FAQ

About CDKeyCompares

What is CDKeyCompares?

CDKeyCompares is a price comparison site for PC game keys, software licences, DLC, subscriptions and gift cards. It shows offers from several digital key stores side by side, so you can find the lowest price for the exact edition, platform and region you need. Read more on our About page.

Does CDKeyCompares sell keys?

No. We don't sell keys or take payments. When you click an offer, you go to the store's website and buy directly from that store, which handles delivery, refunds and support.

Is CDKeyCompares free to use?

Yes, comparing prices is completely free. We may earn a commission from a store when you buy through our links. This never adds to the price you pay.

Does a store's commission affect the rankings?

No. Offers are ranked by price, with the cheapest matching offer shown first, whichever store sells it. CDKeyCompares does not own any of the stores we list, and any paid placement is clearly labelled "Sponsored".

Prices and comparisons

How often are prices updated?

Prices refresh automatically between every hour and once a day, depending on each store's product feed. Stores can change prices between updates, so always confirm the final price on the store's checkout page.

Why does the same game cost different amounts at different stores?

Each store sources its keys differently and sets its own margins, discounts and fees. Prices also vary by region and edition, and marketplace stores let many sellers compete on the same product. That spread is exactly why comparing first saves money.

Why is the price at checkout higher than the price shown?

Some stores add a service fee, a payment fee or optional buyer protection at checkout. Taxes can also apply depending on your country. Check the store's final total before you pay, and compare it with the next-cheapest offer if the difference is large.

What currency are prices shown in?

Prices are shown in euros (EUR). If you pay in another currency, your bank or the store may convert the amount at its own exchange rate.

Why does a product page show no offers?

A product shows no offers when none of our listed stores currently has it in stock or available for your region. Check back later, or browse the full catalogue for another edition of the same game.

Buying safely

Are cheap CD keys legit?

Many are, but not all. Keys from authorised resellers and established stores usually work as expected, while the cheapest marketplace listings carry more risk. Our guide Are CD keys legit? explains how to judge a seller before you buy.

Is it legal to buy game keys from third-party stores?

Buying a key for your own use is generally legal for consumers, but publishers' terms differ and some restrict reselling. The rules depend on where you live and where the key came from. We cover the details in are cheap game keys legal? This is general information, not legal advice.

What are grey market keys?

Grey market keys are keys resold outside the publisher's official sales channels, often on marketplaces where many independent sellers list products. They can be much cheaper, but a small share are later revoked. Read what grey market keys are and whether they're safe.

Why are some prices so much lower than others?

Low prices often come from regional pricing, bulk buying or marketplace competition. A price far below every other offer, though, is a warning sign rather than a bargain. Our page on why prices are so low explains how to tell the difference.

Which payment method is safest?

Pay with a method that offers buyer protection, such as a credit card or PayPal, where the store accepts it. These let you dispute a charge if a key never arrives or doesn't work and the store won't help. Avoid paying by bank transfer or crypto to sellers you don't know.

Keys, regions and activation

Which platforms do you compare keys for?

We compare keys for Steam, Epic Games, GOG, Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo, EA app, Ubisoft Connect and Microsoft software, plus gift cards and subscriptions. Each offer shows the platform the key activates on. Our platform guide explains the differences.

What does region-locked mean?

A region-locked key only activates, or only runs, in certain countries, such as "EU" or "North America". A "Global" key works anywhere. Check the region on the offer before buying, and read our guide to region-locked game keys if you're unsure.

How do I activate my key?

You redeem the key in the platform it was sold for, for example under "Activate a Product on Steam" in the Steam app. Our activation guide covers each platform, and Steam's own product activation help explains its process.

What should I do if my key doesn't work?

First check that you are redeeming it on the right platform and in the right region. If it still fails, contact the store you bought from, since it is responsible for replacements and refunds. Our guide on what to do if your key doesn't work lists the steps.

What happens if my key is revoked later?

If a platform revokes a key, the game is removed from your library, usually because the key was obtained improperly by the seller. Contact the store straight away with your order details and request a replacement or refund. See what to do if your CD key gets revoked.

Stores, coupons and partners

How do you choose which stores to list, and what does "Official" mean?

Before listing a store, we check that it is an operating business with working customer support and a clear refund or replacement policy.The Official badge means Every listed store has a profile with reviews on our merchants page.

Where can I find discount codes?

Active store discounts are collected on our promo codes page. Each code shows the store, the discount and the products it applies to. Codes are set by the stores and can end without notice.

How can my store or channel partner with CDKeyCompares?

Stores that want their offers listed, and streamers or YouTubers interested in a creator partnership, can reach us through our contact page. Stores need a product feed in XML or CSV format with prices, stock and regions.