Buy a Used PS2 for FreeDVDBoot: Models, Checks, and Red Flags
Buy the model for FreeDVDBoot, not just “a PS2”. The model number on the sticker decides everything.
Short answer: Affiliate disclosure: links marked “Buy” may earn this site a commission at no extra cost to you (Amazon tag oliver062-20; see the affiliate disclosure). Every guide also names a non-affiliate alternative. The rule is simple: any Slim works, and only Fat models on DVD Player 2.10/2.12/3.04 work. This guide’s eBay link has no partner tracking yet — it is a plain search link, and the disclosure page says so. Check the model number on the sticker, test the drive with a real DVD movie, and check the DVD Player version before you pay.
Which models to buy
- Slim (SCPH-700xx / 750xx / 770xx / 790xx / 900xx): all work with the universal Slim ISO. Prefer a 700xx–790xx if you also want FreeMCBoot; a 900xx needs Fortuna as the permanent install but still boots FreeDVDBoot fine.
- Fat 300xx/390xx on 2.10/2.12/3.04: works, but you must verify the DVD Player version (boot, no disc, Triangle) — the model number alone is not enough for 2.10.
- Fat 500xx: do not buy for FreeDVDBoot — 3.00/3.02 is unsupported. Buy a 500xx only if you plan Fortuna or a modchip instead.
- PS2 TV / Bravia units: supported per the README, but rare and priced as curiosities — do not pay a premium for one as a first FreeDVDBoot console.
Checks before you pay
- Model number on the sticker (see the model finder).
- DVD Player version (boot, no disc, Triangle) — for Fats, this is the decisive check.
- Drive test: play a real DVD movie end-to-end. A drive that stutters on a movie will fail on a burned disc.
- Controller ports, memory-card slots, and (Fat) expansion bay condition.
- Laser health signs: slow disc recognition, repeated “unable to read disc” on known-good discs (see red screen).
Where to buy
The used PS2 search is a plain eBay search link (no partner tracking yet — see the disclosure). Non-affiliate alternative: local second-hand shops, retro game stores, and community marketplaces, where you can run the checks above in person before paying. Red flags anywhere: a seller who will not show the model sticker, a console sold “untested”, a Fat with no DVD Player version stated, or a price far below the local going rate for a tested unit.
Next steps
Verified against: Compatibility rules per CTurt README and PS2 Dev Wiki list; eBay link is untracked (no EPN yet), stated in copy and disclosure, checked 2026-10-24.