There are more people and companies buying used laptops than most sellers realize. The problem is they don't all pay the same — not even close. Here's who's buying and what they're actually paying.
Dedicated Buyback Services
Companies like SellMyLaptops.com exist specifically to buy used and broken laptops from consumers. They buy in volume, have established resale channels, and can offer consistent prices across thousands of models.
What they pay: Market-rate quotes based on actual resale value. SellMyLaptops.com pays $10–$1,980 depending on model and condition.
Process: Online quote → free shipping → same-day payment after inspection.
Accepts broken devices: Yes.
Best for: Anyone who wants a fast, guaranteed offer without hassle.
eBay Private Buyers
Individual buyers on eBay are often refurbishers, collectors, or people looking for specific models. They can pay close to or above market rate for the right laptop.
What they pay: Close to market value, minus eBay's 13.25% fee and your shipping costs.
Accepts broken devices: Sometimes — "for parts" listings exist but pay much less.
Best for: Mint-condition premium laptops with a specific buyer market.
Local Buyers (Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist)
Private local buyers are often looking for a deal — they're not paying full market. But no fees and immediate cash compensates.
What they pay: 70–85% of market value after negotiation.
Accepts broken devices: Rarely, and at very low prices.
Best for: Sellers comfortable negotiating in person.
Pawn Shops
Pawn shops are convenient but predatory on price. They need to buy low enough to make profit reselling locally, which means you get the worst deal of any option.
What they pay: 20–30% of market value.
Accepts broken devices: Usually not.
Best for: Emergency cash only when no other option is available.
Corporate Refurbishers
Companies that buy laptops in bulk to refurbish and resell to businesses. They want volume, not one-off sales from individuals. Some have consumer-facing programs but prices are often below what dedicated buyback services pay.
Manufacturer and Retailer Trade-In Programs
Apple, Dell, HP, Best Buy — all have trade-in programs. Extremely convenient. Extremely low value.
What they pay: 30–50% of what a buyback service pays.
Best for: People upgrading immediately who want to apply the trade-in credit to a new purchase.
The Bottom Line
If getting the most money matters, the order is: eBay private sale (if mint condition and you have patience) → dedicated buyback service → local buyer → manufacturer trade-in → pawn shop.
For most people with most laptops, a dedicated buyback service is the right call. Fast, fair, no risk.