Should You Buy a New or Used PS4 in 2026?

My verdict is go with refurbished PS4 consoles for the best value and experience in 2024. Keep reading to see why.

With Sony discontinuing new PS4 production in 2022 as they shift focus to the PS5, buying brand new PS4 systems is no longer an option for most gamers. The only new PS4 units left are retailer inventory selling at full $299 (PS4 Slim) or $399 (PS4 Pro) MSRP.

Once that remaining stock sells out, your only choices will be pre-owned PS4 consoles. The good news is that buying refurbished and properly vetted used PS4s is a smart move that can save you hundreds of dollars.

In this detailed guide, I‘ll compare new vs used PS4 models, pricing, risks, and more as a gaming industry professional. My goal is to equip you with expert advice on finding the best PS4 deal with minimal headaches or surprises. Let‘s dive in!

PS4 Generations and Models

Before deciding new or used, it helps to understand the PS4 generations and models available:

Original PS4 (2013 Launch)

• 500GB hard drive
• HDMI, optical audio, Ethernet ports
• Overall dimensions: 12 x 2 x 11 inches

PS4 Slim (2016 Revision)

• More compact body at 11 x 1.5 x 11 inches
• Weighs 4.5 lbs vs 6.1 lbs of original model
• Same 500GB hard drive and ports

PS4 Pro (2016 Launch)

• Supports 4K and HDR gaming
• 1TB hard drive standard
• Third USB 3.1 port added

Comparison Chart

Model	Resolution	Hard Drive	Dimensions	Weight
Original PS4	1080p HD	500GB	12" x 2" x 11"	6.1 lbs
PS4 Slim	1080p HD	500GB	11" x 1.5" x 11"	4.5 lbs
PS4 Pro	4K + HDR	1TB	12.8" x 2.1" x 11.6"	7.3 lbs

While the PS4 Pro supports higher 4K resolution, all PS4 models can play the exact same game library. You won‘t miss out or lose any functionality buying a used original PS4 or PS4 Slim.

New vs Used PS4 Pricing

One of the biggest factors in deciding between new and used is PS4 pricing. Here‘s a comparison of current new and used PS4 price ranges:

Model	New Price	Used Price*
PS4 Slim 500GB	$299	$130-$180
PS4 Slim 1TB	$339	$150-$220
PS4 Pro 1TB	$399	$200-$280

* Used pricing based on consoles in good condition bought from reputable retailers, not individuals.

As you can see, buying a used PS4 Slim or Pro from the right seller could save you $100 to $220 compared to new models. The limited new inventory left demands full MSRP pricing without any sales or discounts too.

These potential savings likely make pre-owned PS4 systems attractive. However, buying used does come with some risks you should consider.

Used PS4 Buying Risks

While used devices can provide great value, they also present some potential downsides to weigh:

• Hardware issues – Used consoles may have undiscovered defects or wear that cause problems.

• Damage/wear – Heavy scratching, scuffs, and cracked plastic can impact durability and aesthetics.

• Missing accessories – Used PS4s often come with just the console itself, no cables, controllers, etc.

• Banned systems – Consoles banned from PlayStation Network for violations can‘t play online.

• Odors/hygiene – Smoke, pets, moisture damage, and grime may require deep cleaning.

• Short life span – A PS4 close to the end of its lifespan may not justify the discounted price.

These risks are surmountable with proper inspection and buying best practices. But if buying from an untrustworthy source, you could end up with a non-working lemon.

My advice? Take time to thoroughly vet any used PS4 before purchasing. Pay the premium for refurbished models that have been professionally inspected and cleaned too.

Smart Tips for Buying Used PS4 Systems

Take these steps to stress-free used PlayStation buying:

• Ask questions – Inquire about the console‘s age, any repairs or issues, and usage habits. Kids likely used it harder than adults. High volume use decreases longevity as well.

• Inspect ports – Check that controller, power, HDMI, and USB ports are not damaged. Insert cables and test snug fit.

• Insert game discs – Verify the optical drive accepts and reads discs without grinding or stuck ejects.

• Check fans – PS4s should emit very little heat or fan noise when powered on at dashboard. Loud fans indicate potential issues.

• Link PSN account – Connect to the internet and sign into your PlayStation Network account to check you aren‘t banned.

• Test controllers – Ensure included gamepads sync properly without button sticking or response lag.

• Play games – Ideally play graphics-intensive games like God of War or The Last of Us to stress test performance.

• Examine exterior – Look for cracks, deep scratches, or other physical damage that could impact durability.

• Reset system – Factory reset the PS4 so you start fresh if buying used from an individual.

With thorough vetting, you can score an incredible used PS4 deal. Now let‘s explore how refurbished models provide used consoles with more assurance.

Buying Refurbished PS4 Systems

Refurbished game consoles provide used systems that have been professionally inspected, cleaned, repaired, and restored to like-new working order. Here are key perks of buying a refurbished PS4:

• Discounted 20-40% off new MSRP – Save significantly over new systems.

• Restored performance and appearance – Refurbishers fix defects and make them look brand new again.

• Short warranty included – Many refurbs include a 90-day warranty on parts and labor.

• Reputable seller – Big names like Sony, Amazon, and GameStop refurbish and stand behind their products.

For just a bit more than a used PS4, refurbished models provide peace of mind. But how does the refurbishing process actually work?

What Does Refurbishing a PS4 Involve?

When Sony and other companies refurbish used PlayStation 4 units, here are the steps they take:

• Inspection – The console is thoroughly tested for defects and assessed for physical damage. Faulty parts are identified for replacement.

• Data wiping – All user data and accounts are completely erased from the PS4 system and hard drive.

• Repairs – Any defective modules like optical drives or hard drives are swapped out. Entire systems can be replaced too if needed.

• Cleaning – Technicians deep clean the exterior and internal components from dust and grime buildup.

• Testing – Extensive gameplay sessions test for hardware or software issues, followed by final QC checks.

• Repackaging – The refurbished PS4 is then packed in new generic packaging with necessary cables and a controller.

This refurbishment process strives to make pre-owned PS4s look and function like they just came off the assembly line. The peace of mind is worth the small premium over regular used consoles.

Weighing New vs Used PS4 Pros and Cons

To help summarize so far, here‘s a quick pros and cons comparison of buying new and pre-owned PS4 systems:

New PS4 Pros

• Untouched out-of-box experience
• Full 1-year manufacturer warranty
• Latest manufacturing date and parts

New PS4 Cons

• Very limited stock left at full MSRP
• No discounts or bundle savings
• Not environmentally friendly

Used PS4 Pros

• Significant cost savings of $100-$220
• Still plays all PS4 games like new
• Environmentally sustainable

Used PS4 Cons

• No warranty protections
• Potential undisclosed issues
• Accessories often not included

Refurbished PS4 Pros

• Professionally repaired by Sony/retailers
• Discounted 20-40% off new MSRP
• Short included warranty

Refurbished PS4 Cons

• Still a used system at core
• Very limited refurb stock left

This comparison shows why refurbished PS4 models strike the ideal balance of value, savings, and risk reduction based on your purchasing criteria.

Finding PS4 Deals in 2024

Don‘t expect to find many discounts or deals on brand new PS4 systems in 2024 since supply is low. Any remaining retailer inventory will sell at full MSRP.

For used and refurbished PS4 bargains, check these reputable sources:

• Sony – Their online store often has PS4 refurb inventory direct from their Genuine Sony Refurbished program. Units come with a 1-year warranty.

• Amazon Renewed – Their rigorously vetted refurbished products include PS4 systems with a 90-day guarantee.

• GameStop Refurbished – One of the best sources for affordable refurbished consoles, now with a 30-day guarantee.

• eBay – Sort by newly listed Buy-It-Now PS4 auctions ending soon. Bid at the last minute to win best pricing.

• Facebook Marketplace – Search locally for used PS4s and negotiatecondition.

• /r/GameSale – Reddit‘s game trading community often has great PS4 deals from reputable gamers.

Set up alerts on Slickdeals, set budget maximums, and exercise patience to score an unbelievable used PS4 find. Buying refurbished eliminates most risks too.

Shop Smarter: Buying Refurbished Is Best

After breaking down all the factors around new and used PS4 consoles, I firmly believe purchasing refurbished is the smartest move for value. Here‘s why:

• Used PS4 systems under $150 can have undisclosed issues. Refurbished units are tested to eliminate defects.

• Refurbs add a warranty, accessories, professional cleaning/repairs, and peace of mind.

• While new systems are virtually unavailable, refurbished PS4 stock still pops up.

• You save 20-40% buying refurbished versus new PS4 cost. Huge value.

• Sellers like Sony, GameStop, and Amazon stand behind their refurbishment quality.

Obviously securing any PS4 under $200 in 2024 is a great deal given the aging console lifecycle. But don‘t let the upfront savings of used consoles outweigh the benefits of buying refurbished.

In my experience, spending a bit more for a refurbished PS4 is well worth it. You‘ll be far happier with a smoothly operating system backed by a warranty compared to a potentially faulty one without recourse.

I hope these tips help you score an incredible PS4 deal this year. Let me know if you have any other questions!

Jason Striegel
A-Tech Enthusiast