesthetic.
- Regular: Larger and bulkier due to the inclusion of the disc drive.
- Winner: Digital Edition
Backward Compatibility
- Ps5 Digital Edition: Supports backward compatibility for PS4 digital games.
- Regular: Supports backward compatibility for PS4 games on disc or digital.
- Winner: Regular
Storage Requirements
- Ps5 Digital Edition: Relies entirely on internal storage for games, requiring careful management and potentially external storage for large game libraries.
- Regular: Requires internal storage for digitally downloaded games but allows for physical game installations which can save on storage space.
- Winner: Regular
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Value | Tie (Dependent on individual priorities and pricing) |
| Gaming Performance | Tie |
| Game Selection | Tie |
| Physical Media Support | Regular |
| Digital Media Support | Digital |
| Design | Tie (subjective) |
What They Have in Common:
- Processing Power: Both consoles share the same powerful AMD Zen 2-based CPU and AMD Radeon RDNA 2-based GPU, ensuring identical performance in games. This guarantees the same frame rates and visual fidelity.
- SSD Storage: Both the Digital and Regular PS5 models utilize a custom 825GB SSD, drastically reducing loading times compared to previous generation consoles. This allows for faster game loading and quicker transitions.
- Audio Technology: Both consoles feature Tempest 3D AudioTech, providing immersive and realistic audio experiences when using compatible headphones or speakers. This enhances the overall gaming experience with directional sound.
- Controller: Both consoles come with the innovative DualSense controller, featuring haptic feedback and adaptive triggers for a more immersive and interactive gaming experience. The DualSense enhances gameplay in all titles.
- Game Library: Both consoles have access to the same extensive library of PlayStation 5 games, ensuring that players can enjoy the latest titles regardless of their chosen model. You will not miss out on any games.
PS5 Digital Edition Vs Regular Buying Guide
Price Considerations
The primary difference between the PS5 Digital Edition and the regular PS5 lies in their price points. The Digital Edition, lacking a disc drive, typically costs less upfront. This makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious gamers. However, remember to factor in the cost of digital games, which may sometimes be more expensive than physical copies, especially during sales. Consider how often you purchase games and if you prioritize owning physical media when making your decision.
Game Library and Media Consumption
The regular PS5 allows you to play both physical and digital games, offering greater flexibility. You can buy used games, borrow from friends, and enjoy Blu-ray movies. The Digital Edition, on the other hand, is solely reliant on digital downloads. This means you’ll need a stable internet connection for downloading games and updates. If you have a large physical game collection or enjoy watching Blu-ray discs, the regular PS5 is the better choice.
Storage and Digital Ownership
Both consoles offer the same internal storage capacity initially, but games can be quite large, quickly filling up the hard drive. You can expand the storage of both consoles with a compatible NVMe SSD. With the Digital Edition, all your games are linked to your PlayStation Network account. While this offers convenience, you do not have the option of reselling your games. The regular PS5 provides the option to buy and sell physical games, offering a degree of ownership.
Longevity and Future-Proofing
Both consoles are designed to provide the same gaming experience. However, the regular PS5 might offer a slight advantage in the long run. If the PlayStation Network were to experience technical issues or if Sony were to discontinue digital game sales, you would still be able to play your physical games on the regular PS5. The disc drive also ensures you can play games and media even without an internet connection. Consider your long-term gaming habits.
Resale Value and Second-Hand Market
The regular PS5 generally holds a higher resale value due to its ability to play physical games. This gives you more flexibility if you decide to upgrade to a newer console in the future or no longer want a specific game. Digital games, once purchased, are tied to your account and cannot be resold. The second-hand market for physical games is also more robust, allowing you to find titles at reduced prices and recoup some of your initial investment.
Connectivity and Features
Both consoles share the same core features, including the powerful AMD Ryzen Zen 2 CPU and AMD Radeon RDNA 2 GPU, delivering stunning graphics and fast loading times. They both support the same accessories, like the DualSense controller and VR headsets. The primary difference is the disc drive on the regular PS5, allowing for physical media playback. Consider whether the ability to play physical media is important to you, as this is the primary feature difference between the systems.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy PS5 Digital Edition If…
- You prefer to purchase games digitally through the PlayStation Store.
- You want a slightly more compact console design.
- You are looking for a potentially more affordable entry point (though prices fluctuate).
- You don’t own many physical games and are comfortable with a digital library.
Buy Regular If…
- You prefer to buy physical game discs.
- You want the option to play used games or borrow games from friends.
- You have a large collection of PS4 games on disc and want to continue playing them.
- You prefer not to be reliant on a constant internet connection for game access.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between the PS5 Digital Edition and the regular PS5?
The primary difference is the presence of a disc drive in the regular PS5, allowing it to play physical games and Blu-ray discs. The Digital Edition lacks this drive, relying solely on digital downloads. This results in the Digital Edition being slightly cheaper. The core gaming experience and internal components remain identical.
Can I upgrade the storage on both PS5 models?
Yes, both the PS5 Digital Edition and the regular PS5 can have their storage expanded with a compatible NVMe SSD. This allows you to install more games and media. The process is the same for both consoles: you open the expansion slot and install a compatible drive, following the instructions provided by Sony.
Can I play used games on the PS5 Digital Edition?
No, you cannot play used games on the PS5 Digital Edition. Since it lacks a disc drive, it can only play games downloaded from the PlayStation Store. This means you can’t buy or borrow physical games, limiting your options for used games and rentals.
Does the PS5 Digital Edition support 4K Blu-ray playback?
No, the PS5 Digital Edition does not support 4K Blu-ray playback because it lacks a disc drive. The regular PS5, with its built-in disc drive, can play 4K Blu-ray discs, allowing for a premium media experience in addition to gaming. This is a key difference to consider.
Are the games more expensive on the PlayStation Store?
Digital game prices on the PlayStation Store can sometimes be higher than physical copies, especially at launch. However, Sony frequently offers sales and discounts on digital games. It is recommended to compare prices. The ability to use physical games allows for resale and the ability to find cheaper used games.
Can I use my existing PS4 games on the PS5?
Yes, both the PS5 Digital Edition and the regular PS5 are backward compatible with most PS4 games. You can play digital PS4 games on the Digital Edition, and physical PS4 games on the regular PS5. Some games may benefit from enhanced performance on the PS5.
Which PS5 is better for someone with a slow internet connection?
For someone with a slow internet connection, the regular PS5 is generally the better choice. It allows you to play physical games, reducing the need to download large game files. While updates are still required, the initial game installation can be done via disc. The Digital Edition relies entirely on downloads.
Final Verdict
The regular PS5 offers greater flexibility due to its disc drive, allowing for physical game ownership and Blu-ray playback. While the Digital Edition is more affordable upfront, the long-term cost of digital games and the inability to play physical media make the regular PS5 the more versatile and ultimately better value option for most gamers.
Winner: Regular PS5