I'm decommissioning two old laptops. Before I send them to a recycler, I've thought about salvaging some of the parts (particularly the RAM) and selling them on the Internet. What are your thoughts about such an endeavor?

  • What are some good websites for buying/selling old hardware? I'm not so much concerned with making a profit as I am with finding a buyer.
  • How should I safely pack components that do sell? Where can I buy the required packing materials inexpensively?
  • Is it even worth my time, or should I consider just sending everything to a recycler?

Thanks in advance!

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Have you ever thought of donating the laptops? – scheibk Jul 16 '09 at 19:38
@scheibk, I have, but unfortunately one has serious motherboard and LCD issues and would probably cost as much as a new laptop to repair. The other might be of use to someone, but also has some issues. – Nick Meyer Jul 16 '09 at 19:39
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5 Answers

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Site: CraigsList

Packing: use lots of packing material like newspaper or styrofoam. you can get materials at any office store (if you dont have any laying around already)

Time: Probably not if you have to deal with all the shipping, considering the fact they're pretty old so you wont get much $. You might be better off just giving away or donating if its that old.

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If you are wanting to try to sell them then I'd definitely try Ebay.

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If you're UK based, try Gumtree. It seems to be our equivalent of Craigslist. Though if they're small enough components to post/mail then eBay will give you the widest audience.

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You could also sell dead hardware, just make sure you disclose that doesn't work anymore.

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Craigslist! You rarely have to ship things, all transactions are handled in cash, and everyone is generally pleasant to deal with. We've sold many things from old systems to our old token ring infrastructure.

If craigslist isn't an option in your area (due to population, or murderers on the loose), consider ebay.

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