PlayStation Consoles: Complete Release Date Timeline

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 online multiplayer through PlayStation Network (PSN), digital downloads, and Blu-ray support. It was also backwards compatible with PS1 and PS2 games. The PS3's Blu-ray capabilities made it a top choice for home entertainment.

PlayStation 3 Slim - September 1, 2009

Released in 2009, the PlayStation 3 Slim was significantly lighter and more compact than its predecessor, with improved thermals and reduced power consumption. However, it dropped backwards compatibility for PS1 and PS2 games, a feature that has not returned in later 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 PS3 and Vita titles. 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, enhanced power efficiency, and a sleeker design. It's noted for its durability, largely due to its disc drive and compact form.

PlayStation 4 - November 15, 2013

Launched in 2013, the PlayStation 4 offered a dramatic increase in performance over the PS3, with stunning visuals in games like Uncharted 4, God of War, and Ghost of Tsushima. It featured a removable HDD and the ergonomic DualShock 4 controller. The best PS4 games remain some of the finest in modern gaming.

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. Check out our list of the best PS5 games for the latest in gaming excellence.

PlayStation 5 Slim - November 10, 2023

Launched in 2023, the PlayStation 5 Slim offers a smaller footprint and a modular design, allowing for a disc drive to be added later.

PlayStation 5 Pro - November 7, 2024

Revealed in 2024, the PS5 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, speculation suggests the PS6 could launch anytime between 2026 and 2030.