Selling your old PlayStation 4 (PS4) can be a great way to earn some extra cash, especially if you’re looking to put that money towards upgrading to the PS5. However, getting top dollar for a used PS4 isn’t always easy, particularly if you need to sell it quickly.
Follow these tips to maximize your profit when selling a 5-year-old PS4, even if you don’t have a lot of time:
Key Takeaways:
- Bundle the PS4 with popular games to add value
- Highlight the excellent condition of the console and controllers
- Price the PS4 above average rates for used systems
- Sell through platforms where buyers pay premiums for gaming items
- Consider trading into a local game store for fast cash
Introduction
With the PS5 now available, many gamers are looking to sell their old PS4s. However, it can be challenging to get top dollar for a used console, particularly one that is 5 years old. You can increase your chances of earning the maximum resale value for your PS4 by taking the right approach.
This article will provide tips on how to successfully sell a 5-year-old PS4 for top dollar, even if you don’t have much time before you need the cash. We’ll cover bundling the system with games, marketing the condition, pricing strategically, using the right sales platforms, and considering local game stores.
Follow these suggestions and you’ll be ready to get the most money possible out of your used PS4 in a hurry.
Bundle the PS4 with Popular Games
One of the best ways to boost the value of your used PS4 is to bundle it with some of the most popular game titles. This makes the overall package more appealing and exciting to potential buyers.
Aim to include at least 2-3 of the top-selling PS4 games over the past 5 years. Great options include all-time favorites like God of War, Spiderman, The Last of Us, Uncharted 4, and newer hits like Ghost of Tsushima.
Bundle in the games with their original cases and manuals if possible. Complete bundles show the games have been well cared for.
When pricing a PS4 bundled with multiple games, research sold listings for comparable bundles. In general, you can add about 75-85% of the used game value to the console price.
Bundling the PS4 with coveted games gives buyers more entertainment for their money and incentivizes them to pay top dollar.
Highlight the Excellent Condition
Since your PS4 is 5 years old, it’s important to showcase that it is still in great working order. Provide lots of details on the condition of the console, controllers, cables, etc.
Give your PS4 a thorough cleaning before selling. Carefully wipe down the exterior and use compressed air to remove dust from vents and ports. Clean the controller buttons and sticks as well.
Take high-quality photos showing the pristine condition from all angles. Capture any lack of scratches, scuffs or signs of wear.
In your listing description, note details like:
- Adult-owned in pet-free, smoke-free home
- All parts and cables included
- Controllers have no stick drift or button issues
- Quiet fan operation and good ventilation
- Games in like-new condition
The better condition your 5-year-old PS4 is in, the closer you can price it to current resale rates for newer systems. Buyers are willing to pay more for consoles that have been well maintained.
Price the PS4 Above Average Rates
Research current resale prices for used PS4 Slims or base models in your local market. Sites like eBay and Facebook Marketplace will give you an idea of average asking prices.
Once you’ve bundled games and highlighted the great condition, you can safely price your PS4 a notch above the typical local rate.
For a 5-year-old PS4 500GB model, average asking prices are around $200. For a 1TB PS4 Slim, average prices are around $240.
Given the right bundle and condition, you could reasonably list your PS4 for $230-$270. Some buyers will pay above average rates for a nice package deal on a still-functioning older console.
You can also set the listing price higher and enable the “Make an Offer” option. This allows buyers to negotiate a price they are willing to pay.
As long as you start the price above typical used PS4 rates, you give yourself room to earn top dollar.
Sell on Marketplaces With Premium Buyers
To maximize your chances of getting premium resale value, list your PS4 bundle on platforms that cater to dedicated gamers. These buyers are often willing to pay above average prices for used consoles and games.
Great options include:
- eBay – Use a detailed listing with max photos. eBay attracts buyers willing to pay more for bundled and collectible gaming items.
- Facebook Marketplace – List in local gaming and electronics groups. You can negotiate directly with buyers.
- Reddit – Post on gaming subreddits like r/GameSale and r/hardwareswap. There is high demand for used consoles.
- Craigslist – List in the video gaming category and be open to shipping. Quote higher prices than local pickup.
- OfferUp – Use their Bundle feature to showcase your PS4 package. Quote fast shipping options.
On these platforms, you gain exposure among eager gaming buyers who will pay premiums for well-bundled used consoles in great shape.
Consider Selling to a Local Game Store
Finally, if you need to sell your PS4 super quickly, consider bringing it to a local video game store. Stores like GameStop and independent game traders offer cash payouts on the spot.
Call around to a few local game stores and shops first to get price quotes. Let them know you have a 5-year-old PS4 bundled with some top games. They may be able to give ballpark payout ranges over the phone.
Then, bring your neatly packaged PS4 into your top quote location. Politely ask if they can do better on the price, given the bundled games and excellent condition. Also mention you have controllers, cables and original packaging if possible.
While you likely won’t earn top dollar going the game store route, it can be a fast and convenient way to unload your used PS4 if you are pressed for time. With some friendly negotiation, you may secure a reasonable payout.
Conclusion
Selling a used PlayStation 4 quickly while still earning top dollar requires some strategy. Bundling the console with popular games, keeping it in pristine condition, listing above average rates, targeting dedicated gamers, and considering game store trade-ins can help maximize your payout.
With the right approach, you can successfully sell a 5-year-old PS4 for a great return, even if you need the cash fast. Use these tips and you’ll have no trouble getting top value out of your used gaming console.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How can I get the most money for my old PS4?
The best way to get top dollar is to bundle the PS4 with 2-3 popular games, keep the console and controllers in immaculate condition, price it above average used rates, and sell through platforms like eBay where buyers pay premiums. Highlighting the bundle and condition in your listing will bring in top offers.
Should I sell a 5-year-old PS4 locally or online?
You are likely to get better offers selling online through eBay, Facebook or Reddit. Local buyers on Craigslist or OfferUp may not pay top dollar. Selling online opens you up to dedicated gamers who will pay above average prices for a well-bundled used PS4 in great shape.
What accessories should I include when selling my PS4?
Bundle the console with its original HDMI cable, power cable, and at least one DualShock controller. Include any original packaging you still have as well. Providing all accessories and boxes demonstrates that the PS4 has been well maintained and taken care of.
How much should I price a used PS4 and game bundle for?
Research the current average resale value of your PS4 model, then add about 75-85% of the used value of the bundled games. A 500GB PS4 with 2-3 top games could reasonably command $230-$270. Price above typical averages for the bundle and condition.
Should I trade my old PS4 to GameStop or another game store?
Trading into a local game store is quick and convenient but will likely earn you less money. Shop around to stores for the best quote, then negotiate politely for the highest possible payout. Weigh the trade-in value versus trying to get top dollar selling online.
