New game consoles from Microsoft and Sony arrive next month, but we've already received the PlayStation 5 and are currently putting it through its paces. Look for a full review of the system closer to its Nov. 12 release date, but for now we can at least show you what it looks like.
First, here's a video of us taking the system out of the box, for that new console experience:
The PS5 is easily one of the biggest consoles I've seen; it stands a solid 16 inches tall and sits a bit wider than the PS4 Pro. The left side appears to be flat enough to rest the box horizontally, but even that stretched the limits of my modest entertainment center. So, I simply set it on the floor. Fortunately, it comes with a black circular base that screws into the bottom of the PS5 and holds it upright quite securely.
It's hard to overlook the PlayStation 5's design. The last two Xbox generations were simply boxes, and the PlayStation 4 was a flat parallelogram, but this is something else. It looks like a headless dude in a white coat with a popped collar hiding a black turtleneck. It's certainly striking, and one of the most aesthetically unique game console designs we've seen in a while. Its white shell and strange shape definitely make it stick out, though.
The PS5's front panel holds two tiny buttons for power and disc eject, just like the PS4. It also features a USB-A port and a USB-C port. The back holds two more USB-A ports (USB 3.1), an Ethernet port, an HDMI port, and a connector for the power cable. The power supply appears to be internal, so there's no brick.
The included DualSense controller certainly looks and feels like a big change from the DualShock 4 and its predecessors. The plump shape and prominent grips evoke Xbox gamepads more than any DualShock controller, though it keeps the standard PlayStation layout with parallel analog sticks.
The DualSense feels really good in my big hands, but I'm curious if it will feel too big for smaller-handed users. It's a pretty bulbous gamepad.
That's all we can share about the PlayStation 5 for now, but keep an eye on PCMag.com for ongoing coverage of the new game systems.