More than five years after launch, the PlayStation 5 is still the console most gamers dream about. Its library has grown into one of the strongest in gaming history, prices have become more reasonable, and there are now several versions to choose from.
That choice is also the problem: original or Slim, disc or digital, standard or Pro? And should you buy new, or save money with a used console? This guide explains the differences between the models, the costs you should plan for beyond the console itself, and how to buy a PS5 without regrets.
Why the PS5 is still worth buying
The PS5 has moved well past its early years of shortages and inflated prices. Today it offers a huge catalogue of exclusive games, fast loading thanks to its built-in SSD, 4K graphics and the DualSense controller, which many players consider the best gamepad ever made. It also plays the vast majority of PS4 games, so you get access to two console generations of titles in one box.
Because it has been on the market for years, there is a wide choice of offers, from sealed new consoles to well-kept used ones with extra controllers and games included. If you are shopping in Kenya, comparing current listings for the PS5 helps you see how prices differ between the original, Slim, Digital and Pro versions, and what bundles sellers are offering. A few minutes of comparison makes it much easier to know what a fair price looks like.
The PS5 models explained
Original PS5 (2020)
The first PS5 is the large, white, curved console that launched in November 2020. It came in two versions: a Standard Edition with a Blu-ray disc drive and a Digital Edition without one. Both have 825 GB of storage, of which roughly 667 GB is usable for games. It is big and a little loud under heavy load, but it performs just as well as the newer Slim, and used units are often the cheapest way into PS5 gaming.
PS5 Slim (2023)
The Slim is smaller and lighter than the original, with a more modern look and 1 TB of storage. Its biggest innovation is a detachable disc drive: you can buy the Digital version and add the disc drive later if you change your mind. Performance is the same as the original model, so the Slim’s advantages are size, storage and flexibility.
PS5 Pro (2024)
The PS5 Pro is the high-end option for players with a quality 4K TV. It has a more powerful graphics processor, improved ray tracing and PlayStation’s AI upscaling technology, which delivers sharper images at higher frame rates in supported games. It comes with 2 TB of storage but no disc drive, so you need to buy the detachable drive separately if you want to play physical games. It is also significantly more expensive, so it makes sense mainly for enthusiasts.
Disc or Digital: an important decision
The choice between a disc drive and a digital-only console affects how much you will spend on games for years.
- Disc version: you can buy physical games, sell them when you finish, swap with friends and buy used games at lower prices. In markets where second-hand games are popular, this can save a lot of money over the life of the console.
- Digital version: cheaper to buy and more convenient, since games are bought and downloaded from the PlayStation Store. However, you cannot resell games, and big downloads require a fast and reliable internet connection with generous data.
If your internet is slow or expensive, or you like trading games, the disc version is usually the smarter choice. If you have fast home fibre and mostly buy games on sale or through subscriptions, digital works well.
Costs to plan for beyond the console
- Games: new releases are the biggest ongoing expense. Used discs and store sales can reduce the cost considerably.
- PlayStation Plus: required for most online multiplayer. Higher tiers also include a catalogue of downloadable games, which can be excellent value if you play a lot.
- Extra controller: essential if you want to play local multiplayer games such as FIFA (EA Sports FC) with friends.
- Storage: modern games are large. You can expand storage with a compatible M.2 NVMe SSD, which is easy to install.
- Power protection: a good surge protector or voltage stabiliser protects your console from power fluctuations and outages.
- A suitable TV: any HDMI TV works, but a 4K TV with HDR and 120 Hz support lets you enjoy the PS5’s full potential.
What makes the PS5 experience special
The DualSense controller
The DualSense uses advanced haptic feedback and adaptive triggers that change resistance depending on what is happening in the game. You can feel the tension of a bowstring, the texture of different surfaces and the kick of a weapon. Once you get used to it, older controllers feel flat by comparison.
Fast loading
The PS5’s custom SSD makes loading screens far shorter than on the PS4. Games start quickly, fast travel is almost instant, and some games can switch between areas without any visible loading at all.
A strong game library
From action adventures such as Spider-Man 2 and God of War Ragnarök to sports titles, racing games and online shooters, the PS5 has something for almost every type of player. Its library of PlayStation exclusives remains one of the main reasons people choose it over other consoles.
New or used PS5?
A new console comes with a warranty, a clean history and the peace of mind that nothing has been repaired or modified. A used console, on the other hand, can save you a significant amount of money, and many come as bundles with extra controllers and games. Plenty of gamers sell their consoles on classifieds sites such as Jiji when they upgrade to a Pro or simply play less, so good used units are not hard to find. The key is to check the console carefully before paying.
How to check a used PS5 before you buy
- Test it on a TV. Ask to see the console running. Make sure it boots, shows a clear picture and plays a game for at least 10 to 15 minutes.
- Listen for noise and check temperature. Some fan noise is normal, but loud grinding, rattling or excessive heat can point to problems or dust buildup.
- Test the disc drive. On a disc version, insert a game to check that it reads, installs and ejects properly.
- Check the controller. Test all buttons, the sticks (look for “drift,” where the character moves without you touching the stick), the triggers, vibration and charging.
- Check storage and system info. In Settings → System → System Software, you can see the console information. In Settings → Storage, confirm the capacity.
- Make sure the account is removed. The seller should sign out of their PlayStation account and reset the console to factory settings, so you can set it up with your own account.
- Check the ports and cables. Test the HDMI port, USB ports and the power cable. Look at the voltage label on the back if the console was imported.
- Ask about its history. Has it been repaired, opened or modified? Is there a receipt or remaining warranty?
Safety tips
- Meet the seller in a safe public place where you can test the console, such as a gaming shop or a mall with a TV setup.
- Never send money before seeing and testing the console.
- Be cautious of prices far below the market average, which may indicate a stolen, faulty or fake item.
- Keep any receipts, boxes and serial numbers for future reference.
Which PS5 should you choose?
- On a tight budget: a used original PS5, ideally the disc version, gives you the full experience for the lowest price.
- For a smaller console with more storage: the PS5 Slim is the best all-round choice.
- With fast internet and no interest in discs: the Digital Edition saves money up front.
- For the best graphics on a high-end 4K TV: the PS5 Pro is worth the extra cost if you care about maximum visual quality.
The verdict
The PS5 remains one of the best investments you can make in home entertainment. Whether you choose the original model, the compact Slim or the powerful Pro, you get a fantastic controller, fast loading and access to an impressive library of games. Decide early whether you want disc or digital, budget for games and accessories, and check any used console carefully before paying. Do that, and your PS5 will provide years of gaming with family and friends.
