PS3 Slim vs. Original PS3 Hard Drive Compatibility

No, they use different drive form factors.

Upgrade Rules

Original PS3 (Fat)

• Accepts 2.5″ or 3.5″ SATA HDD/SSD.
• 3.5″ drives need custom bracket (not included) and external power (USB or molex adapter).
• 2.5″ drives fit with included caddy.
• Max tested: 1.5 TB (3.5″) / 2 TB (2.5″).

PS3 Slim / Super Slim

• Only 2.5″ SATA (HDD or SSD).
• Height ≤ 9.5 mm (most 2 TB drives are 15 mm—won't fit).
• 5400 RPM minimum (7200 RPM works but runs hotter).
• SATA II/III drives work (backward compatible).
• Max practical: 1.5–2 TB (9.5 mm models like WD Blue 2TB, Seagate Barracuda 2TB).

Upgrade Steps (Both)

1. Backup saves (Cloud/USB).
2. Format new drive in PS3 (Settings > System > Format).
3. Or use PC to install OFW/CFW recovery image.

Recommendation: 1 TB 2.5″ SSD (Samsung 870 EVO, WD Blue) for Slim—huge speed boost, fits, low heat. For Fat: 2 TB 2.5″ HDD easiest.