Buzz
When considering a new gaming console, the Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5) stands out as a top contender. With an extensive game library and backward compatibility allowing PS4 games to be played, the PS5 is one of the leading gaming consoles on the market today. Once you've settled on the PS5, the next decision is whether to opt for the digital or disc version, as the PS5 comes in two models, only one of which includes a disc drive.
What is the Price of a PS5?
The PS5 with a disc drive is currently available for $499, whereas the PS5 Digital Edition comes in at $449. Opting out of the disc drive saves you $50, but this means missing out on the opportunity to purchase used game discs at reduced prices. It's also important to note that there are additional hidden costs associated with the PS5 that can increase the overall expense.
Digital vs. Disc PS5 Games: Which is Better?
For those who dislike the clutter of physical discs and prefer the convenience of digital downloads, the PS5 Digital Edition is the ideal option. However, this choice limits you to purchasing games exclusively from the PS Store, which is not renowned for offering significant discounts.
Alternatively, investing in the PS5 disc version upfront can lead to substantial savings over time. You can purchase new games at full price, complete them, and then resell them. Finishing a game within a week allows you to recoup most of your initial expenditure. If you're not inclined to buy new releases, you can acquire older games at heavily reduced prices. Pre-owned PS4 discs are frequently priced around $10, while PS5 pre-owned games can be found for approximately $20. Additionally, you retain the option to buy games digitally from the PS Store whenever you choose.
In my view, the additional cost is justified unless you intend to maintain a year-round PlayStation Plus subscription and exclusively play the free games provided through that service.
Do Disc-Installed Games Take Up Less Storage Space?
Storage considerations are a key factor in the PS5 digital versus disc discussion, but there's no need for concern. Purchasing physical discs doesn't significantly reduce storage usage; once installed, games occupy nearly the same space on your PS5. Even disc-installed games require periodic updates, which gradually increase their storage footprint over time.
Both the PS5 Digital Edition and the disc version come equipped with 1TB of storage, and you have the option to expand it by purchasing an M2 SSD.
Desk space is another important factor to consider
It's important to note that the PS5 disc version occupies slightly more desk space compared to the Digital Edition. The PS5 Digital Edition measures 3.1 inches in width, while the disc variant is 3.7 inches wide. Although the difference is minimal, it can be a deciding factor if your desk space is limited.
Reasons to opt for the PS5 disc version
My colleague Brendan strongly advocates for physical media, as it ensures true ownership of your purchases. Digital purchases, including games, can be removed from the store for various reasons, sometimes resulting in inability to access the game despite having paid full price. I adopted this mindset with video games, and as a result, I now have a modest collection of physical games that I enjoy playing on my PS5.
This approach allows me to play my games without requiring an internet connection; I truly own the games I've purchased; and if I decide to part with some of them, I can sell them and recoup a portion of the original cost.
Reasons to choose the PS5 Digital Edition
While I personally favor the disc version, it's important to recognize that the PS5 Digital Edition could be the better option for certain users, especially with the introduction of PlayStation Plus, a Netflix-like subscription service for PS5. This service offers access to a vast library of games for a monthly fee, though the available titles rotate periodically. However, it requires a stable internet connection and has faced issues where users lost access to games they had purchased.
For gamers who prefer purchasing titles, the PS5 Digital Edition eliminates the ability to buy physical copies, but downloading games online offers unmatched convenience. For many, this ease of use and the reduced upfront cost are compelling reasons to embrace an all-digital gaming experience.
