Selling a desktop computer can be a great way to make some extra cash, upgrade to a newer model, or simply clear out unused electronics. But with so many platforms and methods available, where can you sell a desktop computer for the best price? Whether you’re looking for a quick sale, a high payout, or a convenient trade-in, this guide will walk you through the best options.
In this article, we’ll cover:
✔ The best online marketplaces to sell your desktop computer
✔ Trade-in programs that offer cash or store credit
✔ Local businesses and individuals who might buy your desktop
✔ How to get the best price when selling
✔ Shipping, payment safety, and avoiding scams
Let’s start by exploring the best places to sell your desktop computer.
Best Places to Sell a Desktop Computer
Where Can I Sell a Desktop Computer? Best Places & Tips for Maximum Value, you have several options, including online platforms, trade-in programs, and local buyers. Each method has its pros and cons depending on how fast you want to sell and how much you want to earn.
Online Marketplaces for Selling Desktop Computers
If you want to sell your computer for the highest price, online marketplaces are a great option. These platforms connect you with individual buyers willing to pay more than trade-in programs.
1. eBay – Best for Maximum Price
Pros:
✔ Large audience, increasing chances of a sale
✔ Auction-style selling allows you to maximize profits
✔ eBay Seller Protection offers security for sellers
Cons:
✖ Fees for listing and selling
✖ Requires shipping, which can be expensive
✖ Possible risk of buyer scams
💡 Tip: Set a reserve price when auctioning to avoid selling too low.
2. Craigslist – Best for Local Sales
Pros:
✔ No listing fees
✔ Cash sales with no shipping required
✔ Quick and easy to list
Cons:
✖ No seller protection
✖ Risk of scams and unreliable buyers
✖ Must meet in person to complete the sale
💡 Tip: Meet in public places, accept cash only, and verify bills to avoid counterfeits.
3. Facebook Marketplace – Best for Convenience
Pros:
✔ Free to list and sell
✔ Local buyers = no shipping needed
✔ Faster sales compared to eBay
Cons:
✖ Limited to local reach unless willing to ship
✖ Buyers may negotiate aggressively
✖ Potential for unreliable buyers
💡 Tip: Take clear photos and include detailed specifications in the listing.
4. OfferUp & Letgo – Best for Mobile Selling
Pros:
✔ Mobile-friendly selling process
✔ Quick transactions with local buyers
✔ No shipping hassles
Cons:
✖ Smaller buyer pool compared to Facebook and eBay
✖ Need to negotiate with buyers
💡 Tip: Set a firm price if you don’t want to negotiate too much.
5. Swappa – Best for Secure Transactions
Pros:
✔ Verified marketplace for electronics
✔ Secure payment process
✔ No scams or unreliable buyers
Cons:
✖ Listing fees apply
✖ Only accepts fully functional computers
💡 Tip: If your desktop has missing parts, Swappa is not the best option.
Trade-In Programs for Selling Desktop Computers
If you prefer a hassle-free way to sell your desktop, trade-in programs from retailers may be the best option.
| Trade-In Program | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Best Buy Trade-In | Instant quotes, convenient | Lower payouts than selling directly |
| Apple Trade-In | Good for Mac desktops | Store credit instead of cash |
| Amazon Trade-In | Amazon gift card payment | Only selected brands accepted |
| Dell/HP Trade-In | Direct brand trade-in | Lower trade-in values |
💡 Tip: Use trade-in programs when speed and convenience are more important than getting the highest price.
Selling Your Desktop Computer Locally
If you want to sell your desktop computer quickly without the hassle of shipping, local buyers can be a great option. Whether you’re selling to individuals or businesses, these methods offer a faster, more personal transaction compared to online marketplaces.
1. Selling to Local Electronics Stores & Pawn Shops
Many local electronics stores and pawn shops buy used desktop computers for resale. While they may not offer the highest price, they provide instant cash and a hassle-free process.
Where to Find Local Buyers:
📍 Pawn Shops – Most pawn shops buy electronics but offer lower payouts.
📍 Computer Repair Shops – Some shops refurbish and resell used desktops.
📍 Gaming Stores – If you have a high-performance PC, gaming stores may buy it.
📍 Local Tech Retailers – Some independent retailers offer trade-ins or cash for used devices.
💡 Tip: Call ahead to get an estimate before bringing your desktop in.
2. Selling to Individuals Locally
If you’re looking for a higher price than trade-in stores offer, selling directly to individuals is a great choice. Here are the best places to find local buyers:
✔ Facebook Marketplace – Great for connecting with buyers in your area.
✔ Craigslist – No fees, but meet in a safe location.
✔ Nextdoor – A good option for selling to neighbors.
✔ Community Bulletin Boards – Post ads in coffee shops, libraries, or community centers.
💡 Tip: When meeting a buyer, always choose a public place and accept cash only to avoid scams.
3. Selling to Local Businesses
Some businesses look for used desktop computers for office use, employee training, or resale. You can contact:
🏢 Small businesses – Many startups and freelancers look for affordable desktops.
🏫 Schools & nonprofits – Some organizations buy used computers at a discount.
🖥 Computer refurbishers – These businesses buy used computers, repair them, and resell them.
💡 Tip: If selling in bulk, businesses may offer a better deal than selling one desktop at a time.
How to Prepare Your Desktop Computer for Sale
Before selling your desktop computer, properly preparing it ensures that you get the best price and protect your personal data. Follow these steps to wipe your data, clean your device, and make it more appealing to buyers.
1. Back Up Your Important Files
Before erasing your data, back up all important files to avoid losing valuable information. Options include:
📁 External Hard Drive or USB Drive – Great for large files and long-term storage.
☁ Cloud Storage (Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive) – Access files from anywhere.
🔄 Data Transfer to a New PC – If upgrading, use migration tools like Windows Easy Transfer or Mac Migration Assistant.
💡 Tip: Double-check your backup to ensure all necessary files are saved before wiping your computer.
2. Sign Out of All Accounts
To prevent unauthorized access to your personal accounts, sign out of all accounts before resetting your desktop:
✔ Google & Microsoft Accounts – Disconnect accounts linked to your device.
✔ iCloud (for Mac users) – Turn off Find My Mac and sign out of iCloud.
✔ Social Media & Email – Log out of accounts on browsers and apps.
💡 Tip: If your desktop has licensing for software like Microsoft Office or Adobe Suite, deactivate these before resetting.
3. Factory Reset & Wipe Your Data
A factory reset ensures your personal data is completely erased before selling your desktop computer.
For Windows Users:
- Go to Settings → Update & Security → Recovery.
- Click “Reset this PC” and choose “Remove everything.”
- Select “Fully clean the drive” to prevent data recovery.
For Mac Users:
- Restart your Mac and hold Command (⌘) + R until you see the Apple logo.
- Click Disk Utility → Select your drive → Click Erase.
- Choose APFS or Mac OS Extended (Journaled) and erase the disk.
💡 Tip: A factory reset restores the computer to its original state, making it more appealing to buyers.
4. Physically Clean Your Computer
A clean desktop computer sells faster and at a higher price than a dusty one.
🧼 Wipe the exterior with a microfiber cloth and gentle cleaner.
💨 Use compressed air to remove dust from vents and fans.
🎨 Remove stickers and clean the screen for a fresh look.
💡 Tip: If your desktop has missing parts or minor cosmetic damage, disclose this in your listing to avoid buyer disputes.
5. Gather Accessories & Original Packaging
Having the original accessories and packaging increases the resale value of your desktop computer.
✔ Power cable & adapter
✔ Keyboard & mouse (if included in the sale)
✔ Software CDs or product keys
✔ Original box & manuals (if available)
💡 Tip: Even if you don’t have all accessories, mention what is included in your listing to set clear expectations.
How to Determine the Best Selling Price for Your Desktop Computer
Setting the right price for your desktop computer attracts buyers while ensuring you get the best possible deal. Pricing too high may scare off buyers, while pricing too low means losing potential profit. Here’s how to determine a competitive and fair price.
1. Research Current Market Prices
Before setting a price, research how much similar desktop computers are selling for.
🔎 Where to Check Market Prices:
- eBay (Sold Listings) – Look at completed sales to see actual selling prices.
- Facebook Marketplace & Craigslist – Compare local listings for similar computers.
- Amazon & Best Buy (Refurbished Models) – Check pricing for used and refurbished desktops.
💡 Tip: If your computer is older, look for prices of similar used models, not just new ones.
2. Consider the Specifications & Condition
The brand, specs, and condition of your desktop significantly impact its value.
📌 Key Factors That Affect Price:
- Brand & Model – Apple iMacs and high-end gaming PCs hold value better.
- Processor (CPU) – Faster, newer processors (Intel i5/i7/i9, AMD Ryzen) increase resale value.
- RAM & Storage – More RAM (16GB+) and SSD storage boost price.
- Graphics Card (GPU) – High-performance GPUs (NVIDIA, AMD) increase demand.
- Physical Condition – Scratches, dents, or missing parts lower value.
💡 Tip: If your desktop has upgraded components, highlight them to justify a higher price.
3. Compare Your Desktop to Similar Listings
Once you have a general idea of the price range, compare your desktop to similar listings.
| Condition | Estimated Price Range |
|---|---|
| Brand new (sealed box) | 80-90% of retail price |
| Like-new (minor use) | 70-80% of retail price |
| Used (good condition) | 50-70% of retail price |
| Used (damaged or missing parts) | 20-50% of retail price |
💡 Tip: If you’re selling locally, check the demand in your area—some locations may have higher prices for certain brands.
4. Set a Negotiable Price
Most buyers expect to negotiate, so setting a price slightly higher than your target ensures room for bargaining.
💡 Pricing Strategy:
- If you want $500, list it for $550-$600 to leave room for negotiation.
- If demand is high, price it closer to market value.
- If selling fast is a priority, price it lower for a quick sale.
💡 Tip: Use terms like “firm price” or “or best offer (OBO)” to signal whether you’re open to negotiation.
Best Places to Sell a Desktop Computer
Once you’ve set the right price for your desktop computer, the next step is choosing where to sell it. Some platforms offer higher payouts, while others focus on convenience and speed. Below, we break down the best options, including online marketplaces, trade-in programs, and local buyers.
1. Online Marketplaces (Best for Maximum Profit)
If you want the highest price possible, selling through online marketplaces is a great option.
🛒 eBay
✅ Pros:
- Access to global buyers, increasing chances of a sale.
- Auction-style listings can drive up the price.
- Buyer protection offers some security.
❌ Cons:
- Fees (10-15% of final sale price).
- Requires safe shipping and packaging.
💡 Tip: Use high-quality photos and include detailed descriptions to attract buyers.
🛍 Facebook Marketplace & Craigslist
✅ Pros:
- No fees (keep 100% of the sale price).
- Sell locally = no shipping costs.
- Buyers can inspect the desktop in person.
❌ Cons:
- Requires meeting buyers in person (safety concerns).
- Some buyers may try to negotiate aggressively.
💡 Tip: Meet in a public location for safety and only accept cash or secure payment methods.
💻 Swappa
✅ Pros:
- Lower fees than eBay (3-5%).
- Focused on tech products, attracting serious buyers.
❌ Cons:
- Strict quality requirements (must list accurate specs).
- Requires shipping to buyers.
💡 Tip: If selling a gaming PC or high-end workstation, Swappa is a great choice.
2. Trade-In & Buyback Programs (Best for Convenience)
If you prefer a fast and easy sale, consider trade-in services. You won’t get the highest price, but you avoid dealing with buyers.
♻️ Best Buy Trade-In Program
✅ Pros:
- Instant quote online.
- Accepts many desktop brands.
- Offers store credit for future purchases.
❌ Cons:
- Lower payouts than selling privately.
- Doesn’t accept all models.
💡 Tip: If you plan to upgrade your PC, using Best Buy credit can be useful.
💰 Decluttr
✅ Pros:
- Free shipping.
- Instant price quotes for eligible desktops.
- Paid via PayPal, direct deposit, or check.
❌ Cons:
- Lower resale value than selling directly.
- Not ideal for custom-built PCs.
💡 Tip: If you have an older PC, Decluttr can be a hassle-free way to sell it.
3. Local Computer Shops & Pawn Shops (Fastest Payouts)
If you need quick cash, consider selling to a local store or pawn shop.
🛠 Local Computer Repair Shops
✅ Pros:
- Some shops buy used desktops for parts.
- No need to ship or meet buyers.
❌ Cons:
- Lower offers since shops need to resell.
💡 Tip: Call ahead to check if they’re buying and what brands/models they prefer.
💎 Pawn Shops
✅ Pros:
- Instant cash payouts.
- No hassle dealing with buyers.
❌ Cons:
- Lowest resale value compared to other options.
- Not all pawn shops accept desktops.
💡 Tip: If selling at a pawn shop, bring accessories (keyboard, mouse, cables) to increase the offer.
Comparison Table: Best Places to Sell a Desktop Computer
| Selling Option | Best For | Potential Profit | Ease of Selling |
|---|---|---|---|
| eBay | Maximum profit | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ |
| Facebook Marketplace | Local sales, no fees | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Craigslist | Local sales, no fees | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Swappa | Selling tech-focused products | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Best Buy Trade-In | Store credit, hassle-free | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Decluttr | Fast and easy | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Local Computer Shops | Selling for parts | ⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Pawn Shops | Instant cash | ⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Tips for Selling Your Desktop Computer Faster and for the Best Price
Now that you know where to sell a desktop computer, let’s discuss strategies to sell it quickly while maximizing your profits. The right approach can help you stand out in a crowded market and attract serious buyers.
1. Clean and Prepare Your Desktop for Sale
Before listing your desktop, make sure it’s in the best possible condition to attract buyers and increase its value.
✅ Wipe Down the Exterior – Remove dust and fingerprints using a microfiber cloth and a small amount of isopropyl alcohol.
✅ Clean the Inside – Open the case and use compressed air to remove dust buildup from fans and components.
✅ Check for Damage – Ensure there are no cracks, missing screws, or faulty ports.
✅ Include Accessories – Offering a mouse, keyboard, power cables, and monitor can make your listing more appealing.
💡 Tip: A clean, well-presented desktop can sell 20-30% faster than one that looks worn out.
2. Back Up and Wipe Your Data
Never sell your desktop without erasing your personal data. Here’s how to safely wipe your hard drive:
For Windows Users:
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Recovery.
- Click Reset this PC and choose Remove everything.
- Select Fully clean the drive (ensures all data is unrecoverable).
For Mac Users:
- Restart and hold Command (⌘) + R while booting.
- Open Disk Utility, select your drive, and click Erase.
- Choose APFS or Mac OS Extended (Journaled) and confirm.
💡 Tip: If selling to a local shop, remove and keep your hard drive to protect your data.
3. Research the Market and Set a Competitive Price
Pricing your desktop too high can drive buyers away, while pricing it too low means losing money. Use these tools to check prices:
🔍 eBay Sold Listings – Search for your exact model and filter by “Sold Items” to see recent sale prices.
🔍 Facebook Marketplace & Craigslist – Browse local listings to compare prices in your area.
🔍 Trade-In Value Checkers – Best Buy, Decluttr, and Amazon Trade-In offer instant price quotes.
💡 Tip: If your desktop has upgraded components (extra RAM, SSD, or a high-end GPU), highlight them in your listing to justify a higher price.
4. Take High-Quality Photos
Listings with clear, high-resolution photos sell much faster than those with poor images. Follow these tips:
📸 Use Good Lighting – Natural light works best. Avoid dark or blurry photos.
📸 Show Multiple Angles – Include front, back, sides, ports, and interior (if possible).
📸 Highlight the Screen – If selling with a monitor, show it turned on to prove it works.
📸 Include Accessories – Display all included items (mouse, keyboard, cables).
💡 Tip: Buyers trust real, detailed photos more than stock images.
5. Write a Detailed, Honest Description
A well-written listing can increase buyer trust and reduce time-wasting questions. Include:
🖥 Brand & Model: (e.g., Dell XPS 8930, HP Omen 30L).
💾 Specifications: CPU, RAM, storage, GPU, and operating system.
📅 Condition & Age: Mention any wear, upgrades, or repairs.
🔌 What’s Included: List accessories, cables, and extras.
🚚 Shipping or Pickup Info: Mention if local pickup, shipping, or both is available.
💡 Tip: Be honest about any minor flaws. Buyers appreciate transparency.
6. Choose the Right Selling Platform Based on Your Needs
| Selling Goal | Best Platform | Why? |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Profit | eBay, Swappa | Access to global buyers, higher selling prices. |
| Fast Sale | Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist | Local buyers, no shipping required. |
| Convenience | Best Buy Trade-In, Decluttr | No dealing with buyers, instant price offers. |
| Quick Cash | Pawn Shops, Local Computer Shops | Sell instantly, but lower payouts. |
💡 Tip: If your desktop doesn’t sell quickly, try cross-listing on multiple platforms for better exposure.
7. Stay Safe When Selling Locally
When selling in person, follow these safety tips:
🔒 Meet in Public – Choose a police station, coffee shop, or retail parking lot.
💰 Accept Only Cash or Secure Payments – Avoid checks or digital transfers that can be reversed.
🛠 Test Before Finalizing the Sale – If meeting at a public place, bring a power cord so the buyer can turn on the desktop before paying.
💡 Tip: Avoid buyers who ask to ship or offer overpayment scams.
Final Thoughts: Get the Best Deal for Your Desktop Computer
Selling your desktop computer doesn’t have to be complicated. If you clean it, price it correctly, take great photos, and choose the right platform, you can sell it faster and for a great price.
If you need quick cash, local shops and trade-in programs are your best bet. But if you’re willing to wait for the right buyer, online marketplaces like eBay and Swappa offer higher payouts.