Understanding Digital Editions and the PS5
The release of PlayStation 5 (PS5) brought about a notable change in console gaming: no more discs. This article aims to clarify the capabilities of the PS5, particularly its digital editions, and discuss the various options for expanding the console's storage and gaming experience.
Can the Digital Edition of the PS5 Play Discs?
The short answer is no, the digital edition of the PS5 does not have the ability to play discs. This is because the disc drive is removed in these models.
It is important to understand that the PS5 comes in two editions: the digital edition and the standard edition. The digital edition is designed for online gaming and doesn't include a physical optical drive, while the standard edition does include one. This means that in the case of the digital edition, there is no disc drive to play traditional disc-based games.
Supporting Evidence for the Usability of the Disc Drive
The fact that disc-based games are manufactured and sold exclusively for use on the PS5 suggests that the standard model's disc drive is indeed operational. Additionally, the millions of standard PS5 units sold to gamers who purchased disc-based games further supports the idea that these drives are functional. Furthermore, many game streamers are seen playing disc-based games live on their streams, which again reinforces the usability of these drives.
Options for Non-Disc-Based Gaming on the PS5
For gamers who are keen on disc-free gaming, there are still several options available. One of these options is the use of an external USB drive to watch movies or other video content. However, it's crucial to note that this drive cannot be used to install games. If you're hoping to use a USB drive for game storage, unfortunately, it is not an option for PS5 games. If you delete a game, you will need to redownload it.
For storage upgrades, there are a limited number of approved M.2 storage upgrades. Currently, only Samsung and Western Digital (WD) have drives that are approved for use in the PS5. Installing a random M.2 drive into the PS5's port is not possible, as Sony has not yet enabled the slot for such upgrades. For those who wish to add 1TB of storage, expect to spend approximately $230 to $250 per upgrade.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the PS5 digital edition is a disc-free console, designed to provide a digital gaming experience. However, this does not mean that gamers are left without options for additional storage or entertainment. With external USB drives for movies and specific M.2 storage upgrades, gamers can enhance their experience on the PS5 without the need for physical discs.
For more detailed information on PS5 and its capabilities, always refer to the official PlayStation support pages and guides.