PlayStation Consoles: Complete Release Date History

PlayStation is a legendary name in the gaming world, known for iconic titles from the groundbreaking Final Fantasy VII on the original console to the critically acclaimed God of War: Ragnarok on the PlayStation 5. Over the past three decades, PlayStation has released a diverse array of consoles, including mainline models, slim revisions, portable devices, and the latest generation. With the highly anticipated PS5 Pro now available for preorder, we've put together a comprehensive list of every PlayStation console released to date.

As we celebrate 30 years since the debut of the first PlayStation console, let's embark on a nostalgic journey through the evolution of this gaming titan!

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 count includes slim revisions and the two portable consoles that Sony has 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 gaming with its use of CD-ROMs, offering significantly more storage than the cartridge-based systems of the time. 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, 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 the same features 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 slim model set a precedent for future PlayStation revisions.

PlayStation Portable - March 24, 2005

Debuting in 2005, the PlayStation Portable (PSP) was Sony's first handheld 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 top-tier games.

PlayStation 3 - November 17, 2006

Launched in 2006, the PlayStation 3 introduced the PlayStation Network, enhancing online multiplayer and digital downloads. It was backward compatible with PS1 and PS2 games and supported Blu-ray, making it a versatile entertainment system.

PlayStation 3 Slim - September 1, 2009

Released in 2009, the PlayStation 3 Slim was significantly lighter and more efficient than its predecessor, with a redesigned cooling system. However, it dropped backward 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.

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 noted for its durability, thanks to the new disc drive and slim profile.

PlayStation 4 - November 15, 2013

Launched in 2013, the PlayStation 4 offered a massive performance boost over the PS3, with stunning visual improvements. It featured titles like Uncharted 4, God of War, and Ghost of Tsushima. The PS4 also introduced a removable HDD and the ergonomic DualShock 4 controller.

PlayStation 4 Slim - September 15, 2016

Released in 2016, the PlayStation 4 Slim was a more compact and power-efficient version of the PS4, with no performance differences but a quieter cooling system and smaller design.

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 for enhanced visuals and frame rates.

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 added adaptive triggers and haptic feedback. Check out our list of the best PS5 games for the latest hits.

PlayStation 5 Slim - November 10, 2023

Introduced in 2023, the PlayStation 5 Slim offers a smaller form factor and a modular design, allowing for a disc drive to be added later.

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 sleek design without a disc drive, a 2TB SSD, and comes bundled with a DualSense controller and Astro's Playroom for $699.99 USD.

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.