Sony Playstation 4 Slim Console 500GB Jet Black PS4

Product Information

Cast your mind back to when the original PlayStation 4 hit the scene, and you may remember that its unconventional shape drew quite a bit of attention when it was first revealed.

If, however, you aren’t all that interested in the latest hardware with its 4K bells and whistles and you just want a machine that’ll help you catch up with the PS4’s fantastic library of games, then the PS4 Slim is an option that might just suit you. What's perhaps more annoying is the complete removal of the optical out audio socket, which could cause headaches for those with older AV equipment. Just like the PS3 Super Slim before it, the work put in by the Japanese manufacturer to shift the bulk of the original model really pays off. Connecting a PS VR to the PS4 Slim is the same process as the original PS4 and PS4 Pro: Plug the PlayStation Camera into the back, run the HDMI output in the back and a USB cable in the front through the PS VR control box, and run the HDMI pass-through from the control box to your TV.Some of the most iconic games of a generation are waiting for you in the PlayStation Hits range, including PlayStation exclusives, blockbuster hits and acclaimed games you may have missed.

It is now entirely matte black plastic, with slightly rounded corners to make it look a little friendlier and less stark than the sharp-angled, three-tiered PS4 Pro. Simply plug in the included HDMI and power cables and connect to the internet to download the console's various patches and updates. Two USB ports sit on the front of the PlayStation 4 Slim, as was the case on earlier PS4 models, but they're now much further apart and slightly easier to plug into. But, if you’re looking for something to support 4K gaming, then the PS5 is more than likely up your alley. Unlike the Xbox One, you can get to the homescreen without initially connecting to the web and patching first.YouTube is here, as is Twitch game streaming, and a Spotify Connect-enabled version of the popular music streaming service, letting you control tunes on your telly from the comfort of your phone. I’m an ISF-certified TV calibrator and a THX-certified home theater professional, and I’m here to help you understand 4K, HDR, Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos, and even 8K (and to reassure you that you don’t need to worry about 8K at all for at least a few more years). The same symbols are found stuck to the bottom too, acting as feet to raise the machine off a surface for improved airflow. Simply connect the PS VR headset to your console and immerse yourself in breathtaking virtual-reality games, experiences and entertainment.

It also consumes a lot less power than the regular PS4 console, giving you energy efficiency savings. As a Nintendo system, the Switch has several notable games you can't play elsewhere, including The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. It's only on par with or slightly less powerful than the PS4 and Xbox One in terms of graphical processing, but it can function as both a home system and a handheld with its dockable tablet design, and we've been very impressed by how well it works in both roles. The PS4 Pro is very impressive for certain games, rendering at resolutions up to 4K or otherwise adding enhanced graphical effects or improving frame rates. Sony regularly updates its game systems with new, sleeker designs, and the PlayStation 4 is no exception.However, one upgrade that applies to the entire range of PS4s, the PS4 Slim included, is HDR support. Besides the possible difference in storage, the PS4 Slim is identical to the original PS4 in hardware specs. It also means you'll have to look closely at the power button to check the system's status if it's set up in a bright area. An iconic design that fits perfectly in your hands, intuitive controls that keep you on top of your game and a vibrant array of colours to suit your style.

With all this in mind, is the PlayStation 4 Slim still a console that’s worth picking up or would those looking to game with Sony be better opting for a PS5? While it's much newer and currently has far fewer games, the Nintendo Switch stands as an intriguing alternative with its ability to function portably as a handheld game system, and the Xbox One S has some nice media playback benefits. Half-way through its life cycle, both this and rival the Xbox One are getting makeovers and upgrades. Another benefit to this console is that is easily convertible – if you want to expand HDD capacity as it is filling up and struggling, carrying this out yourself is relatively straightforward. All content, games titles, trade names and/or trade dress, trademarks, artwork and associated imagery are trademarks and/or copyright material of their respective owners.

That console does offer a massive jump in power over the PS4 and, though there are shortages, it's going to be easier to find than the now discontinued mid-gen upgrade PS4 Pro.