Sony Downgrading Storage Capacity of the PlayStation 5 Slim Digital Edition in Europe

Sony is reportedly downgrading the storage capacity of the PlayStation 5 Slim Digital Edition in Europe from 1TB to 825GB, reverting to the original PS5 launch model’s storage size. This change, effective from September 13, 2025, affects only the digital version, while the disc-drive model retains its 1TB SSD. The price remains unchanged at €499 in Europe and likely £429.99 in the UK, despite the reduced storage. The move is believed to be a cost-saving measure to avoid further price increases amid rising production costs and economic challenges, including U.S. tariffs on imported hardware. No official statement from Sony has confirmed the reason, and the downgrade is currently limited to Europe, with no indication of similar changes in other regions like the U.S. or India.

Social media discussions, particularly on Reddit, express frustration, noting that the 825GB SSD already offers less than 700GB of usable space after system files, which is tight for large games. Some speculate Sony is pushing consumers toward pricier branded SSDs or clearing old stock, though Sony doesn’t directly profit from third-party SSD upgrades. Others argue the downgrade reflects broader industry trends, with console prices rising across the board (e.g., Nintendo Switch price hikes) due to economic pressures like stagflation and tariffs.

If you’re considering a PS5 purchase in Europe, buying before September 13 could secure the 1TB model at the same price. Alternatively, expanding storage later is a viable option, as the PS5 supports standard NVMe drives, making upgrades more accessible than in previous console generations.