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Should You Sell Your PS4 Now? A Pro’s Perspective

So, you’re pondering the big question: should you sell your PlayStation 4? The answer, as with most things, is: it depends. But don’t worry, I’m here to break it down with the kind of clear, no-nonsense advice you’d expect from a seasoned gaming veteran. The short answer is this: if you’ve upgraded to a PS5 and your PS4 is gathering dust, or if you’re looking to put some extra cash in your pocket, now is as good a time as any to sell.

The used game console market fluctuates, and while the PS4 is still a beloved system, its value will continue to depreciate as time marches on and newer generations of consoles further solidify their dominance. Think of it like a car – the longer you wait, the less it’s worth.

However, there are some important factors to consider before you list your console online or head to your local GameStop. Let’s dive into the details.

The Case for Selling Your PS4 Now

There are several compelling reasons to sell your PS4 sooner rather than later:

Depreciation: As mentioned, the longer you hold onto your PS4, the less it will be worth. The arrival of the PS5 has already impacted prices, and this trend will continue.
Cash in Hand: Selling your PS4 can provide you with some extra spending money. Whether you want to put it towards a PS5 game, a new controller, or something entirely different, the cash is yours to use as you see fit.
Decluttering: Let’s be honest, unused electronics can quickly clutter up your living space. Selling your PS4 is a great way to free up some room.
Diminishing Game Support: While Sony has pledged continued support for the PS4, the number of new, major releases for the console will inevitably dwindle over time. By 2025, Sony will no longer be producing any first-party games for it. If you’re primarily interested in playing the latest titles, the PS5 is the better choice.
Online Services: The PS4’s online services are dependent on Sony’s continued support. While there are no immediate plans to shut them down, this could change in the future, potentially impacting the value of your console.

The Case for Holding Onto Your PS4

Despite the compelling reasons to sell, there are also situations where holding onto your PS4 might be the better option:

Sentimental Value: If you have a strong emotional attachment to your PS4, selling it might not be worth the emotional cost.
Backup Console: A PS4 can serve as a great backup console in case your PS5 malfunctions or is unavailable. It’s also a good option for guests or family members who want to play games.
PS4 Exclusive Games: The PS4 boasts a vast library of fantastic exclusive games, such as God of War (2018), Spider-Man (2018), and The Last of Us Part 2 (2020). If you haven’t played all of these gems yet, keeping your PS4 might be worthwhile.
Family Entertainment: If you have children, a PS4 can be a great source of family entertainment. Many kid-friendly games are available for the console.
PlayStation VR: If you own a PlayStation VR headset, you’ll need a PS4 to use it. While the PS5 is compatible with PSVR, it requires an adapter.

Maximizing Your PS4’s Resale Value

If you’ve decided to sell your PS4, here are some tips for maximizing its resale value:

Clean It: Give your console a thorough cleaning, both inside and out. Dust can accumulate inside the system, causing it to overheat and reducing its lifespan. Use compressed air to remove dust from vents and ports.
Include All Original Accessories: Make sure to include all original accessories, such as the controller, power cable, and HDMI cable.
Restore to Factory Settings: Before selling your PS4, restore it to its factory settings. This will erase all of your personal data and prevent unauthorized access to your account. You can initialize the system under (Settings) > [Initialization] > [Initialize PS4] > [Full].
Take Good Photos: When listing your PS4 for sale online, take clear, well-lit photos of the console and accessories. This will help potential buyers assess its condition.
Write a Detailed Description: Provide a detailed description of the console, including its model, storage capacity, condition, and any included accessories. Be honest about any cosmetic flaws or functional issues.
Price Competitively: Research the current market price for used PS4 consoles and price yours accordingly. You can check eBay, Facebook Marketplace, and other online marketplaces to get an idea of what similar consoles are selling for.
Choose the Right Selling Platform: Consider your options carefully. eBay offers a wide reach but involves shipping. Facebook Marketplace is great for local sales. GameStop offers convenience but typically lower prices. Back Market offers a BuyBack service that pays based on the condition of your console, not necessarily on market demand.

Where to Sell Your PS4

Here are some popular options for selling your PS4:

eBay: A popular online marketplace with a large audience.
Facebook Marketplace: A great option for local sales.
GameStop: A convenient option for trading in your console for cash or store credit.
Decluttr: An online platform that buys used electronics.
Back Market: An online platform that buys used electronics, focusing on condition-based pricing.
Pawn Shops: A quick option, but you’re unlikely to get the best price.

A Note on the Future of Gaming

As technology advances, gaming consoles will continue to evolve. The PS5 offers significant improvements over the PS4, including faster loading times, enhanced graphics, and new features.

It’s also important to consider the role of games and learning in education. Research has shown that video games can be used to teach a variety of skills, such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and collaboration. Organizations like the Games Learning Society are exploring the potential of video games as educational tools. You can learn more about their work at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/. GamesLearningSociety.org explores the crossroads of gaming, education, and social change.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to sell your PS4 is a personal one. Consider your individual circumstances, priorities, and needs before making a decision. Weigh the pros and cons of selling versus holding onto your console, and choose the option that makes the most sense for you. No matter what you decide, enjoy the world of gaming!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How much is my used PS4 worth?

The price of a used PS4 varies depending on the model, storage capacity, condition, and included accessories. Generally, you can expect to get between $120 and $250 for a used PS4. Check online marketplaces like eBay and Facebook Marketplace to get an idea of current pricing.

2. Should I sell my PS4 before the PS5 becomes more popular?

Yes, selling your PS4 sooner rather than later is generally advisable, as its value will likely continue to depreciate as the PS5 becomes more prevalent.

3. What should I do before selling my PS4?

Before selling your PS4, you should:

Back up any important data.
Deactivate your PlayStation Network account on the console.
Restore the console to its factory settings.
Clean the console and accessories.
Gather all original accessories.

4. Can I sell my PS4 with games still on it?

No, you should restore the console to its factory settings before selling it. This will erase all of your personal data, including games. Digital games are tied to your PSN account, so they will still be accessible if you log in on another PS4 or PS5.

5. Will GameStop buy my PS4?

Yes, GameStop typically buys used PS4 consoles. However, the price they offer may be lower than what you could get selling it privately.

6. Does GameStop give cash for PS4 trade-ins?

Yes, you can choose to receive cash for your PS4 trade-in at GameStop, although you may get more value if you opt for store credit.

7. Can I sell a broken PS4?

Yes, GameStop may buy broken PS4 consoles, but they will charge a refurbishment fee. You can also explore other options like selling it for parts on eBay.

8. How do I reset my PS4 to factory settings?

To reset your PS4 to factory settings, go to Settings > Initialization > Initialize PS4 > Full. This will erase all of your personal data.

9. Is it safe to sell my PS4 online?

Selling your PS4 online is generally safe, but it’s important to take precautions. Use a reputable platform, communicate with buyers through the platform’s messaging system, and meet in a public place if you’re selling locally.

10. What if I don’t have the original box for my PS4?

You can still sell your PS4 without the original box. However, including the original box can increase its resale value.

11. Can I sell my PS4 controller separately?

Yes, you can sell your PS4 controller separately. Used PS4 controllers typically sell for around $20-$40, depending on their condition.

12. Will Sony continue to support the PS4 in the future?

Sony has confirmed that it will continue to support the PS4 for the foreseeable future, but support for the console will inevitably dwindle over time.

13. What are the best PS4 exclusive games?

Some of the best PS4 exclusive games include God of War (2018), Spider-Man (2018), The Last of Us Part 2 (2020), Horizon Zero Dawn, and Bloodborne.

14. Is it better to sell my PS4 now or wait?

Selling your PS4 now is generally better than waiting, as its value will likely continue to depreciate.

15. How long will the PS4 be relevant?

While the PS4 is still relevant in 2023, its relevance will gradually decline as newer consoles become more popular and game developers focus on newer platforms. Sony plans to cease producing games for it by 2025.

Should I sell my PS4 now?