How to Get the Highest Price When Selling Your Games Console

If you’ve upgraded your gaming setup or no longer use your console, selling it can be a great way to free up space and put some cash back in your pocket. Consoles often hold their value surprisingly well - especially popular models - but how much you get depends on a few key decisions.

This guide explains how to get the highest possible price when selling a games console online in the UK.

1. Know Exactly Which Console You Have

The first step is identifying the exact model you’re selling. Small differences can have a big impact on value.

Before checking prices, confirm:

• console generation (for example PlayStation 5 vs PlayStation 5 Digital)
• storage size
• special editions or bundled versions

Original packaging and included accessories can also affect value.

2. Be Honest About the Condition

Condition plays a major role in resale price. Over-estimating condition often leads to revised offers later.

Check your console for:

• scratches or cosmetic damage
• controller wear or stick drift
• noisy fans or overheating issues
• missing cables or accessories

Even consoles with cosmetic wear or minor faults can still be sold - being honest usually results in a smoother and faster sale.

3. Include Controllers and Cables

A console with its original controllers and power cables will almost always be worth more than a console on its own.

If you have:

• extra controllers
• charging docks
• official accessories

…these can sometimes increase the overall valuation.

4. Clean and Reset the Console

Taking a few minutes to prepare your console helps ensure it’s graded accurately.

Before selling:

• wipe down the console and controllers
• remove dust from vents
• log out of user accounts
• factory reset the console

This protects your data and avoids delays.

5. Timing Makes a Difference

Console values fluctuate throughout the year. You’ll usually get a stronger price:

• before new console revisions are announced
• during high-demand periods like January
• leading up to Christmas

Once a newer model or slim version is released, older versions often drop in value.

6. Choose the Right Selling Method

There are two main ways to sell a console online:

• Private selling through marketplaces
• Specialist trade-in platforms

Private selling can sometimes achieve a higher headline price, but it often involves:

• time spent listing and messaging buyers
• seller fees
• risk of disputes or returns

Specialist trade-in platforms offer a simpler, faster alternative with upfront pricing and no negotiation.

7. Post It Promptly After Accepting an Offer

Once you’ve accepted a price, sending your console quickly helps lock in the valuation.

Posting promptly:

• prevents depreciation
• avoids market price changes
• ensures faster inspection and payment

Common Mistakes That Reduce Console Value

• missing controllers or cables
• not resetting the console
• selecting the wrong model or storage size
• waiting too long to sell

A bit of preparation can make a noticeable difference to the final payout.

Trading in Your Games Console with Envirofone

If you’re looking for a straightforward way to sell your console without the hassle of private listings, Envirofone offers a specialist trade-in service for games consoles.

You can check your valuation and trade in your console through Envirofone’s games console trade-in service. The process is fully online, with free postage included and cash paid once your console has been checked - making it an easy way to turn unused gaming gear into money.