PS5 vs PS4 in 2026: Which PlayStation Should You Buy?

If you are buying a PlayStation in 2026, the key choice is whether to spend more on a PS5 or save money with a refurbished PS4. Both can still make sense, but they suit very different buyers.

This guide compares the main options so you can decide whether a PS5, PS5 Slim or PS4 Slim gives you the best value for your budget.

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PS5 Slim - best choice for most buyers

The PS5 Slim is the option we would start with if you want current PlayStation games, faster loading and the best long-term value. You can choose between disc and digital versions, so think about whether you want to buy used physical games as well as downloads.

Best for: most buyers who want a console to keep for several years.

Check current PS5 Slim listings on eBay UK

PS5 Disc Edition - best if you buy used games

A disc-drive PS5 can cost more initially, but it gives you access to used physical games, retailer discounts and the option to resell games later. That can make the disc model cheaper over the life of the console for people who buy several games each year.

Best for: players who like buying, borrowing or reselling physical games.

Check current PS5 Disc Edition listings on eBay UK

PS5 Digital Edition - best if your library is already digital

The Digital Edition removes the disc drive and makes sense if you already buy everything through the PlayStation Store. It is simpler, but you lose the ability to shop around for second-hand disc bargains.

Best for: buyers with an established digital library or anyone who never buys physical games.

Check current PS5 Digital Edition listings on eBay UK

PS4 Slim - best low-cost PlayStation

The PS4 Slim is much cheaper and still has an enormous back catalogue. It can be a sensible first console for a child, a spare-room setup or someone who mainly wants older PlayStation titles.

Best for: low-budget gaming and buyers who are happy with the PS4-era catalogue.

Check current PS4 Slim listings on eBay UK

Original PS4 - only if the price is very low

The original PS4 can still be useful, but we would normally choose a PS4 Slim unless the older console is substantially cheaper. Age, fan noise, controller wear and hard-drive condition matter more as these machines get older.

Check current refurbished PS4 listings on eBay UK

Is a PS4 still worth buying?

Yes, if the price is low enough and you mainly want older games. Refurbished PS4 and PS4 Slim consoles can be dramatically cheaper than PS5 hardware, which makes them attractive for casual use. But if you want new releases and a console with a longer future ahead of it, the PS5 is the better purchase.

Disc or digital?

We would generally favour a disc-drive console for value-focused buyers because physical games can be bought used and resold. Digital is convenient, but you are tied to digital-store pricing.

What to check on a used or refurbished console

Check exactly what is included. A cheap console can stop being cheap if you need to buy a controller, HDMI cable, power lead or stand separately. Look at seller feedback, warranty, returns, controller condition and whether the console has been fully tested.

Our pick

The PS5 Slim is the best all-round choice for most buyers in 2026. The PS4 Slim still earns a recommendation when the budget is tight, particularly for younger players or anyone building a cheap second setup.

Guide updated September 2026. Prices, promotions, stock and condition change regularly, so always check the live listing before purchasing.

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