Sizing Up the Consoles: PS4 vs. PS4 Slim
The most immediate and obvious distinction between the original PlayStation 4 (often called the 'Fat' model) and the PS4 Slim is the physical size. Sony engineered the PS4 Slim to be a more compact and less obtrusive machine, and they were successful. The Slim is smaller and lighter, making it a better fit for tight entertainment center setups or for those who prioritize a smaller footprint. The aesthetic was also refined, moving from the sharp, angled edges and glossy/matte finish of the original to a fully matte, rounded-corner design on the Slim.
Comparing Power and Performance
Under the hood, the two consoles are essentially identical in terms of raw gaming performance. They share the same AMD 8-core Jaguar CPU and 1.84 TFLOPS GPU, meaning games will run with the same frame rates and graphical fidelity on either system. However, the Slim's improved power efficiency—drawing significantly less wattage than the original—means it runs quieter and generates less heat during extended gaming sessions. This difference, while not impacting gameplay, can affect the overall user experience.
Connectivity and Ports
Connectivity saw both a minor upgrade and a notable downgrade with the Slim model. The original PS4 relies on the older 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 2.1 standards. The Slim upgraded to the faster 5 GHz Wi-Fi (802.11ac) and more energy-efficient Bluetooth 4.0. For many, this improved wireless performance is a key advantage. The one significant connectivity loss on the Slim is the removal of the optical audio (SPDIF) output port, which was present on the original model. This affects users with older audio equipment that relies on an optical connection.
Feature Comparison: PS4 vs PS4 Slim
| Feature | Original PS4 ('Fat') | PS4 Slim |
|---|---|---|
| Release Date | November 2013 | September 2016 |
| Dimensions (WxDxH) | Approx. 12 × 10.8 × 2.09 in | Approx. 11.3 × 10.4 × 1.54 in |
| Weight | Approx. 6.2 lbs (2.8 kg) | Approx. 4.6 lbs (2.1 kg) |
| Power Consumption | Rated up to 250W | Rated up to 165W |
| Wireless Technology | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n (2.4 GHz) | Wi-Fi 802.11ac (2.4 GHz/5 GHz) |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 2.1 (EDR) | Bluetooth 4.0 |
| Optical Audio Port | Yes | No |
| USB Ports | USB 3.0 x2 | USB 3.1 x2 |
| Design Finish | Mixed glossy and matte | All matte finish |
| Noise Levels | Louder, especially under load | Quieter |
Controller and Software Changes
Another minor but welcome change for the PS4 Slim was an updated controller, known as the DualShock 4 V2. This controller is essentially the same, but with one key visual difference: a light bar was added to the front of the touchpad. Furthermore, the controller can now communicate over a wired USB connection when plugged in, which was not the case for the original DualShock 4. From a software perspective, both models run the same PlayStation 4 system software and are compatible with the entire library of PS4 games. There are no exclusive games or features for either console.
Which Model Should You Choose?
Ultimately, the choice depends on your specific needs and priorities. If you are buying a used console or upgrading from an original PS4, the Slim offers a compelling package with its smaller size, quieter operation, and improved Wi-Fi. The absence of the optical audio port is a significant consideration for some users, but for most, the trade-off is minimal. If you are a casual gamer looking for a reliable and affordable console, the PS4 Slim is a refined and solid option. The original PS4 is still a capable machine, but its age means potentially louder operation and slightly slower wireless speeds compared to its successor. Gamers seeking a true performance upgrade should look towards the more powerful PlayStation 4 Pro, which supports 4K resolution and improved graphics.
Conclusion
While sharing identical core performance for running games, the PlayStation 4 Slim is a quieter, more compact, and energy-efficient revision of the original PS4. Key improvements include faster 5 GHz Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 4.0, while the main drawback is the removal of the optical audio port. For most gamers, the Slim represents a superior version of the hardware, offering a refined design and improved user experience. The original model remains a perfectly functional console, but the Slim is the more polished and modern version for those seeking a space-saving and quieter console.
