What Is CSFloat?
CSFloat (formerly known as CSGOFloat) is a peer-to-peer (P2P) marketplace for buying and selling Counter-Strike: Global Offensive skins. Unlike traditional marketplaces that act as intermediaries holding inventory, CSFloat connects buyers directly with sellers. The platform has earned a strong reputation in the CSGO trading community for its transparency, competitive fees, and powerful tools for inspecting skin conditions.
Originally launched as a float value checking tool, CSFloat expanded into a full-fledged marketplace in 2021. The service allows users to list their CSGO skins at custom prices, browse listings with detailed float and pattern data, and complete transactions securely through Steam's trade system. Over the years, CSFloat has grown to become one of the most popular alternatives to the Steam Community Market.
In this review, we will cover everything you need to know about CSFloat, including its key features, fee structure, how to buy and sell skins, safety measures, and how it compares to the Steam Market and other third-party platforms.
Key Features of CSFloat
CSFloat stands out from other CSGO skin marketplaces thanks to a number of unique features that cater to both casual traders and serious collectors. Here are the most important ones:
Peer-to-Peer Marketplace
The core of CSFloat is its P2P trading model. When you buy a skin on CSFloat, you are purchasing directly from another user. The skin is transferred through a Steam trade offer, meaning CSFloat never takes custody of the item. This reduces the risk associated with platforms that hold large inventories and gives sellers more control over their listings.
The P2P model also means prices are generally more competitive than on the Steam Market. Sellers set their own prices, and because CSFloat charges lower fees, many sellers list items for less than you would find on Steam. Buyers can also negotiate directly through the bargaining system.
Float Appraiser Tool
CSFloat originally gained popularity as a float value checking service, and this tool remains one of its strongest features. The Float Appraiser allows you to inspect any CSGO skin and see its exact float value, paint seed, and wear rating. This information is critical for traders who want to find the best-looking skins within a particular wear category.
For example, a Factory New AK-47 Redline with a float of 0.0601 will look noticeably better than one with a float of 0.0699, even though both are technically Factory New. The Float Appraiser makes it easy to compare these values and find skins that look better than their wear category suggests.
- Exact float values displayed to four decimal places for every listed skin
- Paint seed information for identifying rare patterns on items like Case Hardened knives
- 3D skin inspection directly in the browser without needing to open CSGO
- Wear range visualization showing where a skin falls within its wear category
- Historical float data for tracking the rarest versions of popular skins
Bargaining System
One feature that sets CSFloat apart from most CSGO marketplaces is its built-in bargaining system. Buyers can send price offers to sellers, similar to how you might negotiate on a classified ads site. Sellers can accept, reject, or counter the offer. This creates a more dynamic marketplace where both parties can reach a fair price.
The bargaining system is particularly useful for high-value items where the difference between asking price and market value may be significant. If a seller has listed a knife at $500 but you believe the fair market price is closer to $450, you can submit an offer and potentially save a meaningful amount.
Advanced Search and Filtering
CSFloat provides robust search and filtering options that go beyond what the Steam Market offers. You can filter listings by weapon type, skin name, wear category, float value range, price range, and sticker combinations. This makes it much easier to find exactly the skin you are looking for, especially if you have specific float or pattern requirements.
The platform also supports sorting by price, float value, or listing date. Combined with the float visualization tools, this creates a browsing experience that is significantly more informative than the Steam Market's basic listing pages.
Stall System
Sellers on CSFloat can create personalized "stalls" that function like a storefront. A stall displays all of a seller's active listings in one place, making it easy for buyers to browse a specific trader's inventory. This feature is especially useful for high-volume sellers and collectors who maintain a large selection of skins.
Browser Extension
CSFloat offers a popular browser extension (available for Chrome and Firefox) that enhances the Steam Market experience. When installed, the extension overlays float values and additional data directly onto Steam Market listings. This allows you to quickly identify good float values without leaving the Steam interface, and provides direct links to CSFloat listings for comparison.
CSFloat Fee Structure
One of CSFloat's biggest selling points is its competitive fee structure. Understanding the fees is essential for calculating your actual profit when selling skins or your total cost when buying.
Seller Fees
CSFloat charges sellers a flat 2% marketplace fee on each completed sale. This is significantly lower than the Steam Market's 15% combined fee (5% Steam fee plus 10% CSGO game fee). For sellers, this means keeping a much larger portion of the sale price.
To put this into perspective, if you sell a skin for $100 on CSFloat, you receive $98 after fees. On the Steam Market, that same $100 sale would net you approximately $85 after the 15% fee deduction. Over time, this difference adds up substantially, especially for active traders.
Buyer Fees
CSFloat charges no additional fees to buyers. The price you see listed is the price you pay. This is in contrast to some other marketplaces that add a buyer's premium or processing fee on top of the listed price.
Payment Processing
CSFloat supports multiple payment methods, and processing fees may vary depending on your chosen method:
- CSFloat wallet balance: No additional processing fee
- Credit/Debit card: Standard payment processing fees may apply
- Cryptocurrency: CSFloat accepts crypto payments with varying fees depending on the blockchain
Fee Comparison Table
Here is how CSFloat's fees compare to other popular CSGO skin marketplaces:
- CSFloat: 2% seller fee, 0% buyer fee
- Steam Market: 15% seller fee (5% Steam + 10% CSGO), 0% buyer fee
- Skinport: 12% seller fee, 0% buyer fee
- DMarket: Variable fees starting around 5-7%
- Buff163: 2.5% seller fee, 0% buyer fee
As you can see, CSFloat offers some of the lowest fees among Western CSGO marketplaces, making it an attractive option for sellers who want to maximize their returns.
How to Buy Skins on CSFloat
Buying skins on CSFloat is straightforward. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
Step 1: Create an Account
Visit csfloat.com and sign in using your Steam account. CSFloat uses Steam's OpenID authentication, so you do not need to create a separate account or share your Steam password with the platform. Simply click "Sign in with Steam" and authorize the connection.
Step 2: Set Up Your Trade URL
Before you can receive skins, you need to add your Steam Trade URL to your CSFloat profile. You can find your Trade URL in your Steam inventory settings. This URL allows CSFloat's trade bots to send you the skin once a purchase is complete. Make sure your Steam inventory is set to public so the transaction can be verified.
Step 3: Browse and Search
Use CSFloat's search and filter tools to find the skin you want. You can search by weapon name, skin name, or browse by category. Take advantage of the float value filters to find skins with the exact condition you are looking for. Each listing shows the float value, paint seed, price, and a screenshot of the skin.
Step 4: Purchase or Bargain
Once you find a skin you want, you have two options. You can buy it immediately at the listed price by clicking "Buy Now," or you can submit a bargain offer if you want to negotiate. If you choose to bargain, the seller will be notified and can accept, reject, or counter your offer.
Step 5: Complete the Trade
After your purchase is confirmed and payment is processed, CSFloat facilitates the trade. Since it is a P2P marketplace, the seller sends the skin through a Steam trade offer. You will receive a trade offer in your Steam client that you need to accept. The entire process typically takes only a few minutes once payment clears.
Step 6: Confirm Receipt
After accepting the trade offer, the skin will appear in your Steam inventory. CSFloat's system tracks the transaction and confirms delivery. If any issues arise during the trade, CSFloat's support team can assist in resolving disputes.
How to Sell Skins on CSFloat
Selling on CSFloat is equally simple and can be more profitable than using the Steam Market due to the lower fees. Here is how to list and sell your skins:
Step 1: Sign In and Connect Your Inventory
Log in with your Steam account and make sure your inventory is set to public. CSFloat will read your CSGO inventory and display all tradeable items that you can list for sale.
Step 2: Select Items to List
Navigate to the selling section and select the skins you want to list. You can list individual items or multiple skins at once. CSFloat will display the current market value for each item to help you set a competitive price.
Step 3: Set Your Price
Choose your asking price for each item. CSFloat shows you suggested prices based on recent sales and current listings. You can set any price you want, but keep in mind that competitively priced items sell faster. The platform also shows you the net amount you will receive after the 2% fee is deducted.
Step 4: Manage Listings and Bargains
Once your items are listed, buyers can either purchase them at your asking price or send bargain offers. You will receive notifications when offers come in. You can accept, reject, or counter any bargain. Active management of your listings and prompt responses to offers can help you sell faster.
Step 5: Complete the Trade
When a sale is confirmed, you will need to send the skin to the buyer through a Steam trade offer. CSFloat guides you through this process. Make sure you have the Steam Guard Mobile Authenticator enabled, as Steam requires it for trading items. Once the trade is complete, your payment is processed.
Step 6: Withdraw Your Earnings
After a successful sale, your earnings are credited to your CSFloat wallet balance. You can use this balance to buy other skins on the platform, or you can withdraw funds to your bank account or cryptocurrency wallet, depending on the available withdrawal options in your region.
Safety and Security
Security is a top concern when trading CSGO skins, and CSFloat has implemented several measures to protect users. Here is an overview of the platform's safety features:
Steam Integration
CSFloat uses Steam's official OpenID system for authentication, meaning you never share your Steam password with the platform. All trades are conducted through Steam's trade offer system, which provides built-in protection against unauthorized transfers. You always retain full control of your items until you explicitly accept a trade.
Escrow and Payment Protection
While CSFloat operates as a P2P marketplace, it still provides payment protection. Funds from a buyer are held by CSFloat until the trade is confirmed complete. This ensures that sellers receive payment only after the buyer has received the skin, and buyers are refunded if a trade fails.
Anti-Fraud Measures
CSFloat employs automated systems to detect and prevent fraudulent activity. Accounts that engage in suspicious behavior, such as attempting chargebacks or listing fake items, are flagged and may be suspended. The platform also verifies that listed items match their descriptions and float values.
- Steam Guard required: Sellers must have Steam Guard Mobile Authenticator enabled
- Trade hold awareness: CSFloat warns about trade holds and cooldown periods
- Verified listings: All listed skins are verified against the seller's actual Steam inventory
- Dispute resolution: CSFloat provides a support system for handling trade disputes
- Transparent history: Transaction history is available for both buyers and sellers
Is CSFloat Safe?
Yes, CSFloat is widely considered safe and legitimate. The platform has been operating since 2017 (originally as a float checking tool) and has built a strong reputation in the CSGO community. It processes millions of dollars in transactions and has a large, active user base. As with any marketplace, it is still important to exercise basic caution: verify trade offers before accepting them, use Steam Guard, and be wary of phishing attempts that may impersonate the CSFloat website.
Pros and Cons of CSFloat
After thorough testing and research, here is our summary of CSFloat's strengths and weaknesses:
Pros
- Extremely low fees: At just 2% for sellers and 0% for buyers, CSFloat has some of the lowest fees among Western skin marketplaces
- Detailed float and pattern data: Every listing includes precise float values, paint seeds, and wear visualizations
- Bargaining system: The ability to negotiate prices adds flexibility for both buyers and sellers
- P2P model: Skins are never held by CSFloat, reducing platform risk and giving users more control
- Browser extension: The CSFloat extension enhances the Steam Market experience with float data overlays
- 3D skin inspection: Inspect skins in 3D directly in your browser without opening the game
- No buyer fees: What you see is what you pay as a buyer
- Active community: Large and growing user base ensures good liquidity for most items
- Cryptocurrency support: Additional payment options beyond traditional methods
Cons
- Smaller inventory than Steam Market: While growing, CSFloat's listing pool is still smaller than Steam's massive marketplace
- P2P trade delays: Since trades go through Steam, they can be subject to trade holds if the seller recently changed their Steam Guard settings
- Limited payment withdrawal options: Withdrawal methods may be restricted depending on your region
- Learning curve: New users may need time to understand float values, paint seeds, and the bargaining system
- No instant delivery for all items: Unlike platforms that hold inventory, delivery depends on the seller completing the trade
CSFloat vs. Steam Community Market
Many CSGO players default to the Steam Community Market for buying and selling skins, but CSFloat offers several advantages. Here is a detailed comparison:
Fees
This is where CSFloat wins decisively. The Steam Market takes a combined 15% fee from sellers (5% Steam transaction fee plus a 10% CSGO-specific fee). CSFloat charges just 2%. For a skin selling at $100, you keep $98 on CSFloat versus approximately $85 on Steam. Over multiple transactions, this difference becomes enormous.
Float Value Information
The Steam Market provides virtually no float value information. You can see the wear category (Factory New, Minimal Wear, etc.) but not the exact float value. On CSFloat, every listing includes the precise float value, paint seed, and wear visualization. This is critical for informed purchasing decisions, especially for higher-value skins where float significantly impacts appearance and value.
Pricing
Because of lower fees, skins on CSFloat are often priced lower than on the Steam Market. Sellers can offer better prices while still netting more money. The bargaining feature adds another dimension that the Steam Market entirely lacks. However, the Steam Market benefits from a larger buyer pool, which can mean faster sales for common items.
Payment Flexibility
The Steam Market uses Steam Wallet funds, which can only be used within the Steam ecosystem. CSFloat allows you to cash out your earnings to real money through bank transfers or cryptocurrency. This is a major advantage for sellers who want actual monetary returns rather than Steam credit.
Convenience
The Steam Market is built directly into the Steam client, making it the most convenient option for casual transactions. CSFloat requires visiting a separate website, setting up a trade URL, and managing trade offers manually. For quick, low-value purchases, the Steam Market's convenience may outweigh CSFloat's fee savings.
Liquidity
The Steam Market has significantly higher liquidity for common and mid-tier skins. If you are selling a popular skin like an AK-47 Redline or an AWP Asiimov, it will likely sell faster on Steam simply due to the larger buyer pool. For rare or high-value items, however, CSFloat's specialized audience and bargaining system can be advantageous.
Who Should Use CSFloat?
CSFloat is an excellent choice for several types of CSGO skin traders:
- Active traders who buy and sell frequently and want to minimize fee losses
- Float value enthusiasts who care about finding the best-looking skins within each wear category
- Pattern hunters looking for specific Case Hardened patterns, Fade percentages, or other pattern-dependent skins
- High-value traders dealing in expensive items where the fee savings from 2% versus 15% are substantial
- Sellers who want real money rather than Steam Wallet credit
- Collectors who use the advanced search and float tools to find specific items for their collection
For casual players who occasionally buy a cheap skin on the Steam Market, the convenience of staying within Steam may be more important than the fee savings. But for anyone who takes skin trading seriously, CSFloat is a platform worth using.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of CSFloat
Here are some practical tips to help you maximize your experience on CSFloat:
- Install the browser extension: The CSFloat extension adds float values to Steam Market listings, helping you identify deals without switching between websites
- Use the bargaining system: Do not be afraid to send offers below the listed price, especially for items that have been listed for a while. Many sellers are open to negotiation.
- Check float value ranges: When buying, pay attention to where a skin's float falls within its wear category. A Minimal Wear skin with a float of 0.07 will look nearly Factory New and may be significantly cheaper.
- Compare prices across platforms: Before buying or selling, check prices on CSFloat, Steam Market, and other platforms to ensure you are getting the best deal
- Set up price alerts: Use CSFloat's notification features to be alerted when specific items are listed at prices within your budget
- Maintain a good reputation: Complete trades promptly and respond to bargain offers in a timely manner to build trust with other traders
- Keep Steam Guard active: Always have the Steam Guard Mobile Authenticator enabled to avoid trade holds and ensure the fastest possible transactions
Frequently Asked Questions
Is CSFloat free to use?
Creating an account and browsing listings on CSFloat is completely free. Sellers pay a 2% fee on completed sales, while buyers pay no additional fees. The Float Appraiser tool and browser extension are also free to use.
How long does a CSFloat trade take?
Most trades are completed within a few minutes after payment is processed. The buyer receives a Steam trade offer that they need to accept. If the seller has recently changed their Steam Guard device, Steam may impose a trade hold of up to 15 days, but this is a Steam restriction, not a CSFloat one.
Can I use CSFloat on mobile?
CSFloat's website is mobile-responsive and can be accessed from any device with a web browser. However, for the best experience, especially when inspecting skins in 3D, a desktop browser is recommended.
What payment methods does CSFloat accept?
CSFloat accepts credit and debit cards, bank transfers, cryptocurrency, and CSFloat wallet balance. Available payment methods may vary by region. Funds can be withdrawn to your bank or crypto wallet after a sale.
Does CSFloat support CS2 skins?
Yes. Since CSGO skins carried over to Counter-Strike 2, CSFloat fully supports the CS2 skin ecosystem. All existing CSGO skins listed on CSFloat work in both CSGO and CS2.
Our Verdict: 9/10
CSFloat is one of the best CSGO skin marketplaces available today. Its combination of extremely low fees, detailed float value tools, a flexible bargaining system, and a secure P2P trading model makes it a top choice for anyone serious about skin trading. The 2% seller fee is hard to beat among Western platforms, and the Float Appraiser tool provides information that no other marketplace matches.
The platform is not without its drawbacks. The smaller listing pool compared to the Steam Market means you may not always find exactly what you are looking for, and the P2P model introduces some trade delay compared to platforms with instant delivery. However, these are minor issues when weighed against the significant fee savings and superior feature set.
We recommend CSFloat for any CSGO trader who wants to save money on fees, find the best float values, and trade skins securely. Whether you are a casual buyer looking for a specific skin or a high-volume trader managing a large inventory, CSFloat delivers a premium marketplace experience at a fraction of the cost of alternatives.
Disclaimer: This review is based on our own experience and research. Prices, fees, and features may change over time. Always verify current information directly on the CSFloat website before making trading decisions. CSGO skin trading involves financial risk, and you should only trade with money you can afford to lose.