PlayStation Consoles: Complete Release Date Timeline

PlayStation has become an iconic name in the gaming world over the past three decades. From the groundbreaking launch of the original PlayStation in 1995, which introduced gamers to unforgettable titles like Final Fantasy VII, to the latest PlayStation 5 with its blockbuster games like God of War: Ragnarok, Sony's consoles have consistently set the standard in the industry. Over the years, Sony has released numerous consoles, including revisions, portable devices, and new generations, culminating in the recent availability of the PS5 Pro for pre-order. As we celebrate 30 years of PlayStation, let's take a nostalgic journey through its rich history.

How Many PlayStation Consoles Have There Been?

In total, fourteen PlayStation consoles have been released since the debut of the original PlayStation in 1995 in North America. This number encompasses slim revisions 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

It all began with the Sony PlayStation, a revolutionary console that shifted the gaming industry away from cartridges to CD-ROMs. This change allowed for larger, more intricate games, leading to classics like Metal Gear Solid, Final Fantasy VII, Resident Evil 2, Vagrant Story, and Crash Bandicoot, cementing the PlayStation's legacy in gaming history.

PS One - September 19, 2000

Following the success of the original, Sony released the PS One, a smaller version of the PlayStation. This model removed the reset button and later introduced the Combo, an attachable screen, thanks to the removal of certain ports. Remarkably, the PS One outsold the PlayStation 2 in 2000.

PlayStation 2 - October 26, 2000

Launching in October 2000, the PlayStation 2 brought significant improvements in graphics, moving away from blocky polygons to detailed 3D environments. It remains the best-selling console of all time, rivaled only by the Nintendo Switch's ongoing success. Discover our picks for the best PS2 games to understand its enduring appeal.

PlayStation 2 Slim - November 2004

With the PlayStation 2 Slim, Sony introduced a top-loading disc drive, enhanced efficiency, and a compact design. This model addressed issues with dual-layer discs and became the first in a series of Slim revisions across PlayStation generations.

PlayStation Portable - March 24, 2005

Marking Sony's entry into portable gaming, the PlayStation Portable (PSP) allowed users to play games, watch movies, and listen to music using UMDs. Its connectivity with PS2 and PS3, and a strong library of games, made it a standout in its category.

PlayStation 3 - November 17, 2006

PlayStation 3 elevated the gaming experience with the introduction of PlayStation Network (PSN), online multiplayer, digital downloads, and backwards compatibility with PS1 and PS2 games. Additionally, it supported Blu-ray discs, positioning consoles as top Blu-ray players in 2024.

PlayStation 3 Slim - September 1, 2009

Arriving three years after the original, the PlayStation 3 Slim was significantly lighter and more efficient, though it notably lacked backwards compatibility with earlier PlayStation titles.

PlayStation Vita - February 22, 2012

After nearly seven years, Sony introduced the PlayStation Vita, a powerhouse in portable gaming with advanced features and connectivity with PS3 and later PS4 through Remote Play.

PlayStation 3 Super Slim - September 25, 2012

As the final revision of the PS3, the Super Slim model offered a top-loading Blu-ray drive, enhanced efficiency, and durability, setting a high standard for longevity.

PlayStation 4 - November 15, 2013

With internals over five times faster than the PS3, the PlayStation 4 delivered stunning visuals in games like Uncharted 4 and God of War. It also introduced a removable HDD and the ergonomic DualShock 4 controller.

PlayStation 4 Slim - September 15, 2016

PlayStation 4 Slim offered a more power-efficient, compact design without compromising performance, making it a favorite for many gamers.

PlayStation 4 Pro - November 10, 2016

Introducing 4K support and HDR, the PlayStation 4 Pro was a significant upgrade, doubling the GPU power of the original PS4 and enabling higher frame rates.

PlayStation 5 - November 12, 2020

As the most powerful PlayStation to date, the PS5 supports ray tracing, 120FPS, and native 4K output. The DualSense controller added adaptive triggers and haptic feedback, enhancing gameplay. Explore our list of the best PS5 games to see its potential.

PlayStation 5 Slim - November 10, 2023

PlayStation 5 Slim maintained the powerful internals of its predecessor but in a smaller package with a modular design, allowing for a separate disc drive purchase.

PlayStation 5 Pro - November 7, 2024

Confirmed by leaks and officially unveiled during Sony's PlayStation 5 Technical Presentation, the PS5 Pro focuses on higher frame rates, enhanced ray tracing, and machine learning via PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution (PSSR). It also adopts 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 marked the significant console upgrade for 2024. As for the next generation, speculation suggests the PS6 could launch anywhere between 2026 and 2030.