The so-called "console war" is a largely pointless endeavor, but it is interesting to compare the different approaches in console design between the PlayStation 5 and the Xbox Series X/S. The raw power in each seems roughly comparable, with performance comparisons between PS5 and Xbox Series X/S fluctuating depending on the game, but Sony and Microsoft have taken different approaches to designing their new machines, particularly when it comes to storage. From a utilitarian standpoint, Xbox seems to have the edge when it comes to expanding console storage, a route that Sony might have been wise to take as well, though time will tell what the advantages of each may prove to be.
As game sizes continue to bloat, console storage space has never been more important. In a big step on this front, SSD storage expansion in the PS5 is now supported by the system software for those in the beta program. Unfortunately, the steps involved in expanding the PS5's storage are rather involved. A compatible third party SSD must be bought, then installed by opening up the PlayStation 5 itself. While this isn't a particularly difficult process, it is much more cumbersome than the Xbox approach.
For the Xbox Series X and S's storage concerns, Microsoft opted to create proprietary SSD expansions, similar to the memory cards of yore. All that is required of Series X/S owners is to buy the expansion and plug it into its designated spot on the back of the console.
Admittedly, the Xbox solution to minimal storage space in the new consoles comes with some concerns. The Xbox expansion cards are expensive, and they are essentially the only option. The PlayStation 5 approach allows for some consumer agency in choosing the most effective product, but the whole scope of installing an SSD inside the console takes away from part of the benefit of owning a console in the first place - convenience. PS5-compatible third party SSDs are still expensive too, though these prices are likely to settle in the relatively new future.
PCs are frequently exalted as the pinnacle of gaming technology, and in terms of performance, that is absolutely true. The plug-and-play factor of consoles, however, is a big draw for those that don't want to deal with the extra work of PC upkeep for both hardware and software. The PS5's design has moved away from one of the touchstones of console gaming, making it an involved process to be able to expand the storage. The PS5's storage is already small compared to XSX, and now it is harder to upgrade as well. On top of the added effort, Sony also recommends an SSD with a built-in heatsink. This is not a feature on every available SSD, only adding to potential confusion.
Compatible SSD prices may soon drop, eventually making it a better deal financially to expand the PS5's storage, but unless there's a console redesign, upgrading the Series X/S will always be more convenient. Ultimately, the storage expansion slot being inside the console is not a major blow to the PlayStation 5, but even with the necessity of proprietary tech, the Xbox Series X/S approach seems a bit more user-friendly.
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