Not every supposed bargain is actually a good deal. We’ll show you what to look out for when buying a used PlayStation 5.
Imagine you’re wandering through a second-hand store, completely unaware, when suddenly the world’s most powerful console smiles at you for an absolute bargain price. A gamer in the U.S. recently made exactly this lucky find.
On Reddit, he explains how he managed to snag a fully functional PlayStation 5 Pro at a local thrift store for about a third of the original price.
The device came with all the necessary cables as well as a PlayStation controller. The console started up without any issues at home and connected to his own PSN account.
To dispel any doubts about the story, the buyer provided three photos as proof. Shown in the photos: the console proudly displayed on the passenger seat, as well as the successful login to the PlayStation Network on the home screen—proof, in other words, that the device wasn’t discarded due to a hardware ban.
Meanwhile, in the hundreds of comments under the post, theories abound and genuine envy mixes with congratulations.
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Users’ speculations range from clueless relatives clearing out a house to drastic disciplinary measures (“Some kid with a lousy report card is now furious!”).
While the internet is now speculating whether angry parents, a vengeful ex-girlfriend, or a vengeful ex-boyfriend banished the expensive device there, we’re sharing the most important tips for your own safe purchase of a used PlayStation 5 or PlayStation 5 Pro.
What you should definitely look for when buying a used PS5 (Pro)
Not every supposed bargain is actually a bargain. As a general rule, you should keep a cool head even when buying used. Pay particular attention to the following points:
- Check connections and cables: Ideally, all PS5 cables should be included. You should also check whether any ports are loose or pins are bent. However, cables can be purchased separately if necessary.
- The PSN Ban Check:Sony permanently bans consoles if they have been flagged for hacking or fraud. Banned PS5 consoles are excluded from online gaming and digital purchases. If possible, have the seller demonstrate or confirm that the console can connect to the PSN network.
- Test the drive: If the PlayStation 5 has a drive, you should test whether it works.
- General condition:Assess the general condition of the console. Is it covered in scratches, or are the fans clogged with dust, nicotine deposits, or pet hair? This indicates poor maintenance.
- Stick drift: Problems can also occur with the controller. So-called stick drift causes movements to be executed without the player’s input.
- Perform a stress test:Ideally, you should conduct a ten- to fifteen-minute stress test on-site. During this test, you should take all of the above tips into account and also start a game to see if issues such as excessively loud fan noise or crashes occur.
- Proof of purchase and remaining warranty:Ideally, the original receipt should be available. A newer PlayStation might even still have some warranty coverage remaining.
- Factory settings:The previous owner should have reset the console to factory settings and removed all accounts.
Even though the gamer’s find was likely a rare stroke of luck, it shows that it’s still possible to score a bargain when buying a console these days.
But even if a like-new PS5 Pro for around 240 euros doesn’t just fall into your lap, buying used can definitely be worth it with the necessary caution and our tips.
Now we want to hear from you: Have you ever hit a similar hardware jackpot at a flea market, in classified ads, or at a second-hand store? Or do you, as a matter of principle, only buy your consoles fresh out of the box?