The PS5 vs. Xbox debate has one winner nobody talks about: the person who just swaps one for the other and doesn't spend a dollar doing it. Console trading is one of the most active categories online because the values are close, the items are well-known, and millions of people switch ecosystems every year.
Here's exactly how to do it — what to include, how to price it, and how to make sure the swap goes smoothly.
Are PS5 and Xbox Series X Worth the Same?
Roughly, yes — but it depends on the model and what's included. Here's a general breakdown as of 2025:
- Disc Edition trades higher than Digital
- DualSense controllers hold strong value
- PS5 Slim is newer — commands a small premium
- PlayStation exclusives are a selling point
- Spider-Man, God of War, Horizon bundles help
- Series X trades close to PS5 Disc Edition
- Game Pass is a desirable bonus to mention
- Extra controllers add meaningful value
- Series S trades significantly lower — know which you have
- Halo, Forza, Starfield bundles are attractive
Check completed eBay listings for your exact model — not the asking price, but what actually sold. That's your real market value. A PS5 Disc Edition with one controller typically trades even with an Xbox Series X with one controller. Add games to either side and you may need to balance the value, or both agree it's close enough.
Series S note: Don't confuse the Xbox Series S with the Series X. The S is the smaller, disc-less model and trades for significantly less — around half. If someone offers you a "Series Xbox" make sure you know exactly which model you're getting.
What to Include in Your Listing
A console listing that gets serious responses needs to be specific. Copy this format:
"PlayStation 5 Disc Edition (CFI-1215A, 2023 model), excellent condition, no scratches on disc reader, all original cables, one DualSense controller (white), box included. Looking to trade straight for Xbox Series X with one controller. Open to bundles with games on either side."
Key details to always include:
- Exact model number — PS5 has had multiple hardware revisions. The model number is on the back or bottom of the unit.
- Condition of disc drive (if applicable) — mention if it reads discs cleanly and quietly
- Number of controllers and their condition
- All cables included — HDMI, power cable, USB-C charging
- Whether original box is included
- Any games being thrown in
Photos That Close the Deal
People want to see four things before they'll commit to a console trade:
- The console powered on — screenshot of the home screen confirms it works
- All sides of the unit — top, front, back, bottom. Look for dents, scuffs, or vents that are blocked with dust
- The disc slot (for disc editions) — show it's clean and undamaged
- Controllers — front and back, showing thumbstick condition (worn rubber = red flag)
A short video of the console powering on and navigating the menu is optional but closes deals faster than anything else. Takes 30 seconds to record and builds immediate trust.
How the Swap Works, Step by Step
Agree on what's included on both sides
Write it out in the chat: "I'm sending PS5 Disc, 1 DualSense, all cables, box. You're sending Xbox Series X, 1 controller, all cables." Both people confirm. No surprises.
Pack it properly — consoles are fragile
Original box is ideal. If you don't have it, use a double-walled shipping box with foam or bubble wrap on all six sides. A console that arrives damaged from poor packing is a nightmare for both parties.
Ship simultaneously — tracking first
Both parties drop off on the same day. Share your tracking number in the chat before you leave the post office. Get theirs in return before they leave. Use UPS or FedEx with insurance for anything over $300.
Test everything when it arrives
Power on, test the disc drive, pair the controller, check all ports. If something's wrong, contact the trader immediately — not a week later. Most issues are resolvable if you communicate fast.
Leave a rating
Good traders deserve good ratings. It takes 10 seconds and keeps the community honest.
What If the Values Aren't Perfectly Even?
If one console is worth more than the other — because of included games, extra controllers, or model differences — you have two options: one person throws in an extra game or accessory to even it out, or you agree on a small cash "boot" (for example, $30 to cover the difference). Both are totally normal and common in console trades.
Don't overthink it. If both people feel like they got something good, it's a good trade. That's the whole point.
READY TO SWITCH CONSOLES?
Post your PS5, Xbox, or Nintendo Switch and see what offers come in.
Browse Console Trades on Traydet →