Breathe new life into your old Mac: Get the most value when it’s time to upgrade
Your trusty Mac doesn’t deserve a dusty retirement in the closet. Whether you’re eyeing a new model or a generous friend or family member is the lucky recipient of your current Mac, there are ways to maximize its value before it departs. This guide will show you how to get every last penny out of your old Mac, including preparing it for sale and exploring various selling options.
Preparation is Key: Maximizing Your Mac’s Value
First impressions matter, and that holds true for your Mac too. Ensuring it’s in top condition will fetch you a better price.
- Keep it Pristine: Regular dusting is essential for desktop Macs like the Mac mini and iMac to prevent overheating and maintain efficiency. A soft cloth is your friend for keeping the iMac display sparkling clean. Screen protectors are available, but installation requires finesse.
- Love Your Laptop: Laptops are more prone to wear and tear since they are meant for travel. Invest in a quality carrying case and avoid things like eating or drinking near your MacBook to prevent spills. Be gentle when connecting peripherals – fumbling for ports can cause unsightly scratches.
- Box It Up: Keep the original box (not the shipping box) and documentation if possible. The original cables and adapters are also a plus. Even if upgrades were made, having the original set can increase the selling price, especially in private sales.
Data Farewell: Preparing Your Mac for a New Owner
Before your Mac embarks on a new adventure, you’ll need to ensure that your data is secure and that the slate is wiped clean.
- Back-Up Your Data: This is crucial! Use an external storage device or Apple’s built-in Time Machine to migrate all your settings, files, and apps to your new Mac, preserving them. Third-party cloud storage solutions like iCloud or Dropbox are also options for saving important files.
- Untether from Your Apple ID: This is a crucial step in allowing the new owner to set up their Apple ID. Sign out of your Apple ID using another device, navigate to your Apple ID account and remove your Mac from the “Devices” section. Double-check that iCloud and Messages are also signed out on the Mac itself.
- Reset and Reinstall: With your data safely backed up, erase the storage device and reinstall macOS. This ensures a clean slate for the new owner. Apple provides detailed instructions on performing these actions on both Intel and M1 Macs using macOS Recovery.
Selling Options: Where Does Your Mac Go From Here?
With your Mac prepped and data cleared, it’s decision time – where will you sell it?
- Third-Party Sites: Numerous online marketplaces cater to used electronics. While they may offer slightly lower prices than private sales, they handle transactions securely.
- Selling Yourself: Platforms like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or Craigslist allow you to set your own price and potentially get more money. However, you’ll need to handle the selling process yourself.
- Resellers: This is a hassle-free option, especially if your Mac needs to be pristine. Resellers typically offer a lower price, eliminating the need to deal with individual buyers.
Popular Buyback Sites
- Decluttr: Get a locked-in offer for 28 days, with free shipping and inspection. They’ll cover return shipping if their evaluation differs from yours. Payment options include PayPal or direct deposit.
- Gazelle: Exclusively for MacBooks, Gazelle provides a 30-day quote with free shipping. They may adjust the offer upon inspection but will cover return shipping if you decline. Payment options include a check, PayPal, or an Amazon gift card.
- Swappa: This platform facilitates direct sales between individuals. Swappa verifies listings, handles secure PayPal transactions, and arranges shipping for a fee included in the listed price.
Trade-Ins
While trade-ins may yield a lower return, they’re convenient and often an option even for Macs that need to be in top shape. You’ll typically receive a gift card, store credit, or a discount towards your new purchase.
- Apple: Their trade-in process is quick and easy. Answer a few questions about your Mac’s condition, and they’ll provide an offer applicable to a new purchase. They may revise the offer after inspection.
- Other retailers, such as Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart (through CExchange), also offer trade-in programs, typically rewarding you with store gift cards. However, not all stores accept Macs, so be sure to check their specific