The Ultimate Guide to Selling Used Electronics

Let’s face it — we’ve all got that drawer (or maybe a whole shelf) full of old electronics collecting dust. Whether it’s last year’s smartphone, a forgotten gaming console, or a tablet you haven’t touched in months, these gadgets can actually bring in some decent cash if you know how to sell them right.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about selling used electronics — from prepping your gear to choosing the right platform and getting top dollar. Whether you’re decluttering, flipping for profit, or funding your next tech upgrade, you’re in the right place.

Let’s get started.

Why Sell Your Used Electronics?

Before we dive into the how, let’s talk about the why. Selling your used gadgets isn’t just about making some extra money (though that’s a big plus). Here’s why it’s a smart move:

• Cash in your pocket: Why let value sit unused?

• Eco-friendly: You’re giving tech a second life instead of sending it to a landfill.

• Decluttering: Less junk, more space.

• Funding upgrades: Selling your old gear can help offset the cost of new devices.

It’s a win-win.

Step 1: Gather and Evaluate What You Have

Start by taking inventory. Go through drawers, closets, old boxes — you’ll be surprised what you find. Common items with resale value include:

• Smartphones (even cracked ones)

• Laptops and tablets

• Smartwatches

• Game consoles and games

• Bluetooth speakers

• Headphones

• Cameras and lenses

• Routers and modems

Once you’ve got a pile, ask yourself: Is it working? Is it in good condition? Even broken electronics can be worth something, especially for parts.

Tip: Check eBay's "Sold Listings" or Facebook Marketplace to see what similar items are going for.

Step 2: Clean and Reset Your Devices

Nobody wants to buy a dirty phone or a console full of your old info. Clean your gear and wipe your data before listing.

🧼 Clean it up:

• Wipe screens and surfaces with a microfiber cloth and a bit of rubbing alcohol.

• Use canned air to blow out dust from ports or keyboards.

• Replace missing cables or clean up cases to make your item more appealing.

🔐 Reset to factory settings:

For phones, tablets, or computers:

• Log out of all accounts (Apple ID, Google, etc.)

• Erase data and do a full factory reset

• Remove memory cards or SIM cards

Warning: If you don’t properly reset your device, the buyer might get locked out — and that’s bad for everyone.

Step 3: Take Killer Photos

Good photos make or break a listing. Your goal is to show the item clearly, highlight the condition, and give buyers confidence.

📸 Tips for great product photos:

• Use natural light — avoid harsh overhead lighting

• Shoot against a clean, neutral background (like a white wall or wooden table)

• Include multiple angles: front, back, sides, screen on (if possible)

• Show any damage clearly

• Include accessories, boxes, chargers, etc.

You don’t need a fancy camera. Your phone will do just fine.

Step 4: Write a Simple, Honest Description

You don’t need to be a copywriter to sell online, but your description should be clear, honest, and accurate.

📝 What to include:

• Brand and model (e.g., “Apple iPhone 12, 128GB”)

• Condition (“light scratches on screen,” “battery still holds charge”)

• Any issues (missing charger, cracked back, etc.)

• What’s included (box, accessories, case)

• How long you’ve owned it (if relevant)

• Why you’re selling (optional but builds trust)

Keep it real. Don’t oversell or lie about flaws — that only leads to refunds and bad reviews.

Step 5: Pick the Right Platform to Sell On

This is a huge decision. Different platforms work better for different types of electronics (and sellers). Here's a breakdown:

🏪 Facebook Marketplace

• Best for: Local pickups, quick sales

• Pros: No fees, easy communication, huge user base

• Cons: No buyer protection for in-person sales, lots of lowballers

📋 Craigslist

• Best for: Bulky items like TVs, home theater systems

• Pros: Free, fast local sales

• Cons: Higher risk of scams, no buyer/seller profiles

🌍 eBay

• Best for: Phones, laptops, gaming gear, rare tech

• Pros: Huge global audience, auction or fixed price, seller protection

• Cons: Fees (about 12-13%), need to ship items

📱 Swappa

• Best for: Smartphones, smartwatches, tablets

• Pros: Tech-focused buyers, great for unlocked devices

• Cons: Listing fees, more competitive market

🛍️ Decluttr / Gazelle / EcoATM

• Best for: Instant sales with no hassle

• Pros: Get a quote, ship it in, get paid — no buyer dealing

• Cons: Lower payouts than peer-to-peer selling

💡 Tip:

You can cross-post on multiple platforms (just remove your listing once it sells!). This increases your chances of a quick sale.

Step 6: Price It to Sell — Without Losing Money

Pricing your used electronics is part art, part science. Here’s how to get it right:

• Check similar listings on eBay, Facebook Marketplace, and Swappa

• Be honest about the condition (mint, good, fair, for parts)

• Factor in fees (if selling on eBay or other platforms)

• Leave a little room for negotiation

For example:

• An iPhone 13 in great condition may go for $350–$450

• A PS5 might sell for $350–$500 depending on demand

• Older devices like iPad Air 2 or iPhone SE may fetch $50–$120

If you need it gone fast, underprice it slightly. If you can wait, list it at the top of the market range and be patient.

Step 7: Communicate Like a Pro

Once your listing is live, you’ll (hopefully) start getting messages. Here’s how to keep things smooth and safe:

• Respond quickly to questions

• Stay polite, even with low offers

• Don’t share personal info (like your address) right away

• Meet in public if doing local exchange

• Use cash, Venmo, or a payment method you trust

For shipped items, pack carefully, use tracking, and update your buyer once it’s on the way.

Step 8: Ship It Right (If You’re Not Selling Local)

If you're selling on eBay or a shipping-based platform, packing and shipping matter. Here's how to do it right:

📦 How to ship electronics safely:

• Use the original box, if you have it

• Wrap in bubble wrap or foam

• Use a sturdy box (not reused or flimsy)

• Add “Fragile” or “Handle With Care” labels

• Choose tracked and insured shipping

Pro Tip: Always get proof of shipping and tracking details. This protects you if there’s a dispute.

Step 9: Get Paid and Move On

Once you’ve sold and shipped your item (or handed it off locally), it’s time to get paid.

Depending on the platform, you might get paid through:

• Cash (Facebook, Craigslist)

• PayPal or eBay Managed Payments

• Venmo/CashApp/Zelle

• Direct deposit (for platforms like Decluttr or Gazelle)

Double-check payment before handing over the item. Avoid buyers who try to overpay or ask for your bank details.

What If Your Electronics Are Broken or Really Old?

Don’t toss them just yet. You’ve got options:

🧩 Sell for parts:

Broken phones, consoles, or laptops often still have value for parts. eBay is great for this.

♻️ Recycle responsibly:

Use manufacturer or store recycling programs (Apple, Best Buy, etc.)

📦 Donate:

Schools or nonprofits sometimes accept old working tech.

Just because it's outdated doesn’t mean it’s useless.

Conclusion: Sell Smart, Sell Safe, and Make That Extra Cash

Selling used electronics doesn’t have to be a pain. With the right prep, clear listings, and smart platform choice, you can turn your unused tech into cash quickly — and safely.

Here’s a quick recap:

• Clean and reset your devices

• Take great photos

• Write honest, clear descriptions

• Price based on real market value

• Pick the best platform for your item

• Communicate clearly and safely

• Ship securely if needed

So, grab that drawer of gadgets, follow the steps, and start turning tech clutter into cash. Your wallet (and your junk drawer) will thank you.