Games console trade-in: selling Xbox, PlayStation and Nintendo

Identify the model and everything included

Record the model name, storage capacity and whether it has a disc drive. Xbox Series S and Series X are different from Xbox One models; PS4, PS4 Pro and PS5 variants also differ. For Nintendo, specify Switch, Switch Lite, Switch OLED or Switch 2 rather than simply saying Switch.

List controllers, power supplies, HDMI cables, docks, straps, physical games and the original box separately. Photograph the console and accessories together. Describe controller drift, charging problems, noisy operation, damaged ports, disc-reading faults and any restrictions on online services. A console that powers on is not necessarily fully working.

Compare cash, credit and private sale

Check whether an offer pays cash, a voucher or credit towards another purchase. Compare the same model, accessories and condition, then account for postage, selling fees and collection arrangements. Private sale gives you responsibility for photographs, buyer questions, payment and any delivery dispute.

Ask how testing affects the offer and what happens if the buyer finds a fault. Confirm requirements for missing controllers or cables before travelling or posting. Digital games and subscriptions should not be presented as a transferable bundle attached to your personal account.

Back up first, then prepare your console

Verify that the saves and captures you want to keep have transferred or backed up successfully before erasing anything. Tell other users of a shared console first, and retain access to your own accounts.

• Xbox: follow Microsoft's sale preparation guide to back up settings, reset the console to factory defaults and then remove it from your Microsoft account. Use the linked Xbox instructions for the correct reset option.
• PlayStation: Sony's PS4 and PS5 guide covers saves, captures, trophy syncing and the full console reset. Remove discs and personal external storage you are keeping.
• Nintendo: use Nintendo's full factory reset guidance after preserving your data. The option that keeps save data is unsuitable for selling. If upgrading to Switch 2, read the system transfer instructions before resetting: transfer methods preserve or delete different data. Keep your personal memory cards and game cards.

Removing a console from an online account alone does not erase its local data. If damage prevents preparation, explain this to the buyer before agreeing a sale.

Ask EXE about your console

Choose Console in EXE's enquiry form and provide the model, storage, accessories and honest condition details. The team reviews enquiries manually; acceptance and value depend on the device and its condition.

Agree handover arrangements before sending anything. Redhill visits are by appointment; UK post-in can be arranged with the team. Collection is considered individually for eligible higher-value devices or suitable batches. Following inspection, the final offer is agreed before payment by bank transfer.