Released in September, the new PlayStation 4 console is smaller and lighter than the original PS4 console. It packs a few new features and some minor internal upgrades, but as we found in our review, it basically fortifies Sony’s iconic gaming platform.
The console retails for $299, but Dell Home currently offers the PlayStation 4 500GB Call of Duty: Black Ops III Limited Edition Gaming Console bundled with NBA 2K17 and a $75 Dell eGift card for $300. That beats all of Amazon’s current PS4 deals, which only include one game for free at the same $300 price. Moreover, you can use the Dell gift card to buy an extra controller or new game.
Aesthetically, the new PS4’s shape and sharp, slanted profile have been softened with rounded corners. The power and eject buttons are now much smaller and rest on the “lip” of the console, in front of the disc drive. The original indicator light has been replaced by a small series of dots on the console’s power button, which let you know when the console is powered on.
The Dual Shock 4 controller has also received a few minor tweaks. Its touchpad is now translucent, which allows a bar of light to shine through. The back panel, analog sticks, and direction pad buttons are now gray, rather than black.
The designs upgrades are subtle, but combined they strip the original PS4 console’s “business” feel and make the new console feel more like a machine that’s meant for play.
The PS4’s biggest upgrade, however, is to its Wi-Fi radio. The Slim now supports 802.11ac Wi-Fi, which should lead to faster download speeds and more stability when playing online. On the downside, the PS4’s optical port has been removed, but that shouldn’t affect many players.
The new PS4 is compatible with the same great library of games as the original model. But keep in mind that Sony will release a more powerful PS4 Pro in November, which will cost $100 more. This console will pack a stronger graphics card and 4K output, but unless you own a 4K-capable HDTV or plan on upgrading to one soon, you may not have a reason to wait for the new console.
Dell Home’s current bundle is as good as PS4 deals come these days.
