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For Apollo’s deepest toolkit — PFD re-signing, trophy tools, licence management — you want a PS3. Which PS3 matters more than its price.
CFW vs HEN: The Model Decides
- Full custom firmware (CFW) installs on all “fat” models and Slim models up to the CECH-25xx series (with a date-code caveat on late 25xx units — verify the specific unit’s minimum-version before assuming).
- Later Slims (CECH-30xx) and Super Slims (CECH-40xx/42xx/43xx) cannot take CFW; they use PS3HEN instead — which still runs Apollo fine (the install flow differs slightly: enable HEN each session).
- Reading the label: the CECH number is on the serial sticker. Sellers photograph it if you ask — and you should ask.
PS2 Backwards Compatibility
Only the launch-era fat models (CECHA/CECHB/CECHE/CECHC family) play PS2 discs, via hardware or hybrid emulation. They’re the oldest, hottest-running units — buy one only if PS2 disc play is specifically your goal, and budget for maintenance. For Apollo save work (including PS1/PS2 VMC management), any model does the job.
Pre-Purchase Checks
- It boots and reads a disc; the XMB is responsive.
- Fan noise: fat models that sound like a jet at idle need a repaste or a pass.
- Hard drive: any 2.5″ SATA drive works and upgrades are trivial — a small drive is a negotiation point, not a flaw.
- Controller: genuine DualShock 3s are increasingly faked; test buttons, sticks and pressure sensitivity. Spares show up on eBay — buy from photos of real units.
- Firmware version from Settings → System Settings → System Information (a screenshot, as with our PS4 guide): every PS3 firmware is workable today via CFW or HEN paths, but know what you’re getting.
Where to Buy
eBay used PS3 listings with model-number photos are the safest route; confirm the CECH code in messages before paying. Locally, insist on a power-on demo.
After It Arrives
Install CFW or enable HEN, then Apollo: PS3 install guide. Set up your licence backups early with the activation & licence guide — it’s the step everyone wishes they’d done before a drive swap.