Devin Jacobs
Old phones and worn-out gadgets deserve more than a dusty drawer. Give them a chance to bring in extra cash or credit instead of letting it go unused. The shift reflects changing attitudes toward e-waste and the management of product lifecycles. While terms differ, the core idea remains consistent. It only takes a quick handoff to see these used products spark fresh value. Here are places ready to buy back electronicsāand sets their approaches apart.
Best Buy
You’ve probably got an old phone or laptop sitting around, and Best Buy wants it. They take pretty much any gadget you can think of, including tablets and even gaming consoles. You can quickly see what it’s worth right there in the store or check online. Whatever value you get comes back as a Best Buy gift card, making it a good way to clear out clutter.
Apple Trade In
Planning a switch to a new iPhone? Apple makes it super simple to trade in your current device, whether it’s an old Mac or a recent Android phone. The program gives you store credit or an Apple Gift Card to offset the cost. Plus, if it’s too old to get credit, they’ll just recycle it at no charge.
Amazon Trade-In
Amazon is buying back a huge amount of old tech; they accept smart home devices, tablets, and even specific video games. The whole process is digitalāgiving you a prepaid shipping label and taking care of the rest. What you get in return is an Amazon Gift Card, and sometimes they also toss in a discount on new items.
Walmart Electronics Trade-In
Instead of ending up in a landfill, that older smartphone or smartwatch can become a Walmart eGift Card. Walmart allows you to get a value estimate for your devices online instantly. You then mail it in for the final check. They also partner with a group called CExchange to make sure the data is wiped securely and the evaluation is fair.
Target Tech Trade-In
That outdated phone in your junk drawer isnāt uselessāitās Target currency waiting to happen. With Tech Trade-In, your dusty devices can magically transform into a shiny eGift Card. A partner sets the value, you choose online or in-store trade, and suddenly, forgotten tech equals new shopping power.
GameStop
For anyone who plays video games, GameStop is still the top place to clear out old gear. They buy back consoles, games, and every accessory you can think of. You can choose to get store credit or be paid in cash, but the store credit option usually gives you more money back. Many of their promotions raise the value of your trade-in.
Ā Costco Trade-In Program
Costco allows its members a way to easily trade in tablets, laptops, and smartphones. This Trade-In Program requires you to get a quick quote online, then send the device in for a final look. Your reward for the accepted item is a Costco Shop Card. They also use a third-party, Phobio, which means the process is reliable and secure for members.
Staples
If you’ve got a drawer full of old office tech, Staples provides a handy solution. They run a trade-in service for laptops, phones, and tablets. If your item qualifies, you get store credit back. Prepaid labels offered by the company take the stress out of shipping. And if a device has absolutely no trade-in value, they will still provide responsible recycling for it.
RadioShack Trade-In Program
Believe it or not, RadioShack still operates a buyback program, accepting a huge mix of unusual electronics, like old GPS units and cameras. It gives you a gift card loaded with store credit. You can also estimate the value online first and use their prepaid shipping labels. Everything is processed through certified partners who handle recycling and data security.
Sam’s Club
The members at Sam’s Club can take advantage of a specific trade-in option for their smartphones and certain electronic devices. Depending on the model and condition, you could receive up to $150 in Sam’s Club eGift Cards. To start, you need to get the item appraised in a store first, then mail it in for the final necessary evaluation.