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Sony PlayStation 3 120GB System : Review

Posted to Video Components 2009-09-27

Falling well behind in sales has made Sony rethink its vanilla version of the PS3, with this release of the 'slimmed down' Sony PlayStation 3 120GB version. Launched in September 2009, the PS3 Slim features a smaller, less obtrusive design, a primary criticism of the first iteration of this next-gen console. The PS3 slim also features a 120GB hard drive, versus the earlier 80GB hard drive included in the first release.

Measuring up now with at 11.4 inches (W), 11.4 inches (D) and 2.6 inches (H), the new PS3 slim is a generous size reduction over its predecessor. Similar to the release with the PS2 Slim, Sony is offering the slim at a significant price reduction, which is encouraging for those of us who have been holding of on getting into the next-gen console market because of price barriers. The PS3 is capable of blu-ray movie playback and internet connection, so you effectively purchase a fully capable blu-ray player as well as a games console.

Rating:

4.0 out of 5

Features

There is a real lack of understanding as to why the backwards compatibility was removed for the slim version of the PS3, perhaps in an effort to finally make the PS3 the flagship console for Sony moving forward. There is also a lack of infrared port for universal remotes, meaning users may be forced to purchase a Bluetooth remote if the PS3 is going to double as the main blu-ray movie player. Full 1080p HD gaming is supported in the PS3 120GB slim, as are the improved dualshock3 wireless controllers.

Ergonomics

In home entertainment center's, particularly ones with gaming consoles, bigger is definitely not always better. This slimmed down version of the Sony PS3 really helps the console fit into your home theater setup. The general look of the PS3 hasn't changed that drastically, so if you didn't like the overall design of the original version, you might struggle to be impressed this time around also. Still, the slim version of the PS2 really reinvigorated the console for Sony when it was released in 2004, and current sales figures suggest they could really use a comeback against the Nintendo Wii and Xbox360 so the PS3 Slim 120GB may aid them in that.

Summary

This cheaper iteration of the next-generation Playstation is attractive for those who have been waiting for a good enough price reduction to warrant an upgrade from their old PS2. With blu-ray movie playback now finally gaining traction following the end of the format wars with HD-DVD, buying a Sony Playstation 3 120GB could mean you save on getting a blu-ray player, while gaining the added benefit of High Def gaming.

Pros

New slim design
Increased 120GB Hard drive
Same overall look
Less power usage

Cons

No more backward support for PS2 games