Best Laptop Trade-In Services 2026: Apple, Dell, HP, Third-Party Compared
Last updated: 15 May 2026
Laptop trade-in values vary by 30-60% between programs. We compared 7 services on a 2022 MacBook Air and a 2023 Dell XPS 13 in May 2026 — here's what each paid.
Reviewed by the eCycling Central editorial team — last updated May 2026
Top Services Compared
| Service | Best for | Cost / payout | |---|---|---| | BackMarket Trade-In | Macs (best payout) | Bank transfer, 3-5 days | | Apple Trade In | Macs being replaced | Apple Store credit | | Microsoft Store Trade-In | Surface laptops + Windows | Microsoft Store credit | | Decluttr | Phones (better than laptops) | Bank or PayPal, 1 day | | Best Buy Trade-In | Instant in-store payout | Best Buy gift card | | Dell Reconnect | Free recycling only (no trade-in) | Drop at Goodwill | | HP Planet Partners | Free recycling only | Free shipping label |
How to Choose
Pick by what you're disposing of and where you live:
- Bulk/commercial — start with the certified ITAD providers
- Apple-only household — Apple Trade In + Apple GiveBack
- Mixed brands, instant payout — Best Buy in-store
- Highest cash — third-party trade-in services (see Decluttr vs Gazelle vs BackMarket)
- Free recycling, no trade-in — manufacturer mail-back or Best Buy free recycling