Home News Every PlayStation Console: A Full History of Release Dates

Every PlayStation Console: A Full History of Release Dates

Author : Mia May 14,2025

PlayStation has been a titan in the gaming world for over three decades, starting with the iconic original console and evolving through to the powerhouse that is the PlayStation 5. From groundbreaking titles like Final Fantasy VII on the first PlayStation to the epic adventures of God of War: Ragnarok on the PS5, the brand has consistently delivered unforgettable gaming experiences. Over the years, Sony 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 Sony celebrates the 30th anniversary of the original PlayStation, let's embark on a nostalgic journey through the history of PlayStation!

Which PlayStation had the best games? -------------------------------------

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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

The Sony PlayStation revolutionized gaming with its use of CD-ROMs, allowing for larger, more detailed games. This shift from cartridges enabled major developers like Square Enix to create landmark titles such as Final Fantasy VII, Metal Gear Solid, Resident Evil 2, Vagrant Story, and the beloved Crash Bandicoot series.

PS One - September 19, 2000

The PS One was a compact redesign of the original PlayStation, featuring the same gameplay in a smaller package. Notably, it lacked a reset button, and in 2002, Sony introduced the Combo, an attachable screen that transformed the console into a portable gaming system. Interestingly, the PS One outsold the PlayStation 2 in 2000.

PlayStation 2 - October 26, 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, despite the Nintendo Switch's ongoing challenge to its record. Explore our list of the best PS2 games to understand its enduring appeal.

PlayStation 2 Slim - November 2004

The PlayStation 2 Slim enhanced performance, efficiency, and design. Its top-loading disc drive resolved issues with dual-layer discs, and its internals were optimized for lower power consumption. This model marked Sony's first Slim revision, setting a precedent for future PlayStation consoles.

PlayStation Portable - March 24, 2005

Sony's first foray into portable gaming with the PlayStation Portable (PSP) allowed users to play games, watch movies, and listen to music. Using UMDs for storage, the PSP could also connect with PS2 and PS3 for enhanced gameplay. The best PSP games showcased the console's versatility and power.

PlayStation 3 - November 17, 2006

The PlayStation 3 introduced online capabilities via PlayStation Network, supporting multiplayer gaming and digital downloads. It was also backwards compatible with PS1 and PS2 titles and added Blu-ray support, positioning it as a top-tier Blu-ray player even today.

PlayStation 3 Slim - September 1, 2009

The PlayStation 3 Slim significantly reduced the size, weight, and power consumption of its predecessor. However, it notably dropped backwards compatibility with older PlayStation titles. The redesigned cooling system improved thermal performance within a smaller footprint.

PlayStation Vita - February 22, 2012

The PlayStation Vita was Sony's advanced portable system, offering cross-platform play with PS3 and later PS4 titles through Remote Play. Its advanced features and robust game library made it a standout in the handheld market.

PlayStation 3 Super Slim - September 25, 2012

The PlayStation 3 Super Slim, the final PS3 revision, improved efficiency and durability with its top-loading Blu-ray drive and slimmer design. Released just before the PS4, it was the most robust PS3 model Sony produced.

PlayStation 4 - November 15, 2013

The PlayStation 4 boasted internals five times faster than the PS3, leading to a dramatic increase in visual quality. With iconic titles like Uncharted 4, God of War, and Ghost of Tsushima, the PS4's library remains a testament to its power. Its removable HDD and ergonomic DualShock 4 controller enhanced user experience.

PlayStation 4 Slim - September 15, 2016

The PlayStation 4 Slim offered the same performance in a more compact, power-efficient design. Its quieter cooling system and smaller footprint made it a popular choice among gamers.

PlayStation 4 Pro - November 10, 2016

The PlayStation 4 Pro introduced 4K support and HDR, leveraging upscale technology and increased GPU power to enhance gaming visuals. This model catered to players with 4K displays, offering improved frame rates for a smoother experience.

PlayStation 5 - November 12, 2020

The PlayStation 5 is the most powerful PlayStation console to date, supporting ray tracing, 120FPS, and native 4K output. The DualSense controller introduced innovative features like adaptive triggers and haptic feedback. Our list of the best PS5 games highlights the console's capabilities.

PlayStation 5 Slim - November 10, 2023

The PlayStation 5 Slim maintained the powerful hardware of the original PS5 in a more compact design. Its modular approach allowed users to add a disc drive later, offering flexibility for digital and physical game enthusiasts.

PlayStation 5 Pro - November 7, 2024

The PS5 Pro, unveiled during Sony's PlayStation 5 Technical Presentation, targets higher frame rates and enhanced ray tracing 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 for $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, though exact details remain under wraps.

When do you think the PS6 will launch? --------------------------------------
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