How Much Is Your Old Laptop Worth? A Guide to Determining Resale Value

As a laptop owner, you must also have considered checking your laptop’s worth. If we are right and you want to figure out the value of your old laptops, you have come to the right place.

Today, newer models, better software, bigger games, and upgraded hardware are being released almost every month. So, it is only human to be drawn towards a better laptop with better hardware and ditch the old one. Before you can get to that point, you need to find out the value of old laptops. You need to know what your current model and hardware are worth, and this blog will help you do just that.

We will tell you about the things to check and where to find the prices of components. Other than that, we will help you find the best place to sell your used laptop. So, without further ado, let’s get right into it.

Factors That Affect Old Laptops Resale Value

Before we get into the technicalities and whatnot, let us clarify one thing; a laptop loses some value after a few years. So, the resale value will be much less than the amount you purchased it for. Generally, the depreciation rate for laptops is around 25% per year. Considering that, a computer with an i3 processor and 2GB RAM may cost around $20 – $100, while an i5 processor with 4GB RAM may get you somewhere around $100 – $500.

Other than that, here are the things that affect the resale value of a laptop.

Make and Model

It’s not too much, but the make and model of your laptop do affect its resale value. The resale value of an HP laptop might be slightly different from that of an Apple MacBook, and likewise, a Samsung laptop will be priced differently than an Acer laptop, etc.

Image Source: iStock/NguyenDucQuang

It is pretty simple to identify the make and model of your laptop. The branding is on the laptop’s body, while the model is on a little sticker (mostly found on the base). Also, you can go to About This PC (if it is a Windows) or About This Mac (if it is a Macbook) to find both things.

Specifications

The internal hardware is the most critical factor in the final resale price of the laptop.

Different components affect differently, and these are as follows:

CPU: The CPU, or central processing unit, is the brains of the operation. Its performance and efficiency are determined by the number of cores (2, 4, or 8), clock frequency, and overall model.

RAM: RAM, or Random Access Memory, regulates the data used by applications. The higher and better the RAM, the more power a laptop has to open and run apps.

Storage: There are two types of storage: Hard Disk Drives (HDDs) and Solid-State Drives (SSDs). SSDs are much more powerful, compact, and faster than HDDs but are more expensive. HDDs might be slower than SSDs, but that doesn’t put them too far behind, and better models are capable enough to run programs and applications seamlessly.

GPU: The Graphics Processing Unit, or GPU, is a separate component that significantly improves a PC’s capability to run graphic-intensive programs and applications. Laptop GPUs are different from desktop GPUs and significantly affect the value of old laptops.

Used Age

No matter a laptop’s make, model, or specifications, it loses its value with time.

As manufacturers release newer and better technology, the depreciation affects the resale value of old PCs. Newer models have updated hardware that performs better while being more energy-efficient and cheaper than older ones.

Overall Condition

The outside body and internal hardware condition significantly affect the old laptops’ resale value, especially if it is an Apple MacBook. You must thoroughly check the laptop for any defects or damage. If there are any, clearly mention that at the time of selling. Every buyer deserves to know the exact condition, both the external and the internal. Also, you must mention the complete specifications in case you have upgraded the RAM or storage.

If you cannot identify the resale value of your laptop after searching online, get a custom quote from CFUL. Simply enter the make, model, processor, and condition and submit the response to get a call back from the support.

Why Evaluate the Resale Value of Old Laptops?

Most people evaluate the old laptops’ resale value mainly to sell the laptop, but why sell your laptop if it is not broken? Well, there are a number of reasons for this purpose, which are as follows:

1. To get some extra cash on hand.

2. To reduce e-waste.

3. To favor the circular economy.

4. To help people who cannot afford technology.

5. To free up space in the home.

6. To get your hands on newer tech.

7. To reduce carbon footprint.

8. To keep the laptop in use.

9. To promote sustainability and reasonability.

10. To help others.

Other than selling, many people like to evaluate the depreciation rate or plan to purchase a newer or better piece of hardware.

Where to Sell Your Old Laptop?

With that out of the way, the question is, where to sell your old laptop? However, there is another way to get rid of your laptop. It is called Trade-In, which Apple offers through its website. Still, there are multiple ways to sell your laptop. These are as follows.

Physical Stores Or People You Know

One of the most traditional ways to sell your old laptop is through brick-and-mortar stores or selling it to your friends, family, or people you know. The latter is more like a help for someone, but the first option of a physical store is also a good idea.

You can mention the specifications, bargain with the buyer, and seal the deal—it’s as simple as that. However, chances are, you will get a better deal through online advertisements.

Online Marketplaces

Online marketplaces are among the most reliable, secure, and tried-and-tested methods. They involve little physical effort; you can even opt for online delivery. These include eBay, Amazon, Facebook Marketplace, etc.

The process is pretty simple. However, you must mention all the details about your laptop. This includes the specifications, performance, and defects or damages if any. You can put up any price but leave some margin for bargaining. Please remember that there are many online marketplace scams, and the best way to escape scams is to talk with authentic buyers, use cybersecurity tools, and meet potential buyers.

Online Buying and Selling Stores

The most common and best way to sell your old laptop is through online platforms such as CashForUsedLaptop.com. These platforms offer competitive prices, reliable service, and even shipping and online payment to sell your old laptop from the comfort of your home.

You can fill out the form to choose the laptop you own and wish to sell, search for your laptop, or get an estimated quote. The process is simple: You fill out the form, provide the required details, and wait for a response. If you are satisfied with the laptop resale value quote, you can agree to it and ship your laptop via courier service. The technicians will evaluate your machine and pay you within 1-2 business days.

Final Takeaway

Selling your laptop in 2025 is not as difficult as it sounds. The main thing to be aware of is its condition. Before putting it up for sale, thoroughly review and mention everything about the product. You must also mention the specifications of your old laptop and get an estimate from multiple places.

The next step is to choose a reliable platform. Knowing where and how to recycle your old laptop is critical to preventing e-waste. This is why you must choose a platform that values green living and has a strict anti-e-waste motto.

Still, the best way to contribute to the world is by giving your old laptop away to needy people you might know. Some people who cannot afford new laptops are the most deserving. You can set the lease profit margin and keep the chain going.

We hope today’s blog has answered every question you had. We discussed the factors affecting the resale value of old laptops, what you can do with the resale value, and where to sell your old laptop. If you follow our guide, you will get the best deals and prices.