PlayStation Consoles: Complete Release Date Timeline

PlayStation has become an iconic name in the gaming world, captivating audiences with groundbreaking consoles and unforgettable games. From the revolutionary PlayStation 1, which brought us classics like Final Fantasy VII, to the cutting-edge PlayStation 5 and its blockbuster titles such as God of War: Ragnarok, Sony has consistently pushed the boundaries of gaming technology and entertainment. Over the past three decades, the PlayStation family has grown to include numerous consoles, revisions, portable devices, and new generations. With the PS5 Pro now available for preorder, let's take a comprehensive look at every PlayStation console that has been released.

As Sony celebrates 30 years since the debut of its first console, it's the perfect time to reminisce about the journey of PlayStation. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the brand, this trip down memory lane will highlight the evolution and impact of these gaming giants.

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

It all began with the original Sony PlayStation, which broke the mold by using CD-ROMs instead of cartridges, allowing for more expansive games. This pioneering console introduced gamers to legendary titles such as Metal Gear Solid, Final Fantasy VII, Resident Evil 2, Vagrant Story, and Crash Bandicoot, cementing its place in gaming history.

PS One - September 19, 2000

PS One brought a sleek redesign to the original PlayStation, offering the same great gaming experience in a more compact form. Notably, the reset button was removed, and in 2002, Sony introduced an attachable screen called the Combo. The PS One's success was so remarkable that it even outsold the PlayStation 2 in 2000.

PlayStation 2 - October 26, 2000

PlayStation 2 revolutionized gaming with vastly improved visuals and the advent of detailed 3D characters. It remains the best-selling console of all time, though the Nintendo Switch is steadily closing the gap. For a nostalgic trip, explore our picks for the best PS2 games that captured hearts worldwide.

PlayStation 2 Slim - November 2004

With the PlayStation 2 Slim, Sony introduced significant enhancements in performance, efficiency, and design. The top-loading disc drive addressed issues with dual-layer discs, and the console's smaller footprint and reduced power consumption set a new standard for Slim models that Sony has continued with each generation.

PlayStation Portable - March 24, 2005

PlayStation Portable (PSP) marked Sony's entry into handheld gaming under the PlayStation brand. Capable of playing games, movies, and music, the PSP used UMDs for physical media and could connect with PS2 and PS3 for certain functionalities. The best PSP games remain cherished entries in their respective franchises.

PlayStation 3 - November 17, 2006

PlayStation 3 elevated gaming with the introduction of PlayStation Network (PSN), bringing online multiplayer and digital downloads to the forefront. Backwards compatibility with PS1 and PS2 titles, along with Blu-ray support, solidified the PS3 as a versatile entertainment system, which continues to be a top Blu-ray player in 2024.

PlayStation 3 Slim - September 1, 2009

Three years after the original, the PlayStation 3 Slim was significantly lighter and more energy-efficient. However, it notably dropped support for PS1 and PS2 backwards compatibility, a feature that has yet to return in subsequent models.

PlayStation Vita - February 22, 2012

PlayStation Vita offered a new portable gaming experience, boasting hundreds of titles playable across PS3 and Vita. As the most advanced portable system of its time, it later introduced Remote Play for PS4, enhancing its appeal.

PlayStation 3 Super Slim - September 25, 2012

PlayStation 3 Super Slim, the final PS3 revision, featured a top-loading Blu-ray drive and further improved power efficiency. Its durability, thanks to the slimmer design and disc drive, made it a reliable choice right before the PS4's launch.

PlayStation 4 - November 15, 2013

PlayStation 4's internals were over five times faster than the PS3, delivering a significant leap in visual quality. Iconic titles like Uncharted 4, God of War, and Ghost of Tsushima showcased its capabilities. The removable HDD and ergonomic DualShock 4 controller were notable enhancements, making the best PS4 games still relevant today.

PlayStation 4 Slim - September 15, 2016

PlayStation 4 Slim refined the original PS4 with a smaller, more efficient design. Though performance remained the same, the quieter cooling system and compact size were major draws for gamers.

PlayStation 4 Pro - November 10, 2016

PlayStation 4 Pro introduced 4K support and HDR, harnessing twice the GPU power of the standard PS4 to boost frame rates and enhance visual experiences.

PlayStation 5 - November 12, 2020

PlayStation 5 stands as the most powerful PlayStation to date, featuring ray tracing, 120FPS support, and steady native 4K output. The innovative DualSense controller added adaptive triggers and haptic feedback. Dive into our list of the best PS5 games to discover the latest in console gaming.

PlayStation 5 Slim - November 10, 2023

PlayStation 5 Slim maintained the PS5's power in a more compact form, introducing a modular design that allows for the separate purchase of a disc drive.

PlayStation 5 Pro - November 7, 2024

Confirmed by leaks, the PS5 Pro focuses on higher frame rates and enhanced ray tracing, utilizing PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution (PSSR) for improved visuals. Priced at $699.99 USD, it includes a 2TB SSD, a DualSense controller, and Astro's Playroom pre-installed.

Upcoming PlayStation Consoles

The PS5 Pro is the latest console reveal for 2024. As for the next generation, speculation suggests the PS6 might launch between 2026 and 2030.