Best PlayStation 1 Mods (2025 Edition)

The original PlayStation introduced 3D gaming to the world, but in 2025 its hardware hasn’t aged gracefully. Blurry video, failing disc drives, and fragile controllers make it tough to revisit classics like Final Fantasy VII or Metal Gear Solid. Luckily, modern mods bring the PS1 back to life—here’s the definitive guide.

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Quick Picks (TL;DR)

Best Video Upgrade: Kaico PS1/PS2 HDMI Adapter — clean HDMI for modern TVs.
Best Storage Mod: XStation ODE — replaces failing CD drives.
Best Controller Fix: PS1/PS2 Rubber Membrane Kit — restores mushy buttons.
Best Audio Upgrade: FiiO K5 Pro DAC — cleaner line-out for music/game audio.
Best Cosmetic Mod: PS1 Replacement Shell (Translucent) — stylish refresh.

Why Mod a PS1 in 2025?

The PS1 library is massive—over 2,000 games—but the console itself has issues. Composite video looks awful on modern TVs, CD drives fail, and controller pads wear out. Mods solve these problems, letting you enjoy your collection without frustration.

Video Mods: HDMI and Upscaling

Kaico PS1 HDMI Adapter — Kaico HDMI adapter—plug-and-play PS1/PS2 to modern TVs.

The Kaico HDMI Adapter is the easiest way to hook a PS1 to a 4K TV. It converts 240p/480i signals to HDMI with minimal lag, and it’s also PS2-compatible. If you prefer premium, devices like the OSSC or RetroTINK 5X upscale beautifully but cost more.

Storage Mods: Optical Drive Emulators

XStation ODE for PlayStation — XStation ODE—replaces the disc drive with SD card loading.

Disc rot and failing CD drives plague old PS1s. The XStation ODE replaces the optical drive, letting you load games from an SD card. It offers faster loading, save-state options, and preserves your original discs.

Controller Fixes & Upgrades

PS1 Rubber Membrane Kit — Replacement rubber pads—restore mushy or dead buttons.

Original PS1 controllers often have worn membranes, causing unresponsive buttons. Kits like this rubber replacement set restore the original feel. For modern comfort, the 8BitDo Pro 2 also works great on PS1 via adapters.

Audio Mods

FiiO K5 Pro DAC — FiiO K5 Pro—clean DAC that pairs well with PS1 audio output.

The PS1’s CD audio is legendary, but output can be noisy. An external DAC like the FiiO K5 Pro bypasses poor TV DACs and provides cleaner sound through headphones or speakers.

Cosmetic Mods

PS1 Translucent Replacement Shell — Clear replacement shells—give your PS1 a unique new look.

Yellowed PS1 plastic is common. Replacement shells like this translucent housing give your console a fresh look. LED mods are also a fun cosmetic upgrade.

Final Thoughts

The PS1 is worth keeping alive, and mods make it shine in 2025. Start with an HDMI adapter for modern displays, add an XStation ODE to preserve your library, and refresh your controllers with new membranes. For audiophiles, an external DAC makes PlayStation’s soundtracks sparkle. With these mods, you’ll enjoy classics the way they were meant to be played.