So, you finally broke down and bought that brand new phone, laptop, or tablet you’ve been dying to get. Now, what should you do with the old one?
If you’re like me, you’re probably going to shove that old device into a drawer or box with a pile of other used electronics. You’ll recycle them someday, right?
Well, believe it or not, you could actually sell those old electronics online for cash – even if they’re broken.
There are tons of reliable sites online where you can get rid of your old phones and devices, and make some money while you’re at it. Some sites will pay a little more than others, some pay faster, and some require a little more effort, so it’s important to do your research and find the best place for you to sell your electronics.
Sell Your Used Electronics Online
1. Decluttr
Want to clear some space at home, and make money with your clutter? That’s exactly what Decluttr is for.
This buyback site pays for all kinds of used products: electronics, cameras, games and books, and even Lego sets. There are no fees for finding a buyer because you’re selling directly to the company. It’s totally safe, and one of the fastest buyback sites out there.
Decluttr works a lot like BuyBackWorld. Just enter the barcode and information of the device you’re trying to sell, and you’ll get an instant quote. You can even speed up the process by downloading their free app; it will use your phone’s camera to scan the barcode and find your device right away. Then you just ship your device for free, and get paid as soon as it’s accepted.
The best thing about Decluttr is that they offer a Tech Price Promise: you’ll get paid the highest possible price for your electronics, or they’ll send the package back for free. On top of that, you can even donate your earnings to the charity of your choice through their site (although there’s nothing wrong with getting that cash through PayPal or direct deposit, too).
2. BuyBackWorld
BuyBackWorld is one of the most popular buyback sites for electronics.
If you’ve never heard of a buyback site before, it’s a website that buys and sells used goods online. Like a lot of buyback sites out there, BuyBackWorld accepts electronics in all kinds of conditions, even if they’re completely broken. You just have to accurately describe the condition of your device to get your payment (in other words, be honest!)
Here’s how it works: just head to the website, select the type of device you’re selling, enter the barcode and describe its condition. You’ll get an instant price quote. Then you can print out the shipping label and ship your device for free. As soon as it’s approved, you’ll receive your payment by cash, direct deposit, or PayPal.
It’s fast and simple, and a reliable way to get paid for your old electronics. The whole process generally takes about a week, from printing your label to receiving payment.
3. Facebook Marketplace
Have a Facebook account? You can use it to sell your used electronics for free to people in your community.
Directly selling your tech to an individual buyer, instead of using a buyback site, can be a great way to ensure you’re getting a good deal. You’ll be able to set your own price or let buyers make offers. It’s up to you how much you sell your devices for.
Facebook Marketplace is awesome because your ad will be seen by people in your area. That means you might not have to waste any time shipping your device or waiting for payment to transfer – you can meet your buyer and make the exchange in person. Like with any online sales site, just be cautious about scams. Fortunately, Facebook Marketplace is well-monitored and very safe.
If you want to sell your electronics on Facebook, you’ll have to take good pictures and write an accurate, honest description. I recommend doing a little research to set the right price – if you’re selling your device for too high of a price, you might not get any offers.
4. NextWorth
NextWorth is a popular buyback site specifically for smartphones and other electronics.
If you’re looking for convenience, this is the way to go. There’s really no effort involved. All you have to do is scan your device and describe the condition, get an instant price quote, then ship it. They pay via PayPal or check once your device is accepted.
Why choose NextWorth over other buyback sites? First, there are no hidden fees: the price you see in the quote is exactly how much you’ll get paid. Shipping is free, and you’ll get your payment right away.
They’re also a little more forgiving than other sites – if your device isn’t in the condition you originally described, they’ll forgive discrepancies up to a $10 value. Most other sites would just send the device back right away.
That said, NextWorth only accepts certain electronics, so make sure the device you’re trying to sell qualifies.
5. Gazelle
Gazelle is another awesome site for selling and buying used electronics. Compared to other buyback sites, they offer some of the highest prices out there – but the catch is that they only accept certain brands.
If you’re selling an Apple, Samsung, or Sony device, Gazelle is the place for you. They offer the best prices, and the service is always dependable.
The selling process looks just like other buyback sites: search for your device and scan the barcode, rate its condition, then ship it for free.
You can also sell electronics in bulk on Gazelle – so if you’ve been stockpiling your old electronics for years, here’s your chance to make a ton of cash.
If you get a quote from Gazelle, keep in mind that their price offers are subject to change. You’ll want to print your label right away to lock in that offer. Payment is sent through PayPal, check, or an Amazon gift card (a cool opportunity if you’re looking to upgrade your device).
6. Craigslist
If you’ve sold on Craigslist before, you know how easy it is. This is another great option for directly selling your electronics to a buyer, instead of going through a third party like a buyback site.
To sell on Craigslist, you’ll first have to make an account (to verify that you’re a real person, and not a scammer). Then you can post your ad, and it will be seen by people in your area.
Make sure you take clear pictures of what you’re selling and describe it in accurate detail. The more information there is in your post, the more interested offers you’ll get.
Why sell on Craigslist, instead of other online marketplaces? For one thing, it’s one of the most popular sites for buying and selling locally. That means that people who are searching for used electronics are most likely to check Craigslist first. Chances are, you’ll find someone who’s interested in whatever your selling, no matter the condition.
On top of that, Craigslist is a great place to access local buyers. You could meet your buyer in person and receive cash right away, instead of wasting time with shipping. Just make sure to follow safety guidelines!
7. SellCell
Exactly like the name suggests, SellCell is a website to sell your cellphone. (Don’t worry – they also accept other tech like laptops, smartwatches, and gaming consoles).
SellCell stands out on this list because it’s not actually a buyback site. It’s a comparison site. So, when you enter your device information, you’ll see a list of prices at all the top buyback sites – that way, you know you’re getting the best possible price for your electronics.
Once you pick the best buyback price, you just print the label and ship your package, then receive your payment. Depending on the company, your device might get sent back if it doesn’t meet the condition you described. (Again, it’s important to be honest.)
SellCell also offers a Best Price Guarantee with every sale. So, if they find a better price for your device within 24 hours, you’ll get paid double the difference.
Pretty cool, right? I definitely recommend SellCell if you want to get the best buyback price on your phone. Additionally, if you’re doing research to set your own price for your electronic device on a site like Craigslist, SellCell can be a great resource to find out how much it’s worth.
8. Amazon Trade In
If you’re retiring an old Amazon device, the Amazon Trade In program is an awesome opportunity to upgrade or buy something new.
Here’s how it works: first, register for a trade in account with your regular Amazon account (it’s really easy), then scan your device barcode and get a quote on the value. They’ll send you a free shipping label.
Once your device is received and approved, you’ll get the value added to your Amazon account. Or, you can opt for the instant payment option, and receive a digital Amazon gift card. You can use that money to shop for a new device, or anything else you want to buy on Amazon.
This trade in program is an easy way to exchange your old electronics for something else you need without spending any money. Just remember, it only applies to Amazon devices: you can use it for your old Kindle, Echo, wireless routers, tablets, and more.
9. Swappa
Want to sell your electronics directly, but don’t want to deal with Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace? Check out Swappa.
This is a direct selling platform specifically for used electronics. It’s totally unique, and a great way to get the best price for your electronics by selling them directly to a buyer.
If you want to sell on Swappa, you first have to make an account, then post your device with pictures and a description. It’s totally free to sign up and start posting, so there’s no risk involved.
For this site, the device you’re selling has to be 100% functional. You won’t be able to sell your broken electronics for parts – if that’s what your looking for, Craigslist or eBay is a better bet.
You can set your own price and communicate directly with buyers. Payment goes directly through the platform, then transfers to your PayPal account, so it’s completely safe.
I definitely recommend Swappa if you want to sell your electronics to an individual on a safe, secure platform.
10. eBay
Finally, if you want to sell used electronics or parts, eBay is always a reliable option.
eBay is one of the oldest sites out there for selling your used items online. It’s unique compared to other platforms because buyers have the option to bid on your item – that means you could end up selling it for much more than its value.
Of course, there is a lot of competition on eBay, so there’s always the risk that your device won’t sell. That’s why I recommend taking clear pictures and providing a super detailed description. Set a reasonable starting price to grab buyers’ attention.
When you’re selling old electronics on eBay, remember that your price should account for shipping costs. Most buyers won’t be interested in paying the shipping themselves, so you should work it into your starting price on your post.
How To Sell Your Used Electronics Online
With so many options out there, it’s really pretty easy to sell your old electronics online these days. You just have to find the best platform for you.
If you have some old tech laying around that you want to get rid of, here are a few tips to make sure you get the best possible price for it:
For Buyback And Trade In
If you’re selling your device to a buyback site or online trade in program, be sure to:
- Compare prices at a few sites. Every buyback site will offer a different value, so don’t be afraid to shop around.
- Be honest about the condition. If you lie and say that your device works great, but it’s really broken, you won’t receive payment or credit. Most sites will just send it back.
- Be patient. Buyback sites take time – you’ll have to wait for the company to receive and review your electronics before you get paid. If you need cash fast, you should look into other options for selling your electronics.
For Direct Online Sales
Want to set your price and sell your electronics on your own terms? Sites like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and eBay are great for cashing in on your used electronics. Just be sure to:
- Take good pictures. Clear pictures of your device will attract more attention to buyers, and make sure there are no misunderstandings.
- Research the right price. Do some research on comparison sites like SellCell to make sure you’re not setting the price for your electronics too high or too low.
- Write an honest description. A detailed, clear description of your device, including age, faults, and wear and tear will make your post more trustworthy, and ensure a fast sale.
For All Platforms
No matter what platform you’re using, if you’re going to sell your used electronics online, it’s really important that you:
- Clean up your device. And I don’t just mean taking off the stickers and wiping down the screen – be sure to clear all your personal data and reset your device to the factory settings.
- Check for hidden fees. A lot of online platforms require fees to make an account, to ship your device, or for inspection. Whenever you go to a new website, be sure to read the fine print and make sure that the quoted price is really what you’re getting.
- Shop around. Don’t hesitate to consider all your options before you sell. Whether you need it done fast or are trying to get the most money for your electronics, you should pick the best selling platform to suit your needs.
Why Sell Used Electronics Online?
Why should you even bother going through the effort to sell your used electronics online? Why not just let them sit in the drawer or closet, or go recycle them when you have the chance?
For one thing, there’s the opportunity to earn money. Even worn-down and broken phones can sell for a reasonable price – so why not have cash in your hand, instead of an old device that no one is using?
On top of that, selling your old electronics is the environmentally responsible thing to do. Electronic devices in landfills are extremely harmful to the environment – even recycling them uses a lot of energy and produces emissions. The best thing you can do is to sell those old devices, so they get as much use as possible before they’re finally disposed of.
Other Places To Sell Used Electronics
If you’re not big on selling things online, no worries – you have other options.
A lot of major retailers and tech stores offer buyback or trade in programs, so you can bring your electronics into the store, have them reviewed in person, and get store credit or a gift card. It’s fast, and gives you the opportunity to buy a new device at a serious discount.
If you want cash instead of store credit, you could always try an EcoATM. These handy little kiosks are located in malls and stores all over the country. You can take your electronics, plug them in to get a quote, and trade them for cash. You never even have to work with a representative! Just check their website to find a kiosk near you.
Declutter And Start Earning
There’s no reason to hold onto your used electronics anymore. If you have old phones, laptops, cameras and other devices in your home, it’s time to declutter. Clear out those used electronics and sell them for cash!
Selling those devices online is easy, fast, and reliable. Just head to any of the websites on this list to get rid of your old electronics the responsible way, and earn some cash.