FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

What is DLCompare?

DLCompare is a price comparison website that lets you find the lowest offers on the market for video games, DLCs, prepaid cards, software, hardware, consoles, and accessories. Active since 2011, it helps players discover the best online deals.

The way it works is simple:

  • Search for the product you’re interested in
  • Compare the prices from our affiliated retailers
  • Buy from the most convenient store

The service is free and does not add any extra fees to the price of the game – DLCompare earns through commissions from partners, so there are no additional costs for the user.

In addition to price comparison, DLCompare offers useful features such as:

How will I receive my game after purchase?

The delivery method depends on the type of product you buy and on the retailer, but in general:

 

  • Digital format  
    • You will receive a CD key (digital code).
    • This key will be sent to you by email or made available in your account on the store’s website immediately after payment (sometimes it may take a few minutes or hours, depending onthe retailer).
    • With that key, you can activate and download the game on the relevant platform (for example Steam, Epic Games, etc.).
    • Delivery of digital keys is usually instantaneous or very fast.
  • Physical version (boxed)  
    • The retailer will ship the DVD/Blu-ray copy or cartridge (for consoles) to the address you provided.
    • Delivery times are those of a standard shipment: the store will often provide tracking, and you may receive the package within a few days (depending on shipping method and location).
    • Some boxed games may still require online activation using a code included in the package.
    • Many modern titles download updates, so even with a disc you’ll probably need to connect to the internet to finish installation.
  • Account Selling 
    • The retailer will provide credentials to a DRM account containing the game you purchased. Please note that regional or legal restrictions may apply.

DLCompare lets you choose easily: on each game page you can select the “Digital download” tab or the “Box” tab (if available). This way you’ll see only offers corresponding to the desired delivery type:

  • Choose “Digital download” if you want to get the activation code immediately
  • Choose “Box” if you prefer to have the game physically (maybe for collection or as a gift)

Some products, such as gift cards or subscriptions, are exclusively digital (you receive a code), while hardware and accessories will obviously be shipped as physical goods.

How can I be sure that the game I buy can be activated in my region?

DLCompare shows only offers compatible with your geographic region. This means that if you see a price for a game on the site, that code will be activatable in your country. The system detects your area (for example through the local version of the site or your IP address) and automatically filters out any offers you could not use.

In this way, you can buy with confidence knowing that the key will work. DLCompare’s policy is to show only the prices of products that you can download and activate in your region; they would never show a game that you cannot activate in your geographic area. This is an important strength because it prevents players from running into unwanted region locks.

That said, it is still good practice to:

  • Check the indicated activation platform
  • Check any region mentioned in the offer

Some offers display labels such as “EU”, “GLOBAL”, “NA”, “RU”, etc. next to the product name, which indicate the code’s area of validity. If you realize that you have purchased a region-restricted key that is not compatible:

 

 

  • Do not activate it
  • Contact the store immediately to request a replacement or refund

Such cases should be rare thanks to DLCompare’s filters.

Is DLCompare free? Do I have to register to use it?

Yes, DLCompare is completely free to use. You do not need to create an account to search and compare prices: you can visit the site and immediately see the offers without any registration.

Creating an account is optional, but it offers additional benefits. For example, only registered users can:

  • Track game prices (receive price change notifications)
  • Take part in the Rewards Program
  • Leave comments or reviews about games and stores

In any case, the basic use of DLCompare (searching for games and clicking on offers) does not require an account and is 100% free.

What do you mean by “Top Retailer”? DLCompare top retailer

The DLCompare top retailer highlighted on some stores is a badge that DLCompare assigns to the most reliable and appreciated partners, who are granted access to a special agreement with us. In practice, DLCompare periodically evaluates its affiliated retailers – particularly those that have been collaborating for at least six months – in an anonymous and impartial way.

This evaluation takes into account factors such as:

  • Punctuality in key delivery
  • Customer support quality
  • Percentage of issues resolved
  • User feedback

Stores that excel in these categories receive the “Top Retailer” logo next to their name in price lists.

The goal is to help users instantly identify the stores with the best performance in terms of safety and quality of service. Naturally, this doesn’t mean that other partners aren’t valid, but “Top Retailer” marks that elite of online shops that offer the most reliable and complete experience according to DLCompare’s checks.

By choosing a Top Retailer, you can expect:

  • Keys delivered quickly
  • Efficient support if needed
  • Clear policies
  • High customer satisfaction

It is an additional level of trust that DLCompare provides based on its experience monitoring the market.

Is it legal to buy game keys on DLCompare?

Yes, absolutely. Buying keys through DLCompare is 100% legal. DLCompare itself does not sell games but merely compares offers from third-party stores; the actual purchase takes place with these retailers.

As long as:

  • The game is activated through the intended official platforms (Steam, Epic Games, Xbox Live, PlayStation Network, etc.)
  • The DRM terms of use are respected

…the publisher receives the proper revenue from the activated key. CD keys are unique codes generated by publishers: once they are activated on official channels, they guarantee the validity of the copy and its registration in their systems.

DLCompare works with many stores authorized by publishers and clearly marks which ones are “official retailers” (i.e., recognized partners). If you have legal or ethical doubts, you can always choose one of the offers marked as official. In any case, by purchasing through DLCompare you are not buying counterfeit products: for example, some stores even offer the option of having the original boxed edition of the game (retail edition) shipped to your home if you prefer a physical format, which is further proof that the product is authentic.

To sum up: activating a key bought from these stores is equivalent to buying a game in digital format within the limits set by the platforms. Millions of players around the world use these keys in full legality. DLCompare, for its part, constantly monitors and checks the reliability of affiliated stores to ensure that the offers shown are trustworthy and legitimate.

What are the best practices for online shopping?

When buying games online through DLCompare and its partners, we recommend following some good practices for a safe and smooth experience:

  • Use consistent data: Create an account on the chosen retailer’s website and, if possible, use the same email you use for PayPal (if you’re buying with PayPal). Keeping your data consistent helps with security checks.
  • Fill in your details accurately: Enter all personal information correctly in the retailer’s account, exactly as it appears on your payment method. Accurate data reduces the risk of checks or delays.
  • Prefer credit card: Purchases made with a credit card generally involve fewer identity checks than PayPal. Some stores may require additional verification for PayPal payments for security reasons.
  • Read store reviews: Take a look at the comments and ratings for retailers listed on DLCompare. This can help you choose reliable sellers. Remember though that dissatisfied customers often leave reviews more frequently than satisfied ones, so evaluate them with balance.
  • Check product availability: Make sure the game is actually available. If it is in preorder or out of stock, you may have to wait. Check the status indicated (preorder, “out of stock”, etc.) before paying.
  • Activate the key as soon as possible: After purchasing, activate your CD key/code as soon as you receive it to immediately verify its validity. In case of issues (non-working key), you’ll be able to contact the store’s support right away.

What does mean on DLCompare?

An   (often also referred to as an official store) on DLCompare is a store that has a direct agreement with game publishers. In practice:

  • These stores are authorized partners of the developers/publishers to sell their keys/codes.
  • DLCompare marks which retailers are official – for example, a specific label or icon appears next to the offer on the site (such as a badge).

Choosing an official retailer gives you maximum peace of mind:

  • The key comes from the publisher’s official distribution network (not from parallel markets).
  • The store adheres to the publisher’s price and distribution policies, so typically you will not see extremely high (or low) price differences compared to standard stores for that title, except for promotional discounts granted by the publisher itself.
  • DLCompare guarantees the reliability of official retailers precisely because there is a relationship of trust and cooperation with publishers.

If you have doubts about the legitimacy of a very low offer, choose an official retailer: you will know for sure that you are buying through regular channels. Typical examples of official retailers include:

  • Platform stores (Steam, PlayStation Store, Microsoft Store, Nintendo eShop)
  • Other well-known authorized stores (Ubisoft Store, Origin/EA App, Epic Games Store for PC)
  • Retail chains such as Amazon, GameStop, Mediaworld that sell both physical and digital copies

On DLCompare, all these offers are compared with those from unofficial retailers, so it’s up to you to choose. Buying from an official retailer through DLCompare is exactly like buying directly, with the added benefit of seeing whether better prices exist elsewhere.

Does DLCompare sell videogames?

No - we are a price comparison tool. You will complete the purchase on the website of the retailer you choose.

Here are the recommended steps:

 

  • Find the game: Use the DLCompare search bar or browse categories to find the video game (or product) you want to buy. Open the dedicated page for that product.

 

  • Choose the platform and version: On the game page, select the platform you’re interested in (PC, PlayStation, Xbox, etc.) and the type of version. Many games offer two tabs:
    • “Digital download” (online code/key)
    • “Box” (physical version with shipping)

 

Choose the appropriate tab depending on whether you want an instant digital code or a physical copy of the game.

 

 

  • Compare offers: DLCompare will show the list of prices offered by various affiliated retailers for that product, filtered by your region (it will only show offers that can be activated in your country). For each offer, you’ll see:
    • The price
    • The store name
    • Additional details (activation platform such as Steam, Epic, etc., and special icons if the store is “official” or a “top retailer”) You can sort or filter offers if needed.
    • A  button allowing you to share your findings via social networks or email 
    • A button that shows the difference in fees if paying by card or PayPal 
    • A " button for reporting pricing discrepancies or product issues.

 

  • Check details and coupons: Some offers may show extra notes, such as additional discount codes or cashback programs. If you see phrases like “discount code -10%: XXX” or “pay back -3%: DLCOMPARE”, it means that store is offering a promotional code to enter in the cart to get a discount, or a 3% cashback to your account on that store, respectively. Take advantage if available by copying the discount code shown.
  • Go to the store and register: Once you’ve chosen the best offer, click on its price or purchase button. You’ll be redirected to the selected retailer’s website. There you may need to:
    • Create an account (if you don’t already have one for that store)
    • Or log in to complete the order
    • Complete the purchase on the store:
  • On the retailer’s site:
    • Confirm the product in your cart
    • Select the payment method (credit cards, PayPal, etc.)
    • Enter any discount codes provided by DLCompare or applicable to the offer.
    • Then pay following the instructions. Payment does not take place on DLCompare but directly on the store’s website. Make sure that during payment the connection is secure (the address should start with https://).
  • Receive the product:
    • For digital download: you will usually receive a CD key/code immediately (or within a few hours) via email or directly in your account on the store’s website.
    • For the physical version (“box”): the store will ship it to the address you provided (delivery times vary depending on the store and your location).
  • Activate and play:
    • For digital codes: activate them on the relevant gaming platform (Steam, Origin/EA App, PlayStation Network, Xbox Live, etc.) and download the game.
    • For physical copies: insert the disc into the console/PC and follow the instructions; note that some boxed games still require online activation using a code.

Remember to keep the receipts or order confirmation emails from the store until you’ve activated the game and verified that it works.

Do I pay on DLCompare or on the store’s website? Is payment secure?

All transactions take place on the retailers’ websites, not on DLCompare. In practice:

  • DLCompare redirects you to the chosen store
  • You complete the purchase and payment entirely on the store’s website
  • You never enter payment details on DLCompare

Partner stores support the most common payment methods, for example:

  • Credit/debit card
  • PayPal
  • Often others such as Paysafecard, Skrill, cryptocurrencies, etc. (availability may vary from store to store)

Generally, retailers’ sites use secure connections (HTTPS) and reliable systems for online payments, similar to any e-commerce site. We still recommend following standard security practices:

  • Make sure the store’s URL is correct and secure
  • Do not share sensitive information by email
  • Use traceable payment methods

Furthermore, paying by credit card tends to be quicker, while PayPal sometimes may trigger identity checks by the seller. In any case, DLCompare does not apply any commission to the price shown: what you pay on the store’s website is exactly the price indicated (net of any applicable discount codes).

Where do the keys sold by retailers on DLCompare come from?

All stores listed on DLCompare sell original, legitimate activation keys for official platforms (Steam, Origin/EA App, Xbox Live, PSN, etc.). The difference lies in the supply channel:

 

  • Official retailers obtain keys directly from publishers or authorized distributors.
    • Their keys come from the same supply chain as regular digital copies sold in major stores.
    • These retailers have commercial contracts with publishers and are therefore considered particularly reliable.
  • “Grey market” retailers purchase keys through alternative channels:
    • Surplus stock in other low-cost regions
    • Special promotions, bundles, gifts, etc., later resold in other markets
    • These keys are still original, not pirated, and can be activated on the relevant platforms, but the publisher may not have intended them for that specific region. For example, a store might sell a Steam key bought in a country where it was cheaper: the key still works globally (except for regional locks), and the game is authentic.

In both cases, when you activate the game on an official platform (Steam, Uplay, etc.), the publisher recognizes the sale and gets its share. So, even when buying from unofficial retailers, you’re still using valid keys within the official distribution system. DLCompare always indicates the activation platform and filters offers based on your region to avoid showing you keys that are incompatible with your account.

Keep in mind that some grey stores operate as marketplaces (e.g., G2A, Kinguin) where third-party sellers list their keys – in such cases, the keys’ origin may vary further, but marketplaces offer protection tools such as seller ratings and refunds if issues arise.

What do the platform icons (Steam, Epic Games, etc.) on game pages indicate?

Next to prices, DLCompare shows small icons that indicate which download platform or launcher the game key will work on. This is important because, for example, a “Steam key” must be activated on Steam, while a code for “Epic Games” must be redeemed on the Epic Games Launcher, and so on.

Here are the most common icons and what they mean:

  • Steam: the game will be activated on Steam, Valve’s platform.
  • Epic Games Store: the game will be activated on the Epic Games Launcher.
  • EA App (Origin): the code is for the EA app (formerly Origin), used for Electronic Arts games.
  • Battle.net: the key must be redeemed on Blizzard’s Battle.net client (e.g., Diablo, Overwatch, etc.).
  • GOG.com: indicates that you will receive a code or link for GOG Galaxy (Good Old Games).
  • Ubisoft Store (Connect): the game will be activatable on Ubisoft Connect (formerly Uplay).
  • PlayStation Network (PSN): code for Sony PlayStation consoles (PS4/PS5), to be redeemed on the PSN Store.
  • Xbox Live: code for Xbox (One/Series X|S) to be activated on the Microsoft Store or on an Xbox console.
  • Nintendo eShop: code for Nintendo consoles (Switch) to be used on the Nintendo eShop.
  • Direct download/other: a generic download or globe icon may indicate that the game is downloadable from the publisher’s or store’s own website, or via a proprietary launcher.

This legend is useful to understand where you’ll need to activate the product you’ve purchased. Before buying, make sure you:

  • Have (or can install) the platform required by the offer
  • Have an account in the correct region (especially for console platforms like PSN or Xbox)

Most PC platforms (Steam, Epic, etc.) are global or at least aligned with your DLCompare account’s region, so the site will offer you only compatible offers.

 

I saw an online store offering a lower price than those on DLCompare. Why isn’t it included?

The DLCompare team tries to include as many reliable stores as possible, but it cannot reference every CD key retailer on the web. If you found a lower price on a site that is not listed on DLCompare, there may be several reasons for its absence:

 

Questionable reliability

DLCompare prioritizes the quality and reliability of its partners. Many sites are excluded because they do not meet the security, customer service, or transparency standards required. It’s better not to list a store than send users to a potentially negative experience (invalid keys, lack of support, etc.).

 

Huge number of stores

There are dozens and dozens of sites and marketplaces selling keys; keeping track of all of them is practically impossible. DLCompare selects a set that covers the best offers and ensures reliability.

 

Competitors or sites that don’t match DLCompare’s philosophy

Some price comparison sites include any retailer without filtering. DLCompare is run by gamers and enthusiasts and therefore tends to exclude:

  • Stores with questionable practices
  • Stores that pay little attention to customers
  • Often “too good to be true” offers on unknown sites hide risks (stolen keys, scams, hidden costs).

If you notice an unlisted store that you think deserves to be included, you can:

Likewise, if a site offers a very low price but is not on DLCompare, ask yourself why: there may be unclear conditions behind that price.

Be careful with extremely attractive offers and, if in doubt, you can always contact DLCompare (through their support or Discord) for advice about a specific store. Their priority is to guarantee you a safe and reliable purchasing experience, even at the cost of not showing that one rare lower price on a questionable website.

What should I do if I don’t receive the CD key after purchase?

First of all, don’t panic. There are several reasons why the delivery of a key might be a bit delayed, and in most cases the situation resolves itself shortly. Here are some steps to follow:

 

  • Check your email carefully
    • The shop where you made your purchase may have sent an email with the link to the product you just purchased. 
    • Check your inbox and the “Spam” or junk mail folder, as it may happen that the store’s automatic email ends up there.
  • Be patient (especially at night)
    • If you placed the order at night or on the weekend, you might have to wait a few extra hours.
    • Some retailers may process orders manually in certain cases or have reduced staff at night.
    • A slight delay in these situations is quite common.
  • Check the store’s delivery times
    • Each store has different policies. Some guarantee immediate delivery, others indicate that it may take up to X hours.
    • Some retailers can take up to 24 hours to deliver a digital key, especially if they are verifying payment or sourcing stock.
    • Don’t worry right away if only a few hours have passed; it is normal, especially for a first purchase.
  • Contact the store’s support
    • If a significant amount of time has gone by (e.g., more than 24 hours) and you still haven’t received anything, contact the retailer’s customer support.
    • Provide them with your order details (order number, email used, etc.) and ask for an update.
    • Often, support resolves the issue quickly by sending the key again or explaining the reason for the delay.
  • Contact DLCompare
    • If none of the above solutions works and you still haven’t received your key, DLCompare can help as an intermediary.
    • You can contact them through the contact form on their website (in the “Support” section) providing the details of your purchase, or join their Discord server where staff and the community can help.
    • Explain the situation and indicate which store is involved; they often have direct contacts with partners and can prompt them to respond.

In short, a delay of a few hours (or even a day) in receiving the key, although annoying, falls within the range of possible situations. In the meantime:

  • Avoid making a second purchase elsewhere for the same game (you risk ending up with two keys and double the cost).
  • Give the store time to respond.

If in the end something has gone wrong, DLCompare will support you in trying to obtain the product or a refund.

What should I do if the CD key I received doesn’t work or is already used?

If, after receiving the key, you find that the code is not valid or appears to have already been redeemed, you must act promptly. Such cases are rare, but they can happen due to errors or technical issues. Here’s what to do:

 

  • Check that you entered the key correctly
    • Make sure you didn’t make any typing mistakes (mixing up 0/O, 1/I, similar letters).
    • Copy and paste if possible to avoid confusion.
    • Check that you are activating the code on the correct platform (Steam key on Steam, Xbox key on an Xbox account, etc.).
  • Contact the store’s support immediately
    • Inform the retailer from which you bought the key that it is invalid or already used.
    • Provide them with:
      • The code in question
      • A screenshot of the error you get when you try to activate it
      • The order ID

Serious stores usually run checks and, if they confirm a problem, provide a new working key or a refund. Many marketplaces have “buyer protection” guarantees that cover already-used keys.

 

  • Do not share the key publicly
    • While you are seeking assistance, avoid posting the full code in forums or public chats (not even on DLCompare’s Discord), because someone might try to claim it.
    • Provide the code only to the store’s official support through their secure channels.
  • Involve DLCompare if necessary
    • If the store does not respond or is reluctant to acknowledge the problem, you can also contact DLCompare (support form or Discord) explaining the situation.
    • Although they are not the direct seller, they will try to mediate to resolve the dispute.

In general, DLCompare’s affiliated retailers have a strong interest in maintaining a good reputation, so cases of non-working keys are resolved positively in most situations (with a replacement key or credit).

Keep in mind:

  • Many stores may refuse refunds if the key has been revealed and is working – you cannot change your mind after seeing the code.
  • Refunds are usually granted only if there is a real issue (defective key, product not delivered, etc.).
  • If you have already successfully activated the key, it is unlikely you will get a refund just because you’re not satisfied with the game.

Finally, a tip: always activate your keys right after purchase (as mentioned in best practices) precisely to verify their validity while you are still within the time frame for reporting any issue.

What is the Rewards Program and how does it work?

The DLCompare Rewards Program is an initiative designed to reward the most active members of the community. Essentially, it is a “game” integrated into the website that lets you win free CD keys and prepaid cards (e.g., gift cards for stores or digital wallets) by performing simple activities on the site.

Here’s how it works in brief:

 

Earn DLCoins with activities

Every registered user can accumulate points (called DLCoins, DLCompare’s virtual “currency”) by completing certain actions. For example:

  • Leaving a comment on a game
  • Rating a product with stars
  • Visiting the site daily
  • Taking part in discussions
  • There are also special missions or events that can grant bonus coins

Take part in draws and events

The coins you accumulate help you climb the leaderboard and gain chances to win. DLCompare periodically organizes prize draws:

  • Monthly (and sometimes weekly during promotional periods)
  • Prizes include free games or prepaid cards for various services (Steam, PSN, Amazon, etc.)
  • Participants automatically compete: the more DLCoins you’ve collected during the period, the greater your chances of being drawn (think of DLCoins as “lottery tickets”).

Have fun and stay active

The program is designed to encourage active and fun use of the site. You can:

  • Check the Rewards section to see the leaderboard of the top players (those with the most DLCoins)
  • See the prizes currently up for grabs

No purchase is required to take part: it’s a way to thank the community. Obviously, any fraudulent activity (such as spamming nonsense comments just to get points) is forbidden; the game must remain fair and enjoyable for everyone.

For more details, you can visit the page dedicated to the Rewards Program, where you’ll find the full rules and an up-to-date list of prizes. In short, if you are a regular DLCompare user, it’s worth taking part: with a bit of luck you could get free games or credit simply by using the site and contributing to the community!

Can I get notifications when a game’s price drops? What is  ?

Yes, DLCompare offers a very useful price tracking feature. If there is a game (or another product) whose price you want to monitor, you can use the “Track price” option on that product’s page.

Here’s how it works:

  • You must be logged into your DLCompare account (the feature is reserved for registered users).
  • On the game’s page, near the title or next to the platform tabs, you will find the  button or link. Click it to add that product to your list of tracked items.
  • When the minimum price of that game goes down significantly, DLCompare will notify you. Notifications are typically sent:
    • Via email (to the address associated with your account)
    • Or through the site itself (alerts in your profile)
  • You can manage all the products you are tracking by going into your user profile, where you’ll find:
    • A list of followed games
    • The option to remove them from tracking if you are no longer interested

This alert function is very convenient for saving money, especially if you’re not in a hurry to buy a title. For example, you can:

  • Set up tracking for a newly released game that you plan to buy later
  • Wait for price drops during seasonal sales or flash promotions

In general, DLCompare wants to make sure you can buy at the most convenient time. Take advantage of it so you don’t miss any deals!

What do discount codes or “pay back” next to some prices mean?

While browsing offers on DLCompare, you may notice special notes alongside the price of certain stores. For example, phrases like “discount code -10%: ABCDEF” or “pay back -3%: DLCOMPARE”. These notes are provided to help you save even more, highlighting extra promotions offered by partner retailers.

They usually mean:

 

  • “Discount code -X%: [code]” 
    • The store offers a discount code of X% on the product.
    • Example: “-10%: ABCDEF” lets you get a 10% discount by entering the code ABCDEF at checkout.
    • On DLCompare you’ll often see both the price before and after the discount.
    • To use it:
      • Copy the code
      • Click on the offer
      • Paste the code into the “promo code” or “voucher” field on the store’s site before paying
      • The total will update with the discount
  • “Pay back -X%: DLCOMPARE” 
    • Indicates a cashback or post-purchase refund offered by the store, usually reserved for users who come from the comparator.
    • Example: “pay back -3%: DLCOMPARE” means that 3% of the amount spent will be credited back to your store wallet/account after the purchase.
    • In practice, you pay the full price now, but the store gives you 3% back as credit, loyalty points, or similar.
    • Often, the DLCompare link automatically informs the store that you’re entitled to it; sometimes there might be a code to enter, but it’s usually automatic.

Keep in mind:

  • Discount codes must be entered manually on the seller’s site in the appropriate field before completing the order. If valid, you’ll see the discount applied before paying.
  • Cashback/payback is usually credited after the purchase. You may need an account on the store to receive it. After the order, check your store account to see if you have received funds/bonus.

These offers are a great way to save a few extra euros/dollars. Many stores (HRK, K4G, GamesDeal, etc.) periodically publish “-10%” or “-12%” codes for comparator users. With the same base price, a discount code can tip the scales in favour of one store over another.

Why do prices in the comparator sometimes differ so much from each other?

It's normal to see significant price differences for the same game depending on the seller. There are several reasons for this:

 

Promotions and special offers

Many stores offer temporary discounts, flash sales, or regional promotions. DLCompare continuously updates prices and often displays these promotions, which can cause the cost of a game to vary considerably at any given time.

 

Currencies and exchange rates

Prices can be listed in different currencies (euro, dollar, etc.). Fluctuations in exchange rates or price adjustments based on local purchasing power mean that the same game can have different costs from one market to another. For example, $40 is not exactly equivalent to €40, and some stores may not update their prices in real-time based on the exchange rate.

 

Business strategies and the "gray" market

  • Some official retailers have agreements with publishers and must respect certain minimum prices.
  • Others operate as marketplaces or "gray market" resellers without direct agreements and can set whatever prices they want, even much lower ones, possibly by taking advantage of stock from other countries or local promotions.
  • Price drops in certain countries (as an anti-piracy measure) allow some shops to resell keys at lower prices in Europe.

Competition and store policies

The key market is very competitive. Some stores:

  • Focus on volume with extremely tight margins to attract customers (very low prices but perhaps with paid additional services).
  • Others offer more personalized service but at slightly higher prices.
  • Additionally, some may include payment fees or additional services in their prices, while others do not.

In short, DLCompare reflects this landscape by displaying offers from both official retailers and reliable marketplaces, always highlighting the lowest final price. If you see a large price difference, the cheapest offer may come from a marketplace (keys from other regions, flash sales, VAT, etc.). Always consider the seller's reputation as well as the price, and remember that very low prices may involve higher risks (keys out of stock, longer delivery times, etc.), so choose wisely.

I run an online store and I’d like to appear on DLCompare. What should I do?

We’re glad you want to join the DLCompare platform! To add your store to the price comparison, you need to provide some information and technical resources. In particular, DLCompare will need:

  • Details about your site
  • A product feed (XML/CSV) so they can automatically integrate your prices
  • Confirmation of payment methods
  • Average delivery times
  • Any affiliate programs and related commissions
  • Supported languages
  • Number of products you sell

The easiest way to apply your store is to fill in the dedicated form on the DLCompare contact page (in the “partnership” section). Here’s how to proceed:

  • Go to the DLCompare Contact/Support page (from the site menu).
  • Look for the section titled “Do you want to integrate your website on DLCompare?” with a dedicated form.
  • Fill in all the required fields, including:
    • Name of your site
    • How many years it has been active
    • Whether you have a product feed available (XML/CSV)
    • Number of products
    • Whether you have an affiliate program and commissions
    • Typical delivery times, supported regions, etc.
  • Submit your request and wait to be contacted by the DLCompare team, who will review your application and may ask for more details.

Please note:

  • DLCompare carefully selects its partners and places great emphasis on service quality and user satisfaction.
  • If your store is still new or not very well known, they may monitor it for a trial period.

Once they verify that everything works (updated feed, competitive prices, no major issues with deliveries or customer support), they can include your offers in the comparator.

Joining DLCompare will give you access to a large audience of gamers looking for deals, so it is in both parties’ interest to build a solid collaboration. Fill in the form and highlight what makes your store unique – DLCompare is always open to new partnerships with serious and competitive stores!