Now that the Playstation 3 has been out for awhile and the game selection has grown to a substantial size, I thought it would be a good idea to put together an updated buyers’ guide. This will provide a basic comparison between PS3 models and things to ask/look out for if buying a used model.To make this easy for you and myself, I will go through the models based on the size of their hard drive, from smallest to largest.

20 GB PS3- This was one of the earlier models which provided the ability to enjoy Playstation 1 and 2 games thanks to the Emotion Engine (really a PS2 CPU and GPU). While the smaller hard drive doesn’t make this model the most desirable, it does gain an advantage over some of the other models because of this backward compatibility. Another storage drawback is the absence of a Compactflash, SD, or Memory Stick slot. Not a big deal if you don’t use these extras. If you are an online gamer you will have to deal with a wired connection since wireless is not an option here. Although it is no longer sold in stores you can still buy this fine piece of equipment online. It is probably most easily found on eBay, but Amazon.com also has some for sale at a slightly higher price. If you purchase this version with no games, $380 to $400 including shipping is a pretty good deal, and with a few games, expect to pay $430 to $550.

40 GB PS3- Although you will find the best price deals with this version, think about what features you want before you buy. If you have a collection of PS2 games, go for a different system. There is no support for backward compatibility for PS2 games with this version. Fortunately, it will play your PS1 games. It also has wireless capabilities, and it is easy to find in stores and online. Another slight down side is that there are only 2 USB ports on the front of the machine. This limits peripherals and places to charge extra controllers. Furthermore, like the 20GB there isn’t a Compactflash, SD, or Memory Stick slot. It has been sold for as little as $320 including shipping.

60 GB PS3- In my opinion, as many would agree with me, this is the best version to get if you can spend a little more. This version not only provides the best backward compatibility, supporting PS1 and PS2 games, it also has Wi-Fi and a Compactflash, SD, and Memory Stick slot making it superior to the 20 GB system. It has PS2 compatibility, four USB slots, and superior CD audio making it better than the 40 GB model. However, this unit will be more expensive. A good used model sells for about $440 to $500 with just the basics. Moreover, it can only be found online or in stores that deal with used goods. If you manage to find it new online, expect to pay at least $600.

80 GB PS3- This system has all the features of the 60 GB, but obviously has more storage space. However, there is a trade off. This version uses a software emulator for both PS1 and PS2 games. This lowers the number of successfully playable games from the older consoles. In addition, if you need more storage you can buy an upgraded internal or external hard drive. This model can still be found in some stores. This unit sells for about the same price as the 60 GB used. New it will be about $499. If you buy the Metal Gear bundle expect to pay more.

Again, hard drive size doesn’t mean you’re getting a better model. You can always upgrade to more storage!

I found this site as I was compiling my research. It gives a nice, quick comparison in a easy to read visual format.

So, let’s say hypothetically you decided what model to buy. If you buy it new, there’s not too much to worry about. However, if you decide to save some money and go used, here are a few questions to ask the seller:

Is it the original hard drive?

Some sellers might try to sell you a 60 or 80 GB unit that is just a 40 GB upgrade. You will not have the same features, only a bigger hard drive. Beware!

Have there been any modifications to this unit?

Some programming savvy folks have been putting Linux on new PS3s. If you’re not familiar with how to operate the system, this will be a waste of money and time. In addition, it will also double check the hard drive pitfall.

Have there been any problems with the unit (e.g. disc errors, system freezing, unit over-heating, or failing to power on, etc.)?

This will attempt to get sellers to confess to any problems with the unit. Try to phrase it openly with “etc” or sentence wording to be sure there aren’t additional problems not addressed specifically by your question.

Is there a warranty or return policy?

Find out if there is one and then find out how long it is good for. Some places will relay you to a third party for a warranty which will cost about $70 a year for used systems if they are no longer produced.

Can you ship it with insurance?

This will protect both parties from DOA units that were a sold or auctioned by a seller trying to cozen buyers. You as the buyer will have peace of mind if something were to go wrong, and if you’re the seller you will not have to deal with deceitful buyers.

What accessories does it come with?

Be sure a power cord, A/V cables, and a controller are a part of the package. Some sellers will list a unit by itself to save buyers money, but buyers who don’t read the full description may be surprised by their package when it only contains the PS3 console.

What payment methods do you accept?

Some sellers will only deal with PayPal, others only want checks. Find out what the deal is, and if there is a reason why one method is preferred. I recommend sticking with PayPal if possible. You will get at least $200 buyer protection, and with most good sellers $2,000 if something goes wrong.

Another good thing to check if you are buying on eBay or Amazon.com is to check a seller’s rating before buying. This will give you an idea about a person’s track record as a seller.

My final section is just places to compare prices before you make a purchase. Call local pawn shops, used CD stores, video games specialty stores, and retail stores to see if they have what you need. This will save you money on gas and will allow you to compare prices easily. Check online sources like eBay, Amazon.com, craigslist.org, and cheapassgamer.com for deals locally and nationally. The more research you do the better price you’ll get. You can even check with friends to see if they know anyone selling. Hope this was helpful in some way.

Rx by

Dr. M. CLK