How to sell a games console for cash (PS5, Xbox, Switch and retro)

Consoles hold their value better than a lot of tech, but not forever. When the next generation arrives, or when the kids move on to something else, a console that's gathering dust is worth less every month. Selling it doesn't have to mean a dozen eBay messages from people asking "is this still available?"

What affects the price of a used console

• Model and storage. For example, PS5 disc versus digital edition, Xbox Series X versus Series S, or Switch OLED versus the original model.
• Condition. Scuffs and scratches, discoloured plastics, and especially any smell of smoke all count.
• Controllers. Controllers with stick drift are a common issue. If a controller drifts, say so or leave it out.
• Cables and box. The power cable and HDMI cable are worth including. A box helps with presentation but isn't essential.
• Bundled games. Physical games can add a little value, especially popular recent titles in good cases.

Retro consoles

Older consoles — SNES, N64, Mega Drive, PS1, PS2, original Game Boys and the like — have a dedicated collector market. Boxed consoles and games with their manuals tend to command more. Test that the console boots and displays a picture, and note any yellowing or missing battery covers.

Get it ready to sell

1. Sign out and reset. Remove your account, deactivate it as your primary console and factory reset. We have a dedicated walkthrough for factory resetting a PS5. On Xbox it's Settings > System > Console info > Reset console > Reset and remove everything. For a Switch, see our Nintendo Switch guide.
2. Remove any discs from the drive. It's surprisingly common to find a game left in.
3. Clean it. A dry microfibre cloth for the casing and a soft brush or low-pressure air for vents. Don't open the console.
4. Gather the bits. Power lead, HDMI, controllers, charging cables, stand.

Ways to sell

Do it yourself

Marketplaces put you in control of the price, but you'll do all the work — photos, listing, questions, packing and dealing with returns or disputes. Consoles are also a common target for scam buyers, so be careful about payment.

A fixed cash offer

With SendForCash, describe your console and what's included, and you'll get an instant cash offer. Accept it, and we'll email you a free postage label. We pay you the same day we inspect, by bank transfer or PayPal. Your offer is valid for five days after accepting, so there's time to reset and pack it.

Packing a console safely

Use a sturdy box with at least a few centimetres of padding on every side. If you still have the original box and inner packaging, put that inside a larger outer box. Wrap controllers separately so they don't scratch the console. For more detail, read our packing guide.

FAQ

Can I sell a console with a banned account?

Consoles with platform-level bans can't be accepted. Account suspensions on your profile aren't relevant once you've signed out and reset the console.

Do you buy consoles with faulty disc drives?

We only buy fully working items. If any part doesn't work — a disc drive, Wi-Fi, HDMI port — it isn't one for us.

Should I include my games?

You can sell games along with the console or separately. Describe what's included when you get your offer.

What about VR headsets?

PlayStation VR, Meta Quest and similar headsets are welcome if they work and you include what you have — controllers, cables and charger. Reset them first.