PS3:Buying Guide

This page serves as a reference for informaton on each model of the PlayStation 3. These are all objectively based recommendations, with no bias for the appearance of the console. Acronym definitions can be found on the FAQ page.

While this page mainly focuses on retail consoles (CECH), most charateristics of retail models will also apply to DECH test kits and vice versa. DECR hardware will not be covered on this page.

First Generation Fat Consoles

 * A good way to distinguish first generation fats is by looking at the front of the console and seeing if the silver lining above the disc drive has reflective chrome finish and has 4 USB ports. First gen fats also have much more ventilation on the case compared to later fats. CECH-B consoles have a unique black trim that wasn't used on any other fat model. PS3s with these charateristics are guaranteed to be a first generation fat.

Slim Consoles

 * IMPORTANT NOTE FOR CECH-25XXs: Consoles produced circa April 2011 and later are known to have an updated hardware encryption key (metldr2) and a MinVerChk of 3.60, and therefore cannot use CFW. A quick way to check if the console is exploitable is by looking at the datecode for a 0, 9, or 1A. (Consoles made between January and April 2011 [1A Datecode] usually can't be downgraded to 3.55 can still use CFW with a noFSM patch, as they still have the old encryption key.) Another method is check the manufacture date if it was produced prior to April 2011. Consoles that fall into these date ranges can be patched to install CFW. For consoles made during or after this date, you can check if it is patchable by running MinVerChk or Bgtoolset on the console to ensure it reports 3.56 or below.

Super Slim Consoles

 * IMPORTANT NOTE TO SUPER SLIMS: This generation of console is not compatible with CFW and cannot be modified to run classic PS3 homebrew. The only exploit that can be run is HAN or HEN, which allows for game backups to be run as well as some basic homebrew.
 * You can also get Super Slims with a 40nm RSX if you happen to get one with a MPX-001 or a MSX-001 motherboard.

Tips

 * Always change the thermal paste when you buy a new console. This will ensure the longevity of the console and also make it quieter during use.
 * When you get a CFW compatible console, it's recommended to install CFW and install webMAN MOD. webMAN allows you to modify the fan speed of the console which will also strongly contribute to increasing the maximum lifespan of it. A recommended setting is to set the temerature target to 70°C or below.