Video game stores are already burning with reservation requests for the new stylized version of the Playstation 3 . Sony's new (or rather remodeled) machine is smaller, consumes less power than the standard one, and is quieter . Also, its price is exactly the same as that of the 80 GB model that is already on the markup. Where is the trick? .
There's really no catch , but the PS3 Slim isn't exactly the same as previous models . At Tuexperto we get into the guts of the new Sony console so that you can decide if the new PS3 Slim is what you need or prefer the conventional model , even if it is more plump.
Exterior
The new PS3 Slim is thinner and narrower than the original model, but it is also deeper and cannot stand up by itself unless we buy an optional stand that is sold separately for about 24 euros .
Another detail to keep in mind is that the PS3 Slim does not have the glossy black finish of the previous ones but a matte black . In her favor she has that the traces are not marked so much (although they continue to mark something) but perhaps there are friends of design for whom the finish is a matter of life and death. In terms of weight , it drops from the 5 kilos of the original models to 3.5 . This data may matter to those who intend to take the console for a walk.
Functioning
When it comes to internal hardware , the PS3 Slim is exactly the same as the other models on the market. Although its Cell processor has been reduced in size to 45 nanometers and its architecture has been completely changed , the console still has the same computing power , graphics capacity and RAM memory.
The console's Blu-ray drive also remains unaltered , it continues to be compatible with BD Live profiles and upgradeable through firmware , so it remains one of the best players of this format on the market .
The hard disk of the PS3 Slim has a capacity of 120 GB . More important than this is the fact that it can be removed and exchanged for another compatible 2.5-inch drive without breaking the warranty, thanks to a simple removal system that only requires loosening a couple of screws.
The power supply has also been remodeled and is now quieter and uses less electricity . In generic terms, the PS3 Slim emits about 10 decibels less when operating . It's still buzzing a bit but it's more bearable than previous models , especially when watching movies. Regarding the consumption in watts, it has been reduced from 280 to 250 .
Connections
Here there are some changes compared to previous models . The console maintains built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 2.0 connectivity but loses infrared connectivity , a detail that can annoy those who want to use it with non-Bluetooth remote controls.
On the other hand, the first models of the PS3 had 4 USB ports that have now become only 2 , both in the PS3 Slim and in the 80 and 160 Gb “fat” ™ models . The rest of the connections remain unchanged with only improvements in compatibility with Sony Bravia televisions .
Another detail that is missing and that was no longer in the previous 160 GB model is the port for CompactFlash, SD Memory Card and Memory Stick Duo cards . Those who want this addition will have to go back to the old 80 or 60 GB models .
Compatibility
This is an important piece of information. Sony decided to load up on PS2 game compatibility from the 80GB model and this affects the PS3 Slim as well . If you have an extensive collection of Playstation 2 games , your only alternative is the 60GB ”˜fat” ™ model which, by the way, is quite difficult to find on the market now. It is maintained, yes, compatibility with PSOne .
The PS3 is also the first of the family to be incompatible with other operating systems , which prevents, for example, installing Linux on the console.
In the package
The console is marketed together with a Dualshock 3 wireless controller like the previous models and which differs from the old Sixaxis in that it incorporates vibration. It also brings the corresponding connection cables to the television and the electrical network . If you want to connect the console via HDMI , yes, you will have to get a separate cable . At the moment the PS3 Slim does not come with any other accessories or gift sets .
The best
Slimmer, lighter and quieter than the original model , the PS3 Slim is still the best option for those who want to get a PS3 and do not mind the small absences of this new model.
Worst
The lack of backward compatibility with PS2 games is still an ugly detail. It seems that Sony has not found another way to get the PS3 to start selling as God intended, than to relegate the PS2 to oblivion , which, despite everything, continues to sell by the handful.
Via: Engadget / Cnet / Table: Joystiq