Choose the disc-drive PS5 if you want to play physical PS5 or PS4 game discs, or use supported Blu-ray and DVD media. Choose the Digital Edition if you expect to buy and play games digitally and do not need an installed disc drive. Both editions support digital games; the key difference is whether the console can use discs.
What can each PS5 edition play?
PS5 with a disc drive
Sony says the disc-drive PS5 plays PS5 and PS4 games on Blu-ray discs, as well as digital downloads. It also supports Blu-ray and DVD media. If you already own compatible physical games or want the option to buy games on disc, this edition preserves that flexibility. Sony’s US PS5 buying page
PS5 Digital Edition
Sony describes the Digital Edition as a console without an installed disc drive. It downloads and plays digital games from PlayStation Store, so physical discs cannot be used unless you add a compatible separate drive to an eligible model. Sony’s US PS5 buying page
How much storage is listed?
Sony’s US buying page lists 1TB for the disc-drive PS5 and 825GB for the Digital Edition. These are the capacities on that page, not a guarantee for every regional SKU or model revision; check the exact model sold where you live before buying.
#1 Best Overall
- CPU: x86-64-AMD Ryzen Zen 8 Cores / 16 Threads at 3.5GHz.GPU: AMD Radeon RDNA 2-based graphics engine.
- 16GB GDDR6/256-bit Memory; 825GB SSD Storage Capacity
- Ethernet (10BASE-T, 100BASE-TX, 1000BASE-T), IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/ax, Bluetooth 5.1
- HDR technology, 8K output, 4K TV gaming, Up to 120 fps with 120Hz output, Tempest 3D AudioTech
- What's Included: Sony PlayStation 5 Disc Version; Wireless controller; USB cable, HDMI cable, AC power cord. Nogtox PVT HDMI_cable
Can you add a disc drive to the Digital Edition later?
Sometimes. Sony’s detachable disc drive, model CFI-ZDD1, is compatible with specified PS5 Digital Edition slim model groups and PS5 Pro—not every Digital Edition. It supports 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray, Blu-ray, and DVD discs. The drive is a separate purchase, and an internet connection is required to pair it with the console during setup. Check Sony’s compatibility information against your console’s exact model number before relying on this option. Sony’s disc-drive compatibility and setup guidance
What does Sony’s 2028 notice mean for discs?
Sony’s US buying page says: “From Jan. 2028, newly released games on PlayStation will be available for purchase on PlayStation Store and at retailers in digital format only.” Sony also says discs for games released before January 2028 can continue to be played on the console. This is Sony’s stated future policy; consult the current buying page for any updates. Sony’s US buying page
Rank #2
- Model Number CFI-2000
- Includes DualSense Wireless Controller, 1TB SSD, Disc Drive, 2 Horizontal Stand Feet, HDMI Cable, AC power cord, USB cable, printed materials, ASTRO’s PLAYROOM (Pre-installed game)
- Vertical Stand sold separately
Which edition should you choose?
- Choose the disc-drive PS5 if you want to play physical PS5 or PS4 games, use supported movie discs, or keep both disc and digital purchasing options open.
- Choose the Digital Edition if you are comfortable buying and downloading games digitally and do not need disc playback.
- If you might want discs later, first confirm that the exact Digital Edition model supports Sony’s CFI-ZDD1 drive, and include the separate accessory in your decision.
Prices, bundles, and availability depend on region and retailer. Compare current local offers for the exact model and bundle you want rather than assuming one edition is always cheaper.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- Enjoy smooth and fluid high frame rate gameplay at up to 120 fps for compatible games, with support for 120Hz output on 4K displays.
- PS5 consoles support an 8K output, so you can play games on your 4320p resolution display.
- Maximize your play sessions with near-instant load times for installed PS5 games.
- 825GB SSD allows ultra-fast load times, while 3-D audio output produces crisp acoustics.
- Explore uncharted virtual territories and slay dragons with this sleek Sony PlayStation 5 gaming console.
Rank #3
- CPU: x86-64-AMD Ryzen Zen 8 Cores / 16 Threads at 3.5GHz.GPU: AMD Radeon RDNA 2-based graphics engine.
- 16GB GDDR6/256-bit Memory; 825GB SSD Storage Capacity; Ultra HD Blu-ray, up to 100GB/disc.
- Ethernet (10BASE-T, 100BASE-TX, 1000BASE-T), IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/ax, Bluetooth 5.1.
- HDR technology, 8K output, 4K TV gaming, Up to 120 fps with 120Hz output, Tempest 3D AudioTech
- What's Included: Playstation 5 PS5 Disc Version; Wireless controller; USB cable, AC Power Cord. HDMI cable.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
