What Was the Launch Price of the 60GB PS3 in the US?

The PlayStation 3 remains a landmark console in gaming history, particularly the original model known for its hardware-based backward compatibility. This article details the specific launch price of the 60GB PS3 version in the United States, explores the context of its 2006 release, and examines why this specific hardware configuration holds such high value among collectors today. Readers will find a clear breakdown of the pricing tiers available at launch and the market reception surrounding the premium cost.

The Original Retail Cost

When Sony released the PlayStation 3 in the United States on November 17, 2006, it introduced two distinct hardware configurations. The flagship model, which featured a 60GB hard drive, launched at a retail price of $599. This premium version was distinguished not only by its storage capacity but also by its inclusion of Wi-Fi connectivity, card readers, and full hardware-based backward compatibility with PlayStation 2 games. The higher price point was a result of the expensive components required to build the complex Cell processor architecture and the Blu-ray disc drive.

Comparison with the 20GB Model

Alongside the premium 60GB unit, Sony offered a lower-cost alternative priced at $499. This 20GB model lacked Wi-Fi connectivity and card readers, but the most significant difference was the removal of hardware-based backward compatibility. While both models shared the same core processing power, the $100 price difference led many consumers to weigh the value of extra storage and legacy game support against the lower entry cost. Ultimately, the 60GB model became the more sought-after version due to its feature completeness.

Market Reception and Legacy

The $599 price tag was controversial at the time of release, famously summarized by Sega executive Peter Moore’s comment about the cost being “too much.” Despite the high barrier to entry, the console eventually found success as the generation progressed and prices dropped. Today, the original 60GB launch model is considered a collector’s item. Because Sony later removed backward compatibility in subsequent slim and super slim revisions, the launch 60GB PS3 remains the only modern hardware capable of playing most PlayStation 2 discs natively, keeping its original launch value relevant in the retro gaming market.