How-Tos

5 Clever Ways to Repurpose Your Old PlayStation 3 Today

Krishn patel

Krishn patel

— 2 min read
Repurpose Your PlayStation 3
Repurpose Your PS3

• Key Takeaways:

  • Your two-decade-old PlayStation 3 can still play DVDs/Blu‑rays and CDs.
  • Turn a PS3 into a home media server via PS3 Media Server, Movian, or Linux (older models).
  • Install custom firmware and RetroArch for emulation, but be aware of compatibility and bricking risks.
  • If unusable, salvage the hard drive, fans, power supply, or sell parts like DualShock controllers.

Why keep an old PS3?

The PS3 was the first console with Blu‑ray, and many units remain functional. It still performs well as a low-cost media hub or retro-gaming appliance.

If your console is damaged beyond repair, salvageable components can be useful for DIY or resale.

Watch DVDs, Blu‑rays and CDs

One of the simplest uses is using the PS3 as a dedicated disc player. It handles DVDs, Blu‑rays and audio CDs out of the box.

Sony continues to provide firmware updates that maintain Blu‑ray playback encryption, so a connected PS3 often remains a reliable disc player.

Turn it into a media server

You can stream photos, video, and music from a PC to a PS3 using DLNA. PS3 Media Server is an easy Windows-friendly option that works with the console’s built-in DLNA support.

For more flexibility, older PS3 models (2009 and earlier) can run a Linux distribution to host services locally. Homebrew apps like Movian transform the PS3 into a lightweight media center that supports codecs the console doesn’t natively handle.

Alternatives and cautions

Plex discontinued its PS3 app, so third‑party solutions like PS3 Media Server or Movian are often the best choices now. Installing custom firmware (CFW) unlocks more options but carries a risk of bricking.

Emulate classic games

Advanced users can install CFW and then RetroArch to run emulators for older systems. RetroArch uses “cores” to emulate platforms from NES to PlayStation 1.

What you need

You’ll need a compatible PS3 model, custom firmware like PS3HEN or Evilnat, a USB for installs, and legally obtained ROMs/BINs and BIOS files where required.

Emulation performance varies: some systems (e.g., N64) are hit or miss on PS3 hardware. Using CFW also voids warranties and can brick the console if done incorrectly. Follow reputable guides such as Console Mods when attempting this.

Use apps: Netflix, YouTube and Prime

Despite age, Netflix, YouTube and Amazon Prime Video still work on many PS3s. Netflix is typically the only app to reliably stream at 1080p on the platform.

Expect some apps to be unavailable or limited to 720p due to app support changes over time.

Salvage parts or sell components

If the console won’t behave, remove the hard drive, fans, heatsinks or power supply for projects or resale. DualShock controllers remain useful with adapters on modern systems.

Selling parts individually can often recoup more value than listing a nonworking PS3 as a whole.

Bottom line

A working PS3 still has life: as a disc player, a media server, a retro emulator, or a parts donor. Choose the path that matches your comfort with firmware mods and your willingness to troubleshoot.

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