PC Game Keys: The Complete Buyer's Guide to Buying PC Keys Online

Buying PC game keys online is one of the most common ways to build a game library, and it is also one of the easiest places to make an avoidable mistake. This buyer's guide covers what pc keys are, what to check before you pay, and how to activate a purchase in minutes. Whether you say pc game key, game pc keys or keys pc, you are looking for the same thing: a code that adds a game to your PC.

What are PC game keys?

A game key is a unique code that unlocks a digital copy of a game. Game keys for PC are redeemed on a platform such as Steam, Epic Games, the EA app or Ubisoft Connect. Once redeemed, the game belongs to your account, not to your computer, so you can reinstall it on a new machine by signing in. You will see the same idea described as pc games key, key pc games, keys for pc and pc game product keys. For a full explanation of the terminology, read our guide to what CD keys are.

Steam keys, Epic keys and other PC platforms

Most people who search for pc steam keys or steam pc keys want a code for Steam, the largest PC platform. But PC games codes exist for other launchers too:

• Steam. The most common. You redeem the code under Games > Activate a Product on Steam.
• Epic Games Store. Keys are redeemed on the Epic account page or launcher. We list a smaller number of these in our Epic Games collection.
• EA app. Used for EA titles such as The Sims 4 add-ons and some older Battlefield games.
• Ubisoft Connect and Microsoft Store. Used for games from those publishers.

The key you buy must match the launcher you plan to use. A Steam key cannot be redeemed on Epic, and vice versa.

Six checks before you buy PC keys

1. Platform. The product title should say Steam, Epic, EA app or another platform.
2. Region. Look for Global, Europe, ROW, US or another region tag. Make sure it fits your account.
3. Edition. Standard, Deluxe and Complete editions are different. DLC and Season Passes usually need the base game.
4. System requirements. A key does not make your PC faster. Check the minimum requirements on the game's store page.
5. Language. Some regional keys have restrictions on language or content. The product page should tell you.
6. Seller policies. A refund and replacement policy, a company name and a working contact email.

If you want to know how to judge a store, our article on whether game key sites are legit goes through the signs in detail.

How to buy game keys online

The process is short, and it is the same for every reputable store. If you are searching for a game code website, this is what to expect:

1. Find the game and read the full product title.
2. Confirm the platform and region.
3. Add it to your cart and pay at the store's own checkout.
4. Receive the key by email and in your account.
5. Redeem it in your launcher and download the game.

If you would like to buy game code products from us, the Games collection is the place to start, and the Steam collection narrows it down to Steam. For lower prices, see our cheap Steam keys guide. You can also buy keys for software licenses in our Software collection.

Game codes and PC games codes: common mistakes

• Buying the wrong region. The most common reason a key fails.
• Buying DLC without the base game. The add-on will not run on its own.
• Confusing a wallet code with a game key. A wallet code adds funds; a key unlocks one game.
• Waiting too long to redeem. Some pc game codes have activation deadlines.
• Sharing keys. A key can normally be used once. Anyone who has it can redeem it first.

The same rules apply whether you call them game codes, pc game keys or pc keys.

Keep your PC game keys safe

• Redeem your key soon after you receive it.
• Keep the order email until you have confirmed the game is in your library.
• Do not post your key in screenshots or chats.
• Use a strong, unique password and two-factor authentication on your Steam account.

Frequently asked questions

Are PC game keys legal?

Yes. Keys are licenses issued through publishers and distributors, and you redeem them on your own account. The risk lies with sellers who use stolen or improperly obtained keys, so choose a seller that publishes its details and policies.

Do PC game keys work on Mac or Linux?

That depends on the game. A key gives you the license; the game must support your operating system. Check the game's store page for supported systems.

Can I play offline after I redeem a key?

Many games can be played offline after installation, but this is decided by each game and platform.

What is the difference between a key and an account?

A key adds a game to your own account. Selling access to someone else's account is a different product with different risks, and we do not sell accounts.

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