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PS3 Storage: Internal Hard Drive, No Memory Cards Needed

The PS3 does not use memory cards. Every model includes an **internal 2.5" SATA hard drive** for all saves, downloads, and media.

Internal HDD by Model

Model	Release	Stock HDD	User-Upgradable
PS3 "Fat" (CECHA/B/C/E/G)	2006–2008	20 / 40 / 60 / 80 GB	✅ Yes (any 2.5" SATA, 9.5mm max height)
PS3 Slim (CECH-20xx/21xx/25xx)	2009–2012	120 / 160 / 250 / 320 GB	✅ Yes
PS3 Super Slim (CECH-40xx/42xx/43xx)	2012–2017	250 / 500 GB	✅ Yes (slide-out tray)

Upgrading the HDD

Backup saves to USB (Settings → System Settings → Backup Utility) or PS+ cloud.
Remove old drive (1 screw on Fat, slide latch on Slim/Super Slim).
Install new 2.5" SATA HDD/SSD (max 9.5mm height; 2 TB tested working).
PS3 formats it automatically on boot.
Restore backup or re-download games.

External Storage (Limited)

USB Drives: Only for **media playback** (video/music/photos) and **backup storage** (encrypted PS3 format). **Cannot** run games or saves directly.
eSATA (Fat models only): Requires Linux/OtherOS—impractical today.

Memory Card Adapters (Legacy)

The **Memory Card Adaptor (CECHZM1)** lets you transfer PS1/PS2 saves from physical cards to the PS3 HDD via USB. It does not let you use cards as live storage.

Summary: PS3 = internal HDD only. Upgrade to 1–2 TB SSD for best performance. No memory card slot, no external game installs.

PS3 Games