Whether you’re upgrading to the latest iPhone or Samsung Galaxy phone, or snagging a new ultralight laptop for work on the go, the joy of gaining that powerful technology comes with a small burden — what to do with your old smartphone or computer? For a large number of people, the answer is «nothing.»

A recent CNET survey reveals that over three in 10 (31%) US adults hang onto old devices, because they aren’t sure what to do with smartphones, video game consoles, laptops and other tech accessories they no longer use. Nearly one in five (19%) US adults throw away these devices. However, many prefer to trade in their old devices for an exchange or upgrade (37%), while 25% are selling them. 

With tariffs expected to drive up electronics prices, there are still ways to save money on new tech, and selling your old devices can help offset the cost. If your device is broken or too outdated to sell, experts recommend using an electronics recycling service to avoid polluting the environment and so valuable materials like copper and aluminum can be reused.

Here’s what the latest CNET survey found about how US adults are disposing of tech they don’t want anymore and tips for what you can do with yours.  

Key takeaways:

• 31% of US adults are still holding on to old tech devices because they’re not sure what to do with them.
• 37% of Americans trade in or exchange their old devices, while 25% sell them. 
• 29% use a recycling service to dispose of old tech, while 19% toss old devices in the trash.

Over one-third of US adults trade in or exchange their old tech

Many US adults (37%) trade in smartphones, gaming devices, laptops and accessories for another device or an upgrade. That can come in handy if a retailer offers a discount on the new gadget in exchange for the trade. 

Other popular disposal methods include giving it to a loved one or recycling it. Some US adults even try selling their devices, which can bring in some extra cash. Here’s a closer look at some common disposal methods based on CNET’s survey.

Read more: Spring Cleaning? Free Expert Tech Recycling Tips for a Greener Home

How to maximize the value of your smartphone trade-in

One-third of US adults trade in their smartphones for an exchange or upgrade to lower the price of a new one. Others use a recycling service or give the old device away. Here’s a closer look. 

If you plan to trade an old device, start with your phone carrier, said Patrick Holland, CNET’s managing editor for mobile. Many manufacturers, like Apple and Samsung, will partner with carriers to offer steep discounts on a new model when you trade in an old one.

«These deals usually happen within the first month a new phone goes on sale and can sometimes cover the entire price — just depends on how old and what condition the phone you’re trading in is,» he said. Some manufacturers may offer steeper discounts during the preorder period before a new phone is released, Holland added.

The longer you wait to trade in your device, the less you’re likely to get. For example, if you’re upgrading to the iPhone 16, you may need an iPhone 12 Pro or newer model to get a full promotional offer. Check your retailer’s trade-in requirements to make sure your device qualifies.

Most importantly, make sure your device works and is in good condition, with minimal scratches or cracks. You may also compare trade-in offers by getting estimates from different retailers and carriers for the best deal.

If your phone doesn’t qualify for a trade-in offer, or if you think the offer is too low, consider selling your phone. CNET experts recommend Swappa, an online marketplace to sell and buy used electronics. Swappa helps you set your price fairly by comparing similar models and features to yours. But there are other options to consider, too. 

«I’ve had a lot of luck on eBay and Gazelle,» Holland said. «Selling a phone on eBay can involve a little work and take some time, but you’ll usually get more money there.» 

Gazelle and similar resale sites are usually quicker than selling on eBay or Facebook Marketplace. but you may get less money for your device, Holland said. You can also trade in your tech with Best Buy’s trade-in program. And if your device’s value is too low, you can recycle it right at the store. 

On the other hand, if you’re not looking to get any money back from your old phone, many retailers and carriers — like Apple, Best Buy and AT&T — will recycle it for free. It’s best to call the physical store to make sure in advance. Holland also recommends donating your old phone to charity, like Cell Phones For Soldiers, if the phone is in good, working condition. 

Read more: Apple iPhone 16 Trade-In Tips: Getting Your Next Phone Using Your Old One

Many US adults recycle or gift old laptops and computers

By the numbers, nearly a quarter of US adults recycle their computers and computer accessories, while 18% give the old computer to family or friends. But 21% are unsure of what to do with the computer.

There are a few options, but regardless of how you discard, it’s important to remove your personal data first.

Before you recycle your laptop or give it away, CNET’s computing and home entertainment managing editor Josh Goldman recommends restoring it to its original condition to make sure your sensitive data is wiped from the machine. 

«Remove any software you’re not using, delete any unnecessary files and update the operating system,» Goldman said. «Back up all your important files, write down all the software you need — and find the license keys if you paid for it — and do a full system reset to start fresh.»

Manufacturers typically offer free-to-download software for securely deleting data. Windows devices have a secure erase option built into the system. Finish by blowing out any dust and debris with a can of compressed air and cleaning the outside with a cloth that’s safe for electronics.

For extra protection, Goldman suggests removing the hard drive or solid-state drive from your computer and destroying it. «It’s not necessary, but it’s extra peace of mind,» Goldman said. If that’s not an option, he recommends resetting the laptop, then using software to erase the solid-state drive or hard disk drive.

You’re then free to gift or donate your device. Many communities offer free electronics recycling drop-off locations. Goldman recommends starting your search with the Department of Public Works in your city or county. 

«If you’re not sure where to start, use Earth911.com‘s search. Just pop in your ZIP code and it’ll give you local options,» he said. 

Many gamers opt to sell old consoles 

When it comes to getting rid of unused video game systems, 17% of gamers prefer to sell their old consoles, followed by gifting them to family or friends (16%). If you no longer use a video game system, selling your old console could earn you some extra money. You just need to take a few precautions. 

Scott Stein, CNET’s editor at large, cautions anyone selling a gaming console to a retailer to make sure they’re getting a fair price. You can also sell directly to buyers on eBay and community groups like Facebook Marketplace and Offer Up. He also recommends community groups as another way to sell. 

When determining the price, assess the resale value and the condition of your accessories and console. You may also look at how other sellers are pricing their consoles to determine a fair price. Lastly, think about the value of your games and how rare they are — that could increase your console’s value. 

Before selling or gifting a video game console, reset all content and account settings. Most importantly, remove any credit card payment information you may have stored on your account details. Most consoles have an easy reset-to-factory setting to make erasing your data easy. 

Other ways to recycle old tech

Still struggling with where to get rid of devices you don’t want anymore? Major office supply stores like Staples and Office Depot offer recycling services, and so does Best Buy. Some stores even offer store credits in exchange for your old tech. 

Check the list of accepted items before you go to the store. For example, larger monitors can be recycled for $20 at Staples, and while most personal tech is accepted, medical devices and TVs are a few items that aren’t. 

Methodology 

CNET commissioned YouGov Plc to conduct the survey. All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 2,511 adults. Fieldwork was undertaken from March 26-28, 2025. The survey was carried out online. The figures have been weighted and are representative of all US adults (aged 18 and over).