For most households choosing one conventional games console, the PS5 Slim is the safest starting point. Its exclusive games are strong, the controller adds useful physical feedback and setup is simpler than maintaining a gaming PC. The disc model costs more initially but can save money through used games, shop discounts and lending. The digital model looks cheaper while locking every future purchase to Sony's online store, so the right decision depends on how the family buys games over several years.
Buy it if…
- You want Sony's exclusive games
- You prefer a simple console over maintaining a gaming PC
- Used discs and physical games matter
Skip it if…
- You already own a working original PS5
- Game Pass provides the library you prefer
- Portable play is more important than television performance
Not the right fit? See other gaming or browse buying guides by budget →
What's good
- Excellent first-party and third-party game library
- Very fast loading compared with older consoles
- DualSense controller adds meaningful vibration and trigger feedback
- Disc version supports used games and 4K Blu-ray films
Worth knowing
- Online multiplayer usually needs a paid PlayStation Plus plan
- Built-in storage fills quickly with large games
- The stand and extra storage increase total cost
- Digital purchases cannot be resold
A closer look, category by category
Games and performance
The PS5 makes current games look sharp and load quickly without asking the owner to understand PC settings. Many titles offer a choice between smoother motion and maximum picture quality. Backwards compatibility covers the large majority of PS4 games, helping existing owners carry a library forward.
Disc versus digital
A digital console saves money only at purchase. A disc drive lets families buy used games, compare supermarket and online-shop prices, borrow from friends and play 4K Blu-rays. Over several years, those options can repay the higher initial cost.
Ongoing costs
Large games can exceed 100GB, so extra internal storage may eventually be needed. Online multiplayer normally requires PlayStation Plus, and premium controllers or headsets add more. The console price is therefore the beginning of the budget, not the complete figure.
Price
The disc model sits around £479.99, while digital versions cost less upfront. Compare bundles carefully: a genuinely useful included game can be better value than a small cash discount, but unwanted accessories should not inflate the deal.
Price last checked: 30 July 2026Real-world use cases
Family living-room gaming
Simple profiles, a broad library and physical games make this the strongest fit.
Replacing a PS4
Faster loading and backwards compatibility create a clear improvement.
Playing away from a television
A handheld PC or Switch 2 is more suitable.
Where it sits in the market
Xbox Series X is attractive for Game Pass and cross-device saves, Nintendo Switch 2 provides portable play, and Steam Deck OLED opens a PC library. PS5 remains the strongest conventional all-round choice for its game catalogue and ease.
How we reached this verdict
This research-based review uses Sony's hardware and compatibility information alongside independent usability testing. Value includes the long-term effect of discs, storage and subscription costs rather than comparing console prices alone.