PlayStation Consoles: Complete Release Date History

PlayStation stands as a titan in the gaming world, with a legacy that spans over three decades. From the groundbreaking PlayStation 1, which introduced iconic games like Final Fantasy VII, to the cutting-edge PlayStation 5, featuring blockbuster titles like God of War: Ragnarok, Sony's brand has consistently been at the forefront of the industry. Over the years, PlayStation has released numerous consoles, including revisions, portable devices, 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 history of PlayStation!

How Many PlayStation Consoles Have There Been?

In total, fourteen PlayStation consoles have been released since the first PlayStation debuted in North America in 1995. This count 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 PlayStation revolutionized gaming by adopting CD-ROM technology, which offered significantly more storage than the cartridges used by competitors. This shift allowed developers like Square Enix to create expansive games, leading to classics 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 compact redesign of the original PlayStation, featuring a smaller form factor and the notable removal of the reset button. In 2002, Sony added an attachable screen called the Combo, made possible by removing some ports on the console's back. Remarkably, the PS One outsold the PlayStation 2 in 2000.

PlayStation 2 - October 26, 2000

Released in 2000, the PlayStation 2 brought a significant leap in graphics and gameplay, moving away from polygonal figures to detailed 3D models. It remains the best-selling console of all time, though the Nintendo Switch is steadily closing the gap. Explore our list of the best PS2 games to understand its enduring appeal.

PlayStation 2 Slim - November 2004

Launched in 2004, the PlayStation 2 Slim improved performance, efficiency, and design. It featured a top-loading disc drive, which resolved issues with dual-layer discs, and reduced power consumption through internal redesigns. This model marked Sony's first use of the 'Slim' designation, a trend continued in subsequent generations.

PlayStation Portable - March 24, 2005

Debuting in 2005, the PlayStation Portable (PSP) was Sony's first foray into portable gaming under the PlayStation brand. It supported games, movies, and music via UMDs and could connect with PS2 and PS3 for certain in-game functionalities. The PSP offered a robust library of games, many of which were standout entries in their respective franchises.

PlayStation 3 - November 17, 2006

Launched in 2006, the PlayStation 3 introduced the PlayStation Network (PSN), enhancing online multiplayer and digital downloads. It was also backwards compatible with PS1 and PS2 games and supported Blu-ray discs, making it a versatile entertainment system. The PS3's Blu-ray capabilities have made modern consoles some of the best Blu-ray players available in 2024.

PlayStation 3 Slim - September 1, 2009

Released in 2009, the PlayStation 3 Slim reduced the original's weight, size, and power consumption by over 33%. It featured a redesigned cooling system and, notably, dropped backwards compatibility for PS1 and PS2 games, a feature not reinstated in later models.

PlayStation Vita - February 22, 2012

Launched in 2012, the PlayStation Vita was Sony's next portable console, offering advanced features and the ability to play titles from both PS3 and Vita. It later added Remote Play for PS4, allowing streaming of PS4 games to the Vita within the home.

PlayStation 3 Super Slim - September 25, 2012

Introduced in 2012, the PlayStation 3 Super Slim was the final PS3 revision, featuring a top-loading Blu-ray drive, improved power efficiency, and a sleeker design. It's considered the most durable PS3 model due to its robust disc drive and compact body.

PlayStation 4 - November 15, 2013

Launched in 2013, the PlayStation 4 offered a significant performance boost over the PS3, with enhanced visuals and a library of acclaimed titles like Uncharted 4, God of War, and Ghost of Tsushima. It featured a removable HDD and the ergonomic DualShock 4 controller, enhancing the gaming experience.

PlayStation 4 Slim - September 15, 2016

Released in 2016, the PlayStation 4 Slim was a more compact and power-efficient version of the PS4, maintaining the same performance in a smaller, quieter package.

PlayStation 4 Pro - November 10, 2016

Launched in 2016, the PlayStation 4 Pro introduced 4K support and HDR, doubling the GPU power of the standard PS4 and enabling higher frame rates for many games.

PlayStation 5 - November 12, 2020

Released in 2020, the PlayStation 5 is the most powerful console in the PlayStation lineup, supporting 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 to see what this console can do.

PlayStation 5 Slim - November 10, 2023

Launched in 2023, the PlayStation 5 Slim offers a smaller form factor and a modular design, allowing users to purchase a disc drive separately if needed.

PlayStation 5 Pro - November 7, 2024

Announced in 2024, the PlayStation 5 Pro focuses on higher frame rates, enhanced ray tracing, and machine learning through PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution (PSSR). It features a sleeker design without a disc drive and comes with a 2TB SSD, a DualSense controller, and Astro's Playroom pre-installed, priced at $699.99 USD.

Upcoming PlayStation Consoles

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