Yes. Before selling or giving away a PS3, deactivate its PlayStation Network activations if possible, then go to Settings > System Settings > Restore PS3 System and choose Full Format. Sony says this deletes data from the system hard drive and restores default settings; restoration cannot be undone, so save anything you want to keep first.
What to do before handing over your PS3
- Save anything you want to keep. The reset deletes data on the console’s hard drive, and Sony warns that restoration cannot be undone. Preserve needed saves, captures, or other content before proceeding; the manual does not provide one complete backup procedure for every content type. Sony PS3 instruction manual.
- Deactivate Game and Video on the console, if you can sign in. Select the local user, then open PlayStation Network > Sign-in > Account Management > System Activation. Highlight PS3, select the content type, and choose Deactivate System. This is separate from erasing the console’s local data. PlayStation Support: How to deactivate a PlayStation console.
- Start the system restore. Open Settings > System Settings > Restore PS3 System and follow the prompts. Choose Full Format when asked which format to use.
- Keep the console powered on until it finishes. Sony warns that interrupting restoration can damage system software and may require service or exchange. Sony PS3 instruction manual.
Choose Full Format, not Quick Format
Sony recommends Full Format when transferring or disposing of a PS3. Quick Format takes less time, but Sony cautions that erased data might be recoverable in some cases using a special tool. The manual does not promise that Full Format prevents every possible form of data recovery, nor does it give a time estimate for either option. Sony PS3 instruction manual.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
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PlayStation 3 Slim Console 120GB (Old Model) (Renewed) | $185.22 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
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Sony PlayStation 3 Slim 320 GB Charcoal Black Console (Renewed) | $219.59 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
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Sony Playstation 3 160GB System (Renewed) | $184.24 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
![Sony Playstation 3 320GB PS3 Console Only (Renewed) [video game]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31vLAVLBc+L._SL160_.jpg)
|
Sony Playstation 3 320GB PS3 Console Only (Renewed) [video game] | $199.38 | Buy on Amazon |
| 5 |
|
Sony PlayStation 3 - 80GB System (Renewed) | $217.22 | Buy on Amazon |
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Use the right restore option
Restore PS3 System is the documented choice for deleting all data on the system hard drive and restoring default settings. Restore Default Settings restores settings to their defaults; it is not the documented procedure for deleting all hard-drive data. For sale preparation, choose Restore PS3 System. Sony PS3 instruction manual.
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Sony’s remote deactivation option applies to all devices on the account, not an individual PS3, and can be used only once every six months. Changing the account password signs out of consoles you cannot access. Remote account actions do not replace restoring the PS3 itself to delete local hard-drive data. PlayStation Support: How to deactivate a PlayStation console.
#1 Best Overall
- HDMI + Bravia Sync functionality that provides both 1080p output resolution.
- A new 33% slimmer, 36% lighter PlayStation 3 entertainment system that is also more energy efficient.
- Includes a Dualshock 3 wireless controller and a built-in 120GB HDD for storing games, music, videos, and photos.
- Built-in Wi-Fi for connectivity anywhere and multiple media format compatibility.
- Free membership and access to all the events, as well as game, movie, TV and other media content available on the PlayStation Network (PSN).
Do you need to replace the hard drive?
No. A replacement drive is not needed for the documented reset and sale-preparation steps if the installed drive is working. If you are replacing a failed drive, an older Sony manual describes the category as a 2.5-inch internal Serial ATA drive, but warns that proper operation is not guaranteed for all models. Check compatibility for your exact PS3 model before buying. Sony PlayStation 3 instruction manual.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Built-in Wi-Fi access for easy connection to gaming services and the Internet
- Built-in Blu-ray player to give you the best high-definition viewing experience and pristine picture quality
- 80 GB of hard disk storage for all your games, music, videos, and photos
- This product is NOT backwards compatible
Rank #4
- New slimmer, lighter PS3 system
- HDD for storing games, music, videos, and photos
- Streams thousands of movies and TV shows instantly from Netflix
- Built-in Blu-ray player with 3D capabilities. HDMI output for 1080p resolution
Rank #3
- Internet Ready With Built-in Wi-Fi with a Cell Broadband Engine Advanced Microprocessor
- When starting up the system for the first time, hold the power button until a "screen display" message shows up on screen. Select the desired output, and the system will startup normally.
- 160GB system
- Blu-ray player to give you pristine picture quality
- The best high-definition viewing experience available
Rank #2
- New slimmer, lighter PS3 system, Wireless controller
- 320GB HDD for storing games, music, videos, and photos
- Streams thousands of movies and TV shows instantly from Netflix
- Built-in Blu-ray player with 3D capabilities. HDMI output for 1080p resolution.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
