How to Sell a 90s Laptop

You own a 1990s laptop. The laptop is large, at least compared to today's models. In addition, it's underpowered, and its memory and special features are nothing that anyone would want today, considering how quickly computer technology has advanced in the past 10 years. Can you sell it? Probably, but don't expect to make what you paid for it. 1990s laptops went for a premium when they were new, but now they are obsolete. Here are some tips on ways you can sell that unwanted laptop.

Instructions

1. Consider listing your laptop on eBay. Before you list it, search for similar models to see what they are going for so you can get an idea of how much it might be worth. Make sure you take a picture of it and that you know its specifications. List the specifications of the laptop directly in your listing, so if anyone is searching for a particular system, they will be able to find it.

2. Think about putting it on Craigslist. On Craigslist, you probably won't make as much money for it as on eBay, but you will be working with people who live near you, so you will save the money and hassle of shipping and handling.

3. Take your computer to a pawn store and see what they are willing to offer. Depending on how old the computer is and how quickly they think it might sell, they may or may not be willing to buy it from you. If they are willing to buy it from you, don't expect much money.

4. Take it apart and sell its components separately. If you know what you are doing or can enlist the help of someone who does, some of the individual component parts of your computer may be worth more than the whole. Most of the hardware on your computer hasn't been made in years, and some of it could be difficult to find. Someone who is attempting to maintain their own system may be looking for something you have. This will take a lot more time as well as know-how, but you could conceivably make more money.

5. Go to small neighborhood computer stores that deal with used equipment and see what they are willing to offer. Once again, they may want the computer more for its parts, but it's worth a try. They would also be able to tell you more about the computer and give you ideas on who might be willing to purchase it and how much it might go for.

Tips & Warnings

• Specifications you will need include type of hard drive, speed of processor, amount of RAM and any special equipment (modem, CD or floppy drive).

• The more you ask for your laptop, the less likely you are to sell it. If you insist on making a substantial amount of money for it, wait until you are old and gray and sell it as an antique or collector's item.