PlayStation Consoles: Complete Release Date Timeline

PlayStation is a legendary name in the gaming world, synonymous with innovation and iconic gaming experiences. From the groundbreaking PlayStation 1 with titles like Final Fantasy VII to the cutting-edge PlayStation 5 and its blockbuster hits like God of War: Ragnarok, PlayStation has consistently been a cornerstone of the video game industry. Over the past three decades, Sony has released a diverse array of consoles, including various revisions, portable devices, and new generations. With the PS5 Pro now available for pre-order, we've put together a comprehensive list of every PlayStation console ever released.

As Sony marks 30 years since the debut of its first 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 number encompasses Slim revision models, as well as the two portable consoles that Sony has brought to market under the PlayStation brand.

Latest Model### PlayStation 5 Pro

5See it at AmazonEvery PlayStation Console in Order of Release

PlayStation - September 9, 1995

Revolutionizing the gaming industry, the Sony PlayStation introduced the world to CD-ROM technology, allowing for larger, more immersive games. This shift from cartridges opened doors for developers like Square Enix to create landmark titles. The PlayStation became legendary for games like Metal Gear Solid, Final Fantasy VII, Resident Evil 2, Vagrant Story, and Crash Bandicoot, among other classics.

PS One - September 19, 2000

PS One was a redesigned, smaller version of the original PlayStation. The major change was the omission of the reset button. In 2002, Sony introduced the Combo, an attachable screen for the PS One, made possible by removing some ports on the console's back. Interestingly, the PS One outsold the PlayStation 2 in 2000, a fact that remains astonishing.

PlayStation 2 - October 26, 2000

PlayStation 2 marked a significant leap forward with enhanced visual fidelity and detailed 3D environments. It remains the best-selling console of all time, though the Nintendo Switch is steadily closing the gap. Explore our selection of the best PS2 games to understand its enduring popularity.

PlayStation 2 Slim - November 2004

With the PlayStation 2 Slim, Sony made substantial improvements in performance, efficiency, and design. The new top-loading disc drive resolved issues with dual-layer discs, and the internal redesign made the PS2 Slim more power-efficient. This model's compact size initiated Sony's tradition of 'Slim' revisions in subsequent PlayStation generations.

PlayStation Portable - March 24, 2005

Sony's first portable PlayStation, the PSP, was a multifaceted device capable of gaming, movie watching, and music listening. It used UMDs for physical media and could connect with PlayStation 2 and 3 for certain in-game functionalities. The best PSP games showcased the potential of this innovative handheld.

PlayStation 3 - November 17, 2006

PlayStation 3 brought significant advancements, notably the PlayStation Network, which introduced online multiplayer and digital downloads. The console was backward compatible with PS1 and PS2 titles and supported Blu-ray discs, making it a formidable media player as well.

PlayStation 3 Slim - September 1, 2009

Three years after the original PS3, the PS3 Slim reduced weight, bulk, and power consumption by over 33%. Its redesigned cooling system improved thermals, but it sacrificed backward compatibility with PS1 and PS2 games, a feature that has yet to return.

PlayStation Vita - February 22, 2012

PlayStation Vita was Sony's next portable venture, offering advanced features and the ability to play numerous titles across 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

As the final PS3 revision, the Super Slim featured a top-loading Blu-ray drive, enhanced power efficiency, and a sleeker design. It's noted for its durability, thanks to the improved disc drive and slimmer body.

PlayStation 4 - November 15, 2013

PlayStation 4 offered a dramatic performance increase over the PS3, supporting stunning visual upgrades. It hosted phenomenal titles like Uncharted 4, God of War, and Ghost of Tsushima. Features included a swappable HDD and the ergonomic DualShock 4 controller. Discover the best PS4 games for a taste of modern gaming excellence.

PlayStation 4 Slim - September 15, 2016

PlayStation 4 Slim improved on the original PS4's efficiency and design, offering a smaller, quieter, yet equally powerful alternative.

PlayStation 4 Pro - November 10, 2016

PlayStation 4 Pro introduced 4K support and HDR, utilizing upscale technology and doubling the GPU power of the standard PS4 for enhanced visuals and frame rates.

PlayStation 5 - November 12, 2020

PlayStation 5 is the most powerful console in Sony's lineup, featuring ray tracing, 120FPS capabilities, and steady native 4K output. The DualSense Controller added innovative features like adaptive triggers and haptic feedback. Check out the best PS5 games for the latest in gaming technology.

PlayStation 5 Slim - November 10, 2023

PlayStation 5 Slim refined the PS5's design, making it more compact while retaining the same powerful internals. Its modular design allows for the disc drive to be purchased separately.

PlayStation 5 Pro - November 7, 2024

Confirmed by leaks and officially announced during Sony's PlayStation 5 Technical Presentation, the PS5 Pro focuses on higher frame rates, enhanced ray tracing, and the introduction of PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution (PSSR). It also adopts a sleeker design without a disc drive, launching at $699.99 USD with a 2TB SSD, DualSense controller, and Astro's Playroom pre-installed.

Upcoming PlayStation Consoles

The PS5 Pro marked the major console announcement for 2024. Regarding the next generation, speculation suggests the PS6 could launch anytime between 2026 and 2030.