Best PS1 Upgrades in 2025: HDMI, Wireless Controllers, Power & Saves
The original PlayStation still rules. Give it clean HDMI video, a modern wireless controller, reliable saves, and a fresh power brick, and it’ll feel new again.
Quick Picks (Start Here)
- HDMI Adapter (PS1/PS2):
LEVELHIKE PS1/PS2 → HDMI (RGB, 4:3/16:9) - Go Wireless on Real Hardware:
8BitDo Bluetooth Retro Receiver (PS1/PS2) - Controller Pick (pairs perfectly):
Sony DualSense Wireless Controller - Reliable Memory Card:
Tomee 1MB PS1 Memory Card - PSOne Slim AC Adapter:
Old Skool PSOne Power Supply (SCPH-101) - Tools You’ll Actually Use:
TECKMAN Torx/Phillips Precision Set
1) Video: Clean HDMI Output
Skip composite. An HDMI adapter that reads the console’s RGB output gives you a crisp picture and simple TV hookup. This one includes a 4:3/16:9 switch and handles both PS1 and PS2.
Tip: Set your TV to “Game Mode” to reduce input lag.
2) Controllers: Go Wireless (The Easy Way)
The 8BitDo Retro Receiver plugs into your PS1/PS2 controller port and lets you pair modern Bluetooth pads. It supports DualSense, Xbox, Switch Pro, and more — no laggy IR dongles, no Franken-mods.
Pro move: remap buttons per game on the receiver; update its firmware via USB-C when 8BitDo releases new profiles.
3) Saves: Use a Fresh Memory Card
Old cards corrupt saves and waste hours. A new 1MB card is cheap insurance and works on PS1 and PS2 (for PS1 games).
4) Power: Stable Brick for the PSOne Slim
If you’re using the PSOne (SCPH-101), a fresh UL-listed adapter solves random resets and hum. Keep your original as a backup.
5) Tools: Don’t Strip Screws
A solid precision kit pays for itself fast. You’ll use it for shell cleaning, port tightening, and lens service.
FAQs
Does HDMI add lag?
With a decent adapter and Game Mode on your TV, latency is negligible compared to composite-to-HDMI scalers.
Will the Retro Receiver work with my pad?
Yes — DualSense, DualShock 4, Xbox Series, Switch Pro, and more. Pair once, then it reconnects instantly.
Do PS1 saves work on PS2?
Yes, for PS1 games running on a PS2 you can use the same PS1 memory card.
Ready to Modernize Your PS1?
Grab the HDMI adapter, go wireless with the Retro Receiver, pop in a fresh memory card, and replace the PSOne brick if you need to. Quick wins — big difference.
Get PS1/PS2 → HDMI Adapter
Get 8BitDo Retro Receiver
Get DualSense Controller
Get PS1 Memory Card
Get PSOne Power Adapter
Get Tool Kit