Digital games have been a major feature since the days of the Xbox Live Marketplace, the Nintendo Wii Shop and the PlayStation Store for PlayStation 3 (PS3), and have been experimented with in various forms since the 1980s. Back in the 2000s, full-length games were still on discs, while downloaded games were smaller: retro classics, quirky indie titles and pick-up-and-play minigames. Now, the AAA game you can download from the Microsoft or PlayStation Store is exactly the same as the one you get on the disc.

But what's right for you: digital or disc?

Each has its advantages and disadvantages, and which is best really comes down to how you use your console.

Design

imagePS5 Slim
The digital and disc versions of the PS5 Slim differ slightly in looks: the Digital Edition features uninterrupted curves and lines, while the disc version includes an additional component for the disc drive. This component makes the disc drive console 0.7 inches (1.78 cm) wider and 1.3lbs (600g) heavier than the Digital Edition.

If you’re pressed for space, this could make all the difference, especially as the stand that allows the console to be positioned vertically is sold separately. Out of the box, no matter which edition you get, you will need to lie the console on its side like a DVD or Blu-Ray player, making the disc version slightly taller.


Image courtesy of direct.playstation.com
imageXbox Series X
The disc and discless versions of the Xbox are almost identical: the same minimalist computer-tower style unit, just without the disc slot in the bottom left-hand corner. The drive itself adds 1.9 pounds (860 grams) to the weight of the console.

If you’re willing to sacrifice specs for space, you may want to consider the Xbox Series S instead. Designed as a budget-friendly option, this all-digital console is half the width of the Series X and has slightly lower performance power. However, it is fully compatible with Xbox Series X games and features.






Price

Generally, Digital Edition consoles are less expensive than those with disc drives. While this means it can cost less to buy and set up a new console, it may also limit your access to potential savings on games. On a Digital Edition console, you only have access to one store where you can buy games and other software: the Microsoft Store for the Xbox Series X, and the PlayStation Store for the PS5. Although both stores have regular sales, disc copies of games are available from a wider number of retailers, giving you more access to potential discounts and sales.

Similarly, digital copies of games cannot be shared with or sold to other users. Physical game discs, however, can be bought and sold on the second-hand market, providing even more potential savings.

The PS5 Digital Edition is compatible with a plug-in disc drive, allowing you to play physical copies of games on your console. For users looking to spread out the cost of the console, or those who decide to upgrade later, this is a great option. The Xbox Series X, in contrast, doesn’t have a comparable plug-in: if you buy the Digital Edition, you won’t be able to play discs on it in any circumstances.

Backwards compatibility

Upgrading from an older console to a newer one used to mean leaving old games behind. Today, with more games crossing over between generations, consoles are built with this in mind. With backwards compatibility, you can place some discs from older generation consoles into newer ones and load games. Of course, this requires physical copies of games to put into the console. 

Digital games may also carry over with backwards compatibility—provided certain conditions are met. If you're upgrading to a newer generation of console, digital games linked to your online gaming account (such as Xbox Live, PlayStation Network, or Nintendo Account) may remain accessible. However, compatibility is not guaranteed across all titles. The digital game must also be supported on the newer generation console for it to function correctly. Always check for backwards compatibility and account linking options before making the upgrade to ensure access to your existing digital library. 


Sideways compatibility

Because the disc editions of the Xbox Series X and PS5 use the Blu-Ray format, they can also be used to play Blu-Rays and DVDs. This makes them a great option for users who want to use the console as a hub for all of their entertainment. It even helps to save space: why have a game console and a DVD player when you can have one device that does both?

While you lose this functionality on a Digital Edition console, you can still access streaming services such as Netflix, Spotify, YouTube and more by downloading their apps from the console's store. This means that you will still be able to access music, films, shows and other content if you have a subscription for the relevant service.


Storage

Storage doesn't differ between digital consoles and those with disc drives: no matter which version you get, you will have the same experience.

Whether you value less clutter in your home or more online storage space, there's an option for you. If you're looking to save physical space at home, digital games are the better option. They eliminate the need for shelves full of game boxes and discs, making your setup more minimalist and clutter-free. However, if you enjoy showing off your game collection, a disc-based console is the right choice, as you can display the game boxes on shelves around your home.

In terms of the games themselves, there’s very little difference between the storage taken up by a digital copy of a game and one installed from a disc. It's the same game and the same data—the only difference is how it reads that data. While most disc games still require some installation, updates and online features, much of the game data reads directly from the disc during play.

Final thoughts

Digital

Digital Edition consoles offer unbeatable convenience. You can buy, download, and play without leaving your home—or even getting off the sofa. There’s no need to switch discs, and your entire game library lives in one place, ready to go. On top of that, many games can be preloaded before launch, so they’re ready the moment they’re released. However, digital games rely heavily on your internet connection. Slow or unreliable Wi-Fi can affect downloads, updates, and cloud saves. Once your storage drive is full, you'll need to uninstall games to free up space. Most importantly, you don’t actually own a digital game—you’re buying a license, and if it’s ever removed from the platform, you could lose access.

Disc drive

Consoles with disc drives require a physical copy of disc games that you can keep, trade in, or sell. You’re more likely to find collector’s editions or used copies at a lower price, and you don’t need to rely on the online store’s availability to install or replay the base game. It’s essential to note that everything you can do on a Digital Edition console can also be done on a disc console. That includes downloading digital games and DLC, accessing streaming services, and playing online. The trade-off is that disc games still require installation and updates, which means you’ll still need internet access. You also have to store the discs somewhere and swap them out every time you want to play. If the disc is lost or damaged, you won’t be able to play—even if it’s installed on your console.

The fact that you can buy a PS5 disc drive separately could indicate where gaming will go in the future: instead of Digital Edition and disc-based consoles being sold alongside each other, there could come a time where the base console is all digital, and the disc drive is a premium accessory, just like cameras, VR headsets and specialised controllers. Although digital gaming has created a new and more convenient way to play, there is still nostalgia and appreciation for disc-based consoles.