Pre-meet proof

Evidence to request before you spend time travelling.

01Request model revision and storage screenAsk for the rear or underside model code plus system storage. Revisions can differ in drive, cooling, ports and bundled controller.
02Ask for a current network-service sign-in testThe seller should show the console reaching its official online service before removing their account. This reduces—but does not eliminate—ban risk.
03Agree on included items and final resetList the exact controller, stand, dock, power supply and cables, then agree to a full factory reset after testing.

Physical inspection

What to inspect under bright light before powering on.

01Inspect shell, vents, seals and portsLook for impact cracks, missing screws or seals, nicotine residue, insects, bent HDMI pins and blocked vents. Do not open mains-powered hardware at a meetup.
02Inspect controller sticks and connectorsCheck stick caps, shell seams, charge port, battery bay and triggers. Confirm the controller is genuine if the listing claims it is.
03For handhelds, check rails, screen and cartridge slotInspect display scratches, panel tint, loose controller rails, kickstand, card slot and USB-C alignment without forcing accessories.

Function test

A short, repeatable test of the device's expensive functions.

01Run a game long enough to warm the systemPlay for at least ten minutes, watching for crashes, artifacts, severe fan pulsing, overheating messages or sudden shutdown.
02Test disc or cartridge and storageRead a known-good title, install or copy a small item, launch it and eject normally. Test both internal and included expansion storage.
03Test HDMI, Wi-Fi, USB and controller inputsUse the expected resolution, connect online, test each accessible USB port and open the system's controller test to expose drift or missed buttons.

Account & lock check

Confirm the next owner can activate and use the device normally.

01Remove home-console and seller account tiesThe seller should deactivate the device as their home or primary console where applicable and remove all accounts before reset.
02Complete factory reset and initial setupStart setup on your connection and confirm the system does not restore a seller profile, parental PIN or organisation configuration.
03Reconnect to the official service after resetUse your own account only after the seller's data is gone. Stop if normal service access is blocked or the device identity is restricted.

Price proof

Comparable facts to record before negotiating or paying.

01Compare the exact edition and revisionDisc, digital, slim, OLED, storage and regional versions price differently. Use completed sales matching the tested configuration.
02Deduct controller and cable replacementPrice stick drift, weak batteries, missing docks, proprietary power supplies and correct high-speed video cables separately.
03Do not pay for non-transferable digital gamesDigital purchases normally remain with the seller's account. Value only legitimate physical games and transferable accessories included in writing.

STOP

Walk-away signals

Pause the transaction when one of these cannot be resolved with direct evidence.

The console cannot reach its official network service.
The seller includes digital games by leaving their personal account signed in.
HDMI output drops, shows artifacts or works only when the cable is held at an angle.
The system overheats, shuts down or smells burnt during a short game test.

Safe-use boundary

Evidence helps. It does not certify the device.

DeviceProof is a general private-sale inspection aid, not an appraisal, authenticity certificate, electrical-repair guide or guarantee. Meet in a public place, keep personal passwords private, use only known-safe cables and accessories, and never bypass an owner, activation or organisation lock. Do not open mains-powered equipment or damaged batteries. Stop immediately for swelling, smoke, burning smell, exposed conductors, abnormal heat or threatening behaviour.