If you're ready to upgrade your desktop computer or laptop, you may be wondering what to do with your existing machine. While you could list your items for sale on a local classifieds site or even on an online auction site, finding a buyer who is willing to pay a fair price for the computer can be tricky. Listing and selling your used items can also take some time and you may be eager to just get it off your hands.
If you want to get rid of that old computer for a decent price as quickly as possible, consider trading it in to a store that offers a trade program and you'll be able to use the value of the trade towards a new purchase.
Benefits of Trading an Old Computer
Programs like the RadioShack Trade & Save Program make it simple to get rid of your old computer, accessories and other electronics for a fair price. With this program, you can just bring your computer or laptop to the store for an appraisal and you'll be offered a price for the trade. The value of your computer is determined by the make and model of the unit, the computer's condition, processor speed and operating system, and any accessories such as a keyboard or mouse you are trading in with the unit.
If you prefer to handle the trade online, visit the RadioShack Trade & Save Program website to see the current prices for different makes and models. Get an estimate for your computer after providing information about its current condition, processor speed, and other details. For example, a Compaq Presario CQ5715 desktop computer (without the monitor) currently commands a price as much as $62.61. One of the newer Dell desktops can command prices as high as $279.24. When you're ready to trade, you can print off a free shipping label and pack it up for shipment to RadioShack.
If you accept the offer, you will receive a gift card or a store credit that can be used towards any RadioShack purchase. This can be an easy and efficient way to trade in your computer and earn some of your initial investment back.
Preparing Your Old Computer for a Trade
In order to get the highest appraisal for your trade, there are things you should do to ensure you get a good price. If your computer came with a keyboard, mouse, external hard drive, or other accessories, consider trading those in as well. Unless you plan on using those same accessories for a future unit, you'll probably get a better price by trading them in with the old computer. Take a look at your old computer's manual to determine what the processor speed is, the RAM, and the processor family. You'll need this information when you are getting an estimate online. Whether you're taking the computer in to the store or shipping it in after getting an estimate, make sure it's free of dust and in resale condition.
As long as you have been honest about the computer's current level of functionality and that particular make and model has a high resale value, you can expect to receive a fair amount for your trade and can use those funds to cover some of the costs of your next purchase.
