The PlayStation 3 may have been discontinued years ago, but it remains a popular choice for Aussie gamers hunting for a budget-friendly console with a cracking library of titles. One of the most common questions we hear is about the price of the PS3 in its classic black tone, which was by far the most widely sold colourway in Australia. Whether you are after the original fat model, the slimmer revision, or the super slim edition, understanding the current market rates will help you snag a fair deal without overpaying. In this guide, we break down what you can expect to pay across different models and conditions.
The glossy piano-black finish of the PS3 quickly became an iconic look for Sony's third home console, and it still holds up beautifully on a shelf today. In the Australian second-hand market, a standard black PS3 Slim typically sells for anywhere between $60 and $120 depending on condition and whether it comes bundled with controllers or games. The earlier fat model, with its curved black chassis, often fetches slightly less, usually $40 to $90, largely because buyers are wary of the older hardware's tendency to overheat. Meanwhile, the super slim version, with its matte black textured top, generally sits in the $70 to $130 range when sold complete with cables and a DualShock 3 controller. Keep in mind that prices vary considerably between Gumtree, Facebook Marketplace, and specialist retro gaming stores, so it pays to shop around before committing.
Several things can push the price of a black PS3 up or down. Storage capacity matters, with larger hard drive models such as the 320GB versions commanding a premium over the 120GB entry-level units. A console that includes the original box, manuals, and all cables can add another $20 to $40 to the asking price. Condition is equally important; a unit with minimal scratches, a clean Blu-ray lens, and no firmware issues will always cost more than a battered example. Backward compatibility is another big one, as the rare early models that play PS2 discs are highly sought after by collectors and can fetch well over $200.
For the keenest prices, second-hand marketplaces are your best bet, though you should always test a console before handing over your cash. Local gaming expos and op shops occasionally turn up bargains, while dedicated retro retailers offer the peace of mind of a warranty, typically charging $100 to $150 for a refurbished black PS3. Whichever route you take, factor in the cost of games, as titles like The Last of Us and the Uncharted series remain affordable additions to any collection. With a bit of patience, you can pick up this legendary black console for less than the price of a brand-new AAA game.