Sony's PS5 Slim Gets Pro-Grade Liquid Metal Cooling to Tackle Overheating Woes

A Cooler Future for PlayStation 5: New Slim Models Embrace Pro's Liquid Metal Innovation

Sony appears to be quietly but significantly upgrading the cooling system in its latest PlayStation 5 Slim iterations. Models designated CFI-2100 and CFI-2200 are now reportedly benefiting from a Liquid Metal thermal interface material (TIM), a technology previously exclusive to the more potent PS5 Pro. This evolutionary step aims to bolster cooling efficiency and crucially, mitigate the notorious leakage issues that have plagued earlier PS5 units.

Tackling the Liquid Metal Conundrum

The allure of Liquid Metal lies in its exceptional thermal conductivity, far surpassing traditional thermal pastes. It's akin to upgrading from a trusty bicycle to a high-performance sports car for heat dissipation. However, this superior performance comes with a delicate temperament. Early adopters of the standard PS5 and the original CFI-2016 Slim model discovered firsthand that improper handling – be it accidental tilting or unauthorized disassembly – could lead to the volatile liquid metal migrating from its designated spot, causing potential system damage. Sony's initial attempts to contain this with a gasket around the SoC were a valiant effort, but ultimately a temporary patch.

Borrowing Brilliance from the Pro

The logical and indeed, brilliant next step was to adopt the refined cooling architecture developed for the PS5 Pro. This powerhouse console introduced a clever design featuring minute recesses, or 'grooves,' strategically placed around the Liquid Metal application area. These subtle channels act as miniature barriers, effectively corralling the liquid metal and preventing it from spreading. Now, this refined, more robust solution has found its way into the newer Slim models. Enthusiasts and keen observers, such as @Modyfikator89, can reportedly identify these updated consoles by the presence of subtle lines within the Liquid Metal TIM zone; a perfectly smooth surface indicates an older, less resilient design.

Beyond the Metal: A Holistic Cooling Overhaul

The enhancements don't stop with the thermal paste. The accompanying heatsink has also undergone adaptation, meticulously designed to complement the new placement and behavior of the Liquid Metal. This integrated approach ensures that the entire cooling ecosystem works in harmony for optimal heat management. For current PS5 owners whose consoles are performing admirably without any signs of overheating, there's no immediate cause for concern. However, for those encountering thermal challenges, seeking professional service is strongly advised, as attempting to reapply Liquid Metal yourself is a precarious endeavor fraught with the risk of irreparable damage.

A Smarter Purchase Decision and the Console's Enduring Legacy

For prospective buyers, seeking out the CFI-2116 B01Y model is now the sensible choice to ensure you're acquiring a console equipped with this improved cooling technology. This strategic upgrade coincides with a monumental sales milestone for the PlayStation 5, having surpassed a staggering 82.53 million units sold – a feat that places it ahead of beloved consoles like the PSP and Game Boy Advance. This remarkable success undoubtedly plays a role in Sony's decision to potentially defer the launch of the PS6, allowing the current-generation console to continue its vibrant lifecycle. Adding to the value proposition, Sony recently introduced a Slim Digital Edition at the same price point, albeit with reduced storage capacity, further diversifying its offering.