Dbrand's Darkplates stand out as some of the finest third-party console covers available for the PS5. Until now, these Darkplates were exclusively designed for the original PS5 and PS5 Digital models. However, PS5 Slim owners can now also enhance their console's appearance with Darkplates. Currently, the new PS5 Slim Darkplates come only in black, but you can purchase additional accessories to customize your PS5 Slim further. These include skins for the middle section of the console, lightstrips, and a specially designed stand. Dbrand is currently running a launch promotion, reducing the price of a pair of Darkplates to $60 (originally $70) for both PS5 Slim and PS5 Slim Digital models.
Given Dbrand's history of engaging with Sony and its legal team, the company asserts that these console covers are 'indisputably' original compared to the standard white covers that come with the PS5. Additionally, they feature several improvements. Unlike the PS5's covers, Dbrand's versions do not include extra panels, resulting in a cleaner look. The horizontal stand utilizes a robust set of magnets for attachment instead of the fragile plastic pegs Sony currently employs. As an extra feature, you can complement your Darkplates with various accessories to further personalize your console's appearance.
The middle skins, made from high-quality microfiber cloth, are currently priced at $15 (originally $25). Although we haven't tested these skins for the PS5 Slim Darkplates, we were impressed by the quality of the skins designed for the launch-model PS5. They are precisely cut to fit snugly against the glossy middle section of the PS5 without obstructing any buttons or ports. After applying our initial skin, we waited several weeks before removing it and found it left no residue or marks. We then applied a new skin, which has remained on the console for over a year without showing any signs of peeling.
There are six middle skins to choose from. One of the most intriguing options is a graphic that simulates what your PS5 would look like under an X-Ray machine. You can select between dark and light X-Ray renders. Other notable options include the Warzone skin, featuring a blue base with swirling red lines, and Obsidian, a black skin with a pearlescent finish. If you prefer a simpler look while still eliminating the glossiness of your PS5 Slim, Matte Black and Triple Black skins are also available.
If you wish to alter the lighting effects along the edges of your console, two-packs of lightstrips in red, purple, green, and blue are available for $10 each (originally $12). A combo pack featuring Vapor Pink and Wave Blue lightstrips is priced at $15 (originally $18). The Retro Pack, priced at $16, includes sets of lightstrips in Fire Orange, Ice Blue, and Atomic Purple. Dbrand's stand, priced at $10, allows you to display your PS5 Slim either horizontally or vertically.
You might be curious whether Dbrand's Darkplates for the PS5 Slim Digital will be compatible with the PS5 Pro. The answer appears to be no, as the official console covers for the PS5 Slim are not expected to be compatible with the PS5 Pro either. Sony has not announced any alternative console cover options for its upcoming console. Therefore, if you preorder the PS5 Pro, you will likely have to use the default white console covers until PlayStation or third-party manufacturers like Dbrand introduce new designs.
While there's no Darkplate available for the PS5 Pro yet—after all, it's only set to release next month—you can still pick up some DarkPlates with a retro-inspired design. These translucent covers are available in purple, blue, and smokey black, and are currently on sale for $69 (originally $79).