Best and Worst Computer Brands in Terms of Resale Value

Modern computers are much more affordable nowadays. Yet, unfortunately, we cannot say the same about smartphones. It seems that new phone models become increasingly expensive each year. And given that new technology generally isn’t cheap, it makes sense for users to seek reimbursement once they are done with their gadgets.

This raises the question: What brands and models are still worth something, used, or even defective? Is it easier to resell certain brands over others? Please keep reading to find out.

Best Computer Brands When It Comes to Retaining Value

Apple

Image source: apple.com

Apple computers truly are the best investment if you plan on reselling your stuff down the line (and you should!). But you probably already knew that. Yes, Apple gadgets are usually more expensive than their non-Apple counterparts, but they also hold their value for much longer. Why? Several factors contribute to that:

• Unique design, using high-end and recycled materials.
• Better longevity.
• Great software.
• Ease of use.
• Quality.

Furthermore, Apple has now moved to manufacture its own computer processors and graphics chips, further widening the gap between them and its competitors. Just look at Apple’s M2 Max CPU — nothing on the market even comes close to it right now (sorry, Intel).

So many users choose Apple software over Microsoft or Android. By adding in-house hardware to the mix, the manufacturer further solidified its fanbase’s support. There is an undeniable appeal to Apple computers and other gadgets. It’s like an exclusive club, if you will. Apple means status. As a result, there is a substantial demand for pre-owned Apple electronics. Used Apple tech sells for more money and retains its value better over time. No, we are not saying that the brand is immune to depreciation. But your used Apple computer can be resold several times in its lifespan before it becomes obsolete.

Alienware

Alienware is not the first brand to manufacture gaming computers, but it is one of the best. In fact, when you say “gaming computer,” Alienware is the first thing that comes to mind. Unique futuristic design with UFO elements and premium hardware continues to attract gamers and PC users. Some worried that the quality might be affected after Dell purchased the brand in 2006, but those worries did not materialize. Alienware remains its own gaming division within Dell, consistently delivering some of the best gaming hardware each year.

As a result, used Alienware computers continue to retain their value over time. For example, an old (ancient, really) Alienware M18x laptop with a Core 2 Duo (!) processor still can be resold for $$$. Imagine that. Any other 12-year-old computer renders worthless today. So why would someone still pay money for old Alienware? For one, those models are highly customizable and upgradable. Dual GPUs and overclocked processors still have some game left in them even today.

Besides, old-school design has its appeal. Even though old Alienware laptops are uber-heavy and better suited for stationary use, long-time gamers and enthusiasts still remember those sharp looks, including a large illuminated Alien head logo on the back cover. That is why many people will be willing to pay a pretty penny for an older used Alienware computer.

Razer

Image source: razer.com

Another gaming brand. Razer has many competitors breathing down its neck. In fact, some of you might be surprised to see Razer here instead of, say, MSI computer. And sure, MSI GS66 Stealth outperforms Razer Blade 15. Yet, the latter has better resale value on the used electronics marketplace. There is a higher demand for used Razer technology; therefore, reselling an unwanted Razer computer is easy. Why the increased interest, you ask? Razer Blade laptops (as well as PC towers) are better-designed and usually lighter than competitors’. The Razer chassis is made of high-end aluminum that looks way better than most other brands’ plastic casings. In addition, aluminum is easier to recycle.

Just like with Apple, owning a Razer computer is associated with status. No wonder used Razer computers are highly sought after and command higher resale value.

Worst Computer Brands to Resell

We figured out the top three best-selling computers. Now let’s look at some of the worst-selling used computer brands.

Gateway

Gateway had a solid following back in the day, but was forced out by Dell and HP computer sales. Yet, in 2020, the company decided to re-enter the computer market. Gateway came back with a new approach: No more towers and even more affordable notebooks. But, unfortunately, cheap technology cannot withstand even the shortest period of time.

For example, you can get a Gateway laptop with a 12th-generation Intel Core i7 processor, a touchscreen display, and 512GB of SSD storage for less than $400 at Walmart. What a steal, right? But don’t expect to get anything more than $165- $ 200 if you decide this computer isn’t your best choice. All this is because Gateway uses low-cost and low-configuration components to make computers affordable. Which is excellent if you are looking for a cheap but capable laptop. But bear in mind that this fact also impacts its resale value. When you are done with it, it will be much easier to recycle your computer than to resell it.

Acer

OK, not all Acer computer series deserve to be in the worst-reselling price category. In fact, Acer Nitro, Predator, and Predator Triton computers can be considered a good long-term investment.

However, if we talk about the popular Acer Aspire series or Acer Chromebooks, the resale price of these notebook models diminishes about as quickly as that of Gateway.

Again, nothing is wrong with Aspire computers, just like nothing is wrong with new Gateway laptops. But the manufacturer uses lower-cost hardware and materials to lower the retail price. As a result, if you buy a new computer for less than $500-600 in about 13-15 months, its resale value is expected to be close to nothing.

The same is true for other laptop brands. For example, the cheaper Inspiron series has the lowest resale value among all Dell lines. But the Latitude did not get too far either. You would expect a reasonable price for a used business notebook, yet lower market demand dictates lower resale value.

Conclusion

Not all computer brands are equal. Likewise, not all used computers are comparable in terms of salvage value. But the rule of thumb is the following: The cheaper your gadget is, the less likely you are to sell it at the end of its life. We could make a much longer list, but these five best and worst computer brands to resell were chosen based on many years of experience dealing in pre-owned technology. So our advice to you, dear reader, is this: If you go for more affordable tech, upgrade it more frequently so that you can still sell your old stuff and put that cash towards a newer, better model. And lastly, if you want to know what your gadget is worth today, do not hesitate to visit GadgetSalvation.com for a free instant estimate!