So, you’re finally ready to dive into next-gen gaming. But you’re stuck at the crossroads—PS5 Slim or Xbox Series X? They both have powerful graphics, epic games, and fast load times. But one thing could make or break your decision: the price tag.
TL;DR (Too long, didn’t read):
The PS5 Slim is still a bit cheaper than the Xbox Series X—most of the time. However, prices are super close and depend on sales. The PS5 Slim has smaller storage but a smaller body too. Xbox Series X offers more power, but costs a little extra.
Let’s Check the Current Prices
Here’s a quick breakdown of the prices:
- PS5 Slim (Disc version): About $499, but often on sale for $449
- PS5 Slim (Digital edition): Around $449 or less
- Xbox Series X: $499 regularly, sometimes drops to $469
At face value, both consoles are sold at similar prices. But the PS5 Slim Digital is usually the cheapest of the bunch. That is—if you’re okay with skipping physical discs.
What Do You Get for the Price?
Let’s compare what each console offers in return for your precious dollars.
PS5 Slim:
- Sleeker and slimmer than the original PS5
- Plays games at up to 4K resolution
- Fast SSD for quicker load times
- Comes in Disc and Digital versions
- 825 GB of usable storage
Xbox Series X:
- Full-power beast of a console
- 4K gaming and even 8K video support
- Slightly larger body than PS5 Slim
- 1 TB of storage
- Supports Game Pass for tons of games
So yes, the PS5 Slim is a bit cheaper, especially if you go for the digital version. But Xbox Series X gives more power and storage out of the box.
Deals, Bundles, and Sales — The Real Price Game
Here’s the tricky part. Console prices aren’t set in stone. Retailers and events like Black Friday change everything.
For example:
- PS5 Slim with Spider-Man 2 bundle: Often goes for the same price as the base model
- Xbox Series X with Diablo IV: Spotted for $469 or less
During holiday seasons, both consoles are heavily discounted. So depending on when you buy, you might snag an Xbox Series X for less than a PS5 Slim!
Digital vs Physical — It Matters
If you pick the PS5 Slim Digital version, remember: no discs allowed. Every game must be downloaded.
On the other hand, Xbox Series X has a full disc drive. That gives you more flexibility, like:
- Buying cheaper used games
- Borrowing games from friends
- Playing Blu-ray movies
So even if the PS5 Digital is cheaper, it might cost more in the long run if you’re constantly buying digital games at full price.
What About Game Libraries?
This is where the real competition begins. A console lives and dies by its games. Let’s break it down.
Top PS5 Games:
- Marvel’s Spider-Man 2
- God of War: Ragnarok
- Demon’s Souls
- Final Fantasy XVI
Top Xbox Series X Games:
- Starfield
- Forza Horizon 5
- Halo Infinite
- Fable (upcoming)
Both consoles have awesome exclusives. But Xbox offers one magical thing—Game Pass.
Game Pass vs PlayStation Plus
Game Pass is like Netflix for games. One monthly fee, and you get hundreds of games.
- Game Pass Ultimate: $16.99/month
- Includes: New releases, EA titles, Xbox Live
PlayStation Plus has some similar features, but new Sony exclusives don’t launch into the service on day one. That’s something only Xbox does—score!
Who’s the Better Deal Overall?
If you want:
- The cheapest entry into next-gen gaming: Go PS5 Slim Digital
- Physical game support and top titles like God of War: Get the PS5 Slim Disc
- More power, bigger hard drive, and access to Game Pass: Grab the Xbox Series X
Technically, the PS5 Slim (especially the Digital version) is still cheaper. But the value question isn’t all about price. It’s about what you want from your gaming machine.
What About PS5 vs Xbox Series S?
Wait, are we forgetting the Xbox Series S? That console is much cheaper—around $299. So is it better than a PS5 Slim?
Not quite. The Series S has lower resolution, smaller storage, and no disc drive. It’s good for casual players but not exactly a next-gen powerhouse.
If your heart is set on beautiful graphics and big games, then the Series X and PS5 Slim are the real contenders.
Final Thoughts
So, is the PS5 Slim still cheaper than the Xbox Series X?
Yes—in most cases! Especially if we’re talking about the Digital version.
But—the Series X offers more storage, better specs, and the magic of Game Pass.
Your choice really comes down to:
- How much are you willing to spend?
- Do you like physical games or digital?
- Which exclusives excite you more?
Whichever you choose, you’re getting a next-gen console filled with fun for years to come. Happy gaming!