PSP Resource Center

Sony split the PSP gaming system into two distinct products. The traditional, and larger, PSP has a UMD drive; the smaller PSPgo relies purely on internal storage and online media purchases. UMD, or Universal Media Disc, is an optical disc format Sony designed for the PSP. UMDs are smaller than regular CDs and can hold up to 1.8GB of data. UMD games take longer to load than card or cartridge games, but disc-based games tend to have better graphics because they have more storage capacity for game assets.

The most distinguishing feature of the original PSP is its 4.3-inch widescreen LCD. The display has the resolution (480x272), brightness, and contrast ratio to create a striking image you would never expect from a handheld. Sony has updated the PSP with a new video output connector that lets the PSP drive a full-size display, such as a TV. The PSP can output movies and display photos as high as 720x480 resolution, but games will be windowboxed with a 480x272 resolution. The newest PSP-3000 model comes with an upgraded LCD screen and a built-in microphone.

Sony's PSPgo was built to be much more portable. The console features slide out controls, and when closed, is only slightly larger than an iPhone. It features a 3.8-inch widescreen LCD that maintains the same resolution as the original PSP. 16GB of internal memory, expandable via a Memory Stick Micro flash card, store all the games, music, video for the console.

Games on the PSP tend to be very similar to console games because of the PSP's powerful hardware, as well as its conventional control scheme. The PSP offers the traditional D pad and button-set game controls, as well as an analog stub located right below the D pad. The stub functions like an analog stick but sits flush against the system instead of protruding up like a traditional analog stick. Popular PlayStation first- and third-party franchises, including Grand Theft Auto, Final Fantasy, Metal Gear Solid, Burnout, Tekken, God of War, and many more have made it to the portable.

PSP System Configurations

What color PSP do you want and what accessories do you want in the box? Visit the hardware configuration section to see what PSP systems are available.

PSP Online

Find out what the PSP can do online and what it can do over a local wireless network.

PSP Accessories

The PSP has one must-have accessory and a couple others that fill specific needs.

PSP FAQ

Have any questions about the PSP? Check out the FAQ to see if they've already been asked.

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