PS4 Price Range Today
A new PlayStation 4 typically costs between $300 and $500, depending on the model and where you buy it. The standard PS4 is usually the least expensive option, while the PS4 Pro — which has better graphics and faster performance — costs more. Used PS4 consoles sell for less, often $150 to $300, though the condition and age of the machine affect the price.
Prices vary by retailer. Major electronics stores like Best Buy, Walmart, and Amazon sometimes run sales that drop the price $20 to $50 below the standard retail cost. Smaller retailers, local game shops, and online marketplaces may have different pricing. If you are buying used, Facebook Marketplace, eBay, and GameStop all list PS4 consoles at different prices depending on condition and included accessories.
Key Takeaways
- A new standard PS4 costs around $300 to $400 at most major retailers, while the PS4 Pro costs $400 to $500.
- Used PS4 consoles range from $150 to $300 depending on age, condition, and whether controllers and cables are included.
- Prices fluctuate by season and retailer, so checking multiple stores can save you $20 to $50 on a new console.
- The PS4 has been discontinued by Sony, so new stock is limited and prices may be higher than when the console was actively manufactured.
New vs. Used: What You Pay the Difference For
A new PS4 comes with a full warranty, original packaging, and the may provide that all internal components are factory-fresh. You also get the latest software installed and no wear on the buttons, analog sticks, or cooling fans. New consoles from authorized retailers typically include at least a one-year manufacturer's warranty that covers hardware defects.
A used PS4 costs less upfront but carries risk. The previous owner may have used it heavily, and wear on the analog sticks or cooling system can mean repairs down the road. Used consoles sold by retailers like GameStop often come with a shorter warranty — usually 30 to 90 days — while private sales typically have no warranty at all. Before buying used, ask the seller how often the console was used, whether it has ever been repaired, and test the controllers and disc drive if possible.
Standard PS4 vs. PS4 Pro Pricing
The standard PS4 is the cheaper option and plays all PS4 games at 1080p resolution. It is the model most people buy and the one you will find at the lowest prices. The PS4 Pro outputs games at 4K resolution on compatible TVs and runs games faster, with better frame rates in many titles. The Pro costs $100 to $150 more than the standard model.
Whether the Pro is worth the extra cost depends on your TV and what games you play. If you have a 4K television and play graphically demanding games like God of War or The Last of Us Part II, the Pro delivers noticeably better visuals. If you have a standard 1080p TV or mainly play older games, the standard PS4 is sufficient and saves you money. Both models play the same games — the difference is visual quality and performance.
Where to Buy and How Prices Compare
Best Buy, Walmart, Target, and Amazon are the largest retailers for new PS4 consoles. Prices at these stores are usually similar, though sales and promotions change weekly. Best Buy and Amazon sometimes offer price matching, so if you find a lower price elsewhere, they may match it. GameStop sells both new and used PS4 consoles and often has trade-in deals if you bring in an old console or games.
Online marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and eBay have used consoles from private sellers, often at lower prices than retail stores. The trade-off is that you have no warranty and must inspect the console in person or rely on the seller's description and photos. Local game shops may also stock used PS4s and can answer questions about the console's history. Always ask for photos of the console running, the controllers working, and any damage or wear visible on the case.
What Affects the Price You Pay
The PS4 was discontinued by Sony in 2022, so new stock is limited. This means prices for new consoles may be higher than they were when the console was actively manufactured. Retailers with remaining inventory can charge more because supply is lower. Used prices have also risen slightly because fewer new PS4s are available.
The time of year affects pricing too. Around major holidays like Black Friday, Christmas, and back-to-school season, retailers sometimes discount PS4 consoles to move inventory. Summer and early fall typically have fewer sales. For used consoles, prices depend on the specific model (the original PS4 is cheaper than the Slim or Pro), the color, whether all original cables and controllers are included, and the condition of the case and buttons.
Additional Costs Beyond the Console
The PS4 console itself is only the starting point. You will need a PlayStation Network account to play online games, which is free to create. However, online multiplayer requires a PlayStation Plus subscription, which costs $60 per year for the standard tier. PlayStation Plus also includes two free games per month and discounts on the PlayStation Store.
Games themselves range from $20 to $70 for new releases, though older titles and sales often bring prices down. If you want extra controllers, each DualShock 4 controller costs $50 to $70. A PlayStation Plus subscription, a few games, and an extra controller can easily add $200 to $300 to your initial console purchase over the first year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the PS4 still worth buying in 2024?
Yes, if you want to play PS4 games at a lower cost than a PS5. The PS4 has a large library of affordable used games, and many titles are still being sold at discount prices. However, new games are becoming less common, so your options for brand-new releases will shrink over time.
Can I find a PS4 for under $200?
Used PS4 consoles in fair condition sometimes sell for $150 to $200, especially the original model. Expect cosmetic wear and possibly some controller issues at this price. Buying from a retailer like GameStop rather than a private seller gives you a short warranty, which adds value at this price point.
Why is the PS4 Pro more expensive than the standard PS4?
The Pro has a faster processor, more memory, and a larger hard drive, which allows it to output games at 4K resolution and run them at higher frame rates. These components cost more to manufacture, so the retail price is higher. The performance difference is noticeable on a 4K TV but not on a standard 1080p display.
Should I buy a used PS4 from a private seller or a store?
A store like GameStop offers a short warranty and the ability to return the console if it breaks within 30 to 90 days. A private seller usually offers a lower price but no warranty or return option. Choose based on whether the savings are worth the risk and whether you can inspect the console in person before paying.
Do I need PlayStation Plus to play games on a PS4?
You need PlayStation Plus only for online multiplayer games. Single-player games and games with local multiplayer work without a subscription. PlayStation Plus costs $60 per year and also includes free games and store discounts, so many players find it worth the cost.