PlayStation 4 Model Guide - DigitalUpBeat - Your one step review site for all your tech needs

Summary

PlayStation 4 Model Guide: PS4 Model List and Comparison

The PlayStation 4 (PS4), a titan in the home video game console market, was launched by Sony Interactive Entertainment in November 2013, quickly becoming a favorite among gamers worldwide. Its success stemmed from a compelling combination of powerful hardware, a strong library of exclusive titles, and an accessible user experience. Throughout its lifecycle, Sony refined the PS4’s design and features, resulting in several hardware revisions and even a significant mid-generation upgrade with the PS4 Pro.This guide serves as a comprehensive overview of the various PS4 models available, meticulously detailing their key features and distinguishing characteristics. This information is crucial, whether you’re a newcomer considering your first PS4 purchase or a seasoned gamer contemplating an upgrade.

The PS4’s appeal extends beyond gaming. It functions as a versatile multimedia hub, allowing users to stream movies and TV shows from platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video. It also supports Blu-ray disc playback, offering a premium viewing experience.

Understanding the different PS4 chassis types – the original “Fat” model, the streamlined “Slim,” and the performance-enhanced “Pro” – is essential for making an informed decision. Each model offers a unique set of features and capabilities, catering to different needs and preferences. From the groundbreaking single-player narratives of exclusives like *God of War* and *The Last of Us Part II* to the online multiplayer experiences of *Fortnite* and *Call of Duty*, the PS4 has provided incredible gaming experiences. This guide will clarify the nuances of each model, empowering you to select the PS4 that best fits your gaming lifestyle and entertainment needs.

Quick Comparison: PS4 vs Slim vs Pro

Feature	Original PS4	PS4 Slim	PS4 Pro
Max Resolution	1080p	1080p (HDR)	4K (Checkerboard)
Optical Audio Port	Yes	No	Yes
USB Ports	2 x USB 3.0	2 x USB 3.1	3 x USB 3.1
Wi-Fi	2.4GHz only	2.4GHz / 5GHz	2.4GHz / 5GHz

Original PS4 (2013-2016)

The original PS4 was the first iteration of the console, and it came in two flavors: a 500GB model and a 1TB model.
It had a matte black finish (later models), a chunky design, and a light bar on the front that could change color to reflect what was happening on screen. Early launch models featured a glossy hard drive cover.
The original PS4 was also the loudest of all the PS4 models, and it had some issues with overheating due to older fan architecture.

Model numbers	CUH-10xxA, CUH-11xxA/B, CUH-12xxA/B
Storage	500GB or 1TB (User Upgradeable)
Dimensions	12 x 10.8 x 2 inches
Weight	6.2 pounds
Features	Blu-ray drive, Wi-Fi (2.4GHz), 2 USB 3.0 ports, HDMI 1.4 output, optical audio output (Toslink)

The “Fat” PS4 established the generation. While it lacks the sleekness of the Slim or the power of the Pro, it retains the Optical Audio Out port, which is crucial for older surround sound systems and high-end gaming headsets like the Astro A40s, a feature removed from the Slim.

Pros

Includes Optical Audio Output (removed in Slim).
Classic, angular aesthetic with status light strip.
Cheaper on the used market.

Cons

No 5GHz Wi-Fi support.
Touch-sensitive buttons on launch models can be faulty.
Loudest fan operation.

PS4 Slim (2016-2020)

The PS4 Slim was a slimmer and lighter version of the original PS4, released in 2016 to replace the original hardware.
It came in a variety of colors, including black, white, and limited edition colors (Gold, Silver, Days of Play Blue).
The PS4 Slim also had a quieter fan and used significantly less power than the original PS4 thanks to a more efficient APU.
However, it did not support 4K resolution or HDR gaming natively at launch (though HDR was added via firmware update 4.00 for all models).

Model numbers	CUH-20xxA, CUH-21xxA, CUH-22xxA
Storage	500GB, 1TB, or 2TB
Dimensions	11 x 10 x 1.5 inches
Weight	4.6 pounds
Features	Blu-ray drive, Wi-Fi (2.4GHz & 5GHz), 2 USB 3.1 ports, HDMI 2.0 output, NO optical audio output

The Slim became the standard PS4 model. It introduced the updated DualShock 4 controller (V2) which allows data transfer over USB for lower latency. While it lost the Optical Port, it gained 5GHz Wi-Fi capabilities, making wireless downloads much faster and more stable.

Pros

Compact and energy-efficient design.
Supports 5GHz Wi-Fi for better streaming.
Physical power/eject buttons (more reliable).
Runs much quieter than the original.

Cons

Removal of Optical Audio port limits some audio setups.
No performance boost over original PS4.

PS4 Pro (2016-2020)

The PS4 Pro was a mid-generation upgrade to the PS4, released in 2016, designed to compete with 4K media devices.
It was more powerful than the other PS4 models and supported 4K resolution (via checkerboard rendering) and enhanced HDR gaming.
The PS4 Pro also had a larger hard drive, 1GB of extra DDR3 RAM for background tasks, and a faster processor with an overclocked CPU and GPU.
However, it was also the most expensive of the PS4 models and was quite large and heavy, utilizing a “triple-layer” design.

Model numbers	CUH-70xxA, CUH-71xxA, CUH-72xxA
Storage	1TB or 2TB (SATA 3 interface)
Dimensions	12.8 x 11.6 x 2.1 inches
Weight	7.2 pounds
Features	Blu-ray drive, Wi-Fi (5GHz), 3 USB 3.1 ports (one rear), HDMI 2.0a, optical audio output, Boost Mode

The Pro introduced “Boost Mode,” which improves the frame rate and stability of older games that haven’t been specifically patched for the Pro. It also features a third USB port on the back, which is ideal for connecting the PlayStation VR (PSVR) headset or an external hard drive without cluttering the front.

Pros

Supports 4K Gaming and video streaming.
Better performance in VR titles.
Rear USB port and Optical Audio Out.
Boost Mode improves non-patched games.

Cons

Fan can get very loud (specifically CUH-7000/7100 models).
Blu-ray drive does not support 4K UHD discs.

Which PS4 model is right for you?

The best PS4 model for you will depend on your needs and budget. If you are on a tight budget, the PS4 Slim is a great option. If you want the best possible performance and are willing to pay for it, the PS4 Pro is the way to go. And if you are somewhere in between, the original PS4 is a good compromise, especially if you need that optical port on a budget.

Here are some additional factors to consider:

1. How important is 4K resolution and HDR gaming to you?

If you have a 4K TV and want to experience games in the highest possible quality with checkerboard rendering, then the PS4 Pro is the only option. The Slim and Original are locked to 1080p.

2. How much storage do you need?

Games are getting bigger and bigger (e.g., Call of Duty: Warzone), so you may want to consider a model with more storage. While all models allow you to upgrade the internal hard drive, the Pro typically comes with 1TB standard.

3. Do you care about the design of the console?

The PS4 Slim is the most stylish and unobtrusive of the three models, but the PS4 Pro is the most powerful. The Original has a distinct “gamer” aesthetic but takes up more desk space than the Slim.

I hope this guide has helped you choose the right PS4 model for you!

Bertine Gaynor

A passionate tech enthusiast with a deep focus on PC hardware, gaming rigs, and performance tuning, Bertine Gaynor has spent years exploring the latest innovations in processors, GPUs, and custom builds. On DigitalUpbeat.com, he shares hands-on reviews, performance breakdowns, and expert insights to help readers make smart hardware choices. When not testing components, he’s often optimizing setups for peak efficiency or diving into the latest tech trends shaping the future of computing.