How to Quickly Identify Which PS Vita Model You Have

As a passionate PS Vita fan ever since its launch in 2011, one question I see pop up often in gaming circles is: "How can I easily figure out if I have the original OLED Vita or the LCD Slim model?"

Having owned and played on both variants extensively over the past decade, here is my definitive guide to quickly identifying the differences between PS Vita 1000 and 2000.

Check the PlayStation Home Button

The fastest way is to look at the PlayStation Home button located in the middle below the screen.

• On the original Vita 1000, this button is an oval shape.
• On the Slim Vita 2000, the Home button is a plain circle.

So oval = old, round = slim! Simple as that.

Examine the Screen Technology

The type of screen is the most obvious distinction once you power on the devices.

• The PS Vita 1000 uses a 5-inch OLED panel, providing vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent viewing angles.
• The PS Vita 2000 Slim cut costs by equipping a 5-inch LCD display instead, offering duller image quality in comparison.

You can instantly recognize the difference in color accuracy and contrast the moment you boot up any game. Text/UI also appears sharper on OLED thanks to the higher contrast.

Furthermore, OLED feels smooth like glass to the touch while LCD has more of a plastic-like texture. Side-by-side, the richer OLED easily wins in terms of visual experience.

Review Physical Size and Ergonomics

In terms of physical dimensions, the PS Vita 2000 slimmed down just a bit from the original:

So while essentially keeping the same hand-held footprint, the Slim shaved off 3mm in depth and 41g in weight.

In hand, the Slim 2000 feels noticeably sleeker than its beefier OLED predecessor. The rounded edges are more comfortable to grip over long gameplay sessions as well.

But for portable use, both models are comparably portable and light enough for on-the-go gaming.

Locate the Model Number

To definitely confirm which exact Vita variant you own, locate the small sticker near the charging port with your device‘s unique model number such as PCH-1101 or PCH-2006:

• PS Vita 1000 models = PCH-1XXX
• PS Vita 2000 Slims = PCH-2XXX

There were some minor hardware revisions, but this numbering scheme easily identifies original vs. slim.

Understand Backwards Compatibility & Accessories

Both Vita units play the vast majority of PS Vita game cartridges and can digitally access the PlayStation Store‘s entire Vita library with some exceptions:

• Original 1000 models support video output to TV via accessory cables
• Slim 2000 Vitas removed this video out capability

A few additional PS Vita accessories like charging docks also only work properly on the OLED model given the physical design changes.

So for full backwards compatibility with Vita peripherals, the OLED 1000 has the edge.

Weigh Homebrew Potential

For modders and tinkerers, an important distinction is that only PS Vita 2000 slims can currently be hacked for homebrew software and emulators while OLED models remain restricted to approved software.

So those looking for more open-ended uses beyond commercial games may prefer tracking down the Slim. But legitimate gameplay is still best on the OLED 1000 in my opinion if visuals are paramount.

Compare Resale Pricing

Due to its superior screen and native hackability, used PS Vita 2000 Slim models tend to sell between $100-$150 USD depending on condition and included accessories.

Meanwhile, well-kept PS Vita 1000 consoles command even higher premiums, typically $150-$250 for units boxed with original packaging and accessories.

Lower-end asking prices during 2023 have been:

• PS Vita 1000 (OLED) – $120 used/$300 new-old-stock
• PS Vita 2000 (LCD) – $80 used/$140 new

So I advise checking both local classifieds and eBay for current comparable listings when buying/selling either Vita.

The Best PS Vita for You

At the end of the day, choose based on your priorities as a gamer:

• PS Vita 1000 offers the best visuals and backwards compatibility
• PS Vita 2000 provides portability and hacking advantages

For collectors who grew up with the Vita like myself, tracking down one of each for your shelf is never a bad idea either!

Hopefully this guide has helped properly identify which PS Vita model(s) you have or are considering for purchase. Both are great systems in their own right despite Sony‘s early discontinuation of this amazing mobile platform.

Let me know in the comments if you have any other distinguishing Vita questions!