Selling Old Electronics for Cash: A Guide to Funding Home Repairs

Selling your unused electronics can generate significant cash to fund home repairs or upgrades. Based on a recent industry survey, nearly a third of U.S. adults hold onto old devices, unaware of their resale value. This guide provides a realistic assessment of what your old smartphones, computers, and consoles are worth and outlines the straightforward process for turning them into home improvement funds.

How Much Can You Really Get for Your Old Devices?

The resale value of electronics depends heavily on the device type, age, and condition. However, even gently used items can fetch a surprising amount.

• Smartphones: iPhones are known for holding their value well. An iPhone 13 or 14 in good condition can typically sell for $300 to $500. Older models like the iPhone 11 may still bring in $150 to $250.
• Computers: Value varies widely based on specifications. A relatively new MacBook Air or Pro may sell for $300 to $700, while older, functional laptops can often fetch $100 to $200. Standard desktops have lower resale value unless they are gaming-oriented or contain high-end components.
• Gaming Consoles: The secondhand market for consoles is strong. A used PS5 or Xbox Series X can sell for $350 to $450. Older systems like the Nintendo Switch or PS4 often bring between $150 to $300, especially when sold with games.
• Cameras: DSLRs (Digital Single-Lens Reflex cameras) and mirrorless cameras from brands like Canon, Sony, and Nikon retain value. Newer professional models can sell for $400 to $1,000 or more, while older models with lenses may still net $150 to $300.

Where Can You Sell Your Old Tech Quickly?

Several major retailers offer convenient trade-in programs, providing instant quotes and compensating you with gift cards, which can be used for home improvement supplies.

• Walmart: Their online trade-in platform accepts phones, tablets, consoles, and laptops. After an online questionnaire, you receive a quote, print a free shipping label, and get a Walmart eGift card after device inspection.
• Costco: This program offers gift cards for old phones, laptops, tablets, and more. You get an instant online quote, ship the device for free, and receive payment within three to five days after inspection.
• Amazon: Amazon accepts a wide range of working and non-working devices. In exchange, you receive an Amazon gift card and a 20% discount on a new qualifying device. You have 45 days to ship your item after receiving an offer.
• Sam’s Club: Focused on smartphones, this program provides up to $250 on a Sam’s Club gift card. Phones must be in good working condition, without cracks, and with all passwords disabled.

What Home Repairs Can This Cash Fund?

For many homeowners, particularly those looking to age in place (a term describing the choice to live in one's own home independently as one gets older), finding extra cash for repairs is a priority. The funds from selling a few old devices can make a tangible difference.

Based on our experience assessment, selling an old laptop, a couple of phones, and a console could generate enough cash to cover projects like drywall repairs, repainting a room, or fixing a leaky faucet. While it likely won't finance a full kitchen remodel, this strategy is effective for funding weekend DIY projects or helping to bridge a budget gap for professional services.

When Should You Recycle Instead of Sell?

If a device is broken or extremely old, recycling is the more responsible choice. E-waste (discarded electronic equipment) is a growing environmental concern, and certified recycling programs prevent harmful materials from entering landfills.

For example, a cracked iPhone 6 or a non-functional laptop from 2012 has negligible resale value. In these cases, recycling is recommended. Most large retailers and local municipalities offer safe, certified recycling opportunities, often at no cost.

The key takeaways are to assess the condition of your old electronics, research their value through major trade-in programs, and use the unexpected cash to tackle practical home maintenance tasks. This approach turns clutter into a useful financial resource for maintaining your property.