While it could be assumed that the value of a used computer is entirely based upon its features and specifications, this is only partially true. The value is actually determined by a combination of the above-mentioned factors, the type of computer (laptop, small desktop, tower, etc.), the brand name, how rare it is (especially for older computers), how ready to use it is, and the audience it is being marketed to. Here are some details on each of these factors…
TYPE, BRAND: Generally, a laptop computer will have a higher value than an equivalent tower-style or desktop system. Compact, relatively light desktop computers tend to have a somewhat higher value than equivalent tower-style units, especially if they are sold online, because the shipping cost won’t absorb as much of the computer’s value. Used computers (especially laptops) made by well-known brand names tend to sell for more than those which are generic or from little-known brands, with the exception of some rare vintage computer models.
SPECIFICATIONS: Computers with either high or low capabilities are worth the most; tower and desktop-style computers in the middle (such as a 233MHz Pentium II with 64MB of memory) tend to have the lowest value. This is because newer computers with fast processors (Pentium III, IV) and/or large amounts of memory are good for using newer software and high-speed internet access, while older (286/386/486, some early Pentiums) used computers are good for running old software (esp. games) which doesn’t work well on newer computers. Computers in the middle of these two groups are still useful for many purposes, but (excluding laptops) are rather common and not particularly desirable for either of these two main purposes. For example, several old 486 (probably from the mid-90s) computers recently sold on eBay.com for $50-150, and some newer Pentium IV towers sold for as much as $320, but most non-laptop Pentium II models were unsold or went for under $50. Selling used computers of this type in a newspaper classified ad or yard sale is more likely to bring success, as there are no shipping costs for the buyer to pay. For all three types, the value will usually increase as there is more memory, better video card/adapter, more hard disk capacity, and more accessories (modem, mouse, Zip drive, etc).
PRE-1990: While some used computers from the late ’70s and 1980s are rather valuable, this is not always true. Very popular ’80s computer models like the Texas Instruments TI-99/4A and Commodore VIC-20 still remain common because so many were sold, so they are not particularly valuable unless they include desirable software or accessories. On the other hand, vintage computers which aren’t as common are more valuable, especially if they have features which differentiate them and/or have been upgraded. For example, the late ’80s Tandy 1000 HX has been selling for about $40-50 on eBay recently, and some of the less common TRS-80 models go for $50+. Very rare vintage computers can sell for hundreds or even thousands of dollars. If you want to receive more than $10-20 for a vintage used computer, it is important to target a large market of potential buyers, because demand for these computers is somewhat high nationwide, but may not exist in your local area. A newspaper or local CraigsList.org classified advertisement might be sufficient if you live in a large city, but listing the used computer on eBay, or perhaps the advertising section of an online vintage computers forum, is more likely to bring success.
READY-TO-USE: Used computers which are ready to use often sell for more than those which require preparation, which usually involves technical knowledge some potential buyers do not have. To be ready-to-use, the computer should include an operating system (Windows, DOS, Linux, Mac OS, etc.) which has been set up. Some versions of Linux and DOS (such as FreeDOS) are available online for free; even installing a free operating system and making sure it runs properly might increase the computer’s value. If the used computer requires a non-PS/2 keyboard (DIN, XT, etc.), a keyboard of the appropriate type (or an adapter) should be included when possible, along with a power cord or AC adapter (especially for laptop computer systems). A modem, disk drive, and CD-ROM drive will also make it more appealing to many buyers.
For additional information on your used computer’s value, check how much equivalent computer models are being offered for in your local newspaper classifieds, the CraigsList.org website for your area, and eBay.com’s Completed Listings (you need to register as a member to do this).
