PlayStation 5 buyers guide – which console should you buy for the holidays

Thousands of people are preparing to buy a console for themselves or their loved ones as the holidays draw near.

It can be challenging to determine which console is best for you, though, because each one has multiple versions.

This is the guide for you if you’re unclear about the distinctions between the various PS5 models.

Here is all the information you require on the various PlayStation systems and add-ons.

PlayStation Portal 199 / $199

Although the PlayStation Portal isn’t a PS5, you can play PS5 games without the main system if you have a PS Plus Premium subscription.

It should be mentioned that not all regions have access to the PS Portal’s streaming option, so before making a purchase, make sure it’s available where you live.

A more basic version of PS Plus Premium, known as PS Plus Deluxe, is available in certain nations, including Australia and India. It does not have cloud streaming.

Playing PlayStation games from any location with a reliable Wi-Fi connection is made possible with the PS Portal, a portable add-on for the PS5.

You will need to keep up a PS Plus Premium subscription if you wish to utilize your PS Portal without a PS5, which will ultimately cost more than the PS5.

If you want to stay up to date with the newest games, PS Plus isn’t the best option because it doesn’t add games to the service on the day they are published.

You won’t be able to play any of your games on the PS Portal because it doesn’t store games on the device.

Excellent for those who

• don t already own PlayStation games
• prefer subscriptions to owning
• have a strong and stable internet connection
• often have to fight for the TV

Not so good for people who

• like to play games over a long period of time
• don t live in a streaming-supported country
• enjoy playing games soon after they launch

PS5 Slim Digital 324 / $449

This is a genuine PS5, and the price difference between it and the standard console with the disc drive may be significant depending on where you live.

Although it isn’t all that much smaller than the conventional console, you should choose this version if you value size.

This is the one for you if you value appearance because the majority of the customizable face plates are only compatible with this console.

The console’s 1TB capacity, which is sufficient for one or two major titles, is the largest improvement over the original model’s 825GB.

However, you should choose a console with a disc drive if you already own or wish to purchase physical games.

Both the disc drive and the vertical stand, which are not included, are available for separate purchase, however they are more expensive.

Excellent for those who

• have a digital library of games
• want something more compact
• like to customise their console

Not so good for people who

• want to stay at the cutting edge of performance
• already own physical games
• want to play games straight out of the box

Original PS5 Standard 399 / $449

For gamers who like playing games on a tangible medium, the original standard console with a disc drive is the preferred option.

It can play all of your PS4 and PS5 games and comes with all the parts you need right out of the box.

Additionally, because it’s a little older than the Slim console, you’re more likely to find refurbished or used consoles for less money.

It has a slightly smaller storage capacity than the Slim, but that shouldn’t be a problem for gamers that play physically.

Since it is the only PS5 model with an integrated disc drive, problems are less likely to occur, but they are more difficult to resolve when they do.

Excellent for those who

• already have a library of physical PS4 & PS5 games
• like to play games out of the box

Not so good for people who

• don t like it when their console takes over the living room
• care about storage size
• wants the best graphical and performance experience possible

PS5 Pro 699 / $699

Without the disc drive or vertical stand, this is by far the priciest PlayStation system.

You must factor in these additional costs if you play or own physical games.

The PS5 Pro is the only system, though, that combines the graphical fidelity of Graphics mode with the framerate of Performance mode.

Most people won’t be able to tell the difference, thus this will only be important to those who want to be at the forefront of technology.

Excellent for those who

• care deeply about your games graphics
• don t want to choose between Graphics and Performance modes

Not so good for people who

• want something affordable
• already own physical games

See our Xbox Series X|S buyers guide if you’re thinking about getting an Xbox instead.