The growing popularity of faceplates for the PS5 and PS5 Pro has been the subject of much discussion in recent months. Sony offers a wide range of different designs, but not everything. This has been particularly felt by those who PS5 in 30th Anniversary look want to shine. This is only available with the purchase of the console - which is simply not an option for many players.
Chinese retailers such as AliExpress are now increasingly taking center stage, filling precisely this gap in the market. Whether Sony likes it or not, the market regulates itself and does not wait for the goodwill of the manufacturer. Sony will not be happy about this, considering how they initially sued every third-party manufacturer in order to secure the patent on the faceplates. And to be honest, today's alternatives come very close to the original.
While many are skeptical as to whether alternative products from the Far East can keep up with the official versions, the increasingly positive reports have made us curious. We didn't want to wait for Trust the opinions of others and dared to put them to the test ourselves. What are faceplate alternatives really good for? Are they a serious option or just cheap imitations?
Lightning-fast shipping and delivery
Even the first impression after ordering leaves nothing to be desired. The faceplates arrived safely packed in foam, without a hint of a scratch. The shipping in my case via Royal Mail was surprisingly fast - the package from China was with me in just one week. For 17 pounds including shipping, you really can't complain. Practical instructions for changing the faceplates are also included, which is particularly important for PS5 fans who don't want to accidentally dismantle and damage their console.
We were immediately surprised when we unpacked it: the quality is impressive. The material feels high quality and is very reminiscent of the original faceplates. There is no unpleasant plastic smell, as is often the case with cheap alternatives from China. The feel is pleasant and the workmanship is flawless - no sharp edges or unsightly spots. The black faceplates that we tested give the console an elegant, matt look that significantly enhances it. To be honest, I find them even more beautiful than the white original as soon as you see them live.
Perfect fit and very easy installation
Attaching the faceplates was just as easy. They fit exactly on the PS5 Prowithout anything wobbling or feeling loose. A comparison shows no significant differences, at least at the attachment points. Particularly impressive: the inside of the faceplates is also perforated, similar to the original models. Even if the iconic PlayStation logo is missing, this is probably a negligible aspect for many. The only difference: the small raised stand on the left-hand side of the console is missing. But honestly, who cares? The console is still stable.
The black faceplates are an instant eye-catcher. They give the PS5 Pro and PS5 a classy look that is strongly reminiscent of the predecessor consoles PS2, PS3 and PS4. Especially in combination with the soon to be released Midnight Black Edition from Sony results in a harmonious overall picture. Other color variants are also available so that every user has the opportunity to give their console an individual touch.
What you pay and what you get
This is the real advantage over Sony's official faceplates. For just 17 pounds (around 20 euros), you get a product that is in no way inferior to the expensive originals. In comparison, Sony charges a whopping 55 euros for "a few plastic parts" - a pricing policy that is hard to understand. Why pay so much? Because the PlayStation logo is emblazoned on it? Or because it comes with an additional cover for the Disc Edition, which many people don't need anyway? Here you have to make sure when buying whether you want the faceplates for the PS5 Disc or Digital Edition.
In the end, it turns out that there are much cheaper alternatives - and more economical options - where you hardly have to make any compromises. In direct comparison, the original faceplates just look like a status symbol - and you can easily treat yourself to a great game for the price difference.
Conclusion
After our mini test, we can only say: These alternative faceplates are an absolute insider tip for anyone who wants to give their PS5 Pro or PS5 Slim a fresh look without breaking the bank. Quality, fit and look? Convincing all round! Only minor details such as the missing logo or the inconspicuous stand differ from the originals - but honestly, who pays attention to that in everyday use? For just 17 pounds including shipping, you get a product that is really impressive - and that does its job perfectly: an individual design that Sony itself does not (yet) offer with the PS5 Pro. If you didn't know any better, you'd almost think Sony was doing its own shopping here.
So why not give it a try? The PS5 Pro deserves an elegant appearance - and these faceplates do just that.
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