How much is a PS4 in 2026? Here‘s a Detailed Look at Used PS4 Pricing Now

For PlayStation fans, 2022 marks a transition period. The PS5 launched in late 2020 as the new generation console, but the PS4‘s long run is just winding down after close to 10 years on the market. With over 117.2 million units sold, the PS4 was an enormously successful console. For gamers who don‘t yet have a PS5, is picking up a used PS4 still a smart play in 2022? What is the going rate for a second-hand PS4 these days? Let‘s dive into the data and current market pricing to assess the value proposition.

At Launch: A Competitive $399 Starting Price Point

First, a quick history lesson. The PS4 originally launched on November 15, 2013 at a base price of $399 USD. This undercut the Xbox One by $100, while matching the PS3‘s launch pricing. The PS4‘s competitive pricing was a contributor to its sales dominance throughout the generation. Sony has emphasized accessibility this cycle while still pushing technological boundaries.

Here‘s how the PS4 lineup and pricing expanded over time:

• 2016 – PS4 Slim – Streamlined version, starts at $299
• 2016 – PS4 Pro – 4K + HDR, improved GPU, 1TB model at $399

With these iterative updates, Sony provided options across price points while pushing the performance envelope. It is the PS4 Pro that better competes on a specs level with Microsoft‘s more powerful Xbox One X released in 2017.

Analyzing the Supply and Demand Curve for Used PS4s

Now, let‘s visualize the lifespan sales curve of the PlayStation 4 generation using official Sony data to better understand the supply and demand dynamics at play for used PS4 consoles in 2022.

PS4 Lifetime Sales Chart

Sources: Official Sony earnings reports

A few interesting takeaways:

• Peak PS4 sales occurred between 2018-2020 even years after launch. Supply was plentiful.
• Nearly 117 million PS4s were produced over the lifetime, creating a huge secondhand supply now.
• Production ended January 2022, so used and refurbished are now the only new supply.

With the PS5 taking over as the current generation console, demand for used PS4s has steadily declined throughout 2022. However, the massive supply still presents used PS4s as an affordable entry point to PlayStation gaming.

Used PS4 Pricing – What You Can Expect To Pay in 2022

Pre-Owned PS4 Pricing from Major Retailers

Pricing research conducted October 2022

The PS4 Slim and PS4 Pro tend to retain the most value due to being newer and higher performance models. Prices between major resellers are fairly aligned, with GameStop offering less cash but more store credit.

Let‘s also examine recent eBay sales to gauge real-world used PS4 sale prices:

On eBay, we see some variance in pricing depending on factors like games or accessories bundled with the console, overall cosmetic condition, and seller reputation.

Is Buying a Used PS4 Still Worth It in 2022?

Given the used PS4 pricing landscape above, is purchasing a second-hand PS4 still a smart buy in 2022? Here are some pros and cons to consider:

Pros of Buying a Used PS4:

• Huge established library of 2500+ titles at lower prices
• Less expensive starting point than a $500 PS5
• Play acclaimed PS4 exclusives like God of War, Uncharted 4, and Spiderman
• Solid performance with Pro/Slim models – up to 4K gaming
• Games still being released for PS4 through 2023/2024

Cons/Risks:

• Limited future support as PS5 becomes lead platform
• Could have a short remaining lifespan if issues pop up
• No access to new PS5 exclusive games
• Dated performance and specs compared to PS5
• Disc drive mechanisms may be worn down

Analyzing this, a used PS4 seems a compelling option if priced right for:

• More casual gamers on a budget who missed the generation entirely
• Parents looking for an affordable starter console for kids
• Completionist gamers who want access to the full PlayStation catalog

However, for hardcore gamers invested in next-gen experiences, the PS5 likely makes more sense despite the steep price.

Tips to Maximize Value When Selling or Trading Your PS4

If you decide to trade in or sell your used PS4 yourself, here are some tips to maximize the value:

• Factory reset the console to secure your data and remove account linkage
• Thoroughly clean the console, controllers, and included cables for a fresh look
• Package the original HDMI, power, and controller cables
• Include 1st party DualShock controllers which can add $40-$50 value
• Bundle highly rated games like God of War, Spiderman, Call of Duty
• Use sites like eBay to price competitively based on actual sales
• Be flexible on pricing as demand for used PS4s continues decreasing

Following these best practices will ensure you fetch top dollar when selling your own PS4. For quick and convenient trade-ins, retailers like GameStop, Amazon, and Decluttr offer competitive values.

The PS4 Still Delivers a Quality Experience – If the Price is Right

While used PS4 pricing has declined, the console remains capable of delivering amazing gaming experiences – especially for new adopters who missed out the first time around. Models like the PS4 Slim and PS4 Pro should continue to see buyer interest thanks to large game libraries and solid performance. For the right buyer, a used PS4 priced at $200 or under is arguably still a good value in late 2022. However, long-term support will slowly phase out. Regardless, the PS4‘s legacy as one of the best-selling consoles ever is rock solid. For deal seekers, used PS4s remain a viable entry point into PlayStation gaming this holiday season.