PS5 Pro’s Hidden Catch: Existing Faceplates May Not Be Compatible

As excitement builds around the upcoming PlayStation 5 Pro, launching on November 7, gamers eyeing the upgraded console now have a new consideration: existing PS5 Slim faceplates might not fit the new model. Sony confirmed the PS5 Pro’s release during a PlayStation showcase in September, and anticipation has been high. Enhanced graphics, faster performance, and a lineup of games optimized for the Pro’s capabilities have already spiked pre-orders on platforms like Amazon. Yet, recent details suggest that customizing the Pro might be less straightforward than with its predecessors.

Beyond this faceplate compatibility issue, the PS5 Pro comes with a hefty $700 price tag and no built-in disc drive—a decision that has sparked mixed reactions. Fans who prefer physical media will need to purchase an $80 disc drive separately, a feature some feel should be included at this price point. However, the detachable disc drives released for the PS5 Digital Edition are confirmed to work on the PS5 Pro, a small relief for those looking to play physical copies without further adaptation.

But what about giving the console a personal touch? A recent post by Reddit user Zrorro, who claims to have accessed a PS5 Pro early, noted that while the bottom half of the PS5 Slim faceplates did fit, the top half did not attach correctly. According to Zrorro, the connecting slots on the PS5 Pro don’t align with those of the Slim, rendering existing faceplates incompatible for now. Although Sony has yet to make an official statement on faceplate compatibility, listings on both PlayStation Direct and Japanese Amazon suggest that the PS5 Pro is designed differently, hinting that only future faceplates may be compatible.

While it may be disappointing to fans who have invested in accessories like alternate faceplates, Sony does plan to offer some unique customization options with the PS5 Pro at launch. The company will be releasing a 30th Anniversary Edition console and controller featuring the colors of the original PlayStation. However, those looking for the PS5 Pro in colors like black or cobalt blue will likely have to wait for new faceplates from Sony or third-party manufacturers.

The PlayStation 5 Pro may bring enhanced gameplay, but it’s clear that upgrading will come with a few adjustments—both in setup and style. Gamers eager to get their hands on the new console can still expect high demand, even as they weigh the practicalities of Sony’s latest design choices.