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RPCS3 developers warn that some Blu-ray drives advertised as higher-end models may conceal older mechanisms that cannot read PS3 discs. A model name, polished enclosure or reported firmware string is not enough to confirm compatibility: check the exact drive revision and hardware against current guidance before buying.
What the RPCS3 warning says
In a September 30, 2026 post reproduced by Tom’s Hardware, RPCS3 developers said there had been a recent influx of fake Blu-ray drives. They described units using older drives that cannot read PS3 discs, concealed in higher-end enclosures and packaging and accompanied by spoofed firmware.
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The warning matters because RPCS3’s direct-disc feature works with only certain internal and external Blu-ray drives. A generic Blu-ray drive—or one that looks like a supported model—is not necessarily suitable. Tom’s Hardware’s coverage of RPCS3’s direct-disc support points readers to the project’s compatibility list.
The available reports do not quantify how many drives are affected or show that every listing on Newegg, eBay or AliExpress is fraudulent. Treat the warning as a reason to verify an individual drive, not as proof against every listing or seller.
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How to check a drive before buying
Redump’s OmniDrive guide documents compatibility and firmware considerations for disc reading and dumping. Its checks are useful for investigating a listing, but no single visual clue or model label proves that a drive is genuine and compatible.
1. Confirm the exact model and revision
Compare the exact internal drive and revision—not just the external product name—with current RPCS3 and Redump compatibility guidance. Redump warns that drives with the same model number can have different internals and that older versions of listed model families may be incompatible.
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For example, Redump lists the LG WH16NS40 but says only newer versions may be flashable. That is not a blanket recommendation: verify the particular unit’s revision, compatibility and return terms before purchase.
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Redump identifies PCB markings and chipset detection through MakeMKV as stronger indicators than the shape of a lid or the date on a label. For desktop drives in its OmniDrive guidance, JB8 or JB9 PCB markings are compatible; JB7 or JBC5 are incompatible. A MakeMKV identification of MT1959 is a strong positive sign, but not conclusive; MT1939 or no chipset identification is described as incompatible.
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For slim drives, Redump lists BU40N PCB markings as compatible. An MT1959 identification suggests a high likelihood of compatibility, with exceptions reported. Check the relevant guide for the exact drive category and current details rather than applying desktop-drive markings to a slim model.
3. Treat appearance and labels as clues, not proof
Redump lists several signs associated with fakes: PCB markings covered by plastic, label misspellings such as “CONNECOTOR” or “FORMAT|LOGO,” and, on slim drives, wording such as “Blu-DVD,” “The Nethelands,” “SN” or “Data Siorage,” as well as a misaligned LG logo.
A flat lid with four small dimples is only a possible compatibility clue; a circular lid is usually incompatible according to the guide. A recent manufacturing date is weak evidence because counterfeit drives may carry newer dates. Firmware reporting and a high-end shell can also be misleading in light of the RPCS3 warning.
4. Weigh the risk of opening the drive
Inspecting the PCB may require opening the drive, which can void its warranty. Redump describes that as a last resort. Prefer clear seller-provided photographs of identifying markings when available, and do not open a drive unless you accept the warranty risk.
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What to do when comparing listings
- Match the exact internal mechanism and revision to current RPCS3 and Redump compatibility guidance.
- For an external drive, verify the precise drive inside the enclosure; the external model name alone may not identify its internals.
- Ask for clear photographs of relevant labels or markings if the listing does not show them.
- Choose a seller and payment method with usable buyer protection and return options.
- Do not treat marketplace presence, appearance, firmware claims or a matching model number as independent proof of compatibility.
Redump flags suspicious listings on Newegg, eBay and AliExpress, and Tom’s Hardware relays advice to favor stores with buyer protections. Those cautions do not establish that any particular seller or listing is safe—or fraudulent. The deciding evidence is the individual drive’s internals, revision and compatibility, backed by a practical return route.
Quick Recap
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