How much would a 3DS sell for today? Expect $50 – $250 Depending on Model

In 2023, you can expect to get anywhere from $50 to $250 for your used Nintendo 3DS, depending on the specific model and condition. The more recent New 3DS XL tends to sell for $180 – $250, while the original 2011 3DS sells for $50 – $100. Read on for a detailed breakdown of current 3DS resale prices.

A Look Back at 3DS Launch Pricing and Sales

When it first launched in March 2011, the original 3DS was priced at $249.99 – considered quite expensive for a handheld at the time. Initially the 3DS saw sluggish sales at this price point. As a result, just 5 months after launch Nintendo made the unprecedented move to slash the 3DS price by $80 to only $169.99.

This 32% price drop rewarding early adopters with free Virtual Console games, and sparked a surge in 3DS sales through the end of 2011. This illustrates just how quickly electronics like game systems can lose resale value after their release.

In 2012, the 3DS XL variant launched at $199.99, replacing the original model on store shelves. The New Nintendo 3DS and New 3DS XL arrived in 2015 priced at $199.99 and $229.99 respectively. They added upgraded hardware and some exclusive game compatibility.

Resale Value by Model as of 2024

Now let‘s examine the current average resale prices for different 3DS models in 2024, over a decade after the original release:

As you can see, the New 3DS XL commands the highest used prices these days, selling for $180 – $250 on average. That‘s over 4 times as much as the $50 – $100 you can expect for the original 2011 3DS model.

The newer models tend to retain value better due to their more powerful hardware and exclusives like Xenoblade Chronicles 3D. Limited edition models also sell for more, which is covered in-depth later.

Here is a line chart showing the average used prices for the main 3DS models each year since launch:

You can see the steep drop in value for the original model after 2011. The newer versions have declined less drastically, with the New 3DS XL holding value the best over time.

Why the Specific Model Matters

As the chart above illustrates, the specific 3DS model you have drastically impacts it‘s current resale value. But why is there such a large difference in price between models? There are a few key reasons:

• Exclusive Games – The New 3DS has enhanced hardware that allows it to play Xenoblade Chronicles 3D and other games not supported on older models. This exclusivity increases its desirability.

• Processing Power – With a faster CPU, more RAM, and additional controls like the C-stick, the New models are capable of better performance.

• Durability – The cheaper construction of models like the 2DS brings their value down compared to more premium builds.

• Display Quality – The original 3DS had a lower resolution 400×240 display vs the New models‘ 256×144 screens.

• 3D Capability – Losing the auto-stereoscopic 3D feature drops the 2DS resale price significantly.

So in summary, newer models sell for 2-4x as much largely thanks to their improved hardware, exclusive game compatibility, and more premium feel.

Condition is Critical to Maximizing Value

The physical and cosmetic condition of a used 3DS also has a huge impact on resale pricing. Systems in pristine, like-new condition can sell for 50% or more over well-worn consoles with damage:

• Deep scratches or scuffs on the outer shell severely hurt value. Small scratches are more acceptable.

• Screens with burn-in or dead pixels sell for less than flawless displays.

• Damage like cracks or stripped screws make systems nearly worthless.

• Missing components like styluses reduce value. No original charger can mean $20-30 less.

• Heavily yellowed shells or worn off logos make systems look poorly maintained.

I recommend thoroughly inspecting your 3DS for damage before selling. Be upfront and disclose any flaws when listing. Properly photograph any blemishes. Restoring issues like screen burn-in can increase your selling price.

Special and Limited Edition Models Fetch a Premium

Standard 3DS models in good condition will sell decently. But you can get significantly higher prices for rare limited and special edition consoles. Some examples include:

• Pokemon X/Y Red & Blue Edition – Released in 2014, these colorful models now sell for $400+ thanks to Pokemon collectibility.

• Zelda Majora‘s Mask Edition – This gold and black stylized 3DS decorated with MM designs sells for around $300 loose.

• Fire Emblem Fates New 3DS – With custom artwork, this sought-after edition sells for $350 and up.

• Animal Crossing Happy Home Designer Edition – Decorated with a unique animal face plate, it sells for $250+

For sellers, researching what limited 3DS models are valuable can really pay off. Even common editions like the Super Mario Black Edition add a nice premium. Consider selling rarer models individually rather than bundling for maximum profits.

Installed Games and Content Increase Value

The installed games and content that come with a used 3DS also impact perceived value:

• Including the original game cartridges that came bundled with the system helps increase value. Games like Mario Kart 7 and Super Mario 3D Land are ideal pack-ins.

• Having popular digital games pre-installed on the system is a plus for some buyers. Games bought on the eShop stay on the console.

• Demo versions of titles also add minor value for collectors looking to preserve them.

• Your save data has value too – some buyers may want an established island in Animal Crossing for example. Be sure to check your SD card.

However, remember to factory reset the system before shipping to wipe all sensitive personal data! But leaving data like games intact adds that extra incentive for buyers.

The Controversy Around Modded and Hacked 3DS Systems

Some technically skilled owners have modified or "hacked" their 3DS consoles for purposes like running emulators, pirating commercial games, or cheating in multiplayer. This is a controversial practice.

On one hand, hacked 3DS systems can enable features like game ROM loading that some buyers desire. This creates collectors willing to pay $100+ more for a pre-hacked console.

But many buyers strictly avoid modded systems to stay legit. Not to mention hacking voids the warranty since it breaks Nintendo‘s terms of use. And hackers can be targeted by lawsuits or account bans.

My advice is to transparently list if your 3DS is modded when selling it. The legal risks around hacking may make standard consoles more appealing to average gamers. But "homebrew" enthusiasts will pay up for capable systems.

How Original Boxes and Packaging Boost Value

Many sellers throw away the boxes their consoles came in after purchase. But for resale, having the complete original 3DS packaging can increase value by around 20%. Here are some tips on how box condition affects prices:

• Boxes without crushing or water damage sell for much more. Even minor shelf wear hurts prices.

• Complete packaging with all instruction manuals helps demonstrate a gently used system.

• Having the original unopened plastic wrap is ideal but unlikely years later.

• If lacking the box, try selling with third party replacements. Even generic boxes beat nothing.

• For shipping, boxes prevent damage. Double-boxing adds extra protection.

So overall, maintaining complete packaging demonstrates respect for the product‘s condition. Buyers are willing to pay more knowing your 3DS was stored properly. But if missing, aftermarket replacements work too.

Where to Get the Most Money Selling a Used 3DS

Finally, where you sell your used 3DS also impacts how much cash you can get for it. Here are some top options with their pros and cons:

• eBay – Enormous buyer pool means competitive bidding and top dollar. Safest payment via secure checkout. But steep 10% fees.

• Facebook Marketplace – Meet local buyers for cash sales. Good prices but less protection than eBay. Risk of flakers.

• Craigslist – Also local-only. Lower prices but avoid eBay fees. Use caution when meeting strangers.

• GameStop – Convenient but will lowball offers, often 25-40% under full resale value. Quick way to get rid of a 3DS though.

• r/GameSale – Use caution but can get fair prices from fellow redditors. Less fees than eBay.

• Neighborhood Apps – Nextdoor, Facebook Groups, etc can connect you with interested local buyers.

Based on your goals, narrow down the best platform to maximize profits while keeping things convenient. Avoid pawn shops that will drastically underpay. Individual sales get you more over retailers.

Final Tips on Making the Most Money Reselling a 3DS

To summarize my top tips for selling a 3DS for as much money as possible:

• Fully reset the console to wipe your data before shipping it off! This also prevents your accounts from getting compromised in the future.

• Thoroughly clean the system – buyers don‘t want dirty or damaged devices with visible wear.

• Note any defects upfront in your sales listing to set expectations. Disclose if unit is modded/hacked.

• Package the 3DS very carefully to avoid shipping damage. Consider insurance.

• For local sales, meet in a safe public place like a coffee shop rather than home addresses.

• Research the true value of any special edition or limited system – don‘t under-price rare units.

• Accepting credit card payments via secure checkout prevents fraudulent buyers and scams.

I hope these tips help you get top dollar for your used Nintendo handheld! Let me know if you have any other questions.