Nintendo Switch OLED Trade In Value and Sell Options 2021

What Is the Switch OLED Worth Now?

The current trade-in value for a Switch OLED ranges from $110 to $230 depending on its condition, compared to its original price of $349 USD in 2021. Devices in "like new" condition fetch the highest prices, while those deemed "good" or "fair" will get you between 70-85% and 40-65% of the original value respectively. A broken Switch OLED might still be worth around 10-35%.

When considering the trade-in options for your Switch OLED, it's important to understand how much its condition impacts the resale value. If you're looking to get top dollar, ensure that your device is in pristine shape with no visible damage or defects.

How to Wipe Data Before Recycling the Switch OLED

Before recycling or trading in your Switch OLED, wiping data is a must-do step to protect your privacy and security. Here's how to do it:

1. Back up save data to Nintendo Switch Online cloud (if you have an active subscription).
2. Remove your Nintendo Account link from System Settings.
3. Go to System Settings > System > Formatting Options > Initialize Console to reset the console to factory settings.
4. Take out any microSD card and game cartridge before recycling.

By following these steps, you ensure that all personal data is removed from the device securely.

Where to Recycle or Trade In the Switch OLED

There are several options for recycling or trading in your Switch OLED:

• Nintendo Recycling Programme: Nintendo offers a trade-in programme where you can send your old console back to them for a discount on new products.
• Third-party Trade-In Services: Websites like Decluttr, Back Market, SellCell, Gazelle, and GameStop buy used consoles and offer cash for your Switch OLED.
• Retailer Recycling Programs: Stores such as Best Buy in the US, Currys in the UK, and JB Hi-Fi in Australia have their own programmes where you can trade in or recycle your device. Some of these give store credit rather than cash.

If your Switch OLED has no remaining value due to its condition, consider a certified e-waste recycler for proper disposal.

What Materials Are Recovered from the Switch OLED?

The Switch OLED contains several recyclable materials: lithium batteries, copper wiring, plastic casings, aluminum frames, and glass screens. Each of these materials can be recovered and reused:

• Lithium: Recycled to make new batteries.
• Copper: Used in wiring for electronics and construction.
• Plastic: Melted down and reshaped into pellets or sheets.
• Aluminum: Formulated back into ingots or rolled into foil and cans.
• Glass: Ground up and used as filler in concrete or recycled back into new screens.

Given the Switch OLED's weight of 420g, understanding these materials helps you appreciate how much can be repurposed from your device.

Environmental Impact of Recycling vs Landfill

Recycling has a far lesser environmental impact than sending electronics to landfill. Mining one tonne of gold ore produces about 18,000 tonnes of waste, whereas recovering metals from circuit boards is 80 times more efficient. A single smartphone contains around $1-2 worth of precious metals like gold and silver.

lithium batteries in landfills can ignite fires and leach toxic materials into groundwater. Recycling these components prevents such hazards, making it a much better option for the planet.