Every PlayStation Console: A Full History of Release Dates

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, let's take a nostalgic journey through the history of this legendary gaming brand!

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 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, cementing the PlayStation's place in gaming history.

PS One - September 19, 2000

Introduced in 2000, the PS One was a compact redesign of the original PlayStation, maintaining all its features but in a smaller package. A notable change was the 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 October 2000, the PlayStation 2 brought a significant leap in visual quality, moving 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, addressing issues with dual-layer discs, and was more power-efficient due to internal redesigns. This model marked Sony's first use of the 'Slim' moniker, a trend continued in subsequent generations.

PlayStation Portable - March 24, 2005

In 2005, Sony entered the portable gaming market with the PlayStation Portable (PSP). This versatile device could play games, movies, and music using UMDs. It also connected with PS2 and PS3 for certain in-game functionalities. The PSP's library included some of the best games in various franchises.

PlayStation 3 - November 17, 2006

Launched in 2006, the PlayStation 3 introduced the PlayStation Network, enhancing online multiplayer and digital downloads. It was backwards compatible with PS1 and PS2 games and supported Blu-ray, making it a top choice for home entertainment. The PS3's 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

In 2012, the PlayStation Vita entered the market as Sony's advanced portable console, offering cross-play with PS3 and later PS4 through Remote Play. It was the most feature-rich portable system at the time, boasting a robust library of titles.

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 remembered as the most durable PS3 model due to its design and disc drive.

PlayStation 4 - November 15, 2013

Launched in 2013, the PlayStation 4 offered a significant performance boost over the PS3, with stunning visual improvements. It featured iconic games like Uncharted 4, God of War, and Ghost of Tsushima. The PS4 also introduced a removable HDD and the ergonomic DualShock 4 controller. Our list of the best PS4 games highlights its modern gaming excellence.

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 but with a smaller footprint and quieter operation.

PlayStation 4 Pro - November 10, 2016

Also launched in 2016, the PlayStation 4 Pro introduced 4K support and HDR, doubling the GPU power of the standard PS4. This allowed for enhanced visuals and higher frame rates, catering to players with 4K displays.

PlayStation 5 - November 12, 2020

In 2020, the PlayStation 5 debuted as the most powerful console in the series, supporting ray tracing, 120FPS, and native 4K output. The accompanying DualSense controller introduced adaptive triggers and haptic feedback. Our list of the best PS5 games showcases the console's impressive capabilities.

PlayStation 5 Slim - November 10, 2023

Launched in 2023, the PlayStation 5 Slim retained the original's hardware but in a smaller form factor. Its modular design allows for a disc drive to be added later, offering flexibility to consumers.

PlayStation 5 Pro - November 7, 2024

Announced in 2024, the PS5 Pro focuses on higher frame rates, enhanced ray tracing, and machine learning via PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution (PSSR). It features a sleeker design without a disc drive, 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 console reveal for 2024. As for the next generation, speculation suggests the PS6 could launch anytime between 2026 and 2030.