Vitaiso — PS Vita Models Guide | vitaiso.net
An ordered inspection of screen, sticks, battery, memory card and ports to run before paying for a used Vita.
Begin with the screen. Look for scratches, dead pixels and, on a PCH-1000, uneven brightness or burn-in that OLED panels can develop over time. The screen is the single biggest factor in what a used Vita is worth.
Test both analog sticks through their full range. The second analog stick was the Vita's key upgrade over the PSP, and drift on a worn stick removes much of the reason to own the platform. Move each stick slowly and watch for unintended input.
Ask about the battery and verify runtime. A full charge should be tested in person if possible, and you should ask whether the unit has been left discharged for long periods, which shortens battery life.
On narrow screens, swipe or scroll the plate sideways.
Confirm the memory card situation. The PCH-1000 has 0 GB of usable built-in storage, so a card is effectively mandatory; the PCH-2000 includes 1 GB of internal memory, enough for only a few small titles.
Check the charging port last. A PCH-1000 needs its proprietary Vita connector, while a PCH-2000 takes a standard micro-USB cable. A damaged port is one of the most common reasons a used unit is priced low.
Weigh the model against condition. A clean PCH-1000 often costs more than an equal PCH-2000 because OLED screens are scarce, but a PCH-2000 in better condition can still be the more practical buy.
Further reading