Sony PS3 Slim - Design

While the features are quite similar to its predecessor, the design of the PS3 Slim certainly is not. The PS3 Slim weighs 7.1 pounds and measures 11.4 inches wide by 11.4 inches tall by 2.6 inches thick and is a whopping 36 percent lighter and 33 percent smaller than the regular PS3.

Gone is its older glossy black finish; instead, the Slim sports a more textured, plastic-like outer shell. Of course some may like the older look better as it may appear more expensive, but the new look is more unassuming, and its smaller size allows for better portability and takes up less space in a room. It is also less of a fingerprint magnet. Other small aesthetic touches on the Slim are a newer PS3 logo and a difference in the font used to represent the brand.

Other than the obvious change in size and some lettering, some other functional changes have taken place in the PS3 Slim. The PS3 Slim is designed to rest horizontally and will not stand vertically on its own like the older PS3 models unless you purchase an additional stand for $24.

There is no longer a master power switch, and the power and eject buttons on the front of the device are standard buttons that you must now push in. They are no longer touch sensitive.

In terms of connectivity, on the back of the device resides the Ethernet jack, HDMI output, optical digital audio output, and AV output. Two USB ports reside on the front of the device, which allow you to charge a Bluetooth wireless controller or connect external storage devices.

As evidenced by the burst of sales in its first week, the Sony PS3 Slim is a welcome addition to the gaming console market. You still get most of the features as its predecessors, but at a more affordable price. Considering you get to play all of the PS3’s games, Blu-ray capability, built in Wi-Fi, and free online service, the PS3 Slim is definitely worth its price.