The constantly upgrading, tech-fascinated culture of today’s world results in new technology and gadgets being created seemingly every minute. This often leads to people discarding aging electronic devices the moment a newer version comes on the scene, even if their old gadget is still in tip-top condition.
This way of thinking is largely influenced by the never-ending announcements of new models from the most influential global brands which play on our desire to stay in touch with the latest trends.
But why waste something that is still useful, when you can give those old gadgets a new life and a new purpose? Even with items that no longer work, you can still transform them into something wonderful and amazing.
Here are some of our recommendations on how to make better use of your old tech gadgets:
1. Trade-In
Home, office suppliers, and even retailers often have in-store refurbishing, reselling, or recycling programs that offer money-back or trade-in options, and getting involved in these projects has never been easier. The experts at BankMyCell.com explain how much your device is worth will depend on its age and condition, and you can still get something even if it is broken.
Providing information about your device will get you a quote, and then you will move onto the shipping with a prepaid label. It is really that simple to get money via PayPal, check, or gift card. With various trade-in services available online, you can be assured that you will get a fair price for your old tech gadgets.
2. Sell
You are likely to make more money by selling your old gadgets privately through platforms like Craigslist, Facebook’s Marketplace and eBay, or through your local classifieds. It is usually very easy to find someone who will purchase your old tech for parts or even people who are looking for cheap but still usable devices.
Negotiating the price and receiving the money on the spot is very simple, and although there is no guarantee that your item will be used and then later disposed of responsibly, selling your old device will at least give it a new lease of life and reduce wastage.
You can also use specialized apps to sell your old gadgets. These apps are very convenient and take the guesswork out of pricing and generating shipping labels.
3. Recycle
Many tech companies support branded recycling programs which include taking back used devices, recycling them responsibly, and offering gift cards or credits that can enable the purchase of a new item from them.
Apple, IBM, and Dell are some of the big tech companies that provide this service to their customers, and with their agencies and stores spreading throughout the country, it is a very simple process. Make sure that you have a good understanding of their recycling policies before making a decision because some companies are more eco-friendly than others.
Recycling sites offer money for old tech gadgets but you can also organize your own tech recycling event. Old TVs, audio equipment, and laptops can be brought in and then recycled in bulk with a certified electronics recycling organization.
4. Donate
Whilst for many of us, buying a new tech gadget will not break the bank, there are still a lot of people out there who cannot afford to buy tech gadgets at all – new or used. That is when donating your old tech gadgets is a great way to help someone else.
If you are not able to find a local recycling or donation center, take a look at these mail-in donation alternatives:
For computers and peripherals
Old computers and equipment that are related to them such as keyboards and scanners can be renovated for resale, and unfixable components can be recycled. Connect to nonprofits that are in need of these gadgets and donate to them by mail.
Some of the names that you should keep in mind when it comes to donating computers are Dell Reconnect (Goodwill partnership with Dell), The National Cristina Foundation, and The World Computer Exchange.
For cell phones
Old cell phones can be collected to refurbish, re-sell, and recycle in bulk, and funds from these activities can then be used to support these organizations’ programming.
Whether it is to help people who lack access to clean water or provide communication services to troops and veterans. The National Coalition for Domestic Violence, Lifecell (Lifestraws) or Cell Phones for Soldiers will be your best friends if you are considering donating cell phones, and you will often get free calls, texts and data provided back to you as a way to say “thank you” for your donation.
Gaming Equipment
Donations of used consoles and games via mail can be used to provide accessible gaming technology to people with disabilities or children that are hospitalized through the help of various organizations like AbleGamers, Gamers Outreach, or Charity Nerds.
5. Get Creative
Getting creative with old tech gadgets is a lot of fun for all the DIY lovers out there, and it is a growing trend. Gadgets provide free materials, different parts, different colors, and textures, so you can really let your mind run wild and put your craftsmanship to the test by using them to create whatever you like. Skilled designers and engineers can do some amazing things with all devices by using their creativity and ingenuity.
Here are some of the most ingenious tech remakes that we found online:
– A Computer monitor made into a cat bed
– A VHS Player made into a toaster
– A Computer fan converted into a desk fan
– A Scanner made into a tabletop saw
Turning old electronic gadgets into your own DIY project has become a lucrative hobby for many people. Creative people can make some good money remaking gadgets which can be a lucrative side hustle and can even become your main job if you are particularly innovative.
Throwing or giving away old tech gadgets when they are outdated or they have reached the end of their lifecycle is understandable, but next time you are about to, consider the alternative options first. Most of the time, these gadgets can be upgraded rather than abandoned or replaced, and with just a little technical skill and effort, giving old tech a new life can be really simple.