How Much Would a 3DS Sell for Today?
Hey there! As an investment analyst with over 10 years experience, I get asked this question a lot these days. Based on the latest market data, you can expect an average price between $100 and $150 for a used original 3DS or 3DS XL in good condition. However, prices vary widely based on the specific model, bundle inclusions, limited editions, and condition factors.
Throughout this guide, I‘ll dig into all the details to help you understand the current 3DS resale landscape. I‘ll also provide tips to maximize your sale value, compare 3DS to other retro systems, and make predictions for the future. Let‘s dive in!
Resale Price Ranges by 3DS Model
The exact price depends heavily on which 3DS model you have:
Original 3DS (2011) – The launch model sells for $60 to $100 loose, or $100 to $150 boxed. Limited editions easily fetch $150 to $200.
3DS XL (2012) – The supersized model ranges from $80 to $120 loose, or $120 to $180 complete. Sealed units have sold over $300.
2DS (2013) – Nintendo‘s budget model sells for only $50 to $80 used typically.
New 3DS (2015) – With upgraded internals, this model sells for around $150 to $180 loose, or $180 to $220 complete.
New 3DS XL (2015) – The most advanced model fetches between $160 and $200 loose, or $200 to $240 complete. Sealed units have topped $400.
As you can see, the New 3DS XL sells for the highest averages, while the original 3DS and 2DS are more affordable. But condition is key…
How Condition Impacts 3DS Value
A 3DS in pristine complete condition with the original box and manuals will sell for significantly more than one that‘s loose with heavy wear:
| Condition | Loose Price | Complete Price |
| Brand New Sealed | $150 to $300 | $200 to $400+ |
| Like New | $100 to $150 | $120 to $200 |
| Good | $60 to $100 | $80 to $140 |
| Acceptable | $40 to $80 | $50 to $100 |
| For Parts | $20 to $40 | $25 to $60 |
As you can see, condition drastically swings values by 100% or more. So inspect your 3DS closely and note any flaws that may reduce its value before listing.
Where Should I Sell My 3DS?
You‘ve got plenty of options to get the best price:
eBay – Worldwide listings but fees apply. Start pricing on the higher side.
Facebook Marketplace – Great for local sales with no fees or shipping.
Craigslist – Traditional classifieds to connect with local buyers.
GameStop – Quick and convenient but lower trade in values.
Swappa – Respected tech resale site with strong buyer protections.
Locally – Avoid fees selling directly via classifieds or to a store.
I‘d recommend trying both local listings and national marketplaces like eBay or Swappa. Compare the prices and fees to maximize your profit.
3DS Value Over Time – Peak Pricing Has Passed
The 3DS has seen its peak pricing come and go:
Launch (2011) – The 3DS released at $249.99 but…
2011 Price Cut – Just months later, the price was slashed to $169.99 due to weak sales.
2012-2016 – Used prices held steady around $100 to $150.
2017-2019 – Values declined to the $75 to $125 range as the 3DS faded.
2020-2023 – Discontinuation has driven prices down further across most models.
With the 3DS being discontinued in favor of the Switch, values have little room to increase. Selling now captures the highest residual value possible for common models. Limited editions may hold value better long term.
How Does 3DS Compare to Other Retro Consoles?
The GBA and DS continue to sell for decent used prices despite being discontinued:
Game Boy Advance – Loose models sell for around $50 to $100, while rare sealed units can top $300.
Nintendo DS – Used prices typically range from $60 to $150 based on model, games, and condition.
However, neither maintain quite the premium of older 80s/90s Nintendo consoles which routinely sell for 200-400% or more of their original MSRP.
This is likely due to far higher production volumes of the GBA and DS compared to the NES and SNES, along with less nostalgia for more "modern" handheld gaming.
The 3DS appears to be on a similar depreciation trajectory as the GBA and DS. While it maintains collectibility, prices are not sustaining the same level of premium.
2DS vs. 3DS – Does the 3D Screen Add Value?
Interestingly, used 2DS models sell for around $50 to $100 less than the equivalent 3DS version.
This large gap demonstrates that the 3DS‘s unique 3D screen tech substantially increases its collector value and user demand, easily adding $50+ to resale prices.
So if you own a 3DS rather than a 2DS, you can expect to get a nice premium when selling thanks to the desirable glasses-free 3D display.
Preparing Your 3DS for Sale
To maximize your sale value, be sure to:
Removing all personal information is crucial whenever selling any used electronics. And testing everything thoroughly demonstrates full working condition.
Lastly, cleaning it until it looks like new and taking great photos helps attract buyers who will pay top dollar.
Digital Games Have No Value – Buy Physical!
Physical 3DS games retain decent resale value, typically $10 to $30 each depending on title. This allows you to resell your 3DS games if desired.
However, digital eShop titles are tied to your Nintendo Account permanently. You cannot transfer or sell digital games.
So eShop games have zero monetary value when selling your 3DS. Keep this in mind when building your 3DS game library. Physical games provide much better long term value.
The 3DS Market Outlook Moving Forward
As Nintendo‘s focus shifts 100% to the Switch, 3DS systems will become increasingly niche collector‘s items over the next 5-10 years. Here are my predictions:
The 3DS had an excellent run with over 75 million systems sold. This substantial installed base ensures ongoing collector interest.
So while most models will slowly lose value from here, the 3DS should maintain a healthy collector scene for years to come thanks to its immense popularity during its lifetime.
The Bottom Line
Even as a discontinued system, the 3DS still carries decent resale value in today‘s market. But exact pricing depends heavily on model, condition, bundles, limited editions, and more.
Common models in good shape can reliably fetch $100 to $150 in 2024. Rare sealed units or special editions can sell for $200 to $400+.
Selling sooner than later maximizes your return, as prices trend downward over time. And be sure to sell physical game copies to recoup some of their value as well!
Hopefully this detailed guide gives you a great idea of the current 3DS resale landscape. Let me know if you have any other questions! I‘m always happy to provide insider tips to maximize your sale.