Buying CEX Xbox Series S: What You Should Know?

If you’ve been eyeing an CEX Xbox Series S but don’t really want to drop the full retail price, there’s a solid chance you’ve already thought about getting one from CEX (Complete Entertainment Exchange). 

And honestly, you’re not alone. CEX has quietly become the UK’s favorite stop for second-hand tech — from consoles and controllers to entire gaming setups. It’s cheap, accessible, and surprisingly reliable. 

But before you click that Buy Now button or walk into the store thinking you’ve just scored a bargain, there are a few things you really should know. Because like any preowned deal, there’s good, bad, and that grey area in between. 

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Why Gamers Are Turning to CEX for Xbox Series S?

The Series S already punches above its price tag. It’s small, quiet, and still delivers that next-gen punch with fast loading times, smooth gameplay, and support for the massive Game Pass library. But when you find it used at CEX for around £150–£180, it’s kind of hard to resist.

The best part? The difference between a brand-new console and a well-kept preowned one is often just cosmetic. You’re still getting the same hardware — the same SSD, same frame rates, same performance. 

That’s why CEX Xbox Series S makes so much sense for casual gamers or anyone who doesn’t need the thrill of unboxing a sealed console. That said, don’t just grab the first listing you see. The condition grades and small print can make a world of difference.

Understanding the CEX Grading System

CEX labels its products with grades, and it’s crucial you understand what those actually mean before you buy. Here’s the quick breakdown:

• Grade A: Practically mint. Might even pass as new. Usually boxed with all original accessories.

• Grade B: Good condition — light wear here and there but runs perfectly fine.

• Grade C: Fully functional but shows clear signs of use. Could have scratches or missing packaging.

Now, here’s the real tip: always read the listing details. Sometimes Grade B items might come without a controller or HDMI cable. You don’t want to be running to the store later realizing you can’t even set it up.

For most people, Grade B is that sweet spot — good value without sacrificing quality.

Price Talk: When It’s Worth It

CEX pricing isn’t static. It moves depending on stock, demand, and even trade-in trends. You’ll notice that sometimes the price jumps a little when demand spikes (like during the holidays), and other times, it dips below what you’d expect.

As of now, the CEX Xbox Series S typically sells for £140–£180, depending on condition. Compare that to a new one at £249, and yeah, the math speaks for itself. But don’t forget — the cheapest option isn’t always the smartest. A slightly higher grade could save you headaches later.

How Much You’ll Actually Pay

As of now, CEX prices for the Xbox Series S usually hover between £140 and £180, depending on availability and grading. Compared to the £249 retail tag, that’s a solid discount. The exact price fluctuates depending on how many units they’ve got in stock, and demand spikes can drive prices up slightly.

If you’re not in a rush, it’s often worth checking the website every few days. Prices shift quietly, and sometimes you’ll catch one at the lower end.

For a lot of gamers, paying that reduced price is what makes the Series S from CEX so attractive. You’re still getting a next-gen console capable of running all modern titles, but at a cost that feels more reasonable in 2025’s economy.

Warranty and Returns: What CEX Gets Right

One thing that CEX deserves credit for is its 24-month warranty on consoles. That’s actually better than a lot of other second-hand sellers, even on eBay or Facebook Marketplace. It covers most hardware issues that aren’t caused by accidental damage.

If something goes wrong, you can bring it back to any CEX store or post it in if you bought online. They’ll repair, replace, or refund — pretty straightforward. Still, it’s smart to test your console the day it arrives. Make sure it powers on, connects, and doesn’t make any odd noises.

Keep your receipt or order number handy, because that’s your golden ticket if you ever need to claim the warranty.

How Used Consoles Actually Perform

You might be wondering: does a preowned Series S run slower or have a shorter lifespan? Generally, no. Consoles like the Series S aren’t like phones that lose speed over time. As long as it’s been handled well — no drops, overheating, or smoke exposure — it’ll run like new.

CEX claims to test every console before listing it, cleaning them and verifying that they boot properly. And from real-world buyer experiences, that’s mostly true. Still, it never hurts to run a few tests once you get it — try loading a game, check the fan noise, and connect it to Wi-Fi.

Using Trade-In Credit to Save More

If you’ve got an old Xbox One, a pile of games, or even accessories gathering dust, this is where CEX can become your best friend. You can trade in your old stuff and use the store credit toward your Xbox Series S.

Pro tip: you’ll always get a higher value in store credit than if you take cash. So, if you’re planning on buying anything else gaming-related later (like controllers or headsets), go with credit. It stretches your budget way further.

What to Watch Out For Before Buying

CEX is pretty reliable, but it’s still second-hand. So, take a few precautions:

• Check what’s included — especially the controller and power cable.

• Look at the stock location — sometimes “In-store only” means you’ll need to visit.

• Compare online prices — Microsoft and Argos sometimes drop refurbished deals too.

• Ask about the return window — online orders usually have 14 days, but in-store may vary.

Also, double-check for the console version. Occasionally, listings might include special edition models or bundles, which can affect the price.

Is Buying from CEX Actually Worth It?

If you’re the kind of gamer who doesn’t care about shiny new packaging, absolutely yes. The Xbox Series S from CEX is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to jump into next-gen gaming. You’re still getting the same graphics, load speeds, and Game Pass access — just at a lower price.

Sure, you might find the odd scratch or fingerprint, but once you start gaming, you honestly won’t care. What matters is that the hardware performs like it should — and it does.

CEX Xbox Series S Review: Is It Worth the Price?

If you’ve been browsing around for an CEX Xbox Series S but don’t want to pay full retail, chances are you’ve stumbled across CEX (Complete Entertainment Exchange) listings. They’re everywhere—offering consoles for noticeably less than the big-name retailers. 

It’s tempting, no doubt. But the real question is, is it actually worth it? Buying second-hand gaming gear can be a bit of a gamble, especially when it comes to consoles. 

So, let’s break it down properly—what CEX really offers, what to expect when you buy from them, and whether the savings are actually worth the risk.

Why People Are Buying the Xbox Series S from CEX

The CEX Xbox Series S was already designed as the affordable next-gen console. Compact, digital-only, and capable of running the same games as the more powerful Series X, it’s a brilliant piece of kit for its price. 

But when you see it sitting on CEX’s shelves or online store for around £150–£180, it’s easy to understand why so many gamers jump on it.

For casual players or those who just want an easy way to dive into Game Pass, it makes total sense. Why spend £250 on a brand-new unit when you can get a slightly used one for nearly half that price? 

The savings can even cover a few months of Game Pass Ultimate, which honestly gives you a better overall deal. Still, it’s worth remembering—buying from CEX isn’t exactly the same as picking something up fresh from Microsoft.

Performance: Does a Used Series S Hold Up?

Here’s the good news—yes, absolutely. The Series S is built to last. Unlike phones or laptops that slow down over time, consoles typically perform the same years later as they did out of the box. As long as the unit hasn’t been abused, dropped, or smoked around, it’ll run beautifully.

Most people who’ve bought a preowned Series S from CEX report that the performance is practically identical to a new one. You’ll still get the same 1440p resolution, SSD speed, and fast load times. Games like Forza Horizon 5, Halo Infinite, and Cyberpunk 2077 play flawlessly.

That said, test it right away once you get it home. Make sure the fan runs quietly, it boots smoothly, and connects to Wi-Fi without hiccups. It takes just ten minutes to check, and it’s better to catch any issues early.

CEX Warranty and Returns: What You’re Actually Getting

One of the biggest perks of buying from CEX over a random eBay listing is the 24-month warranty. That’s right—two full years of cover. It’s honestly impressive for a second-hand seller.

The warranty includes repair or replacement for most hardware issues, provided the fault isn’t caused by physical or liquid damage. And if you ordered online, you also have a 14-day return window, no questions asked.

This makes the deal a lot safer than you might think. If anything seems off, you can bring it back to any CEX store or post it back. Just don’t lose that receipt or order number—it’s your lifeline if something goes wrong.

What’s Missing Compared to a Brand-New Console

While the savings are nice, you do lose a few perks that come with a new purchase. For instance, a brand-new Series S usually comes with a full Microsoft warranty and guaranteed packaging. 

You might also miss out on newer controller revisions or bundled offers that sometimes come with retail units. CEX boxes might not include the same fancy packaging or even the original cables. So, if presentation and freshness matter to you, keep that in mind.

Still, if all you care about is performance, it’s honestly a non-issue. Once the console is hooked up and running, it plays exactly the same.

Tips Before You Buy from CEX

A few small things can make your experience smoother:

• Check accessories — Make sure it includes the controller and power cable.

• Inspect before buying in-store — If possible, ask to test the unit.

• Use store credit — You’ll get a better trade-in value if you plan to swap old tech.

• Don’t skip the warranty info — Know exactly what’s covered and for how long.

CEX staff are usually pretty chill about letting you check the console visually before you pay, so take advantage of that.

Real-World Value: What You’re Paying For

At the end of the day, buying from CEX isn’t just about saving cash—it’s about accessibility. You walk in, pick your console, and you’re covered by a warranty. There’s a certain convenience to that. You don’t have to scroll through sketchy online listings or worry about getting scammed.

For gamers who just want to jump into Call of Duty, Fortnite, or Forza without dealing with inflated retail prices, it’s honestly a smart move.

Plus, because the Series S is all-digital, there’s no wear and tear from discs or physical drives to worry about. It’s a clean, minimal machine built for cloud saves and Game Pass.

Is It Worth the Price?

If you’re asking whether the CEX Xbox Series S is worth buying in 2025 — yes, it really is. The price point hits a sweet spot, the performance holds up, and the warranty makes it low-risk.

You might not get the satisfaction of peeling the factory seal, but you’ll definitely get the satisfaction of saving a solid chunk of money. For casual or mid-core gamers, it’s easily one of the smartest console purchases you can make right now.

If you care more about frame rates, Game Pass, and getting into next-gen gaming without paying top-tier prices, CEX’s offering is hard to beat.

Just remember to check the condition grade, test your console early, and keep that receipt safe. Once you’ve done that, you’re set. Fire it up, download a few of your favorite titles, and you’ll quickly forget it wasn’t brand-new to begin with.

Conclusion

Buying an CEX Xbox Series S makes sense for anyone who wants next-gen gaming without spending next-gen prices. It’s fast, compact, and still one of the best digital-only consoles out there. With CEX’s warranty, there’s less risk than you’d expect from a second-hand buy.

If you find one under £180 in good condition, don’t overthink it — that’s a solid deal. Just make sure you test it early, keep the paperwork safe, and enjoy the fact that you got a next-gen console for way less than retail.

The Series S might not have the 4K punch of the Series X, but for everyday gaming, Game Pass, and smooth performance, it hits the sweet spot. Honestly, it’s the kind of console that grows on you the more you use it.

And once it’s set up and running, you’ll probably forget it was even second-hand in the first place.