PlayStation Consoles List 2026: All Models & Generations
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I’ve been gaming on PlayStation consoles since 1995, and I’m still amazed by how this brand has evolved over three decades.
From the original gray box that revolutionized 3D gaming to today’s lightning-fast PS5, Sony has released 15 main console models across home and handheld systems.
After researching every PlayStation model ever made, including limited editions and regional variants, I’ve compiled this complete chronological list.
You’ll find every PlayStation console from 1994 to 2026, with release dates, specifications, and the key differences between models.
PlayStation Console Generations at a Glance (March 2026)
There are 5 main PlayStation home console generations and 3 portable gaming systems released between 1994 and 2026.
⚠️ Quick Facts: Sony has released 15 distinct PlayStation models across all categories, not counting special editions or color variants.
| Generation | Console Models | Years Active | Units Sold |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st Gen | PlayStation, PS One | 1994-2006 | 102.4 million |
| 2nd Gen | PlayStation 2, PS2 Slim | 2000-2013 | 155+ million |
| 3rd Gen | PS3, PS3 Slim, PS3 Super Slim | 2006-2017 | 87.4 million |
| 4th Gen | PS4, PS4 Slim, PS4 Pro | 2013-present | 117.2 million |
| 5th Gen | PS5, PS5 Digital, PS5 Slim | 2020-present | 50+ million |
| Handheld | PSP (5 models), PS Vita (2 models), PS Portal | 2004-present | 80+ million combined |
All PlayStation Home Consoles in Order
Sony’s home console lineup spans five generations, with each bringing significant technological leaps.
PlayStation (1994) – The Original Gray Box
The original PlayStation launched in Japan on December 3, 1994, and changed gaming forever with its CD-ROM technology and 3D graphics capabilities.
I remember being blown away by games like Crash Bandicoot and Metal Gear Solid that simply weren’t possible on cartridge-based systems.
- Release Date: December 3, 1994 (Japan), September 9, 1995 (North America)
- CPU: 32-bit R3000A RISC processor at 33.8687 MHz
- RAM: 2MB main RAM, 1MB video RAM
- Storage: Memory cards (128KB)
- Notable Features: First major CD-based console, 3D polygon graphics
Sony later released the PS One in 2000, a smaller redesigned version that was 45% smaller than the original.
The PS One included a slightly redesigned controller and an optional LCD screen attachment for portable play (while plugged in).
PlayStation 2 (2000) – The Best-Selling Console Ever
The PlayStation 2 remains the best-selling video game console of all time with over 155 million units sold worldwide.
Its secret weapon was backward compatibility with original PlayStation games and built-in DVD player functionality.
- Original Model (2000): SCPH-30000 series, larger “fat” design
- PS2 Slim (2004): SCPH-70000 series, 40% smaller, built-in Ethernet
- CPU: 128-bit “Emotion Engine” at 294.912 MHz
- RAM: 32MB main, 4MB embedded DRAM
- Storage: Memory cards, optional hard drive (fat model)
The PS2 Slim model released in 2004 was significantly quieter and more reliable than the original.
Both models played the entire PS1 library, making it the ultimate PlayStation system for its era.
PlayStation 3 (2006) – The Cell Processor Era
PlayStation 3 introduced high-definition gaming, Blu-ray playback, and the revolutionary (but complex) Cell processor.
Sony released three distinct PS3 models over its lifetime, each with different features and storage options.
✅ Pro Tip: Early “fat” PS3 models (20GB and 60GB) included hardware-based PS2 backward compatibility, making them highly sought after by collectors.
- PS3 Fat (2006): CECH-A through CECH-K series, 20GB/40GB/60GB/80GB options
- PS3 Slim (2009): CECH-2000 series, 33% smaller, 36% lighter
- PS3 Super Slim (2012): CECH-4000 series, top-loading disc tray
- CPU: 3.2 GHz Cell Broadband Engine
- RAM: 256MB XDR main, 256MB GDDR3 video
The PS3 Slim became the most popular model due to improved reliability and lower power consumption.
PlayStation 4 (2013) – The Return to Form
After the PS3’s complex architecture, Sony simplified with the PS4, creating a developer-friendly system that dominated the eighth console generation.
I’ve owned all three PS4 models, and the Pro’s 4K capabilities made a noticeable difference on my 4K TV.
For a detailed breakdown of all PS4 models and their release dates, check out our comprehensive PlayStation 4 release history.
- PS4 Original (2013): CUH-1000/1100/1200 series, November 15, 2013 launch
- PS4 Slim (2016): CUH-2000 series, 30% smaller, more efficient
- PS4 Pro (2016): CUH-7000 series, 4K gaming, enhanced performance
- CPU: 8-core AMD Jaguar (1.6GHz standard, 2.1GHz Pro)
- RAM: 8GB GDDR5 (Pro adds 1GB DDR3 for OS)
- Storage: 500GB or 1TB HDD (user-replaceable)
The PS4 Pro delivered true 4K gaming for many titles and improved performance even on 1080p displays through supersampling.
All PS4 models play the same games, but Pro versions often include performance or resolution modes.
PlayStation 5 (2020) – The Current Generation
PlayStation 5 launched in November 2020 with two models: a standard version with disc drive and a Digital Edition without.
The custom SSD completely eliminates loading times in optimized games – something I notice every time I switch back to my PS4.
- PS5 Standard (2020): CFI-1000 series, 4K Blu-ray drive, $499
- PS5 Digital Edition (2020): CFI-1000 series, no disc drive, $399
- PS5 Slim (2023): CFI-2000 series, 30% smaller, detachable disc drive option
- CPU: 8-core AMD Zen 2 at 3.5GHz
- GPU: 10.28 TFLOPs, 36 CUs at 2.23GHz
- RAM: 16GB GDDR6
- Storage: 825GB custom NVMe SSD
The new PS5 Slim models launched in November 2023 offer the same performance in a smaller package.
Sony now offers a detachable disc drive that can upgrade the Digital Edition, providing more flexibility than before.
For the latest PS5 system updates and new features, Sony regularly adds functionality through firmware updates.
PlayStation Handheld Console History
Sony’s portable gaming journey includes two dedicated handhelds and one remote play device, each targeting different mobile gaming needs.
PlayStation Portable (PSP) – 2004
The PSP was Sony’s first handheld console, competing directly with Nintendo DS and offering console-quality games on the go.
Over its lifetime, Sony released five distinct PSP models with various improvements and regional differences.
- PSP-1000 (2004): Original “fat” model, Japan launch March 24, 2004
- PSP-2000 Slim & Lite (2007): 33% lighter, video output capability
- PSP-3000 (2008): Improved LCD screen, built-in microphone
- PSP Go (2009): Sliding design, digital-only, 16GB internal storage
- PSP Street E1000 (2011): Budget model, Europe only, no WiFi
The PSP-3000 became the most popular model with its improved screen that reduced ghosting in fast-action games.
PSP Go was ahead of its time with digital-only gaming but struggled due to limited game availability and higher prices.
PlayStation Vita – 2011
PlayStation Vita featured dual analog sticks, bringing console-style controls to portable gaming.
Despite innovative features like rear touchpad and OLED screen, it couldn’t compete with smartphones and the Nintendo 3DS.
- PS Vita PCH-1000 (2011): OLED screen, December 17, 2011 Japan launch
- PS Vita Slim PCH-2000 (2013): LCD screen, 20% thinner, micro USB charging
- CPU: Quad-core ARM Cortex-A9
- RAM: 512MB main, 128MB video
- Storage: Proprietary memory cards required
The original OLED model had superior screen quality, while the Slim offered better battery life and standard USB charging.
PlayStation Portal – 2023
PlayStation Portal isn’t a standalone handheld but a remote play device for PS5, requiring WiFi connection to stream games.
At $199, it offers an 8-inch LCD screen and full DualSense controls for playing PS5 games anywhere in your home.
- Release Date: November 15, 2023
- Display: 8-inch LCD, 1080p at 60fps
- Controls: Full DualSense features including haptic feedback
- Battery: 7-9 hours of gameplay
- Requirement: PS5 console and WiFi connection
While limited to remote play, the Portal provides an excellent second screen experience for best PS5 multiplayer games when the TV is occupied.
Notable Special and Limited Edition Models (2026)
Throughout PlayStation history, Sony has released hundreds of special edition consoles for games, anniversaries, and regional celebrations.
Some of the most valuable limited editions now sell for thousands of dollars on the collector’s market.
Anniversary Editions
- 20th Anniversary PS4 (2014): Original PlayStation gray color, limited to 12,300 units worldwide
- PlayStation Classic (2018): Mini replica of original PlayStation with 20 built-in games
- 25th Anniversary Collection (2019): Special edition PS4 Pro with unique design
Game-Themed Special Editions
Popular franchises often receive custom console designs, with some becoming instant collectibles.
- Metal Gear Solid 4 PS3 (2008): Gun-metal gray with game branding
- God of War PS4 Pro (2018): Leviathan Gray with Norse rune designs
- Spider-Man PS4 Pro (2018): Red console with spider logo
- The Last of Us Part II PS4 Pro (2020): Matte black with Ellie’s tattoo design
Regional Exclusives
Japan often receives exclusive colors and designs not available in other markets.
These include ceramic white PS2s, various PSP colors, and unique PS Vita models with special memory card bundles.
PlayStation Console Evolution Timeline
The technological leap between PlayStation generations shows remarkable progress in just 30 years.
| Generation | Processing Power | RAM | Storage Type | Max Resolution |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PS1 (1994) | 33.8 MHz | 3MB total | Memory Card | 480i |
| PS2 (2000) | 294 MHz | 36MB total | Memory Card/HDD | 480p/1080i |
| PS3 (2006) | 3.2 GHz | 512MB total | HDD built-in | 1080p |
| PS4 (2013) | 1.6-2.1 GHz | 8GB GDDR5 | HDD built-in | 1080p/4K (Pro) |
| PS5 (2020) | 3.5 GHz | 16GB GDDR6 | NVMe SSD | 4K/8K support |
The jump from PS4 to PS5’s custom SSD represents the biggest storage innovation since the shift from cartridges to CDs.
Loading times that took 45 seconds on PS4 now take less than 2 seconds on PS5.
Each generation roughly delivers 10x the computational power of its predecessor, enabling new gameplay experiences previously impossible.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many PlayStation consoles have been released in total?
Sony has released 15 main PlayStation models: 5 home console generations (with variants like Slim and Pro) and 8 handheld models including different PSP versions, PS Vita models, and the PS Portal.
What is the best-selling PlayStation console of all time?
The PlayStation 2 is the best-selling console ever made with over 155 million units sold worldwide. It succeeded due to its DVD playback capability, backward compatibility with PS1 games, and an incredible game library spanning 13 years.
Which PlayStation consoles are backward compatible?
PS2 plays all PS1 games, early PS3 models play PS1 and PS2 games, all PS3s play PS1 games, and PS5 plays nearly all PS4 games. The PS4 cannot play games from earlier generations.
What’s the difference between PlayStation Slim models and regular versions?
Slim models are typically 30-40% smaller, use less power, run quieter, and generate less heat than original versions. They have the same gaming performance but often remove some features like extra USB ports or card readers.
When did Sony stop making each PlayStation console?
PS1 production ended in 2006, PS2 in 2013, PS3 in 2017, PSP in 2014, and PS Vita in 2019. PS4 and PS5 are still in production as of 2025.
What is the rarest PlayStation console?
The 20th Anniversary Edition PS4 is one of the rarest, limited to 12,300 units worldwide numbered to match the original PlayStation’s launch date (12/3). These now sell for $3,000-5,000 when they originally cost $499.
Is PlayStation Portal a standalone handheld console?
No, PlayStation Portal is a remote play device that requires a PS5 console and WiFi connection. It streams games from your PS5 rather than running them natively, unlike the PSP or PS Vita which were standalone systems.
Final Thoughts on PlayStation’s 30-Year Journey
From the original PlayStation’s 102 million sales to the PS5’s cutting-edge SSD technology, Sony has consistently pushed gaming forward.
The complete PlayStation family includes 15 main console models across home and portable systems, not counting the hundreds of special editions.
Each generation brought meaningful innovations – whether it was PS2’s DVD playback, PS3’s Blu-ray and HD gaming, or PS5’s elimination of loading times.
As we move through 2026, the PlayStation brand remains strong with PS5 continuing to evolve and rumors of future hardware already circulating.