How Much is a PS4 Worth in 2022?
Right now in 2022, a used PS4 Slim generally sells for around $150-$200 while a used PS4 Pro goes for $220-$280 depending on condition, included games/accessories and location.
The PlayStation 4 (PS4) initially launched in November 2013 as Sony‘s 8th generation video game console. It was an immediate success, selling over 1 million units within 24 hours in the United States alone. While the newer PlayStation 5 has now taken over as Sony‘s flagship console, the PS4 maintained strong sales momentum throughout its lifecycle. Let‘s take a closer look at what impacts the current resale value of a used PS4.
A Brief History of PlayStation 4 Models and Pricing
There have been several variants of the PlayStation 4 console over the years:
| Model | Launch Date | Initial Price | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Original PS4 | Nov 2013 | $399 | Base PS4 model |
| PS4 Slim | Sept 2016 | $299 | Smaller case, consumed less power |
| PS4 Pro | Nov 2016 | $399 | Enhanced 4K and HDR capabilities |
In addition to incremental hardware updates, Sony has also used strategic price drops and bundling deals with games/accessories to maintain PS4 sales momentum. For example, they temporarily discounted the PS4 down to $274 during holiday sales periods while the base price has remained at $299-349 for much of its lifecycle. Popular bundles have included PS4 consoles packaged with top-tier games like God of War and Spiderman.
PS4 Sales and Market Share Dominance
As of January 2022, over 117 million PS4 units have been sold worldwide according to Sony. For comparison, its main competitor Xbox One has sold around 50 million units to date. The PS4 has consistently outsold the Xbox One by a margin of 2:1 or more.
The PS4‘s strong market share has been driven largely by a varied library of extremely popular exclusive games. Top sellers like The Last of Us, Uncharted 4, God of War, and Bloodborne are only available on PlayStation.
What Impacts Current Resale Value of PS4?
With the PlayStation 5 taking over as Sony‘s new flagship console, what factors determine the used resale value of PS4 models today?
Supply and Demand – Since Sony limited shipments of the PS5 due to shortages, supply of used PS4 remains higher than demand. This results in accelerating price drops.
Condition and Inclusions – Bundle games, controllers, and accessories retain more value. Refurbished consoles get better pricing than well-worn units.
Special Editions – Limited edition PS4 models with alternate designs or engravings can fetch over 50% higher prices.
Production Status – Sony extended PS4 production through 2022 which helps maintain supply. But as manufacturing winds down, used prices may rise.
PS4 Game Library Still Has Strong Value
The extensive game catalog amassed over the PS4‘s long lifecycle keeps demand for the console high even as the PS5 takes over. Popular exclusives that retain strong used resale value include:
- The Last of Us Part II
- Ghost of Tsushima
- God of War
- Spider-Man
- Horizon Zero Dawn
- Uncharted 4: A Thief‘s End
Multiplatform titles like Call of Duty, FIFA, and Fortnite also have enormous player bases on PS4.
Sony has stated they will continue supporting the PS4 through 2023 and expressed commitment to releasing select new titles across both PS4 and PS5. However, third party publishers will likely shift focus exclusively to PS5 sooner. This could diminish the PS4‘s remaining usefulness once supply of new games dwindles.
Is a PS4 Still a Good Buy in 2022?
Given its age, the PS4 obviously won‘t deliver the same level of performance and visual fidelity as the PS5. However, with the used market flooded with cheap PS4 inventory, it remains a very affordable entry point for casual gaming.
If you‘re looking for a basic 1080p Netflix & gaming box for the kids‘ room or a second console for the family, a used PS4 offers great value at under $200. Its extensive game catalog provides endless entertainment at a budget price.
Consider holding out for a PS5 if you want the latest technology and plan to play games competitively or stream/record gameplay. But for most mainstream consumers, a used PS4 is still a sensible purchase in 2022.
Maximizing Your PS4 Resale Value
When the time comes to upgrade and you‘re ready to sell your PS4, here are some tips to maximize resale value:
- Factory reset the console to wipe all personal data
- Thoroughly clean the system and controllers
- Bundle in any popular game titles you have
- Keep all original cables, charging cords and accessories
- Take clear photos showing condition for listings
- List locally on Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist to avoid fees and shipping costs
Following these best practices ensures you can get top dollar when selling your used PS4.
So in summary, while no longer Sony‘s flagship, the PS4 still carries decent value for budget-focused gamers. Expect to pay around $150-$280 depending on the variant, condition, and included games/accessories. With the huge existing PS4 install base, Sony‘s console makes for an affordable entry point before upgrading to the PS5.
