If you’re looking to buy a PS5, there are several decisions to make: Digital Edition or Disc Edition, an extra controller or a charging station? Marketing terms such as ‘fast loading times’, ‘immersive gaming’ and ‘Limited Edition’ may sound appealing, but they don’t tell you much about how well a product will work in everyday use. What matters are the connections, storage capacity, media format, compatibility and what’s actually included in the box.
The PS5 Digital Edition has no disc drive. Games are bought and downloaded from the PlayStation Store. If you want to play pre-owned PS5 games, resell Blu-ray games or watch films on disc, you’ll need a PS5 Disc Edition.
With the Slim version, a disc drive may be sold separately, depending on the model. So check the model name and what’s included before you buy. A vertical stand isn’t automatically included with the consoles mentioned here either.
A PlayStation 5 console with an SSD offers short loading times, but installed games use varying amounts of storage. Digital games, updates and add-on content can reduce the available space. The Disc Edition uses physical media, but many games still need to be partly installed and updated.
If you plan to have several large games installed at once, check the usable capacity and storage expansion options in the technical specifications.
A DualSense controller is designed for PS5 games. However, features such as haptic feedback and adaptive triggers are only available when supported by the game. Connecting to a PC, Mac or mobile device can also vary depending on the feature.
When buying accessories, check the platform, connection type and what’s included. This is particularly important for the DualSense Edge controller, whose interchangeable components require extra care when it comes to storage and maintenance.
| Criterion | PS5 Digital Edition | PS5 Disc Edition | |---|---|---| | Disc drive | Not built in | Blu-ray drive included | | Buying games | PlayStation Store | Disc and digital | | Pre-owned games | Not supported | Supported, if compatible | | Blu-ray films | Not supported | Supported | | Flexibility when reselling | Limited | Greater |
The PlayStation PS5 Slim Console (Digital Edition) 825GB comes with a DualSense Wireless Controller, HDMI cable, power cable, USB cable and horizontal feet. The PlayStation PS5 Slim Console (Disc Edition) 1TB also includes a disc drive. Both versions should be placed somewhere with good ventilation.
The standard DualSense controller features Bluetooth, USB-C, a touchpad, motion sensor, built-in microphone, speaker and a 3.5 mm jack. Haptic feedback and adaptive triggers are technical features whose availability depends on the game.
If you regularly play with two controllers, you could consider a DualSense charging station. The PlayStation DualSense Charging Station charges up to two compatible controllers at once and keeps the console’s USB ports free. Make sure it’s placed on a stable surface in a dry location.
For PlayStation games rated 16+ or PlayStation games rated 18+, the USK rating is the one to check. Examples from the range include Saros and Assassin's Creed – Black Flag Resynced: Launch Edition, both rated for ages 16 and over. The Blood of Dawnwalker and Ghost of Tsushima Director's Cut are rated USK 18.
Families should also consider enabling the console’s parental controls. For imports or special editions, check the product description for language options, age ratings and included content.
Why this product suits this profile: This console is aimed at buyers who get all their games digitally and don’t need a disc drive.
The lack of a disc drive is clearly stated, so you can check before buying whether digital games suit the way you play.
825GB SSD, DualSense controller and HDMI cable included; compatible with selected PS5 accessories.
Why this product suits this profile: The Disc Edition gives you access to both physical and digital games, making it a good fit for people with different media preferences.
The built-in disc drive is listed as included, so you can still play pre-owned or borrowed games.
1TB SSD, Blu-ray drive, DualSense controller and horizontal feet included.
Why this product suits this profile: This controller is designed for frequent players who want to customise button mapping, trigger travel and stick settings.
Its customisable features are clearly described. You can check in advance whether profiles, trigger stops and interchangeable stick modules are features you’ll actually use.
Programmable back buttons, interchangeable stick caps, trigger stops and saved user profiles.
Why this product suits this profile: You can store and charge two controllers without using the console’s USB ports.
The station is specifically designed for up to two DualSense Wireless Controllers, so you can check compatibility before buying.
Charges two controllers at once; click-in charging and a power cable are listed for the intended use.
We’ve put together a complete, regularly updated list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and fully comply with the safety regulations in force in the EU.
It’s a good fit if you always buy games digitally and don’t need a disc drive. If you want to play pre-owned games, borrow discs or resell physical games, choose the Disc Edition.
There’s no single answer. Lifespan depends on factors including how the console is used, ventilation, dust and how well it’s handled. Don’t keep the console in an enclosed cabinet, and make sure to install system and controller updates.
Check the relevant USK rating. Games with a lower age rating may be suitable for younger players. Games rated 16+ or 18+ should only be bought and played in line with the applicable age rating. PlayStation 5 parental controls can limit access and play time.