Which PSP version is the best?

[HeartBreak301]

I've been thinking about picking up a PSP sometime in the future and I really haven't followed it very much. So if you guys could share some insight on the different PSP versions for me I'd appreciate it.

[blace]

There are currently, PSP-1000, PSP-2000, PSP-3000, PSP Go, and PSP-E1000.

http://www.tronix.co.nz/images/psp_1000_housing_black.jpg
PSP-1000 is the original model that was released back in 2004-2005, and allows the ease of allowing you to replace it's OFW with CFW. However, since it is rather old it's difficult to find one new. Some known issues are the analog stick becoming loose and the wifi switch being stuck and cannot charge while playing. Lacks a microphone slot and cannot use Skype.

http://www.okokchina.com/Files/upimg4/Member_489124.jpg
PSP-2000 is a slimmed down version of the PSP. Like the previous model ease of access for CFW. Has some features the last model didn't have, charging and playing, tv out, and a jack for using specialised headsets for the system allowing you to chat on Skype and so forth.

http://playgamesuk.com/WebRoot/StoreDaily/Shops/eshop173143/4AAA/46AB/CB7B/E637/7BE2/C0A8/0ADD/FD86/psp_0020_red.jpg
PSP-3000, is basically a 2000 model that was at one point unhackable. Minor changes over the last model includes a brighter screen and somewhat improved sound.

http://s.ecrater.com/stores/200715/4d6f7c2d94546_200715b.jpg
PSP Go utilizes a blue tooth function and allows you to use wireless headsets with the system as well as a PS3 controller instead of the gamepad. Minor issues with the system is that the memory sticks for the older models are not compatible with the system but instead you will need to get a memory stick mini for additional storage, has 16GB of internal memory, brighter and more vivid display, and cannot play UMD's.

As for the PSP-E1000, click here (http://www.pso-world.com/forums/showthread.php?t=190337) for the thread about it. It's a budget system for offline only use.

You may want to skip the PSP altogether as the PS Vita is looming over the horizon and may make its appearance either winter 2011 or summer 2012.

[HeartBreak301]

What are all the advantages of CFW past emulation? And will the Vita have backwards compatability with PSP games?

And on the 3000 you said that it was at one point unhackable, so I'm assuming CFW is available for it now. And is there any risk to using CFW in terms of bans and whatnot?

[blace]

If you looked at the PSP series for the game you'll know that others can alter your stats and the CFW in question has a chance to brick your system. The advantages of having CFW over OFW is that you can take screenshots, use RemoteJoy to record gameplay, and even play games that are not signed with the system a.k.a. roms.

The Vita is said to be compatible with PSP games that are available as digital downloads, you can't straight up put in a UMD to play and the gaming format this time around is said to be some type of cartridge. Touchscreen on the front and a touch pad in the back, additional analog stick with full rotation like a PS controller and HD graphics. The system on release day will have two models, the standard wifi enabled model or the 3G enhanced model said to help with social networking.

The PSP games in question are the ones available on the Playstation Store, if it's not in the store it's probably on UMD and you'll need a PSP-1000, 2000 or 3000 to play those.

[Keilyn]

To me non of them are good.

You can buy one but they keep making more which shows just how unreliable they are. There are more PSP Designs out now than Gameboy Designs. Also while the Japanese Market deals with a lot of handhelds, the majority of publishers are now turning to make games for Tablet PCs and Smart Phones.

[Rashiid]

Unreliable? I've yet to have a single issue with my PSP-3000.

[blace]

The same can be said with the DS and its variations. Even with the 3DS people have the mindset that it's another DS model.

[HeartBreak301]

So how available is CFW for the 3000? I didn't know that you needed CFW for screenshots and recording so I'll be getting it for sure.

And thanks for everything so far, pretty informative.

[yoshiblue]

Guess i'm one of the few that own a 1000 model. Assuming that most people either broke or replaced theirs. I refuse to tamper with my psp though.

[blace]

CFW is located around the shady parts of the net, add that to the possibility of your PSP crashing a.k.a. brick. If you get it to work that's good, if not you might have voided that warranty.