Playstation 5 vs Playstation 5 Digital: Which Should You Buy?
So, you’re ready to dive into the next generation of gaming? Excellent choice! The PlayStation 5 has arrived, promising stunning graphics, lightning-fast loading times, and an immersive gaming experience like never before. But wait, there’s a slight twist in the story.
You’ll quickly notice there are two distinct versions of the console: the standard PlayStation 5 and the PlayStation 5 Digital Edition. This can leave many gamers wondering which one is the right fit for them. Both offer the same powerful performance, but their differences could significantly impact your gaming habits and budget.
This comparison delves deep into the core distinctions between the PlayStation 5 and the PlayStation 5 Digital Edition. We’ll explore their key features, weigh the pros and cons of each, and help you make an informed decision based on your individual needs and preferences. Get ready to discover which PS5 reigns supreme for you!
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | PS5 | PS5 Digital |
|---|---|---|
| Optical Drive | 4K UHD Blu-ray | None |
| 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 |
| Resolution | Up to 8K | Up to 8K |
| HDR | Yes | Yes |
| Audio | Tempest 3D AudioTech | Tempest 3D AudioTech |
| Controller | DualSense Wireless Controller | DualSense Wireless Controller |
| Backwards Compatibility | PlayStation 4 games | PlayStation 4 games |
| Online Services | PlayStation Plus required for online multiplayer | PlayStation Plus required for online multiplayer |
| Dimensions | Larger physical size | Slightly smaller physical size |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Disc Drive
- Playstation 5: Includes a 4K Blu-ray disc drive, allowing you to play physical game discs and 4K Blu-ray movies. This offers flexibility in purchasing games and allows you to trade or sell your used games. However, it adds to the console’s size and price.
- Playstation 5 Digital: Lacks a disc drive, relying solely on digital downloads for games and media. This results in a sleeker, more compact design and a lower initial price. However, you’re locked into the PlayStation Store and cannot play physical media.
- Winner: PlayStation 5
Price
- Playstation 5: Generally more expensive due to the inclusion of the disc drive and potentially other minor hardware variations. This higher upfront cost can be a barrier for some buyers.
- Playstation 5 Digital: Typically priced lower than the standard PS5, making it a more budget-friendly option. This can make it easier to enter the next-gen gaming ecosystem.
- Winner: PlayStation 5 Digital
Physical Game Ownership
- Playstation 5: Allows you to purchase and own physical game discs, which can be traded, resold, or borrowed. This offers a sense of ownership and the potential to save money on game purchases over time.
- Playstation 5 Digital: Requires all games to be purchased digitally through the PlayStation Store. This eliminates the option to trade or resell games, potentially increasing the overall cost of ownership.
- Winner: PlayStation 5
Game Availability (Used Games)
- Playstation 5: Allows access to a large used game market, providing cheaper alternatives to buying new games. This is beneficial for budget-conscious gamers looking to expand their library.
- Playstation 5 Digital: Restricts you to buying games through the PlayStation Store, limiting access to used game options.
- Winner: PlayStation 5
Console Size & Aesthetics
- Playstation 5: The inclusion of the disc drive makes this model slightly larger and heavier. However, the design is still sleek and modern.
- Playstation 5 Digital: Slightly smaller and lighter due to the absence of the disc drive, offering a cleaner aesthetic. This design is preferred by some gamers.
- Winner: PlayStation 5 Digital
Media Playback
- Playstation 5: Can play 4K Blu-ray discs, offering high-quality video playback for movies and other media. This is a significant advantage for home entertainment enthusiasts.
- Playstation 5 Digital: Can only play media that is downloaded or streamed. It cannot play physical media.
- Winner: PlayStation 5
Digital Game Sales and Discounts
- Playstation 5: Can take advantage of digital sales and discounts available on the PlayStation Store.
- Playstation 5 Digital: Can take advantage of digital sales and discounts available on the PlayStation Store.
- Winner: Tie
Internet Dependency
- Playstation 5: Requires an internet connection for initial setup, game downloads, and online play. You can play some games offline if the disc is inserted.
- Playstation 5 Digital: Requires an internet connection for all game downloads and online play. Without an internet connection, you cannot play any games.
- Winner: PlayStation 5
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Optical Drive | PlayStation 5 |
| Physical Game Support | PlayStation 5 |
| Digital Game Support | Tie |
| Overall Value | Tie |
What They Have in Common
- Processing Power: Both consoles share the same custom CPU and GPU, ensuring identical performance in games and applications. This means the gaming experience will be the same regardless of which console you choose.
- Storage: Both the standard and digital editions come equipped with the same custom 825GB SSD. This provides fast loading times and a smooth overall experience, allowing for quick access to games and other content.
- Controller: Both consoles include the innovative DualSense wireless controller, featuring haptic feedback and adaptive triggers for immersive gameplay. This controller enhances the gaming experience across both versions.
- Audio Technology: Both consoles support Tempest 3D AudioTech, providing immersive and spatial audio experiences through compatible headphones or speakers. This enhances the sense of presence in games.
- Game Library: Both consoles have access to the same library of PlayStation 5 games. You will be able to play all the latest titles on either version.
Playstation 5 vs Playstation 5 Digital Buying Guide
Cost Analysis
The primary difference between the PlayStation 5 and the Digital Edition is the inclusion of a disc drive. This seemingly small addition translates to a difference in price. The standard PS5, equipped with the Ultra HD Blu-ray disc drive, costs more upfront. The Digital Edition, lacking the drive, is more affordable. Consider your gaming habits and budget. If you prefer physical game purchases or already own a large collection of physical games, the standard PS5 might offer long-term savings through used game purchases and rentals. If you primarily buy digital games, the Digital Edition provides a lower entry point.
Game Library Accessibility
The standard PlayStation 5 gives access to both physical and digital games. This offers flexibility in how you purchase and play your games. The Digital Edition, on the other hand, is strictly digital. You’ll need to purchase all your games through the PlayStation Store. Consider if you value the ability to trade, sell, or lend physical games. Also, consider the potential for owning games that may not be available digitally. Both consoles offer access to the PlayStation Store for digital downloads and subscriptions like PlayStation Plus.
Storage Considerations
Both consoles offer the same internal storage capacity at launch, but it can fill up quickly with modern game sizes. You can expand the storage in both models with an NVMe SSD, though you must meet specific requirements for compatibility. The Digital Edition’s reliance on digital downloads may necessitate more frequent storage management or the purchase of an expansion drive sooner. Consider the size of your game library and how many games you plan to install simultaneously. Manage your storage space effectively to avoid the hassle of constant game deletion and re-downloading.
Future-Proofing Your Console
Both consoles are designed to provide the same gaming experience. However, the standard PS5 might offer some future-proofing benefits. The disc drive allows for playing older generation PlayStation games if they are released on disc. While both consoles receive the same software updates and support, the ability to play physical media might be valuable in the long run. Consider how long you plan to keep your console and whether access to physical media is important to you for media playback beyond gaming.
Resale Value & Trade-Ins
The standard PS5, due to its ability to play physical games, might hold its value slightly better over time. The ability to trade in or sell physical games can offset the initial cost of the console and games. The Digital Edition relies solely on digital ownership, which usually doesn’t involve resale value. Consider how important resale value is to you when making your purchase. Think about whether you frequently trade in games or sell your consoles after a few years.
Media Playback Capabilities
The standard PlayStation 5 with the Ultra HD Blu-ray disc drive doubles as a media player. It supports 4K Blu-ray discs, allowing you to watch movies and TV shows in high definition. The Digital Edition is limited to streaming services and digital media playback only. If you own a large collection of Blu-ray discs or plan to purchase them, the standard PS5 offers a significant advantage. If you primarily stream your media, the Digital Edition is perfectly suitable for your needs. Both consoles offer various streaming app support.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy PlayStation 5 If…
- You prefer to buy physical game discs.
- You want the option to play 4K Blu-ray movies.
- You value the ability to trade or resell physical games.
- You have a large collection of physical games from previous PlayStation consoles.
Buy PlayStation 5 Digital If…
- You prefer to purchase and download games digitally.
- You are looking for a slightly more compact console design.
- You don’t need a Blu-ray player for movies.
- You are comfortable with a fully digital game library.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between the PlayStation 5 and the Digital Edition?
The primary difference is the presence of a disc drive in the standard PS5, allowing it to play physical games and Blu-ray discs. The Digital Edition lacks this drive, requiring all games to be downloaded digitally.
Can I play physical games on the PlayStation 5 Digital Edition?
No, the PlayStation 5 Digital Edition cannot play physical games. It is designed to be a completely digital console, only supporting games purchased and downloaded from the PlayStation Store.
Does the PlayStation 5 Digital Edition have the same processing power as the standard PlayStation 5?
Yes, both consoles have the same processing power, including the CPU and GPU. The performance and gaming experience are identical on both consoles. The difference is solely in the disc drive.
How much storage does the PlayStation 5 and Digital Edition have?
Both consoles come with the same amount of internal storage at launch. However, it’s recommended that you consider purchasing an NVMe SSD for additional storage due to the large file sizes of modern games.
Can I upgrade the storage on both consoles?
Yes, both consoles support storage expansion using compatible NVMe SSDs. You can add additional storage to both the standard PS5 and the Digital Edition to accommodate a larger game library.
Which console is more expensive?
The standard PlayStation 5, with the built-in disc drive, is generally more expensive than the Digital Edition. The Digital Edition offers a lower entry price for those who prefer digital downloads.
Is the PlayStation 5 Digital Edition a good choice for me?
The Digital Edition is a good choice if you prefer digital games, don’t own physical games, and want to save money. If you value physical media, the standard PS5 is a better option.
Final Verdict
The decision between the PlayStation 5 and the Digital Edition hinges on your gaming preferences and budget. The standard PS5 offers the versatility of physical and digital games, while the Digital Edition provides a more affordable entry point, focusing solely on digital downloads. Both consoles deliver the same powerful performance. Consider your existing game library, storage needs, and media consumption habits to make the right choice.
Winner: PlayStation 5