Can You Trade Games You Own on Steam?
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
You cannot trade games that are already in your Steam library, but you can trade Steam items, in-game items, and extra copies of games (referred to as Steam Gifts) if they are in your inventory. The tradability of an item can be checked in the “Tags” section of the item details in your Steam Inventory.
Understanding Steam Trading
To trade games or items on Steam, you need to have Steam Guard enabled, and the item must be in your inventory, not in your library.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What Can Be Traded on Steam?
Steam items, in-game items, and extra copies of games (referred to as Steam Gifts) are tradable, but games already in your Steam library are not.
2. How Do I Know If an Item Is Tradable on Steam?
To find out if an item is tradable, go to your Steam Inventory, select the item, and check the “Tags” section in the item details.
3. Can I Give Away Steam Games I Own?
No, you cannot give away Steam games you own, but you can purchase a Steam Gift and give it to someone else.
4. What Happens If You Buy a Game You Already Own on Steam?
If you try to buy a game you already own, the “Buy for Myself” button will be grayed out, but you can still buy it as a gift for someone else or store it in your inventory.
5. How Do I Sell a Game I Bought on Steam?
You can use platforms like Gameflip to sell Steam games, but be aware that selling Steam accounts or games directly is against Steam’s terms of service.
6. Why Can’t I Trade Steam Games?
If Steam Guard has not been enabled for 15 days, or if your account has been restricted due to security concerns, you will be unable to trade or use the Community Market.
7. Can You Keep Steam Games Forever?
Yes, once you add a game to your Steam library, you own it forever, as Steam games are digital copies stored on Steam’s servers.
8. Can You Refund Steam Games as Much as You Want?
Yes, you can request a refund for any eligible purchase, but if Valve suspects you are abusing the refund system, they may revoke your access to this feature.
9. Do Games on Steam Expire?
No, Steam games do not expire once added to your library, but subscription-based games or free-to-play offers may have time limits.
10. Can I Sell My Steam Game to Someone Else?
No, you cannot sell games from your library because digital distribution is essentially a form of “renting for life”, where the game is tied to your account.
11. Can You Merge 2 Steam Accounts?
No, Steam accounts cannot be merged together, as game subscriptions and CD keys are non-transferable.
12. Can I Sell My Steam Items for Money?
Yes, you can sell certain in-game items and digital trading cards through the Steam Community Market.
13. Can I Sell My Steam Account?
No, Steam accounts cannot be bought or sold, and doing so can result in the account being permanently locked.
14. How Many Refunds Is Too Many on Steam?
There is no limit to the number of refunds you can request, but Valve may revoke your access to refunds if they suspect abuse.
15. What Happens If You Abuse Steam Refund?
If Valve suspects you are abusing the refund system, they can revoke your ability to use it, ensuring the integrity of the Steam Store and protecting developers and customers alike.