Sony PlayStation 3 - 40 GB Black

This is the dumbed-down version of the PS3. It is the cheapest unit ever produced, and is hardly worth the price, assuming you use it for dedicated game and movie playback. No card readers, no wireless capability, AND keep in mind that the price is expected to drop in April 2009--so hold off on purchasing for now.

Every PS3 that didn't originally have a 20gb or 60gb hard drive in it was not a steal.

Only the 60gb and 20gb versions came with the "Emotion Chip", which allowed nearly perfect PS2/PS1 hardware-based emulation. Only these originals featured chrome trim, and everything that's come since has had cheaper gray plastic.

Only the 80gb Motorstorm PS3s that have come since are capable of playing PS2 games, but it is software emulated, and will not universally play all games. ALL PS3 units are capable of playing the original PS1 games.


IF you are going to get a Playstation 3 and care about overall quality, invest a little more money in purchasing the 60gb version over ALL others--and invest the $40 in a squaretrade warranty.

NOTE: A PS3 price drop is expected in April of 2009--unless you want a 60/20gb PS3 for playback purposes, it is recommended that you hold off on your PS3 purchase until after this point in time.