YouTuber creates minimalist PS5 plates with horizontal-friendly design, claims cooling improvements

A DIY enthusiast and YouTuber by the name of Devyn Johnston recently unveiled a custom cover plate replacement for the PlayStation 5, aiming to address what some users see as a design flaw - its unbalanced appearance when laid horizontally. The new plates, called BoxPlates, aim to adopt a cleaner, more traditional silhouette.

Johnston runs a YouTube channel titled Devyn Johnston, where he shares hands-on projects ranging from electronics teardowns to complete hardware redesigns. His content typically focuses on DIY modifications to consumer tech, often with an emphasis on minimalist design.

One such project is the BoxPlates, which Johnston says give the PS5 a more traditional, boxy silhouette. He states that the initial version was loosely inspired by the Xbox One S, but explains that he later shifted to an original design after realizing he had not factored in IP laws or manufacturability during early design stages.

Johnston suggests that the final plates, which are injection-moulded, offer a high-quality finish while featuring reinforced, modular clips aimed at simplifying installation and supporting long-term durability.

He also says that, unlike the stock PS5 plates which channel airflow in a curved pattern, his creation leaves the console's side vents fully exposed and adds an extra vent directly above the fan.

In a test involving running God of War: Ragnarok on the PS5 Pro, the console’s exterior felt noticeably cooler with the BoxPlates installed, Johnston claims. He notes, however, that the test was informal and no internal temperature data was recorded.

Johnston claims that every BoxPlate set on offer is compatible with most PS5 models, including the Original, Slim, and Pro variants, with versions available for both Disc and Digital Editions. He further claims that the plates snap on without tools. They come in several colors, including Black, Grey, White/Black, and Grey/Black.

As for availability, Johnston says that future production runs will depend on overall demand, with the initial batch being manufactured based on early interest and pre-orders. In a pinned YouTube comment, he claims that over 1,000 units have already been ordered, with quantities being finalized for a July shipment and pre-orders set to close on June 3.