PlayStation stands as a titan in the gaming industry, with a legacy that spans over three decades. From the groundbreaking PlayStation 1, which introduced gamers to iconic titles like Final Fantasy VII, to the latest PlayStation 5 with its critically acclaimed games like God of War: Ragnarok, Sony's consoles have consistently pushed the boundaries of gaming technology and entertainment. With the recent announcement of the PS5 Pro now available for pre-order, we take a comprehensive look at every PlayStation console that has ever been released.
As we celebrate 30 years since the launch of the original console, join us on a nostalgic journey through the history of PlayStation!
AnswerSee ResultsLooking to save on a new PlayStation 5 or new titles for your system? Be sure to check out the best PlayStation deals available today.How Many PlayStation Consoles Have There Been?
In total, fourteen PlayStation consoles have been released since the debut of the first PlayStation in North America in 1995. This count includes various Slim revisions and the two portable consoles released under the PlayStation brand.
Latest Model### PlayStation 5 Pro
5See it at AmazonEvery PlayStation Console in Order of Release
PlayStation - September 9, 1995
Launched in 1995, the original PlayStation revolutionized the gaming industry by adopting CD-ROM technology, which offered significantly more storage than the cartridges used by competitors. This innovation attracted major developers like Square Enix, leading to legendary titles such as Metal Gear Solid, Final Fantasy VII, Resident Evil 2, Vagrant Story, and Crash Bandicoot.
PS One - September 19, 2000
Introduced in 2000, the PS One was a smaller, redesigned version of the original PlayStation. A notable change was the removal of the reset button, and in 2002, Sony released the Combo, an attachable screen that utilized the freed-up ports on the back of the console. Interestingly, the PS One outsold the PlayStation 2 in 2000.
PlayStation 2 - October 26, 2000
Released in 2000, the PlayStation 2 dramatically improved visual fidelity, moving from polygon-shaped figures to detailed 3D models. It remains the best-selling console of all time, though the Nintendo Switch is rapidly closing the gap. Explore our list of the best PS2 games to understand its enduring appeal.
PlayStation 2 Slim - November 2004
Introduced in 2004, the PlayStation 2 Slim improved performance and efficiency with a top-loading disc drive and reduced power consumption. Its slimmer design set the standard for future PlayStation Slim revisions.
PlayStation Portable - March 24, 2005
Launched in 2005, the PlayStation Portable (PSP) was Sony's first venture into handheld gaming under the PlayStation brand. It featured UMDs for games and movies and could connect with PS2 and PS3 for certain functionalities. The best PSP games showcased the console's versatility and power.
PlayStation 3 - November 17, 2006
Debuting in 2006, the PlayStation 3 introduced the PlayStation Network (PSN), enhancing online multiplayer and digital downloads. It was backward compatible with PS1 and PS2 games and supported Blu-ray discs, making it a popular choice for home entertainment.
PlayStation 3 Slim - September 1, 2009
Released in 2009, the PlayStation 3 Slim reduced the console's size, weight, and power consumption. However, it removed backward compatibility with PS1 and PS2 titles, a feature that has not returned in subsequent models.
PlayStation Vita - February 22, 2012
Introduced in 2012, the PlayStation Vita offered a high-end portable gaming experience with Remote Play functionality for PS4 games. It was the most advanced handheld system at the time of its release.
PlayStation 3 Super Slim - September 25, 2012
Launched in 2012, the PlayStation 3 Super Slim featured a top-loading Blu-ray drive and improved power efficiency. Its durability made it a favorite among long-term users.
PlayStation 4 - November 15, 2013
Released in 2013, the PlayStation 4 boasted a significant performance boost over the PS3, supporting titles like Uncharted 4, God of War, and Ghost of Tsushima. It introduced a removable HDD and the ergonomic DualShock 4 controller.
PlayStation 4 Slim - September 15, 2016
Introduced in 2016, the PlayStation 4 Slim offered the same performance in a smaller, more power-efficient package, appealing to those seeking a compact design.
PlayStation 4 Pro - November 10, 2016
Launched in 2016, the PlayStation 4 Pro supported 4K and HDR, doubling the GPU power of the standard PS4 and providing enhanced gaming experiences.
PlayStation 5 - November 12, 2020
Introduced in 2020, the PlayStation 5 is the most powerful PlayStation to date, featuring ray tracing, 120FPS, and native 4K output. The DualSense controller introduced innovative features like adaptive triggers and haptic feedback. Check out our list of the best PS5 games for more.
PlayStation 5 Slim - November 10, 2023
Released in 2023, the PlayStation 5 Slim is a more compact version of the PS5 with a modular design, allowing for a disc drive to be added later if needed.
PlayStation 5 Pro - November 7, 2024
Announced for release in 2024, the PlayStation 5 Pro focuses on higher frame rates, improved ray tracing, and machine learning through PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution (PSSR). Priced at $699.99 USD, it includes a 2TB SSD, a DualSense controller, and Astro's Playroom.
Upcoming PlayStation Consoles
The PS5 Pro marks the latest advancement in PlayStation technology for 2024. As for the next generation, speculation suggests the PS6 might launch between 2026 and 2030.
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