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What hard drive sizes are currently offered for the PS3?
The initial launch of the Playstation 3 offered either a 20GB or 60GB hard drive, with the latter being more expensive. Both models have been discontinued in favor of 40GB, 80GB and 160GB models. Although the earlier models are discontinued, used consoles can still be found in game stores such as GameStop, or online at sites such as Amazon.com. On August 18, 2009, the new PS3 Slim Model was announced, which features a 120GB hard drive.
What is stored on the hard drive?
Because the Playstation 3 is both a game console and a media player, the hard drive is used for multiple types of storage. Disc-based games use the hard drive to install data for faster loading, as well as game saves. Users can also download games from the PSN store directly onto the device, which means they don't require any disc to run. Gamers can also save music, movies and photos onto the hard drive.
Are there other ways to save data on the PS3?
While you can use a USB stick or an SD card to transfer data back and forth between your system and other systems or computers, you must have a hard drive installed in the PS3 in order to save any content. There are currently no additional storage devices available for the console that games can be saved on or installed to. Because a hard drive is included with all PS3 purchases, there is no need for a memory card device, such as those offered on the Xbox 360, a console that can be sold without a built in hard drive.
Can I upgrade my hard drive?
The Playstation 3 hard drive can be removed and replaced with a hard drive that features a larger amount of space. If you want to upgrade your hard drive, you'll need to purchase a Serial ATA notebook hard drive. As long as the hard drive is 2 1/2 inches in width and 9 1/2 millimeters in height, it will fit inside the system. See the resources section below for a guide to upgrading your PS3 hard drive. Remember, you do not need to buy a hard drive manufactured by Sony, and upgrading your hard drive does not void your warranty on the system.
Which hard drive should I use?
Your hard drive space should be based on how you use the console. If you're only using your Playstation 3 to play games you purchase on disc, then you won't need more than 80GB of storage, though you'll be fine with 60GB. However, if you are using the Playstation 3 to house downloaded content from games to movies, then purchase at least a 120GB model. Savvy gamers can purchase a model with a small hard drive and search for deals on additional hard drives with larger storage.