Key takeaways
- Electronics lose value fast. Sell sooner rather than later.
- Model number, storage, and battery health decide the price more than looks.
- Wipe your data and remove account locks (Apple ID, Google, Samsung) before selling.
- Include chargers, original boxes, and accessories, which can add meaningful value.
Find the exact model
Look for the model number on the back, under the battery, or in settings ("About"). For phones and laptops, note storage size, processor, and screen size. Two laptops that look identical can differ in value by hundreds of dollars.
What holds value
- Recent Apple devices, especially iPhones, iPads, and MacBooks with Apple silicon.
- Gaming consoles, popular cameras and lenses, and quality headphones.
- Vintage audio: receivers, turntables, and speakers from known brands can be worth far more than their age suggests.
- Older TVs, DVD players, printers, and generic accessories sell for little; price them to move or recycle.
Prepare it safely
- Back up your data.
- Sign out of iCloud/Find My, Google, Samsung, and any other accounts. Locked devices are close to worthless.
- Factory reset and remove SIM and memory cards.
- Charge it fully so buyers can test it on the spot.
Frequently asked questions
Where should I sell used electronics for the most money?
Local marketplaces and eBay usually beat trade-in programs, but trade-ins and buyback sites are faster and safer for phones. Compare a few quotes.
Prices and tips in this guide are general guidance for U.S. sellers based on typical resale markets. They are not a certified appraisal or a guarantee of what an item will sell for. For insurance, legal, tax, or high-value items, consult a qualified appraiser.