Summary of PlayStation 4 (PS4) Historical Model Numbers and How to Choose

PlayStation 4 (Non-Pro) Model Numbers

The PlayStation 4 (Non-Pro) model numbers are broadly divided into:

• CUH-1000 series (Initial model)
• CUH-2000 series (PS4 Slim model)

These are divided into two types.

As can be inferred from their names, the differences between the CUH-1000 series and the CUH-2000 series lie in the main body design, body size, and maximum power consumption. There are no games that cannot be played just because it is the initial model.

If Buying New, Choose the Final Model

Since the price of a brand-new PS4 has not dropped for about the past four years, if you plan to purchase it new, there is no problem choosing the latest model, the "CUH-2200". As the next-generation "PlayStation 5 (PS5)" was released at the end of 2020, it is unlikely that any new PS4 models will be released.

However, since backward compatibility was introduced with the PS5, allowing the majority of PS4 software to run on the PS5, as of 2020, buying a brand-new PS4 may feel somewhat questionable.

PlayStation 4 Slim (CUH-2200)

The CUH-2200 has gained popularity as the late and final model of the standard PS4. Being the final model, not only is it available new, but high-quality used units are also widely distributed on platforms like Rakuten Ichiba, adding to its appeal.

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If Buying Used, the CUH-2000 Series is Recommended

When purchasing used or on eBay, there are significant differences between the CUH-1000 series and the CUH-2000 series, so it’s best to decide based on the price balance.

Considering the slimmer body size and reduced power consumption, if the price difference is not large, the CUH-2000 series (PS4 Slim) is recommended.

PlayStation 4 Slim (CUH-2000)

The first model of the PS4 Slim series. Since new units are hardly in circulation anymore, you will need to look for used ones. In some cases, the price difference from the CUH-2200 on the used market is small, so careful price comparison is recommended.

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PlayStation 4 Pro Series Model Numbers

The model with enhanced graphic performance (GPU) compared to the standard PlayStation 4 is the "PlayStation 4 Pro (PS4 Pro)."
Its main feature lies in display output: while the standard PS4 supports Full HD output, the PS4 Pro supports 4K output.

Thanks to the improved hardware performance, the maximum power consumption and body weight have significantly increased compared to the standard PS4.

All PS4 Pro units belong to the "CUH-7000 series." Although there appear to be minor internal revisions depending on the model, there are said to be no differences in appearance, weight, or maximum power consumption.

The Price Increase of PS5 Makes Used PS4 Pro a Cost-Effective Choice

Since the price of the current version of the PS5 has risen significantly, if you don’t plan to play the latest games, purchasing a used PS4 Pro offers excellent cost performance.

Even used, the early versions of the PS5 cost over $500, so for light gamers, enjoying games on a PS4 Pro—which can be obtained used for around the $100 range—can be considered a very good option.

PlayStation 4 Pro (CUH-7200)

An early model of the PS4 Pro. In some cases, it is sold in the used market for nearly the same price as the PS4 Slim CUH-2200, making the CUH-7200 a great bargain if you value graphics and performance.

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When Buying Used or Through Flea Markets, Compare with the Standard PS4

Perhaps due to their lower availability, used PS4 Pro units are often sold at prices close to their original retail price, which diminishes the typical benefits of buying used. Therefore, if purchasing used, it’s better to compare the price difference with a standard PS4 before making a decision.

Especially if the TV or monitor you use for your PS4 is not 4K-compatible, the standard PS4 will be more than sufficient.

Should You Upgrade from the Standard PS4?

If you currently own a standard PS4 and are considering switching to a PS4 Pro, it’s better to simply wait until the distribution of the PS5 stabilizes.

Especially if you rarely play disc-based games, the price of the PS4 Pro and the PS5 Digital Edition is essentially the same, so there’s little reason to purchase the older-generation PS4 Pro at the same cost.

List of All PlayStation 4 Model Numbers

Finally, here is a summary list of all PlayStation 4 model numbers.

We have now looked at the historical model numbers and how to choose a PlayStation 4 (PS4).

• Standard (CUH-1000 series / CUH-2000 series) or Pro (CUH-7000 series)
• First model (CUH-1000 series) or Slim (CUH-2000 series)

As long as you remember these two points, you can identify the type of PS4 without memorizing all the model numbers in detail, so just keep these in mind.

For those who are not particular about graphics quality, the CUH-2200 is recommended due to its lower power consumption.

PlayStation 4 Slim (CUH-2200)

The CUH-2200 is highly popular as the later and final model of the standard PS4. Since it is the final model, not only new units but also well-maintained used units are widely available on platforms such as Rakuten Ichiba, which is one of its major appeals.

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