PlayStation 3 prices range from $80 to $300 depending on condition, storage capacity, and whether it includes controllers and games

A used PlayStation 3 in working condition typically sells for $100 to $150 if it's a standard model with a 160GB or 320GB hard drive. Original 20GB and 60GB models—the earliest versions—fetch $150 to $250 because they have backward compatibility with PlayStation 2 games, which later models dropped. A console in poor condition, yellowed, or with a broken disc drive might sell for $50 to $80. Mint-condition units with original packaging can reach $300 or more, especially the rarer 20GB model.

The price also depends on what comes with it. A console alone costs less than one bundled with two controllers, cables, and games. Original wireless controllers add $20 to $40 each. Popular games like The Last of Us, Metal Gear Solid 4, or Gran Turismo 5 add $10 to $30 per title if they're in good condition with cases. A complete bundle—console, two controllers, cables, and three or four games—might sell for $200 to $250.

Key Takeaways

  • A working PlayStation 3 with a 160GB or 320GB hard drive typically sells for $100 to $150 on the secondhand market.
  • The earliest 20GB and 60GB models command higher prices ($150 to $250) because they play PlayStation 2 discs, a feature later versions removed.
  • Condition matters significantly—yellowed or broken consoles sell for $50 to $80, while mint units with original packaging can reach $300.
  • Controllers, cables, and games bundled with the console increase the total value by $50 to $100 depending on quantity and game titles.

Where the PlayStation 3 market is strongest

eBay, Facebook Marketplace, and local classified sites like Craigslist show the widest range of prices because individual sellers set their own rates. eBay completed listings give you a realistic picture of what similar consoles actually sold for in the past 90 days—not just asking prices. Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist tend to be cheaper because there's no shipping cost and no auction competition, but you're buying from a stranger without buyer protection.

Retro game shops and specialty stores that buy and resell used consoles typically offer $60 to $100 if you're selling to them, because they need margin to resell. GameStop stopped accepting PlayStation 3 trade-ins years ago, so that's not an option. Online retailers that buy used electronics offer quotes based on photos and condition descriptions, usually $70 to $120, but they deduct shipping costs from the payout.

How condition affects the price you'll see

A console in excellent condition has no visible scratches, the disc drive opens and closes smoothly, it powers on when ready, and controllers respond without drift. These sell at the top of the range: $150 to $250 for standard models, $200 to $300 for backward-compatible 20GB or 60GB versions.

Good condition means minor cosmetic wear—light scratches on the plastic, maybe some dust inside the vents—but everything works. The disc drive reads games without errors, controllers have no stick drift, and it boots reliably. Expect $100 to $150 for standard models, $150 to $200 for early versions.

Fair condition includes visible scratches, discoloration, or a disc drive that sometimes needs multiple attempts to read a game. Controllers may have minor stick drift. These sell for $60 to $100. Poor condition means the console powers on but has serious cosmetic damage, a disc drive that doesn't work reliably, or controllers with significant drift. Prices drop to $30 to $60, and some buyers won't touch them at all.

Storage capacity and model differences

The PlayStation 3 came in several hard drive sizes: 20GB, 60GB, 80GB, 160GB, and 320GB. The 20GB and 60GB models are worth more because they play PlayStation 2 discs—a feature Sony removed in later versions to cut costs. A 20GB model in good condition sells for $150 to $250; a 60GB for $140 to $220. The 80GB, 160GB, and 320GB models without backward compatibility sell for $100 to $150 because they're more common and lack that feature.

Storage size itself doesn't change the price much among non-backward-compatible models. A 160GB and a 320GB console in the same condition sell for roughly the same amount because both have enough space for digital games and saves. What matters more is whether the hard drive works reliably—a console with a failing drive is worth less because buyers will need to replace it.

What affects resale value most

The disc drive is the biggest factor. PlayStation 3 consoles are now 15+ years old, and disc drives fail. A console that reads games without errors is worth significantly more than one that requires multiple attempts or won't read discs at all. Buyers know that replacing a drive costs $40 to $80 in parts and labor, so they price accordingly.

Controller condition comes second. Original PlayStation 3 controllers develop stick drift over time—the analog sticks register movement even when you're not touching them. A console with two working controllers is worth $30 to $50 more than one with drifting controllers, because replacement controllers cost $20 to $40 each.

Cosmetic condition matters less than function, but it still moves the needle. A yellowed or scratched console sells for 10 to 20 percent less than an identical one that looks clean, even if both work perfectly. Buyers assume a well-maintained console is less likely to have internal problems.

Bundled games and their value

Popular exclusive titles add the most value. The Last of Us, Uncharted series games, Metal Gear Solid 4, Gran Turismo 5, and LittleBigPlanet typically sell for $15 to $30 each if they're complete with cases and in good condition. Less popular titles or sports games from later years (like FIFA 2016) sell for $3 to $8 because they're common and have limited replay value.

Games without cases or instruction manuals sell for 30 to 50 percent less. A disc-only copy of The Last of Us might fetch $8 to $12 instead of $20 to $30. Scratched discs that still play sell for even less, and discs that won't read are essentially worthless.

How to price your own PlayStation 3

Start by checking completed eBay listings for your exact model and condition. Filter by "sold" listings to see what people actually paid, not what sellers are asking. Look at five to ten recent sales to find the middle ground. Then check Facebook Marketplace and local Craigslist listings in your area to see what competitors are asking—you'll usually need to price 10 to 20 percent lower to sell quickly locally.

Be honest about condition. Take photos of the console from multiple angles, show the disc drive opening and closing, and mention any cosmetic wear or controller issues upfront. Buyers who discover problems after purchase will leave negative feedback or request refunds. A slightly lower asking price with full transparency sells faster and protects you from disputes.

If you're selling locally, meet in a public place and bring the console, all cables, controllers, and a game or two so the buyer can test it before handing over money. If you're shipping, use a box with padding and consider insurance—a PlayStation 3 is heavy and can be damaged in transit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a PlayStation 3 worth buying in 2024?

That depends on what you want to play. The PlayStation 3 library has hundreds of exclusive games that aren't available elsewhere, and used copies are cheap. If you're interested in older games or want a second console, $100 to $150 is reasonable. But if you want current games and online multiplayer, the PlayStation 5 is a better choice despite the higher cost.

Why are 20GB and 60GB models more expensive?

Those early models play PlayStation 2 discs, a feature Sony removed in later versions. Collectors and players who want access to the entire PlayStation library value that backward compatibility. Standard 160GB and 320GB models are cheaper because they only play PlayStation 3 games.

How much should I expect if I sell to a retro game store?

Most retro shops offer $60 to $100 for a working console in decent condition. They pay less than private buyers because they need to resell it for profit. If you want the highest price, selling privately on eBay or Facebook Marketplace usually nets $20 to $50 more, though it takes longer and requires more effort.

Does the hard drive size affect the price?

Not significantly among non-backward-compatible models. A 160GB and 320GB console in the same condition sell for roughly the same price. What matters is whether the drive works reliably—a failing drive reduces value because replacement costs $40 to $80.

Can I sell a PlayStation 3 with a broken disc drive?

Yes, but for much less—typically $30 to $60. Buyers know they'll need to replace the drive, which costs money and effort. If the console is otherwise in good condition and the price reflects the repair needed, some buyers will take it on. Be upfront about the problem in your listing.