When you upgrade to a new console, trading in the old one can meaningfully offset the cost. But the difference between programs can add up tocurrent pricing or more for the same hardware. These five options represent the best trade-in routes in 2026, balancing payout value, convenience, and reliability.
| Product | Best For | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Facebook Marketplace | Max payout | 9/10 |
| Decluttr | Speed and simplicity | 8.5/10 |
| Amazon Trade-In | Amazon shoppers | 8/10 |
| Best Buy Trade-In | Local convenience | 7.5/10 |
| GameStop Trade-In | In-store bonus periods | 7/10 |
Facebook Marketplace — Highest Payout for Console Trade-Ins
Selling directly through Facebook Marketplace consistently returns the most money for used consoles. A PS5 that GameStop might value atcurrent pricing in credit can sell forcurrent pricing or more privately. The trade-off is effort: you handle listing, photos, communication, and meeting or shipping. Local pickup avoids shipping fees and is safer for high-value items. Using Facebook Pay or cash in person reduces the risk of scams. If getting maximum value is the goal, private sale is the route.
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Decluttr — Best for Fast, No-Hassle Cash
Decluttr offers instant online quotes, free shipping, and fast payment via PayPal, direct deposit, or check. Payouts are lower than private sale but significantly faster and simpler. You get a quote in minutes, print a free label, and receive payment within a day of the console being received. For players who want cash rather than store credit and do not want to deal with buyers, Decluttr is the most frictionless option on this list.
Amazon Trade-In — Best for Amazon Shoppers
Amazon’s trade-in program offers gift card credit in exchange for used consoles and electronics. The process is entirely online: get a quote, ship for free, receive credit. Payouts are moderate but the gift card credit is immediately useful for anyone who regularly buys on Amazon. The program frequently runs bonus promotions that can increase credit value. If your trade-in money will be going right back into Amazon purchases, this is a seamless option.
Best Buy Trade-In — Best Local Convenience
Best Buy accepts console trade-ins in-store or by mail, issuing Best Buy gift cards as payment. The values are not the highest but the in-store experience is fast and the staff handle the condition assessment on the spot. No back-and-forth communication required. The credit is straightforward to apply toward a new console or accessory purchase in the same visit. For players upgrading immediately, this turn-and-buy approach saves a separate trip.
GameStop Trade-In — Best During Bonus Promotions
GameStop’s base trade-in values are generally the weakest on this list, but the company regularly runs promotional periods that can significantly boost payouts, sometimes by 30 to 50 percent. Following GameStop’s social channels or promo emails and timing your trade-in during a bonus event can make it competitive. PowerUp Rewards Pro members often get enhanced trade-in values. Walk-in access and instant store credit make it convenient for immediate upgrades.
How to Choose the Best Console Trade-In Program
Decide whether you want cash, store credit, or Amazon credit. If speed and simplicity are priorities, Decluttr is hard to beat. If you are upgrading at a retailer the same day, in-store programs at Best Buy or GameStop are convenient. For maximum return on value, private sale through Facebook Marketplace takes more effort but consistently pays more. Always factory reset your console before any trade and remove personal data beforehand.
For more console platform guides, see our breakdown of the best console to play Fortnite on and best console to play retro games. Visit our methodology page for how we evaluate and rank options.
Frequently asked questions
Where can I get the most money when trading in a console?+
Facebook Marketplace and direct sale typically yield the highest return since there is no middleman. If convenience matters more, Decluttr usually offers more cash than GameStop or Best Buy for store-credit-free trades. GameStop is competitive when bonuses are active but its base payouts are often lower than online platforms.
Do I need to factory reset my console before trading it in?+
Yes, always perform a factory reset and deactivate your account before trading or selling any console. This removes your personal data, payment information, and account credentials. On PS5, use the console's reset option in the Settings menu. On Xbox, select Full Shutdown and reset from the console settings.