Are you considering selling your PS4? Maybe you feel that your PS4 is no longer meeting your needs. While it is undeniably a great console, you may believe that there is greater value to be gained by selling it.
If you are new to the process, selling your PS4 can seem challenging to understand. It's important to take a moment to think deeply and be certain about your decision to sell your PS4.
To ensure you get the most out of your sale, make sure to include all the necessary components such as the original packaging, accessories, cables, and any extra controllers. Including these items can significantly increase the value of your PS4. Take some time to carefully gather everything you need before proceeding to the next steps.
Step 1: Back Up Your PS4 Data
Before selling your PS4, it's highly recommended to back up your data. This is especially important if you plan to upgrade to a PS5, as it offers backward compatibility with almost all PS4 games.
There are a few methods to achieve this. One option is to back up all of your PS4 data, including saved data, game data, settings data, and capture gallery. However, be aware that this process can be time-consuming due to the large amount of content involved.
A quicker alternative is to focus on backing up your saved data, which is arguably the most crucial aspect of your PlayStation experience. While this option doesn't cover the larger install data, it's generally not a significant issue. Game data is stored on physical discs, and digital games can be re-downloaded unless they have been removed from the PlayStation Store by Sony.
A good compromise would be to back up your saved data while keeping your install data on an external hard drive. This approach allows you to avoid the hassle of reinstalling or re-downloading all your games and updating patches. Additionally, the external hard drive can be used to play games on a PS5.
With these steps, you can ensure that your valuable PS4 data is safely preserved while preparing for the next gaming adventure with a PS5.
Step 2: Deactivate Your PS4
To ensure the security of your PSN account information and prevent unauthorized usage of your PS4 after selling it, it's essential to deactivate your console. This process allows you to detach your account from the PS4 and activate another PlayStation console as your primary device.
You can deactivate your PS4 using either the console itself or the PlayStation website. Here's how:
Via your PS4:
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- Go to Settings on your PS4.
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- Select Account Management.
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- Choose Activate as Your Primary PS4.
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- Select Deactivate, and then confirm by choosing Yes. The Activate button may be grayed out since your account is already active on this PS4.
Via the PlayStation website:
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- Log in to your PSN account.
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- Click on your avatar located in the top-right corner of the screen.
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- Select Account Settings.
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- Under Other Settings, choose Device Management.
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- Click on PlayStation Consoles.
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- Select Deactivate All Devices.
You will detach your PSN account information from your PS4, ensuring the privacy and security of your account. Moreover, you will be able to activate another PlayStation console as your primary device.
Performing this important step guarantees a smooth transition and peace of mind when selling your PS4.
Step 3: Factory Reset Your PS4
Having completed the backup process and deactivated your PS4, the next step is to perform a factory reset. This will restore your PS4 to its original settings, as if it were fresh out of the box.
Follow these steps to factory reset your PS4:
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- Open the Settings menu on your PS4.
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- Select Account Management from the resulting screen.
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- Locate and choose Activate as Your Primary PS4.
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- Select Deactivate, and then confirm by selecting Yes to deactivate your account on this console. Please note that the Activate button may appear grayed out since your account is already active on this PS4.
Taking this step is essential for a smooth transition and protecting your account when selling your PS4.
Step 4: Gather Any Extra Peripherals for Your PS4
As you approach the final stage of selling your PS4, it is crucial to ensure that you locate and collect any additional materials that accompany your console.
This includes the original packaging, accessories, cables, and any extra controllers. Including these items, you can enhance the overall value of your PS4. Take a thorough look around your gaming space to ensure you haven't overlooked anything.
However, it's important to note that you may want to retain one particular item: your game discs. Before packaging your PS4 for sale, double-check if there are any discs still inside the drive. It's an easy detail to miss but worth confirming to avoid unintentionally parting ways with your cherished game collection.
Keep these considerations in mind for the future as well, especially if you ever decide to sell your PS5 several years down the line.
Ensure that your PS4 is in the correct condition and including any relevant peripherals, you can enhance its appeal to potential buyers and facilitate a smooth selling process.