Studies show that more than 3 billion people play video games. Any way you look at it, that means that millions of gaming consoles are sold each year. However, many people choose not to pay full price, and head to their local pawn shop to buy consoles. That means that if you have a video game console you don’t use anymore, you can likely turn it into instant cash by selling it to a pawn shop. If you’re thinking of selling your video game console to a pawn shop, read on for what you need to know.
What Type of Video Game Consoles Do Pawn Shops Buy?
Most pawn shops buy two types of video games: current/popular consoles, and vintage consoles. This is because they cater to a diverse customer-base. While many people want to get the latest video game console, others may be looking for vintage video game consoles. Likewise, some customers want home consoles, some want handheld consoles, and others prefer a hybrid console.
Modern video game consoles that pawn shops are often interested in buying from sellers include:
- Sony PlayStation 4
- PlayStation 4 Pro
- PlayStation 5
- Xbox Series X
- Xbox Series S
- Nintendo Switch
- Nintendo Switch Lite
- Nintendo Switch OLED
- Amazon Luna
- Google Stadia
- Xbox One
- Xbox 360
- Wii
Vintage, or retro video game consoles that a pawn shop may be interested in buying from a seller include:
- Nintendo NES Classic
- Nintendo Super NES Classic
- Sega Genesis Mini
- Sony PlayStation Classic
- Atari Flashback
- NeoGeo Mini
Please note, most pawnshops are independently owned and operated, so the only way to know if a particular pawn shop is interested in buying your video game console or other electronic device is to take your console in and talk with them.
Selling Gaming Consoles to a Pawn Shop: Tips for Getting the Best Offer
If you have a console, you don’t use anymore, it’s worth your while to see if you can turn it into cash. But before you take it to the pawn shop, follow these tips for the best experience.
1. Gather All Cords/Cables/Controllers
You’ll likely need to prove that the console works at the pawnshop, so you’ll need to have the power cord, and any of the cords that affix to the controls. If you have the original packaging the console came in, even better. Bring it with you when you go to the shop.
2. Look at the Pawn Shop’s Website
Before you pack up your console, be sure that the shop you’re planning to go to buys video game consoles. While many likely do buy and sell consoles, those that have a lot in stock may not be interested in adding to their inventory until they sell the ones they already have for sale.
3. Check Out the Online Inventory
If a pawn shop near you has an online store, it doesn’t hurt to look and see if they have the same item you wish to sell. If you visit the online store of a reputable pawn shop near you and see that they have three PlayStation 5 consoles in stock, you may want to find another shop to try to sell your same console to.
4. Know the Retail Price of the Console
Research the current price of the console you want to sell. Then remember that pawnshops pay a fraction of the retail price. This will help you to have realistic expectations before you arrive.
5. Let the Pawnshop Make the First Offer
You should always wait for the pawnbroker to make you an offer on your video game console. This is to ensure you don’t shortchange yourself.
6. Don’t Take a Low Offer Personally
If the pawn shop offers you much less than you had hoped or expected, try not to take it personally. There are many factors that will go into the pawnbroker’s offer. A low offer may mean that they don’t see a lot of demand for consoles. Or, they may have just purchased another video game console before you brought yours in to sell.
7. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for More
Negotiation is expected at pawnshops. So if you’re not happy with the offer you receive, go ahead and make a case for why you should get a better price for your item. It never hurts to ask for a bit more, particularly if you have good reasons why the console is worth more than they offered.
8. Be Willing to Walk Away
You do not have to accept an offer from a pawnshop, ever. If you think you can sell your video game console for more money at another shop, or online, that is absolutely your prerogative. You should never feel pressured to sell your item.
Why Sell Your Video Game Console to a Pawn Shop?
The biggest benefit of selling your video game console to a pawnshop is convenience. You won’t have to worry about listing it online. You won’t have to meet a stranger somewhere and then demonstrate the console works. That also means you don’t have to give your contact information to a stranger. You won’t need to worry about getting an agreement, and the buyer backing out at the last minute. You won’t have to worry about collecting the money. You also won’t have to deal with shipping and insuring your console. At a pawn shop, selling a video game console is a straightforward transaction that can be completed in minutes. You’ll leave with cash in your pocket, too.
Sell Your Video Game Console in Ontario Today
Central Mega Pawn is the Inland Empire’s favorite pawnshop. Convenient to Pomona, Upland and surrounding areas, Central Mega Pawn is located at 11031 Central Avenue, in Ontario. For your convenience, Central Mega Pawn is open 7 days a week from 9:30 am – 6:00 pm.
Central Mega Pawn is a proud member of the California Pawnbrokers Association. We are fully compliant with all local, state, and federal regulations.
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