The Sony PlayStation Portable 2004 (PSP-2004) — known globally as the PSP Slim & Lite — is the second generation of Sony’s iconic handheld console. Released in 2007 as a refined successor to the original PSP-1000, this model delivered a lighter, slimmer, faster, and more user-friendly version of the powerful multimedia handheld that redefined portable gaming.
Loved for its improved ergonomics, brighter screen, expanded RAM, and wide library of blockbuster titles, the PSP-2004 remains one of the best-balanced handhelds Sony ever produced.
📘 Introduction
The original PSP-1000 set new standards for handheld gaming in 2004, introducing 3D graphics on par with PlayStation 2 titles. But Sony took things a step further with the PSP-2000 series, redesigning the system with:
- a much slimmer and lighter chassis
- a brighter, sharper LCD panel
- improved video output capabilities
- doubled system RAM
- faster loading times
- better ergonomics
The result was a handheld that felt modern, sleek, and significantly more comfortable for long play sessions.
🎨 Slim, Stylish, and Ergonomic Design
The PSP-2004 slimmed down the handheld dramatically:
- 33% lighter than the PSP-1000
- 19% slimmer, making it extremely portable
- Sleek glossy finish
- Larger, more responsive buttons
- Repositioned speakers for better sound
- Improved battery door design
Despite its smaller size, it maintained the luxurious premium feel that made the PSP brand iconic.
⚙️ Hardware Improvements & Performance
The PSP-2004 offered major upgrades over the original model.
Key Specifications
- 333 MHz CPU
- 64 MB RAM (double the PSP-1000)
- 4.3″ LCD display (brightened, improved response time)
- UMD optical drive
- Wi-Fi (802.11b)
- Memory Stick Duo slot
- Mini-USB port
- Composite/Component video-out
Performance Enhancements
- Faster loading speeds thanks to doubled RAM
- Smoother performance in demanding games
- Better web browser performance
- Improved overall responsiveness
Many games load significantly faster on the PSP-2004 compared to the PSP-1000.
🔥 A Strong, Diverse Game Library
The PSP library is one of the strongest in handheld history, combining console-quality 3D games with classic 2D experiences.
Blockbuster Titles
- God of War: Chains of Olympus & Ghost of Sparta
- Gran Turismo PSP
- Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker
- Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII
- Daxter
- Ratchet & Clank: Size Matters
- Tekken: Dark Resurrection
- Soul Calibur: Broken Destiny
JRPG Favorites
- Persona 3 Portable
- Valkyria Chronicles II
- Phantasy Star Portable
Iconic Sony IP
- WipEout Pulse & Pure
- LittleBigPlanet PSP
- Resistance: Retribution
The PSP-2004 can also run thousands of digital PSP titles, Minis, and PS1 Classics via PlayStation Network (where still accessible).
🎞️ Multimedia Powerhouse
The PSP-2004 wasn’t just a gaming device — it was a full multimedia system.
It supports:
- UMD Movies
- MP3 music playback
- Photo viewing
- MP4 video playback
- Internet browsing
- Skype support (on later firmware)
In the pre-smartphone era, it was one of the most capable portable media devices available.
📺 Video-Out Functionality
One of the standout features of the PSP-2004 was the addition of video output via component/composite cable.
This allowed:
- Games on a TV screen (component cables only)
- UMD movies and videos
- Photo slideshows
It was the first PlayStation handheld to connect directly to a television.
🛠️ Reliability & Common Issues
The PSP-2004 is known for excellent build quality, but a few issues can occur:
- UMD door latch wear over time
- Battery swelling (common across all PSPs due to age)
- Ghosting on the LCD (early units)
- Loose analog nub from heavy gameplay
- Wi-Fi board wear on very old units
Overall, it is far more reliable and durable than the launch PSP-1000.
🌍 Cultural & Historical Impact
The PSP-2004 played a key role in extending the PSP’s lifespan:
- Became the standard PSP model worldwide
- Popularized handheld multimedia entertainment
- Strengthened Sony’s portable ecosystem
- Boosted international PSP sales dramatically
- Set the stage for the PSP-3000 and PSP Go generations
It remains one of Sony’s most balanced and iconic handheld designs.
📦 Items Included in This Collection Entry
- Sony PSP-2004 (Slim & Lite)
📜 Conclusion
The Sony PSP-2004 is a beautifully refined handheld console that improved on the original PSP in almost every way — slimmer, lighter, faster, brighter, and more comfortable. With a massive library of top-tier games, powerful multimedia features, and an elegant design, it remains one of the best portable systems Sony has ever released.
A must-have for collectors and anyone who loves premium handheld gaming.