How to Sell Used Electronics Online?

Many pre-owned gadgets, such as laptops, smartphones, tablets, gaming consoles, etc., can be resold online for some cash value. And you’ll find plenty of places and options for reselling used technology online. For example, a trade-in program, a buyback site, or even Craigslist — all are valid platforms for recovering some value out of your unwanted gadget. However, each has its advantages and disadvantages, which we will review below.

Do This Before Selling Your Electronics Online

Before you type in “sell electronics online” into a Google search and pick the first option that pops up, it would be wise to do some research first. Weigh your pros and cons; look up their credentials if you decide on the online buyback.

Once you settle on the platform, it is time to back up your data stored on the phone, tablet, or laptop that you are selling. For that, most people rely on a cloud service like Google Drive or an external hard drive. And if you are selling an Apple device, your stuff is usually backed up to iCloud automatically. Then, you can wipe the storage by performing a factory reset. This action will remove everything from your device and prevent the new owner from possibly retrieving your files.

We have covered how to wipe an iPad in one of our previous posts. We believe readers might also find blog posts about how to factory reset an Apple laptop and how to factory reset an HP in laptop helpful.

Another thing to consider is an accurate assessment of the cosmetic and functional condition of your electronic gadgets. Trade-in programs and online buyback sites have automated questions that help sellers evaluate the state of their electronics. Then, based on that information, they can calculate an instant dollar estimate.

Below is the list of questions to help you grade the cosmetic and working condition of your device:

Does it show noticeable signs of use?
Does your used gadget have visible scratches?
Any scuffing, dents, or bent corners?
Is the display cracked?
If it is a computer, does it boot up?
Any missing or damaged keys on the keyboard?
Does the battery hold a charge?
Do you have a power supply for your gadget?

Please make sure to note any known issues and visible signs of wear during the valuation process. Intentionally or not, if you provide inaccurate information about electronics you are selling, your buyer can retract the offer or send the device back for a refund (if sold on the marketplace).

Trade-in Programs

Big retailers and manufacturers have their own trade-in programs to buy back used electronics for store credit. To trade in a used electronic device online via a trade-in program, start with looking up your model in their database. Then provide a bit more details about the condition of the gadget you are looking to trade in and obtain a dollar valuation. Usually, trade-in platforms offer a free shipping label to send in your electronics. And once they receive and confirm all is good, you will receive an electronic gift card that can be redeemed in their store.

Best Buy

Payment options: Store credit or gift card.
Turnaround time: Once the offer is finalized and confirmed, Best Buy will email you a gift card within five business days.

Best Buy trade-in is one of the most popular programs for redeeming preowned electronics like laptops, TVs, gaming consoles, etc., in exchange for store credit.

You will not receive actual cash payment for your used electronics, but this option is great for those who shop at the store frequently. In addition, if your device qualifies, the Best Buy Trade-in offer can be very competitive. Users must place their orders online and finalize the transaction by sending the device in for free (Best Buy will cover the postage cost) or complete the trade-in in-store.

Online Buyback Services

Buyback sites make the selling process quick and easy. Going with a buyback is best for those who want to get rid of their unwanted electronics but have no time to post them for sale. Because selling on a marketplace often entails taking photos, running around the city meeting with potential buyers, etc. But with a buyback site, all you need to do is get an upfront estimate, send in your stuff, and wait to get paid.

Gadget Salvation

Payment options: PayPal, Zelle, Venmo, or check.
Turnaround time: We issue payments within one to two business days of receiving and inspecting your gadget.

Like with Best Buy Trade-in, you would have to look up your model online, calculate the offer, check out, and print your free shipping label. Then, send the gadget in. And if you don’t have the printer, we’ll mail the label to your address. From that point on, package your electronics, drop the box off at UPS, and once it reaches us, receive the money via the payment method of your choosing.

Sell Electronics on Marketplaces

The advantage of the marketplace is that you might get more money for selling your stuff. But it can take a while. Here, you are responsible for listing, pricing, covering shipping costs, negotiating, etc. Plus, it may not always be safe due to the high volume of scams (think Craigslist or eBay).

OfferUp

Payment options: The payment is handled through the OfferUp app. You need to link your debit card or provide bank account information.
Turnaround time: Depending on what you are selling, it can take anywhere from one day to months. Some electronics sell like hotcakes, while other gadgets may not be in demand. Frequent price monitoring and revisions are advised here.

To sell electronics online with OfferUp, download the app, tap on the camera icon, and take a few good pictures of your merchandise. Then, come up with a good informative title for your listing, provide basic details, and describe the device to the best of your knowledge and abilities. You may opt to promote your listing for a quicker sale, although this is a paid feature.

In Conclusion

We hope this blog post helped you navigate the online electronics resale space a little better. Of course, specific models and types of gadgets have better resale value than others, but a good rule of thumb is that if your device is not too old and well-maintained, there’s no reason why you can’t recover some money from it.