How Much Is An NES Worth In 2023?
Buying or selling – it does not matter. Either way, you will need to know how much a Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) is going for.
So, how much is an NES worth today? The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) sells for $90 on average without its original packaging (also referred to as “loose”), but used complete-in-box systems sell for $168 on average based on months of eBay sales data. The redesigned, top-loading NES console sells for $110 on average.
| Model | Loose (average price sold) |
Complete-In-Box (average price sold) |
Amazon (starting price) |
NES |
$90 | $168 | $170+ |
NES-101 (Top-Loading) |
$110 | N/A | $220+ |
Used NES consoles can vary in cost based on a few factors: obviously, the condition the console itself is in, whether or not it is bundled with games and accessories, whether or not the system comes with its original packaging, and even the retailer being used to buy or sell can alter the asking price.
As with most retro consoles, new, in-the-box models are extremely rare, so there isn't a consistent market rate. With original Nintendo consoles specifically, sellers are asking for thousands of dollars for a sealed NES.
(Please note: Prices and information below are accurate as of May 23, 2023. This article has been and will continue to be updated to reflect current rates, but prices can fluctuate. Additionally, the information provided is based on the models released in the United States. Models released in other regions may differ from the prices shown below.)
How Much Is an NES worth?
Pricing Overview:
- Console Only: $30-$125
- Complete-In-Box: $155-$224
- Refurbished: $190
- New: ~$2,500+
Pricing At Popular Retailers:
- eBay (console only average price sold): $90
- Lowest price sold: $30 (console & cables only)
- Highest price sold: $125 (bundled with accessories and 6 games)
- eBay (complete-in-box average price sold): $168
- Lowest price sold: $155 (in good condition)
- Highest price sold: $224 (in good condition with inserts and bundled with games)
- Amazon (third-party sellers’ asking prices): $170+
- Amazon (Renewed): $190
The eBay prices above are calculated using the retailer’s data of units sold within three months previous to when this article was last updated (May 23, 2023).
How Much Is a top-loading NES-101 worth?
Pricing Overview:
- Console Only: $110
- Complete-In-Box: N/A
- Refurbished: $220
- New: N/A
Pricing At Popular Retailers:
- eBay (console only average price sold): $110
- Lowest price sold: $
- Highest price sold: $
- eBay (complete-in-box average price sold): N/A
- Lowest price sold: N/A
- Highest price sold: N/A
- Amazon (third-party sellers’ asking prices): $220+
- Amazon (Renewed): $220
The eBay prices above are calculated using the retailer’s data of units sold within three months previous to when this article was last updated (May 23, 2023).
What is the difference between the original NES and the top-loading NES-101?
The first, and probably most obvious difference between the two consoles is the fact that top-loading NES has a slot for game cartridges on the top of the console, while the original NES loads game cartridges in the front of the unit. This change isn't just an aesthetic one, either.
The design of the original NES made it easier for any dust to settle in the unit. And because of how the original unit is configured, it requires disassembly to effectively clean. If that weren't enough, the top-loading model is simply more durable and reliable thanks to the redesign.
The controllers also saw a design change with the introduction of the NES-101. The new controllers – nicknamed the “dogbone” – were constructed to have a more ergonomic design (similar to the SNES controller). These redesigned controllers were also sold separately from the console itself and were designed to work with the original hardware as well.
Additionally, the RCA composite video output and audio jacks were removed from the back of the console. This means the only way to connect the top-loading NES to a TV is through an RF connection or through an RF-to-RCA converter.
The 10NES authentication chip was removed from the system as well. Not only does this fix a bug in the original NES, but it also allows the redesigned unit to play games from other regions and even unlicensed games. However, one unfortunate side-effect is that Nintendo World Championship doesn't play properly thanks to the removed 10NES chip.
What about limited editions and color variants?
When it comes to color variants and limited edition units, the NES doesn't have much to offer. If you are looking to import from Japan, however, the Nintendo Family Computers (more commonly referred to as “Famicom”) is widely available for purchase online and sells for roughly around the same amount as its Western counterpart, the NES.
The Famicom is actually more similar to the top-loading NES in terms of design, but it comes with its fair share of differences as well.
Most notably, the console has storage slots for controllers on the side of the unit and certain Famicom controllers have microphone attachments, which are compatible with a few select titles.
Related Questions
Does GameStop buy NES consoles and games?
No, according to GameStop's website, the retailer isn't currently offering store credit or cash for NES consoles.
Does GameStop carry original NES consoles in-store?
No, unfortunately, GameStop no longer carries NES consoles in-store.
Where else can I buy and sell NES consoles and games?
Used game stores are generally great for buying and selling used games, accessories, and consoles. They can be hard to come by in rural areas, however. Flea markets and pawnshops are also good places to buy or sell, and garage sales and Goodwill stores can also be hidden gems for finding amazing deals for those looking to purchase.