A PlayStation 5 Pro already commands attention. Change the way it looks, however, and it can become something far more personal.
That is the idea behind Craft by Merlin’s themed PS5 Pro editions. Each design transforms the console’s exterior through colour, pattern and hand-finished detailing, giving the same hardware a completely different look. Ruby Core takes a colour-led approach, while The Racer brings the energy of motorsport into the design.
But the finished look is only part of the story. Behind each edition is a careful process of preparation, painting, detailing and protective finishing. Here’s a closer look at the ideas behind these editions and the process that brings them to life.
Ruby Core: A Bold Colour Story
Ruby Core takes a simple approach to the PS5 Pro. The rich ruby-red finish immediately changes the look of the console, giving it a bolder feel without covering up the shape that makes the PS5 Pro recognisable.
The same colour carries over to the two included DualSense controllers, so the console and controllers feel like part of the same design. Instead of pairing a customised console with standard-looking accessories, the whole set follows the Ruby Core theme.
Ruby Core shows how much impact a strong colour can have on familiar hardware. The design stays simple, letting the red finish remain the focus rather than relying on a busy pattern or elaborate artwork.
See the PlayStation 5 Pro Ruby Core Edition for the full design and product details.
The Racer: A Design Built Around Speed
The Racer takes a more energetic approach to the PS5 Pro. Red and blue tones, black accents and racing-inspired details give the console a look that feels at home alongside a racing setup.
A wheel motif reinforces the racing theme, while the contrasting colours keep the design from feeling overloaded. Craft by Merlin describes The Racer as inspired by the energy of motorsports, which is reflected in its choice of colours and detailing.
The design continues onto the two included DualSense controllers, keeping the console and accessories visually connected.
See the PlayStation 5 Pro The Racer Edition for the full design and product details.
More PS5 Pro Editions to Explore
Ruby Core and The Racer are just two of the designs in Craft by Merlin’s PS5 Pro collection. The lineup also includes Stranger, The War, Macow, I Am, GOAT, Cabbie, The Rocker, The Hex, The Explorer and Pink Op.
The themes range from bold graphic treatments to designs built around familiar interests. The I Am Edition, for example, draws on Iron Man with metallic red and gold tones, while The Explorer takes a more adventure-focused direction.
Together, these editions take the PS5 Pro in very different directions, from bold graphics and familiar themes to colour-led designs and more restrained treatments.
What Goes Into a Hand-Painted PS5 Pro?
The finished artwork is what you notice first, but getting there takes more than applying paint to a console shell. Each PS5 Pro is carefully prepared before the design takes shape.
Craft by Merlin starts with genuine PlayStation 5 Pro consoles. The exterior shells are prepared and masked before the paint is applied by hand. The design is built up layer by layer, followed by a protective clear coat that seals the finished surface.
Masking is an important part of the process. Vents, ports, buttons, logos, status lights and sensors need to remain clear so the custom finish does not interfere with normal use. The internal GPU, CPU, SSD and cooling system remain unchanged.
The customisation is limited to the exterior. The artwork changes the appearance of the PS5 Pro without modifying its internal hardware.
To care for the finished surface, Craft by Merlin recommends gentle cleaning with a soft or slightly damp microfiber cloth.
Choosing a PS5 Pro Edition That Feels Like Yours
Choosing a themed PS5 Pro ultimately comes down to what you want from the design. Ruby Core puts the focus on colour, while The Racer leans into speed and motorsport. Other editions take their own approaches, so there is no single style to follow.
Think about the design you would still enjoy looking at months from now. Whether you prefer something expressive, theme-driven or more restrained, the right edition is the one that feels natural to you.
Explore the PlayStation 5 Pro themed edition collection to see the full range and find the design that suits you.
