Used MacBooks hold great salvage value over time, and if you are not looking to swap it in for a newer model, selling for cash is the second-best option to get rid of an unwanted computer. But where to start? We will attempt to list some of the most popular resale options available for reselling Apple Macs online in 2022.
Online Trade-in Programs
Apple and other major electronics retailers have designed their own trade-in programs, allowing users to exchange outdated MacBook models for newer ones or receive store credit. This option is perfect for those loyal to the brand and who want to upgrade their current Macs.
The total Mac trade-in turnaround time, if done online, is around two weeks. But the trade-in has its caveats. For example, your Apple MacBook must be in near-pristine cosmetic and perfect working condition to qualify for a store credit or trade-in value. Besides, Mac users can often get much higher offers elsewhere. Another downside of a trade-in is that you cannot exchange your gift card for the money. Still, even if you can’t use it yourself, you can always re-gift or donate.
If you are thinking about trading your older MacBook in to Apple, check whether your computer is eligible first. Then, use their online assessment tool to calculate the trade-in offer based on the computer’s condition. Lastly, if you are OK with the valuation, please fill out the checkout form and subsequently send your Mac in. After about ten workdays, you should be receiving an e-gift card over email, as long as your device passes the verification process.
Sell Your MacBook via an Online Buyback Site
An online buyback is one of the most convenient ways to resell pre-owned technology online today. For example, when selling their used Macs to a buyback service, users don’t have to bother creating a listing, negotiating with potential buyers, and waiting for their products to sell. A streamlined process is the best part of selling via buyback sites.
So, when you sell a MacBook online, figure out its exact model for an accurate estimate. Then, look it up on the buyback website of your choice, describe its working and cosmetic condition using the online calculator. Each site has its own quotation process, yet the questions are pretty standard. Some will gather this information and get back to you with an offer via email or phone, while most places will give you an instant dollar estimate. The next step, just like with Apple Trade-in, would be to the checkout and send the MacBook in. Again, most companies will cover the postage cost.
Depending on the seller’s location, shipping time can take anywhere from 1 to 6 business days. Once the buyback company receives and inspects your Mac, the payment gets issued. For example, Gadget Salvation makes payments via PayPal, Zelle, Venmo, or check within one to two days of receiving the computer.
Sell a MacBook Locally
As you might have guessed, this option is a little bit more time-consuming. But it may yield you a higher offer in the end. When reselling a used MacBook online yourself, you can, on the one hand, cut the need for third-party services. But you can also run into potential fees (selling, shipping) on the other hand. Yet, you can sell locally and free of charge on marketplaces such as Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace. But it can be a lengthy and tiring process, especially for those with full-time jobs and tight schedules. Plus, sellers should take extra precautions when meeting with interested parties in person and watch out for potential scams.
What’s the Trade-in Value of a Used MacBook?
The resale price of a used MacBook depends on multiple factors, including the model and release year, condition (both cosmetic and functional), and specifications. Generally, Apple computers tend to hold their value better than Windows-based PCs, but exact trade-in prices vary. Below are some estimated values for popular MacBook models:
- MacBook Pro 16-inch (2019) with an Intel Core i7 2.6GHz processor and 512GB storage gets up to a $653 estimate.*
- MacBook Pro 13-inch (2020) Core i5-based: Between $361-$464, depending on wear.*
- MacBook Air 13-inch (Mid-2017) 128GB SSD: Can fetch up to $168 in resale.*
- MacBook 12-inch (2016) Intel Core m3 1.1GHz processor + 256GB SSD: May sell for a maximum of $237.*
Final Thoughts
Selling a used MacBook online is relatively easy, but one key takeaway is that computers depreciate quickly—even Apple devices. To maximize your return, it’s best to act fast and resell sooner rather than later.
*Prices listed as of 03/27/2022 and subject to change.
Hello,
I’m the SEO Copywriter and Content Creator of Gadget Salvation. I love tech & sustainable fashion.
