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The best PS3 for retro gaming depends on what you want to play. If you want to use PS2 discs, buy only a console whose complete regional model number appears on Sony’s compatibility list—and remember that Sony promises support for most, not all, PS2-format discs. For PS3 games, there is no evidence-based universal winner among revisions: choose based on the condition, testing, included equipment, and return terms of the specific used console.
Which PS3 should you buy for retro gaming?
Use your game library to narrow the choice before comparing listings:
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
Sony Playstation 3 160GB System (Renewed) | $184.24 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
|
Sony PlayStation 3 Slim 320 GB Charcoal Black Console (Renewed) | $216.06 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
|
PlayStation 3 Slim Console 120GB (Old Model) (Renewed) | $160.33 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
|
PlayStation 3 500 GB Super Slim System (Renewed) | $228.22 | Buy on Amazon |
| 5 |
|
Sony PlayStation 3 - 80GB System (Renewed) | $217.22 | Buy on Amazon |
- For PS2 discs: select a model and regional suffix that Sony lists as supporting most PS2-format discs. Verify the sticker on the actual console; appearance and storage capacity do not establish compatibility.
- For PS3 discs: prioritize a demonstrably working unit with a working controller and disc drive. No revision-specific reliability rate or current-price comparison establishes one model as the best buy.
- For Blu-ray movies: confirm that the console can update its system software and play a Blu-ray disc. PlayStation Support says a PS3 needs a renewed Blu-ray player encryption key to play Blu-ray discs.
These are different buying decisions: PS2 compatibility depends on the exact model, while PS3 game use depends heavily on the condition of the individual used console.
Which PS3 models play PS2 discs?
Sony’s PS3 user guide lists selected regional models that play most PS2-format discs and SACDs. Check the full CECH code on the console’s label and match it to Sony’s list before buying for PS2 playback.
#1 Best Overall
- Internet Ready With Built-in Wi-Fi with a Cell Broadband Engine Advanced Microprocessor
- When starting up the system for the first time, hold the power button until a "screen display" message shows up on screen. Select the desired output, and the system will startup normally.
- 160GB system
- Blu-ray player to give you pristine picture quality
- The best high-definition viewing experience available
| Region | Models Sony lists for most PS2-format discs and SACDs |
|---|---|
| Japan | CECHA00 and CECHB00 |
| United States and Canada | CECHA01, CECHB01, and CECHE01 |
| Latin America and Korea | Selected CECHE models; check Sony’s regional model list for the complete code. |
| Europe, Australia, and New Zealand | CECHC variants; check Sony’s regional model list for the complete code. |
The regional suffix matters. Do not assume a PS3 supports PS2 discs because it looks like an early model or because a listing calls it “backward compatible.” Sony’s archived CECHK08 documentation, for example, says PS2-format software titles do not perform on that particular system; that model-specific point should not be generalized to other revisions.
“Most” does not mean every PS2 game
Sony cautions that playback may differ from original PS2 hardware and that some disc types may not play, depending on the system model. A listed console is therefore a better candidate for PS2 discs, not a guarantee that every title in your collection will work. If a particular game is essential, ask the seller to demonstrate that title on the actual console.
Rank #2
- New slimmer, lighter PS3 system, Wireless controller
- 320GB HDD for storing games, music, videos, and photos
- Streams thousands of movies and TV shows instantly from Netflix
- Built-in Blu-ray player with 3D capabilities. HDMI output for 1080p resolution.
How to choose a used PS3 for PS3 games
When PS2 playback is not a requirement, judge the listing rather than trying to crown a revision-level winner. The available evidence does not establish dependable failure rates by model or current used prices, and no individual listing has been verified. Ask the seller for concrete evidence of the unit’s condition and what is included.
- Console: request a clear photo of the model label and a demonstration that the system powers on.
- Disc drive: ask to see it load and read a PS3 game disc.
- Controller: confirm one is included and that its buttons and wireless input work. If buying a replacement, check that the listing explicitly identifies PS3 compatibility and whether a charging cable is included.
- Cables and storage: confirm the power and video cables and the installed storage included in the sale.
- Return terms: check the seller’s return policy in case the console fails after arrival.
These checks are requests to make of a seller, not proof that any particular console has been tested or that an accessory is officially licensed.
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- HDMI + Bravia Sync functionality that provides both 1080p output resolution.
- A new 33% slimmer, 36% lighter PlayStation 3 entertainment system that is also more energy efficient.
- Includes a Dualshock 3 wireless controller and a built-in 120GB HDD for storing games, music, videos, and photos.
- Built-in Wi-Fi for connectivity anywhere and multiple media format compatibility.
- Free membership and access to all the events, as well as game, movie, TV and other media content available on the PlayStation Network (PSN).
What to check for Blu-ray movie playback
PlayStation Support’s PS3 system software support page states: “Please note, to play Blu-ray discs, your PS3 console needs a renewed Blu-ray player encryption key.” It directs users to update through Settings > System Update > Update via Internet.
For a used console intended to play movies, ask whether it can connect to the internet, complete a system update, and read a Blu-ray movie disc. A seller demonstration is more useful than assuming that a working game console is already ready for Blu-ray playback.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Built-in Wi-Fi access for easy connection to gaming services and the Internet
- Built-in Blu-ray player to give you the best high-definition viewing experience and pristine picture quality
- 80 GB of hard disk storage for all your games, music, videos, and photos
- This product is NOT backwards compatible
Rank #4
- Your Favorite Franchises Live Here: Dig into a huge catalog of exclusive games, including generation defining titles like The Last of Us and entries in popular franchises like LittleBigPlanet, God of War, Gran Turismo, and UNCHARTED.
- High-Definition Blu-ray player for the best movie experience. Plays DVDs and CDs
- 500GB HDD for storing games, music, videos, and photos
- Internet ready with built-in Wi-Fi
- Blu-ray player
Questions to ask before buying
- What is the complete CECH model number on the console label?
- If you plan to play PS2 discs, does that exact regional model appear on Sony’s compatibility list, and can the seller demonstrate your specific game?
- Can the seller show the console powering on, accepting controller input, loading a disc, and reading a PS3 game?
- If Blu-ray movies matter, can the console update and play a Blu-ray movie disc?
- Which controller, cables, and storage are included, and what are the return terms?
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
