PlayStation 3 model numbers: which one do you have?
Where the model number is
Look at the label on the back or underneath; the model number is usually printed next to the serial number.
How to read it
Original (fat) consoles read CECH and a letter (CECHA01, CECHG01…); slim consoles CECH-2xxx; super slim CECH-4xxx.
Not sure? Type the number into the finder.
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Fat, early (CECHA–CECHE)
Made 2006–2008
What's different: The early fat models, which play PlayStation 2 discs; on CECHC and CECHE units that's partly done in software, with fewer games working.
Parts and cables: Search for listings that name your model number, and check the photos match your console.
Checked against Wikipedia: PlayStation 3 models (secondary source, Oct 18, 2026).
Fat, later (CECHG–CECHQ)
Made 2007–2009
What's different: Later fat models: no PlayStation 2 disc support, two USB ports instead of four, and no memory card readers.
Parts and cables: Search for listings that name your model number, and check the photos match your console.
Checked against Wikipedia: PlayStation 3 models (secondary source, Oct 18, 2026).
Slim (CECH-2xxx)
Made 2009 onward
What's different: The 2009 slim model: smaller, uses less power, no main power switch on the back and no PlayStation 2 disc support.
Parts and cables: Drives and power supplies differ from the fat and super slim models; search for listings that name your CECH number.
Checked against Wikipedia: PlayStation 3 models (secondary source, Oct 18, 2026) and Wikipedia: PlayStation 3 (secondary source, Oct 18, 2026).
Super Slim (CECH-4xxx)
Made 2012 onward
What's different: The 2012 super slim model, with a top-loading disc drive under a sliding lid.
Parts and cables: Its disc drive is its own; search for listings that name CECH-4xxx or super slim.
Checked against Wikipedia: PlayStation 3 (secondary source, Oct 18, 2026).
Before you buy, check that the listing names your exact model number and that its photos match your console. The notes here are general guidance written by us, not a promise that a part fits.