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 1995 in North America. 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 for richer, more complex games, leading to classics like 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 capabilities 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 2000, the PlayStation 2 brought a significant leap in graphics and gameplay, moving away from the blocky polygons of the past to more detailed 3D environments. 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 set the precedent for Sony's subsequent Slim revisions.

PlayStation Portable - March 24, 2005

Debuting in 2005, the PlayStation Portable (PSP) was Sony's first foray into handheld gaming under the PlayStation brand. It supported games, movies, and music via UMDs and could connect with PS2 and PS3 for certain 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, revolutionizing online gaming with multiplayer, digital downloads, and more. It was also backwards compatible with PS1 and PS2 games and supported Blu-ray, making it a formidable media center.

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 backwards compatibility for PS1 and PS2 games, a feature that has not returned in subsequent 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 a wide range of titles from both PS3 and Vita. It later added Remote Play for PS4, allowing streaming of PS4 games to the Vita.

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, largely due to the 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 introduced iconic titles like Uncharted 4, God of War, and Ghost of Tsushima. The PS4 also featured a removable HDD and the ergonomic DualShock 4 controller. Check out our list of the best PS4 games for more insights.

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

Debuting 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 innovative features like adaptive triggers and haptic feedback. Discover the best PS5 games to see what this powerhouse can do.

PlayStation 5 Slim - November 10, 2023

Released in 2023, the PlayStation 5 Slim offers a smaller form factor and a modular design, allowing for the purchase of a disc drive separately.

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, 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, the PS6 is speculated to launch sometime between 2026 and 2030.