Rumors have abounded about whether or not you’ll be able to buy the PS5 Slim disc drive separately, and now that it’s officially been announced, we have our answer. Sony is once again offering the console in two versions, a disc-less digital model and one with a detachable Blu-ray drive. So, will those wanting to save a bit of money get a chance to upgrade later?
Can you upgrade the PS5 Slim Digital Edition with a disc drive?
The official announcement says you’ll be able to purchase the PS5 Slim Disc Drive for $79.99. As with the original PS5, you can buy a disc-less PS5 Slim Digital Edition for $449.99 or a version with an Ultra HD Blu-ray disc drive for $499.99. However, unlike the OG PS5, the disc drive is detachable, so you can add one at your leisure. The PS5 Slim Digital Edition specs state it has what is assumedly a proprietary “Disc Drive port,” so it seems like it’s easily upgradable. Sony doesn’t mention whether it plans to offer the PS5 Slim disc drive when at launch or if the upgrade will come later.
Interestingly, the PS5 Slim is the first console to come with a detachable drive. We saw something similar with add-ons like the Sega CD, Super CD, and Jaguar CD, but they were sold as expansions with their own library of titles.
The PS5 Slim’s design introduces a detachable disc drive, a notable departure from its predecessors. It’s clear that the company is venturing into modular design elements. Perhaps this is a sign of console design trends to come.
