How to Get the Highest Price When Selling a 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.
