Harris KhanGetting a new computer is exciting, but what do you do with the old one? Let’s look at how Apple’s amazing sustainability program can help you decide what to do with your old computer. It is important to understand that no matter how old it is, your computer does not belong in the trash. They contain toxic chemicals like mercury and arsenic that do not belong in landfills where they can leach into groundwater.
So lets Trade
Obviously, if you have an item you intend to trade that isn’t working, Apple will conclude that it has no trade-in value. However, they will still recycle it for free. Which is great, right?
That being said, if you have a device in good working condition, you will likely see a trade-in value up to a maximum of $360. Not too shabby. But note that this is the maximum amount you will receive from Apple, and it’s only provisional. If they find that the details or the condition are not exactly as described after receiving the computer, they may turn down the offer.
If you decide to go forward with the Mac trade-in, you just need to fill out a form with your shipping address, and Apple sends you a perfectly fitted box and pays for shipping both ways. So factor in those costs when you’re deciding whether to accept their offer.
But now that you have an idea of what your used computer is worth, you might want to consider other options.
Other Third-Party Options To Trade your Old Mac
You can make a Mac trade-in with Apple either for a discount on something you are ordering now or a gift card to use later. But not cash. You can either bring it to an Apple store if that’s convenient or have Apple send you a box, and you just have to pack it up and get it delivered. So while this is often not the most profitable option, it’s very easy and low risk.
If you think that your old computer has no value, at least Apple will recycle it properly. Alternatively, now that you know what Apple is willing to offer, you can check out some popular resale sites like eBay, Swappa, cultofmac.com. However, these sites involve more work and more risk, but you may get paid better for your old computer.
Furthermore, you can always give it to a friend, family member, or your favorite nonprofit institution. But whatever you do with the old computer, be sure to prepare it first by signing out of iCloud, erasing your data, and so on.
The Bottom Line
Apple rolls out new versions of its range of exciting products every year. Sometimes even more than once. It hasn’t been very long since they launched computers with their in-house designed M1 chip. You might have just bought your new Macbook with the same, and they’re already preparing to launch systems with the new M2 chip.
Ironically, Apple’s products are built sturdy and are popularly known to last. Nonetheless, loyal customers continually tend to spend their money on updated devices with every new launch. H No wonder Apple’s now a trillion-dollar company.
Getting down to the brass tacks, if you have an older Mac you’re preparing to sell, trade-in, give away, or recycle, make sure none of your data is still on there before you do so. Apple provides you a list of 8 steps to take to clean all your stuff off the old Mac. After that, feel free to choose one of the above options that suit you and get the best value for your old computer.
