Which Video Game Console Should I Get? The Ultimate Refurbished Console Guide

Best Options for Gaming on a Budget

If you’re looking to play some serious video games on a budget, you have 4 main choices.

Most gamers that I know are very proud of the platform they use to play, and they usually stick to it. Loyalty is an important trait in the gamer community, and we get that. But let’s say you haven’t found your camp yet, and you find yourself fishing for options. We’ll go into each of these categories one by one to give you an idea of which one might be best for you.

#1 Refurbished Gaming Laptops

People that are into PC gaming are usually very tech-savvy. They know their way around the hardware of a computer, and are passionate about building a machine that can push the limits of what’s possible in terms of gaming. They’ll install crazy powerful graphics cards and cooling systems to enable them to crank up the specs of the game and make it look as good as possible. And even though we don’t offer lessons on how to do any of these things (yet?), we want to give you the right hardware if this kinda stuff is your cup of tea.

Takeaways: PC gaming is for you if you like tinkering and want to get the most out of your games. But beware: insane gaming setups can cost insane money; consoles are definitely a cheaper alternative if you want to get the most for your money.

#2 Refurbished Nintendo Switch

Unlike gaming PCs, the refurbished Nintendo Switch doesn’t have the craziest specs or graphics performance. It does, however, provide a unique gaming experience that die-hard Nintendo fans have been praising since its release. If you’re into gesture controls and family-friendly games, there’s no better choice than a refurbished Switch. There are also many unique titles on the Switch that are perfect for you if you’re heavily invested into Nintendo characters like Zelda, Mario, or Kirby.

Oh, and did I mention how dynamic the Nintendo Switch is? You can plug it up to a TV or play it handheld. If you’re looking for a device you can take with you on the go, a refurbished Switch may be one of your best options.

#3 Refurbished Xbox One

If you were addicted to titles like the Forza or Halo series when the Xbox was still in its infancy, then the refurbished Xbox One should be a no-brainer. There’s just one more thing that I’m forgetting to mention: in some people’s minds, there’s a huge rivalry between Xbox and PlayStation which honestly shouldn’t matter. Both of these consoles are very similar and appeal to a very similar audience. Most popular video game titles are available on both of these platforms. My advice: if you’re having a hard time choosing between the two, just go with your gut. You won’t be disappointed with either one.

#4 Refurbished PS4

There are some nice exclusive titles for this platform such as Bloodborne, God of War, Days Gone, and many others, but the truth is that most people don’t buy a console for the exclusive titles, as we already said before. Both the Xbox and PS4 appeal to a similar type of gamer that prioritizes graphics, online play, simplicity, and gravitates towards action titles.

But there is one more factor that I feel is super important, even if we haven’t mentioned it yet: the controller. This is actually just an opinion, but the feel of the controller is one of the most important factors when choosing a console. And it’s also one of the best reasons to buy a refurbished PS4. The new PlayStation controller is probably the biggest change we’ve seen since the very beginning of the PlayStation line, taking on a totally new form factor that’s substantially more ergonomic (once again, just an opinion perhaps). Check it out for yourself and compare it to the Xbox One controller. If you’re having a hard time choosing between these two refurbished consoles, this might be the last helpful piece of advice you need before making a decision :)

Refurbished vs. Used Video Game Consoles

One last note about consoles, you’re thinking about getting a used Xbox One, used PS4, or used Nintendo Switch, we strongly suggest going down the refurbished route, even if you are paying a little more. Used consoles can have hidden issues and don’t usually come with long warranties or money-back guarantees. With Back Market, all refurbished consoles come with a minimum 1-year warranty and 30-day money-back guarantee.

Selling your old console

Another great way to save and budget for a new gaming console is to sell one of your old ones. This is especially true if you've made a decision to switch your Xbox for a Playstation or vice versa. Luckily, Back Market is here to help. When you choose to sell your gaming console to Back Market, we make the process super easy for you. First, you'll answer a few quick questions online and get a free offer in just a couple minutes. If you choose to accept this offer, we'll work with you to get your console packaged and shipped and we'll even cover the shipping cost. Once the console is received, we'll send you a direct cash deposit. You'll get paid and help rid the environment of electronic waste (win-win!).

If you're ready to learn more about our trade-in process, check out some of our popular trade-in options:

• Sell your Nintendo Switch

• Sell your PS5

• Sell your Xbox One X

• Sell your Xbox Series X

• Sell your Xbox Series S