PlayStation Consoles: Complete Release Date History

PlayStation stands as an iconic brand in gaming history, from the revolutionary PlayStation 1 with classics like Final Fantasy VII to the cutting-edge PlayStation 5, boasting blockbuster hits like God of War: Ragnarok. Over the past three decades, Sony has released numerous consoles, including revisions, portable systems, and new generations. With the PS5 Pro now available for preorder, we’ve put together a comprehensive list of every PlayStation console ever released.

As we celebrate 30 years since the launch of the first PlayStation console, let's take a nostalgic journey through the evolution of this gaming giant!

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How Many PlayStation Consoles Have There Been?

In total, fourteen PlayStation consoles have been released since the first PlayStation debuted in 1995 in North America. This number includes Slim revision models 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

The original Sony PlayStation revolutionized the gaming industry by introducing CD-ROM technology, which offered significantly more storage than the cartridge-based systems of the time. This innovation attracted major developers like Square Enix, leading to iconic games such as Metal Gear Solid, Final Fantasy VII, Resident Evil 2, Vagrant Story, Crash Bandicoot, and many other unforgettable PS1 titles.

PS One - September 19, 2000

The PS One was a sleek redesign of the original PlayStation, offering the same gaming experience in a more compact form factor. Notably, the reset button was removed, and in 2002, Sony introduced the Combo accessory, which added a screen to the PS One. Interestingly, in 2000, the PS One outsold the PlayStation 2, a remarkable feat in retrospect.

PlayStation 2 - October 26, 2000

The PlayStation 2 brought a significant leap in visual quality, transitioning from the polygonal figures of its predecessor to detailed 3D character models. It remains the best-selling console of all time, though the Nintendo Switch is steadily closing the gap. For insights into why it was so popular, check out our list of the best PS2 games.

PlayStation 2 Slim - November 2004

The PlayStation 2 Slim improved performance, efficiency, and design. It featured a top-loading disc drive that addressed issues with dual-layer discs and reduced power consumption through internal redesigns. This 'Slim' version set a precedent for future PlayStation revisions.

PlayStation Portable - March 24, 2005

Sony's first portable console under the PlayStation brand, the PSP, was a versatile device capable of playing games, watching movies, and listening to music using UMDs. It could also connect with PS2 and PS3 for enhanced gameplay. The PSP offered some of the best portable gaming experiences of its time.

PlayStation 3 - November 17, 2006

The PlayStation 3 introduced numerous advancements, including the PlayStation Network (PSN) for online multiplayer and digital downloads, and backward compatibility for PS1 and PS2 games. Additionally, it supported Blu-ray discs, making it a top choice for movie enthusiasts in 2024.

PlayStation 3 Slim - September 1, 2009

The PS3 Slim was significantly lighter and more power-efficient than its predecessor, thanks to a revamped cooling system. However, it notably dropped support for backward compatibility with PS1 and PS2 games, a feature that has not returned in subsequent models.

PlayStation Vita - February 22, 2012

The PlayStation Vita, Sony's next portable offering, boasted advanced features and the ability to play titles from both PS3 and Vita. It later added Remote Play for PS4, allowing players to stream PS4 games to the Vita within their homes.

PlayStation 3 Super Slim - September 25, 2012

The final revision of the PS3, the Super Slim model, featured a top-loading Blu-ray drive, improved power efficiency, and a more streamlined design. It's known for its durability, attributed to the new disc drive and slimmer body.

PlayStation 4 - November 15, 2013

The PlayStation 4 offered a dramatic increase in processing power, leading to enhanced visual quality. Notable titles included Uncharted 4, God of War, and Ghost of Tsushima. It also featured a removable HDD and the improved DualShock 4 controller, enhancing player comfort. The best PS4 games continue to be highly regarded in modern gaming.

PlayStation 4 Slim - September 15, 2016

The PS4 Slim was a more compact and energy-efficient version of the original PS4, without compromising on performance. Its smaller design and quieter cooling system were significant improvements.

PlayStation 4 Pro - November 10, 2016

The PS4 Pro introduced 4K and HDR support, along with doubled GPU power, allowing for enhanced graphics and boosted frame rates in many games. This was a pivotal step in Sony's commitment to 4K gaming.

PlayStation 5 - November 12, 2020

The PlayStation 5 is the most powerful console in the PlayStation lineage, supporting ray tracing, 120FPS, and native 4K output. The accompanying DualSense controller added adaptive triggers and haptic feedback. Explore the best PS5 games to see the latest in console gaming.

PlayStation 5 Slim - November 10, 2023

The PS5 Slim maintained the performance of the original PS5 while reducing its size. Its modular design allows for the disc drive to be purchased separately, offering flexibility to consumers.

PlayStation 5 Pro - November 7, 2024

The PS5 Pro, confirmed through leaks and officially revealed in Sony's PlayStation 5 Technical Presentation, focuses on higher frame rates, enhanced ray tracing, and introduces machine learning via PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution (PSSR). It forgoes the disc drive for a sleeker design and is priced at $699.99 USD, including a 2TB SSD, a DualSense controller, and Astro's Playroom.

Upcoming PlayStation Consoles

The PS5 Pro was the major reveal for 2024. As for the next generation, the PS6 is speculated to launch between 2026 and 2030, though exact details remain uncertain.