How much should I pay for a used PS4?

The price of a brand new Playstation is, perhaps, beyond the reach of most people. And if you’re reading this, you probably have a limited budget and are considering a used Playstation.

With the next generation, the PS5, around the corner, it’s expected that the cost of the PS4 will drop considerably. And because a lot of PS4 owners might consider upgrading when the new model is out, there’ll likely be lots of used PS4 consoles in the market.

Therefore, if you’ve always wanted to own a PS4, it’s time to start saving up. 

But the question of the price of a used PS4 still hangs over our heads. It always depends on several factors, with the device’s condition being at the top of this list.

And if you are also interested in a Nintendo Switch, here’s a guide to buying a used Nintendo Switch. 

How much should you pay for a used PS4?

Used PS4 costs as low as $150, a PS4 Slim should cost about $200, and a used PS4 Pro should cost about $300. These are based on the cost of brand new consoles, which are currently $300 for the PS4 Slim and $400 for the PS4 Pro on Gamestop. 

With the cost of brand new PS4 consoles dropping, you might even find used ones selling for as low as $150 online. 

However, when the console is priced unrealistically low, that is, below $100, it might be in very poor condition. Below we’ll share our list of things to consider when buying a used PS4.  

But first, we need to answer the question;

Is Buying a Used PS4 a Good Idea?

If your budget is limited, then buying a used PS4 is a good idea. However, you’ll need to make sure that the used console is considerably cheaper than a brand new one. For example, if you buy the console directly from Sony, you’ll pay $350, less shipping, for the PS4 Slim and $450 for the PS4 Pro. 

Some sellers on eBay, are selling their used consoles for as high as $300 for a Slim. Some are selling even higher. Logic dictates that if the price difference between a used and new console is small, then go for the brand new one.

So, it’s only a good idea to buy a used PS4 if you’re getting it for about $200 or less (depending on the model). Therefore, take time to browse the different offers in all online and offline marketplaces to find the cheapest console in the best possible condition.

If you’re wondering where to buy a used PS4, keep on reading.

Pros and cons of buying a used PS4

Pros	Cons
1. Cheaper purchase cost of used consoles. 2. Chances of buying bundles that include controllers and games at a low cost. 3. If the console is in good condition, you’ll get a lot of mileage from it at a low cost. 4. You’re preventing electronic waste when you buy a pre-owned device!	1. There’s usually no warranty (or a short one) on used consoles.  2. There are chances that the console has defects that are difficult to spot before using. Therefore, it’s hard to tell whether they’ll last. 3. Some used consoles for sale might be stolen.

Ultimately, you want to save money and still get the latest and greatest machine. Therefore, we’ve listed some tips below, to help you out when buying a used PS4, to minimize the cons as much as possible. Keep reading!

Things to Consider Before Buying a Used PS4

Here are some things to consider when looking for a used PS4 console to help you get one in good condition at a realistic price.

1. Is it jailbroken?

PlayStations usually come with software restrictions, put in place by Sony. This limits the games you can download and play. They are paid games sanctioned by Sony. However, people often remove these restrictions, allowing them to download free games. 

A jailbroken PS4 console is also able to play PS3 game versions. 

But there are certain caveats attached to jailbreaking:

• Jailbreaking a PlayStation immediately voids its warranty.
• Your console won’t have access to the PlayStation Network, meaning Sony will no longer support the device. This means that your PS4 won’t get software updates, and it will lack online security. 
• You’ll also no longer be able to play online multiplayer games.
• Jailbreaking is illegal as it allows the console to play pirated games. Because of this, your jailbroken PS4 won’t be able to play original game versions.

Before buying a used PS4, make sure the seller reveals whether it’s jailbroken or not. If you’re unsure, try signing in to the PlayStation Network using your account. If the device refuses to access the PSN, then it’s probably jailbroken.

2. Hardware condition

Inspect the hardware for any noticeable scuffs and other cosmetic defects. Normal wear may not affect the console’s performance; however, significant blemishes on the body may signify a high degree of abuse from the previous owner. 

Check the bottom of the console and see whether the screws holding the cover have been previously opened. This may be evident from any wear or scratches. If so, then there’s a chance that the console’s parts were replaced.

If you notice such telltale signs, then make sure the seller declares any repair history. 

Also, make sure the disk drive works properly. Insert a disk and eject several times to see whether it works without resistance. Then, test whether it reads a disk; make sure it loads the game effortlessly.

If controllers are included, check whether the joystick works responsively. Also, make sure the buttons aren’t sticky or hard to press and that the controllers charge. 

3. Test the software

Here are some tips when testing the used PS4’s software.

• Turn on the device and see to it that it loads quickly with no lag. 
• Test a game and make sure it plays properly. 
• Make sure the console connects to a WiFi network.
• Load an app to confirm that other applications load without a problem.
• Log into the PlayStation Network with your account to confirm that the console isn’t jailbroken. You’ll also want to be sure that the device isn’t banned by Sony.
• Confirm the hard drive space by checking the system storage settings.
• Finally, if you’re ready to buy, make sure the seller deletes any other PSN accounts.

4. Confirm proof of ownership

Finally, to ensure you’re not buying a stolen PS4, let the seller show proof of ownership. They can do this by providing purchase receipts.

Learn more safety tips on buying a used PS4.

Where to buy second-hand PS4

eBay

eBay is a secure platform where you can find a trustworthy seller. You’ll also be covered by eBay’s moneyback guarantee in case the item isn’t delivered or if its condition isn’t as described. The cheapest used PS4 console on eBay goes for $200 less shipping. Consider a local seller or one offering free shipping to keep the cost low.

Best Buy

You can also find used PS4s at Best Buy. A well-known electronics retailer, there’s little to get you worried when you buy used machines from them. You can get an open-box, 1TB PS4 console for about $290. Though costing higher, Best Buy offers their own warranty, and you don’t have to deal with shady sellers as you would if you buy on other marketplaces.

Amazon

Amazon is another reputable site that you’re should browse if you’re looking for a used PS4. You may also consider their refurbished options if you’re too jittery about buying used electronics. Amazon’s used PS4 consoles are a bit costly, with the cheapest 1 TB PS4 console going for $340.

Sheepbuy

An upcoming online marketplace, Sheepbuy is relatively brand-new. They have no selling commissions or hidden fees for sellers. Thus, new vendors are signing up daily, and you’re likely to find a well-priced used PS4. All transactions are strictly between buyers and sellers via PayPal.

Related questions

Is buying used consoles safe?

Buying a used console is safe if you take your precautionary measures like the ones mentioned above. It also helps if you purchase from a reputable platform like the ones discussed previously. However, no matter where you choose to shop, make sure to ask all pertinent information to ensure you can return adequately. You may still purchase from a reputable company and may not be able to return being its a used item.

Learn more on how to return an item you bought online.

Conclusion

You can save a lot of money when you choose to buy a used PS4 console. However, you’ll need to do your homework to ensure that the device is in good condition. Here are some things to remember when buying a used console:

1. When the price is too low, it’s probably a scam.
2. Consider local sellers so that you’re able to inspect the console before buying.
3. Avoid jailbroken consoles to assure you of continued support from Sony.
4. Whenever a seller seems to be in a hurry to sell, walk away. This is a red flag.
5. If you’re set on buying a used PS4, take your time to engage with multiple sellers before settling on one.

Before you leave, if you have a PS4 that you’re thinking of selling, consider listing it on Sheepbuy. On our basic tier, you’ll be able to list up to three items free of charge at a given time. There’s also no selling commission charged, meaning more money in your pockets. Find out more here.

Recommended Blog Posts:

• How to use Sheepbuy?
• How to thrift for profit?
• 100 Legitimate ways to make money at home.