The retro console market is booming — and with it, the number of dubious listings. Between the "excellent condition" 3DS whose hinge is holding on by a miracle and the "flashed" Vita that crashes on boot, here are the 7 things we would check before any purchase — it's our job, after all.
1. An identifiable seller
A professional has a name, a company registration, legal notices and reachable support. Between private individuals, once the deal is done you're on your own if something breaks.
2. A documented refurbishing protocol
"Refurbished" means nothing if the seller doesn't spell out what they actually do: teardown, cleaning, replacement of worn parts, function-by-function testing. Ours is public.
3. A tested battery
This is THE wear part on handhelds. Insist that it has been tested, and replaced if necessary — a swollen battery is even a safety hazard.
4. Clean, stable firmware
Badly installed custom firmware can brick a console. A serious installer uses the reference solutions (Luma3DS, HENkaku Ensō, Atmosphère), configures them properly and tests them before shipping.
5. Transparent cosmetic condition
Be wary of stock photos. An honest seller grades their consoles by condition — in our case Grades S, A and B — and states specific flaws in black and white, such as a slightly yellowed screen.
6. A written warranty
No warranty, no purchase. All our consoles are guaranteed, with returns accepted within 14 days and a 30-day satisfaction guarantee.
7. What's included
Charger? Games? Stylus? SD card? A cheap "bare" console often ends up costing more once it's properly equipped. Ours ship complete: games installed, charger, free stylus and shockproof packaging.
In short
Price isn't everything: between a second-hand console €20 cheaper and a refurbished one that's tested, guaranteed and ready to play, the real bargain isn't the one you'd think.
