PlayStation Consoles: Complete Release Date History

PlayStation has become a legendary name in the gaming world, from the groundbreaking launch of the first console with iconic games like Final Fantasy VII to the latest PlayStation 5, which boasts blockbuster titles such as God of War: Ragnarok. Over the past three decades, PlayStation has released numerous consoles, including revisions, portable versions, and new generations. With the PS5 Pro now available for pre-order, we've put together a comprehensive list of every PlayStation console ever released.

As we celebrate 30 years since the debut of the original PlayStation, let's embark on a nostalgic journey through the history of this gaming giant!

How Many PlayStation Consoles Have There Been?

In total, fourteen PlayStation consoles have been released since the first PlayStation hit the market in 1995 in North America. This figure 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

Launched in 1995, the original Sony PlayStation revolutionized the gaming industry by adopting CD-ROM technology instead of cartridges. This allowed for larger, more complex games, attracting major developers like Square Enix. The console is legendary for titles such as Metal Gear Solid, Final Fantasy VII, Resident Evil 2, Vagrant Story, Crash Bandicoot, and many other cherished PS1 games.

PS One - September 19, 2000

Introduced as a sleek redesign of the original PlayStation, the PS One maintained the same gaming capabilities in a smaller package, notably without the reset button. In 2002, Sony enhanced its portability by releasing an attachable screen called the Combo. The PS One surprisingly outsold the PlayStation 2 in 2000, a testament to its popularity.

PlayStation 2 - October 26, 2000

Arriving in October 2000, the PlayStation 2 dramatically improved visual quality with detailed character models and immersive 3D action games. It remains the best-selling console of all time, though the Nintendo Switch is rapidly closing the gap. Discover why it was so beloved with our selection of the best PS2 games.

PlayStation 2 Slim - November 2004

With the PlayStation 2 Slim, Sony made significant strides in performance, efficiency, and design. A top-loading disc drive addressed issues with dual-layer discs, while internal reworks reduced power consumption. The 'Slim' moniker reflected its smaller size, setting a precedent for future Slim revisions across PlayStation generations.

PlayStation Portable - March 24, 2005

Marking Sony's entry into the portable gaming market, the PlayStation Portable (PSP) offered gaming, movie playback, and music listening capabilities through UMDs. It also allowed connectivity with PS2 and PS3 for certain games, showcasing the best PSP games from various popular franchises.

PlayStation 3 - November 17, 2006

With the PlayStation 3, Sony introduced the PlayStation Network, enabling online multiplayer and digital downloads. The console was backward compatible with PS1 and PS2 titles and supported Blu-ray, positioning it as a formidable Blu-ray player in 2024.

PlayStation 3 Slim - September 1, 2009

Three years after the original PS3, the PlayStation 3 Slim reduced weight and power consumption by over 33%. A redesigned cooling system improved thermals, but this model sacrificed backward compatibility with PS1 and PS2 games, a feature that has not returned.

PlayStation Vita - February 22, 2012

Released in 2012, the PlayStation Vita offered an advanced portable gaming experience, with titles playable across both PS3 and Vita. Its launch highlighted it as the most technologically advanced handheld at the time, later enhanced by Remote Play for PS4 games.

PlayStation 3 Super Slim - September 25, 2012

As the final revision for the PS3, the Super Slim model featured a top-loading Blu-ray drive, improved power efficiency, and a sleeker design. This iteration proved to be the most durable PS3 due to its refined disc drive and compact body.

PlayStation 4 - November 15, 2013

Offering a fivefold increase in processing power over the PS3, the PlayStation 4 delivered stunning visual quality. It hosted remarkable games like Uncharted 4, God of War, and Ghost of Tsushima. The PS4 also featured a removable HDD and an improved DualShock 4 controller, with our list of the best PS4 games showcasing its modern appeal.

PlayStation 4 Slim - September 15, 2016

An enhanced version of the PS4, the PlayStation 4 Slim boasted improved power efficiency and a more compact design. While performance remained unchanged, the smaller size and quieter operation were significant advantages.

PlayStation 4 Pro - November 10, 2016

Marking Sony's first foray into 4K gaming, the PlayStation 4 Pro utilized upscale technology and HDR support, doubling the GPU power of the original PS4. This allowed for higher frame rates and enhanced visuals on 4K displays.

PlayStation 5 - November 12, 2020

As the most powerful PlayStation to date, the PlayStation 5 supports ray tracing, 120FPS, and steady native 4K output. Despite its larger size, the DualSense Controller introduced innovative features like adaptive triggers and haptic feedback. Explore the best PS5 games to experience this decade's top titles.

PlayStation 5 Slim - November 10, 2023

Building on the PS5's success, the PlayStation 5 Slim offers a smaller form factor and a modular design, allowing for the purchase of a disc drive separately. This enhances flexibility for gamers without altering the core hardware.

PlayStation 5 Pro - November 7, 2024

Confirmed during Sony's PlayStation 5 Technical Presentation, the PS5 Pro focuses on higher frame rates, enhanced ray tracing, and the introduction of PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution (PSSR) for improved graphics. It also adopts a sleeker design without a disc drive, priced at $699.99 USD, which includes the console, a 2TB SSD, a DualSense controller, and Astro's Playroom.

Upcoming PlayStation Consoles

The PS5 Pro was the major console announcement for 2024. As for the next generation, the PS6 is speculated to launch sometime between 2026 and 2030.