A-Hackers-Guide
PlayStation Portable

PSP-2000 & 3000

PSP-2000 & 3000 (Slim)

The 2000 and 3000 are the slim redesigns of the PSP. They are thinner and lighter than the original 1000 while keeping the UMD drive and Wi-Fi. Both are excellent CFW machines and install custom firmware purely through software.

What sets them apart

  • PSP-2000 — the first slim model. Some early production units still support a Pandora's Battery for recovery, much like the 1000.
  • PSP-3000 — adds a sharper, less ghost-prone screen and a built-in microphone. It is hardware-patched against Pandora's Battery, so prevention matters more than recovery.

Installing CFW

Update to official firmware 6.61, then install ARK-4 or 6.61 PRO. Add 6.61 Infinity if you want CFW to persist automatically across reboots. ARK-4 fully supports both slim models.

ModelPandora recoveryRecommended path
PSP-2000 (early)Often yesSoftware install; Pandora as backup
PSP-2000 (late)NoSoftware install only
PSP-3000No (patched)Software install only

Because the 3000 cannot be rescued with Pandora's Battery, be especially careful to keep it powered during the 6.61 update and any Infinity flash. A failed firmware step is far harder to undo here.

For most people, the slim models offer the best balance of comfort, screen quality, and full CFW compatibility.