How much is the original Xbox One worth today?
In 2023, an original Xbox One in good condition typically sells for between $80 and $160, depending on the model, storage capacity, included accessories, and overall condition. 500GB models tend to go for $80-140, while 1TB versions can sell for $100-160 on average. Bundling extra items like controllers and games can increase the value.
History of the Original Xbox One
Let‘s start by taking a nostalgic trip back to the initial launch of the original Xbox One. Microsoft unveiled the console in May 2013 after months of hype and speculation. When it first hit store shelves in November 2013, the original Xbox One had a premium $499 price tag.
This first iteration of the Xbox One featured a chunky, VCR-like design with a two-tone "Oreo cookie" color scheme. It also came bundled with the futuristic Kinect sensor and controller.
Some key specs under the hood included:
- 8-core 1.75GHz AMD custom CPU
- 8GB DDR3 RAM
- 500GB 5400 RPM hard drive
- HDMI in/out ports
- Kinect 2.0 depth sensor
- Wi-Fi 802.11n and Ethernet networking
- Blu-ray disc drive
This allowed the Xbox One to output games and media content in Full HD 1080p resolution. When it launched, the Xbox One competed directly against Sony‘s PlayStation 4 console. While the PS4 focused more on gaming performance and value, the Xbox One was marketed as an all-in-one entertainment system.
Later Xbox One models like the Xbox One S and Xbox One X offered technical improvements like 4K output and faster processors. But many gamers still have fond memories of the original Xbox One that started it all.
What Impacts the Resale Value of an Original Xbox One?
As a seasoned tech product reseller, I‘ve seen a variety of factors that affect how much an original Xbox One can sell for nowadays. Here are some of the most important things to consider:
Age and Physical Condition
An Xbox One bought closer to launch in 2013/2014 will naturally sell for less than one purchased in the last couple years. The overall physical condition also matters greatly. An Xbox One with noticeable scratches, scuffs, cracks, or other cosmetic defects will be worth less than one in pristine condition. Fading, yellowing, and other signs of aging will also bring the price down.
Storage Size
The original 500GB hard drive models are less desirable than the 1TB versions that Microsoft offered later in the lifecycle. The extra storage space allows you to install more games and content, so the 1TB models typically sell for $20-$50 more.
Included Accessories
One of the easiest ways to increase resale value is by bundling extra controllers, headsets, cables, and other accessories. Including 1 or 2 extra Xbox One controllers can alone add $40-$100+ depending on condition. Throwing in 5+ popular game titles also sweetens the pot significantly.
Packaging and Inserts
Having the original box, instruction manuals, and other inserts will appeal to collectors and help justify a higher price. Even just including the power and HDMI cords can save buyers some cash.
Special/Limited Editions
Rare collector‘s edition Xbox One consoles like the Call of Duty Advanced Warfare and Sunset Overdrive editions can sell for two to three times the value of standard editions. Discontinued console bundles are also highly sought after.
Repairs and Modifications
Any DIY repairs or modifications like adding larger hard drives could hurt value for collectors who want an all-original device. But repairs done professionally at Microsoft‘s service centers usually don‘t impact pricing much.
Where to Check Current Xbox One Resale Prices
To get a sense of what an original Xbox One realistically sells for in today‘s secondhand market, I recommend checking completed/sold listings on eBay and other online marketplaces.
Here‘s a snapshot of average resale prices for Xbox One 500GB and 1TB models in good condition:
| Marketplace | Xbox One 500GB | Xbox One 1TB |
| eBay (auction) | $120 | $140 |
| eBay (buy it now) | $130 | $150 |
| Facebook Marketplace | $100 | $120 |
| Craigslist | $110 | $130 |
| GameStop Trade-In | $60 | $75 |
You may be able to list for a higher "asking price" initially, but expect to sell within these ranges based on current demand. Pricing competitively gives you the best chance of selling quickly.
How to Get the Maximum Resale Value for Your Xbox One
Here are my expert tips for preparing an original Xbox One for resale and maximizing the final selling price:
Reset the Console
Using the Xbox settings, perform a factory reset to wipe all personal data and restore it to out-of-the-box state. This makes it clean for the next owner.
Clean Thoroughly
Carefully clean the console exterior to remove any dust, dirt, and grime buildup. Pay close attention to all the vents, ports, and crevices.
Test and Verify Functionality
Fully power up the console and test that it‘s in perfect working condition before listing it for sale. Insert a game disc and play for a while to confirm no issues.
Include Cables and Controller
Having the power cable, HDMI cable, and at least one OEM Xbox controller will maximize the perceived value. Include any other original accessories still in your possession.
Bundle Games If Possible
Consider bundling 3-5 popular Xbox One game titles which can add up to $100+ extra depending on the games.
Use Good Photos
Take well-lit, high resolution photos from multiple angles to show off condition. Include shots of the ports, controller, and console powered on.
Describe Accurately
Provide key details like model, storage capacity, and any defects in your description. Be transparent to avoid returns or complaints.
Price Competitively
Research going rates thoroughly and price just slightly below comparable active listings to maximize interest.
Offer Fast Shipping
Entice buyers by offering fast, free shipping. Package extremely securely to avoid damage during transit.
Following these best practices will help you shine among competitors and potentially earn top dollar for your original Xbox One console.
Should You Trade In or Sell Privately?
You‘ll almost always get more cash by selling an Xbox One yourself through eBay, Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or local ads. But trading in at GameStop does offer benefits like convenience and speed.
Here‘s a quick comparison:
| Trading In | Selling Privately | |
| Amount Received | 20-30% less | Full selling price |
| Speed | Immediate in-store credit | 1-4 weeks to sell |
| Convenience | Simple, no hassle | More time & effort |
| Payment Method | In-store credit | Cash, PayPal, etc. |
Selling yourself requires more effort but nets way more cash. Trading in is quicker and easier, but accepts much lower valuations. Choose based on your priorities!
How the Xbox One Stacks Up to Newer Consoles
Compared to the newer Xbox Series X released in 2020, the original Xbox One is lacking in some key next-gen gaming capabilities:
| Xbox One (2013) | Xbox Series X (2020) | |
| CPU | 8-core 1.75GHz | 8-core 3.8GHz |
| Resolution | 1080p | Up to 8K |
| Framerate | Up to 60fps | Up to 120fps |
| Storage | 500GB HDD | 1TB SSD |
The Xbox Series X also enables advanced next-gen graphics features like ray tracing, and has much faster load times thanks to the built-in SSD.
However, the original Xbox One can still play all the same great games from the past decade. The graphics and performance may not be as impressive, but for casual gaming the Xbox One remains a viable option. And it‘s much more affordable!
The Verdict – Is the Original Xbox One Still Worth Buying and Selling in 2024?
For budget-focused gamers who don‘t demand cutting edge performance and visuals, the original Xbox One can definitely still deliver lots of great gaming value in 2024. Considering the high price tags of the latest consoles, an original Xbox One priced around $100-$150 is an appealing alternative.
Given its large installed base, strong game library, and media features, the resale demand for the Xbox One is likely to remain decently steady for a few more years. As long as the price is fair, it‘s still worth buying a used original Xbox One in nice condition for casual gaming. And clearing out an old Xbox One to put cash towards a next-gen upgrade is a smart move as well.
The Xbox One may be two generations behind now, but it kickstarted the ecosystem and served gamers well for nearly a decade. Reliving classics like Halo 5, Gears of War 4, and Forza Horizon 3 at 1080p/60fps is still very enjoyable. As an industry professional, I think the original Xbox One has certainly earned its place in gaming history. Its resale value should hold up nicely through at least 2025 and beyond.
So there you have it! Hopefully this detailed guide gave you a complete expert overview of the current market and value trends for the original Xbox One. Let me know if you have any other questions – I‘m always happy to chat Xbox. Game on!