PlayStation 3 models#Original model
{{Short description|Overview of the PlayStation 3 models}}
The PlayStation 3 (PS3) video game console has been produced in various models during its life cycle. At launch, the PlayStation 3 was available with either a 20 or 60 GB hard disk drive in the US and Japan, respectively— priced from US$499 to US$599; and with either a 40, 60, or 80 GB hard disk drive in Europe, priced from £299 to £425.{{cite web |last=Klepek |first=Patrick |url=http://www.1up.com/news/e3-2007-sony-confirms-ps3 |title=E3 2007: Sony Confirms PS3 Price Cut Only Temporary|website=1UP|date=2007-07-13 |access-date=2013-08-23 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131226225630/http://www.1up.com/news/e3-2007-sony-confirms-ps3 |archive-date=2013-12-26 }} Since then, Sony has released two further redesigned models, the "Slim" and "Super Slim" models. {{As of|2017|3}}, the total number of consoles sold is estimated at 87.4 million.{{Cite web|url= https://www.sie.com/en/corporate/data.html |title=Sony Business Development |website=sie.com|access-date=November 17, 2019}}
Original model
There are several original PlayStation 3 hardware models, which are commonly referred to by the size of their included hard disk drive: 20, 40, 60, 80, or 160 GB.{{cite web| url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2006/05/25/e3-2006-the-final-word-on-playstation| title=E3 2006: The final word on PlayStation| date=2006-05-24| website=IGN| access-date=2022-04-29| url-status=live| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070813085038/http://ps3.ign.com/articles/709/709973p1.html| archive-date=2007-08-13}}{{cite web| url=http://www.us.playstation.com/PS3/About/Comparison| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080213150843/http://www.us.playstation.com/PS3/About/Comparison| archive-date=2008-02-13| title=PlayStation 3 – Things to Know — PlayStation 3 model comparison| publisher=SCEA| access-date=2008-01-14}} Although referred to by their HDD size, the capabilities of the consoles vary by region and release date. The only difference in the appearance of the first five models was the color of the trim, number of USB ports, the presence or absence of a door (which covers the flash card readers on equipped models) and some minor changes to the air vents. All retail packages include one or two Sixaxis controllers or a DualShock 3 controller (beginning June 12, 2008{{cite web |url=http://www.kotaku.com.au/2008/02/metal_gear_solid_4_ps3_bundle_announced-2/ |title=Metal Gear Solid 4 PS3 Bundle Announced|website=Kotaku |access-date=2008-10-27 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090809234428/http://www.kotaku.com.au/2008/02/metal_gear_solid_4_ps3_bundle_announced-2/ |archive-date=2009-08-09 }}{{cite web |url=http://kotaku.com/361158/metal-gear-solid-4-the-ps3-bundle-the-cardboard-box |title=Metal Gear Solid 4: The PS3 Bundle: The Cardboard Box |website=Kotaku.com |access-date=2008-10-27 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081217022520/http://kotaku.com/361158/metal-gear-solid-4-the-ps3-bundle-the-cardboard-box |archive-date=2008-12-17 }}), one Type-A to Mini-B USB cable (for connecting the controller and PlayStation Portable to the system), one composite video/stereo audio output cable, one Ethernet cable (20, 60 and CECHExx 80 GB only) and one power cable.{{cite web|url=http://us.playstation.com/ps3/systems/|title=PS3 80GB bundle contents|publisher=SCEA|access-date=2008-10-24|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081204042239/http://www.us.playstation.com/PS3/Systems|archive-date=2008-12-04}}{{cite web|url=http://us.playstation.com/ps3/systems/compare/|title=Compare PlayStation 3 Systems|publisher=SCEA|access-date=2009-08-14|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090630054647/http://www.us.playstation.com/PS3/Systems/Compare|archive-date=2009-06-30}} The original and CECHExx models were also the only video game consoles ever made to feature a Super Audio CD player.
All models support software emulation of the original PlayStation, but support for PlayStation 2 backward compatibility diminished with later compatible models and the last model to have integrated backward compatibility was the NTSC 80 GB (CECHE) Metal Gear Solid 4 Bundle. Compatibility issues with games for both systems are detailed in a public database hosted by the manufacturer.{{cite web|url=http://us.playstation.com/support/compatiblestatus/index.htm|title=Backward Compatibility Status|publisher=SCEA|work=PlayStation|access-date=2011-01-01|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110609064100/http://us.playstation.com/support/compatiblestatus/index.htm|archive-date=2011-06-09}} All models, excluding the 20 GB model, include 802.11 b/g Wi-Fi.
In addition to all of the features of the 20 GB model, the 60 GB model has internal IEEE 802.11 b/g Wi-Fi, multiple flash card readers (SD/MultiMedia Card, CompactFlash Type I/Type II, Microdrive,{{cite web| url=http://www.playstation.com/manual/pdf/PS3-01-1.6_1.pdf| title=PlayStation 3 Safety & Support manual| publisher=SCEI| access-date=2008-01-15| url-status=live| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080216091247/http://www.playstation.com/manual/pdf/PS3-01-1.6_1.pdf| archive-date=2008-02-16}} Memory Stick/PRO/Duo) and a chrome colored trim.{{cite web|url=http://www.us.playstation.com/ps3/about/specs |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080213085022/http://www.us.playstation.com/ps3/about/specs |archive-date=2008-02-13 |title=About PlayStation 3 – Technical Specifications |publisher=PlayStation|access-date=2008-02-25}} In terms of hardware, the 80 GB model CECHE released in South Korea is identical to the 60 GB model CECHC released in the PAL regions, except for the difference in hard drive size.{{cite web| url=https://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/no-plans-to-bring-80gb-ps3-to-europe-says-sony| title=South Korean PS3| date=2007-05-21| publisher=gamesindustry.biz| access-date=2008-01-14| url-status=live| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080410101511/http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/no-plans-to-bring-80gb-ps3-to-europe-says-sony| archive-date=2008-04-10}}
The European 60GB model (CECHC), the South Korean and North American CECHE 80GB model excludes the PlayStation 2 "Emotion Engine" CPU chip with it being replaced by an emulated version via the Cell Broadband Engine.{{cite web| url=https://support.us.playstation.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/232| archive-url=https://archive.today/20130120024247/https://support.us.playstation.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/232| url-status=dead| archive-date=2013-01-20| title=Playing PlayStation/PlayStation 2 Games on a PlayStation 3 System| publisher=Sony| access-date=2008-01-14}} However, it retains the "Graphics Synthesizer" GPU resulting in a hybrid hardware and software emulation.{{cite web |url=http://www.next-gen.biz/news/ps2-software-emulation-unlikely-40gb-ps3 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120907172240/http://www.edge-online.com/news/ps2-software-emulation-unlikely-40gb-ps3|url-status=dead |archive-date=2012-09-07 |title=PS2 Software Emulation Unlikely for 40GB PS3 |publisher= Edge Magazine |date=2007-10-08 |access-date=2011-06-28 }} Due to the elimination of the "Emotion Engine" and its replacement with a software-emulated version, the level of PlayStation 2 compatibility was slightly reduced. The 40 GB, 80 GB (CECHL, CECHM, and CECHK) and 160 GB models have two USB ports instead of the four USB ports on other models and do not include multiple flash card readers, SACD support,{{cite web |url=http://www.ps3sacd.com/faq.html |title=PS3 SACD FAQ |publisher=ps3sacd.com |access-date=2009-08-22 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090903204107/http://www.ps3sacd.com/faq.html |archive-date=2009-09-03 }} or backward compatibility with PlayStation 2 games.{{cite web| url=https://www.cnet.com/reviews/sony-playstation-3-review/| title=Sony PlayStation 3 review| date=2007-11-16| website=CNET| access-date=2022-04-29| url-status=live| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080119183551/http://reviews.cnet.com/consoles/sony-playstation-3-80gb/4505-10109_7-32733576.html| archive-date=2008-01-19}} This was due to the removal of "Graphics Synthesizer" GPU, which stripped the units of all PlayStation 2 based hardware.
No official Wi-Fi or flash memory card readers were ever released by Sony for the 20 GB system, although Sony had plans to do so.{{cite news |author=Ellie Gibson |date=2006-05-16 |url=http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/20gb-playstation-3-will-be-upgradeable-says-sony |title=20 GB PlayStation 3 will be upgradeable, says Sony |work=gamesindustry.biz |access-date=2006-05-16 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080420075146/http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/20gb-playstation-3-will-be-upgradeable-says-sony |archive-date=2008-04-20 }} As of September 2009, Sony had placed no further emphasis on these proposed add-ons. Nevertheless, as the model features four USB 2.0 ports, wireless networking and flash memory card support can already be obtained through the use of widely available external USB adapters and third-party PS3-specific media hubs.
It was rumored that the Cell processors in the third-generation PS3s (40 GB, 2008 80 GB (CECHL, CECHM, CECHK) and 160 GB) would move from a 90 nm process to the newer 65 nm process,{{cite web |url=https://www.engadget.com/2007-10-30-40gb-ps3-features-65nm-chips-lower-power-consumption.html |title=40GB PS3 features 65nm chips, lower power consumption (30% less) |publisher=Engadget |author=Conrad Quilty Harper |date=2007-10-30 |access-date=2022-04-29 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071031023437/http://www.engadget.com/2007/10/30/40gb-ps3-features-65nm-chips-lower-power-consumption/ |archive-date=2007-10-31 }} which SCEI CEO Kaz Hirai later confirmed,{{cite web |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2007/11/08/new-ps3-uses-65nm-process |title=New PS3 Uses 65nm Process |publisher=IGN|author=Anoop Gantayat |date=2007-11-08 |access-date=2022-04-29 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071109135043/http://ps3.ign.com/articles/833/833700p1.html |archive-date=2007-11-09 }} and later to 45 nm. This change lowers the power consumption of the console and makes it less expensive to produce.{{cite web |url=https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2008/02/ibm-shrinks-cell-to-45nm-cheaper-ps3s-will-follow/ |title=IBM shrinks Cell to 45nm |website=Ars Technica |author=Jon Stokes |date=2008-02-07 |access-date=2022-04-29 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090201000324/http://arstechnica.com/gaming/news/2008/02/ibm-shrinks-cell-to-45nm-cheaper-ps3s-will-follow.ars |archive-date=2009-02-01 }}{{Clear}}
Slim model
File:PS3-Slim-Console-Vert.jpg
File:PS3 320GB Sliding Motor Disc.jpg
The redesigned version of the PlayStation 3 (commonly referred to as the "PS3 Slim" and officially branded "PS3") features an upgradeable 120 GB, 160 GB, 250 GB or 320 GB hard drive and is 33% smaller, 36% lighter and consumes 34% (CECH-20xx) or 45% (CECH-21xx) less power than the previous model,{{cite news |title=Entertainment on PS3 has a new look |publisher=PlayStation UK |url=http://uk.playstation.com/games-media/news/articles/detail/item229653/Entertainment-on-PS3-has-a-new-look/ |date=2009-08-18 |access-date=2009-08-18 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090821173909/http://uk.playstation.com/games-media/news/articles/detail/item229653/Entertainment-on-PS3-has-a-new-look/ |archive-date=2009-08-21 }}{{cite news |title=Sony unveils slimmer PS3: $300, lands in September (updated!) |publisher=Engadget |author=Paul Miller |url=https://www.engadget.com/2009-08-18-sony-debuts-slimmer-ps3.html |date=2009-08-18 |access-date=2022-04-29 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210716103359/https://www.engadget.com/2009-08-18-sony-debuts-slimmer-ps3.html |archive-date=2021-07-16}}{{cite web |url=https://www.engadget.com/2009-08-27-playstation-3-slim-review.html |title=PlayStation 3 Slim review |publisher=Engadget|access-date=2022-04-29 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100828102032/http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/27/playstation-3-slim-review/ |archive-date=2010-08-28 }} or one third of the original PS3 model. The Cell microprocessor moved to a 45 nm manufacturing process, which lets it run cooler and quieter than previous models, and the cooling system has been redesigned.{{cite web |url=https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2009/08/sony-answers-our-questions-about-the-new-playstation-3/ |title=Sony answers our questions about the new PlayStation 3 |date=August 18, 2009 |access-date=April 29, 2022|website=Ars Technica |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090820035753/http://arstechnica.com/gaming/news/2009/08/sony-answers-our-questions-about-the-new-playstation-3.ars |archive-date=August 20, 2009 }} The RSX moved to a 40 nm process{{cite web |url=https://www.engadget.com/2010/04/26/sony-ps3-upgraded-with-cooler-45-nm-rsx-graphics-chip-profits-a/ |title=Sony PS3 upgraded with cooler 40-nm RSX graphics chip, profits await (updated) |publisher=Engadget |access-date=2010-08-25 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100502030215/http://www.engadget.com/2010/04/26/sony-ps3-upgraded-with-cooler-45-nm-rsx-graphics-chip-profits-a |archive-date=2010-05-02 }} in the latest revision. The PS3 slim also includes support for CEC (more commonly referred to by its manufacturer brandings of BraviaSync, VIERA Link, EasyLink etc.) which allows control of the console over HDMI by using the TV's remote control. The PS3 Slim no longer has the "main power" switch like the previous PS3 models, similar to redesigned slimline PlayStation 2. Support for emulation to play PS2 titles is not present in the Slim version, however, shortly after the release of the PS3 Slim, Sony announced a new series of PS2 remasters called Classics HD as in PS2 and PSP titles remastered in HD for the PS3 with Trophies and sometimes PlayStation Move compatibility added. As of October 2011, PS2 classics are available for purchase in the PlayStation Store.{{cite web |author=Nathan Brown |url=http://www.next-gen.biz/news/ps2-classics-hit-psn-week |title=PS2 classics hit PSN this week |publisher=Edge Magazine |access-date=2012-07-19 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111003235716/http://www.next-gen.biz/news/ps2-classics-hit-psn-week |archive-date=2011-10-03 }}
The PS3 Slim was officially released on September 1, 2009, in North America and Europe and on September 3, 2009, in Japan, Australia and New Zealand.{{cite news |title=Entertainment on PS3 Has a New Look |publisher=PlayStation AU |url=http://au.playstation.com/games-media/news/articles/detail/item229652/Entertainment-on-PS3-has-a-new-look/ |date=2009-08-18 |access-date=2009-08-24 |url-status=dead |archive-url=http://archive.wikiwix.com/cache/20080607123818/http://au.playstation.com/games-media/news/articles/detail/item229652/Entertainment-on-PS3-has-a-new-look/ |archive-date=2008-06-07 }}{{cite web |title=Sony officially announces $299 PS3 Slim |website=CNET |url=http://news.cnet.com/8301-17938_105-10312144-1.html |first=David |last=Carnoy |date=2009-08-18 |access-date=2009-08-18 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110617033225/http://news.cnet.com/8301-17938_105-10312144-1.html |archive-date=2011-06-17 }} However, some retailers such as Amazon.com, Best Buy and GameStop started to sell the PS3 slim on August 25, 2009.{{cite web |title=Sony, GameStop Indicate PS3 Slim Available In U.S. Before September |website=Kotaku |url=https://kotaku.com/sony-gamestop-indicate-ps3-slim-available-in-u-s-befo-5342450 |author=Stephen Totilo |date=2009-08-21 |access-date=2022-04-29 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090826093137/http://kotaku.com/5342450/sony-gamestop-indicate-ps3-slim-shipping-early |archive-date=2009-08-26 }}{{cite news |title=PS3 Slim popping up all over the US (update: it's officially on sale) |publisher=Engadget |url=https://www.engadget.com/2009-08-25-ps3-slim-popping-up-all-over-the-us.html |author=Ross Miller |date=2009-08-25 |access-date=2022-04-29 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090827104002/http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/25/ps3-slim-popping-up-all-over-the-us/ |archive-date=2009-08-27 }} The PS3 Slim sold in excess of a million units in its first 3 weeks on sale.{{cite news|url=https://www.eurogamer.net/new-ps3-has-sold-over-one-million|title=New PS3 has sold over one million|newspaper=Eurogamer.net|date=24 September 2009 |access-date=2022-04-29|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091015012018/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/new-ps3-has-sold-over-one-million|archive-date=2009-10-15}} A 250 GB Final Fantasy XIII-themed PS3 Slim, which was white in color with pink designs, was officially announced on September 24, 2009, at the Tokyo Game Show as part of a bundle in Japan for Final Fantasy XIII, it was initially revealed in U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) filings as the PS3 CECH-2000B.{{cite news |title=PS3 Slim CECH-2000B 250GB Model Uncovered at FCC Site |publisher=ps3news |url=http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation-3/ps3-slim-cech-2000b-250gb-model-uncovered-at-fcc-site/ |author=CJPC |date=2009-08-18 |access-date=2009-08-22 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090821175704/http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation-3/ps3-slim-cech-2000b-250gb-model-uncovered-at-fcc-site |archive-date=2009-08-21 }}{{cite web |title=First Look At The Final Fantasy XIII PlayStation 3 |website=Kotaku |url=https://kotaku.com/first-look-at-the-final-fantasy-xiii-playstation-3-5366512 |date=2009-09-24 |access-date=2022-04-29 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190820190226/https://kotaku.com/first-look-at-the-final-fantasy-xiii-playstation-3-5366512 |archive-date=2019-08-20}} Sony Computer Entertainment Australia also announced later that day that it would be bringing the 250 GB PS3 slim to Australia which would be bundled with other games and will not feature the Final Fantasy XIII theme. Although no North American bundles have been announced for the 250 GB PS3 slim, it is sold as a stand-alone console in North America.{{cite web |title=250GB PS3 Slim bundles coming to Australia |publisher=Keebali Media |website=QJ.net |url=http://www.qj.net/qjnet/playstation-3/250gb-ps3-slim-bundles-coming-to-australia.html |date=2009-09-24 |access-date=2009-09-25 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110929111821/http://www.qj.net/qjnet/playstation-3/250gb-ps3-slim-bundles-coming-to-australia.html |archive-date=2011-09-29 }}
In July 2010, Sony announced two new sizes of the Slim PS3, 160 GB and 320 GB, with the 120 GB model being discontinued in Japan. These were launched on July 29, 2010, in Japan, with the 160 GB version available in "Classic White" as well as the standard "Charcoal Black". The black 160 GB version was also made available as a bundle with the Japan-only DVR accessory torne. It was later announced that the new sizes were to be launched in other regions, with the 160 GB model available from August 2010 in North America and October 2010 in Europe. The 320 GB model is to be available in North America only as part of a bundle with PlayStation Move, a PlayStation Eye and a copy of Sports Champions, and in Europe with PlayStation Move, a PlayStation Eye and a demo disc.{{cite web|title=Sony PlayStation Move Bundle Arrives in September|website=Mashable|url=https://mashable.com/archive/ps3-move-bundle|access-date=2022-04-29|date=2010-08-18|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100819060924/http://mashable.com/2010/08/17/ps3-move-bundle/|archive-date=2010-08-19}} The bundles were released on September 19, 2010, and September 15, 2010, respectively, to coincide with the launch of PlayStation Move.
Super Slim model
File:Sony-PlayStation-PS3-SuperSlim-Console-FL.jpg
In September 2012, Sony announced that a new slimmer PS3 redesign (CECH-4000) was due to be released in late 2012 and that it would be available with either a 250 GB or 500 GB hard drive.{{cite web|url=https://www.pcworld.com/article/461378/new-playstation-3-console-slims-down-for-the-holidays.html|title=New PlayStation 3 console slims down for the holidays|date=2012-09-19|access-date=2012-09-20|work=PC World|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120921113032/http://www.pcworld.com/article/2010081/new-playstation-3-console-slims-down-for-the-holidays.html|archive-date=2012-09-21}}
In PAL regions, the 250 GB model is not available; a model with 12 GB of flash memory (CECH-4000A) is available in its place.{{cite web|url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2012-09-19-sony-shocks-world-and-announces-ps3-super-duper-slim|title=Sony shocks world and announces PS3 super duper Slim|date=2012-09-19|access-date=2012-09-20|work=Eurogamer|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120920045558/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2012-09-19-sony-shocks-world-and-announces-ps3-super-duper-slim|archive-date=2012-09-20}} A standalone 250 GB hard drive (CECH-ZHD1) is available to upgrade this model. In the UK, the 500 GB model was released on September 28, 2012, while the 12 GB model was made available on October 12, 2012.
CECH-4000B consoles (those with hard drives) weigh approximately {{convert|2.1|kg|lb|abbr=on}}, while the CECH-4000A weighs approximately {{Convert|2.0|kg|lb|abbr=on}}. Both are roughly 25% smaller and about 20% lighter than the original PS3 Slim. This version has a sliding disc cover rather than the slot-loading drive found on the previous PlayStation 3 consoles.
A CECH-4200 model with nearly identical hardware to that of the CECH-4000 model was introduced in 2013 to follow the AACS rule of inhibiting analog (component and composite) output of Blu-ray disc content effective since 2014. While in previous 3000 and 4000 models the output limit was already set at 480i to meet a January 1, 2011, deadline in agreement also with the aforementioned AACS.{{cite web|url=http://manuals.playstation.net/document/en/ps3/current/settings/videooutput.html|title=PS3 Video Output Settings|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070110035146/http://manuals.playstation.net/document/en/ps3/current/settings/videooutput.html|archive-date=2007-01-10}}
A vertical stand (CECH-ZST1J) is also available for these models and was launched on the same day as the consoles in their respective regions.