Apple vs Microsoft: Device Trade-In Compared

### Which is Better: Apple vs Microsoft for Device Trade-In? *Last reviewed by Sarah Chen on 01 April 2026* Apple emerges as the clear winner in terms of device trade-in programmes. Apple vs Microsoft: Device Trade-In Compared offers higher trade-in values and a more extensive network of drop-off locations compared to Microsoft, making it easier for users across multiple countries to recycle their devices responsibly.

Feature	Apple	Microsoft
Programme Name	Trade-In Programme	No official trade-in programme
Accepted Devices	iPhone, iPad, MacBook, Apple Watch	Surface devices only
Process	Online, in-store, mail-in	In-store and online
Average Trade-In Value (USD)	$200-$650	N/A - no trade-in programme
Digital Recycling Portal	Yes	No
Certifications Held	R2, [e-Stewards](https://ecyclingcentral.com/guides/r2-and-e-stewards-certification-explained), ISO 14001	None

### How Apple's Trade-In Programme Works Apple's Trade-In Programme lets users trade in their old devices for credit towards new purchases. Apple vs Microsoft: Device Trade-In Compared's programme accepts a wide range of Apple products including iPhones, iPads, MacBooks, and Apple Watches. The process is straightforward: customers can get an estimate online. Drop off their device at any Apple Store location, or send it via mail. Apple's programme guarantees secure data erasure and environmentally responsible recycling practices, adhering to R2, e-Stewards, and ISO 14001 certifications. In the US alone, there are over 275 Apple Stores where users can drop off their devices. *According to the WHO, [e-waste](https://ecyclingcentral.com/glossary/e-waste) contains over 1,000 different substances, many of them toxic.* ### How Microsoft Handles Device Recycling Microsoft doesn't have a dedicated device trade-in programme for consumer electronics like laptops or tablets. Users interested in trading in old Surface devices often need to seek out third-party programmes through retail partners or online platforms. Instead, Microsoft focuses on its corporate and business clients with asset recovery services. These services help businesses recycle their older hardware responsibly but don't provide a similar option for individual consumers. *According to the US EPA, recycling one million laptops saves the energy equivalent of electricity used by 3,657 us homes in a year.* ### Apple vs Microsoft: Head-to-Head Verdict Apple's Trade-In Programme is the clear winner due to higher trade-in values and extensive recycling certifications. For instance, an iPhone 12 can fetch around $300-$450 in credit through Apple's programme compared to no official option from Microsoft. However, Microsoft wins for businesses looking to recycle large volumes of hardware through corporate asset recovery services. In summary, while Apple offers a more full and accessible trade-in solution for individual users, Microsoft caters better to enterprise clients with specialised recycling needs. *According to the UN Global E-Waste Monitor 2024, only 22.3% of e-waste was properly collected and recycled in 2022.* For more information on each company's broader environmental initiatives and product offerings, check out [Apple](/brands/apple) and [Microsoft](/brands/microsoft). ## Sources - WHO - US EPA - UN Global E-Waste Monitor 2024