Do not store old technology. CNET survey finds that 31 % of the United States adults adhere to unused devices

if The impact that waves on the horizon on the definitions Do you think about your upgrade? Smart phone or Laptop This year, what will you do with your old device?

A recent survey of CNET reveals that more than three out of 10 (31 %) of American adults comment on older devices, because they are not sure of what to do Smartphonesand Video game boardsand LED computers And other Technical accessories They no longer use. Almost one in five (19 %), American adults throw these devices. However, many prefer trading in their old exchanges of exchange or upgrade (37 %), while 25 % sell them.

with Definitions Electronics prices are expected to be raised, there are still ways to save money on new technology, and Sell ​​your old devices It can help replace the cost. If your device is broken or very old for sale, experts recommend using electronics recycling service to avoid environmental pollution, valuable materials such as copper and aluminum can be reused.

Here’s what I found the latest CNET poll on how adults are in the United States Get rid of technology they do not want anymore And tips for what you can do with you.

Main meals:

• 31 % of adults are still adhering to old technology devices because they are not sure what to do with them.
• 37 % of Americans trade or exchange their old devices, while 25 % sell them.
• 29 % use a recycling service to get rid of old technology, while 19 % throw old garbage devices.

More than a third of us adults circulate or exchange their old technology

Many American adults (37 %) in smartphones, gaming devices, laptops and accessories for another device or upgrade. This can be useful if the retail seller offers a new tool for trade.

Other common disposal methods include giving them to their loved ones or recycling. Some of us are even adults trying to sell their devices, which can bring some additional money. Here is a closer look at some common disposal methods based on CNET scanning.

Read more: Spring cleaning? Free tips for recycling expert technology for a more green house

How to increase the value of your smartphone trade

A third of us adults Trade in their smartphones To exchange or upgrade to lower a new price. Others use a Recycling service Or give the old device away. Here is a closer look.

Patrick Hollande, CNET Editor for mobile phone, said if you are planning to trade an old device, start with your telecommunications company. Many manufacturers, such as apple and SamsungYou will participate with transport companies to provide highly declining discounts in a new style when trading in an old style.

He said, “These deals usually occur during the first month, a new phone is sold and can cover the price completely at times – it depends only on the age of age and what is the situation in which you are trading.” The Netherlands added that some manufacturers may provide more intense discounts during the Preormer period before the release of a new phone.

The longer the waiting period for trading in your device, the less likely you get it. For example, if you upgrade to iPhone 16, you may need the iPhone 12 Pro or the latest to get a full promotional offer. Check your retail requirements to make sure your device is qualified.

More importantly, make sure your device is working in good condition, with minimal scratches or cracks. You can also compare commercial offers by obtaining estimates from various retailers and transportation companies to get the best deal.

If your phone is not eligible for a commercial offer, or if you think the offer is very low, think about selling your phone. CNET SWAPPA experts, an online market to sell and sell used electronics. Swappa helps you adjust your price fair by comparing the models and features similar to being. But there are other options that must be observed as well.

Hollande said: “I have had a lot of luck on EBY and Gazellle,” Hollande said. “It can include selling the phone on the EBAY site little work and takes some time, but you will usually get more money there.”

Gazellle and similar residence sites are usually faster than sale on EBY or Facebook. The Netherlands said you might get less money for your device. You can also trade your technology with Best Buy’s Trade-in program. If your device is very low, you can recycle it directly in the store.

On the other hand, if you do not look to restore any money from your old phone, many retailers and transportation companies – such as Apple, Best Buy, AT & T – will recycle it for free. It is better to call the financial store to make sure in advance. The Netherlands also recommends donating your old phone to charities, such as Golders mobile phonesIf the phone is in good condition, then the work condition.

Read more: Apple iPhone 16: Get your next phone using your old phone

Many of us adults recycle or gift laptops and old computers

Through numbers, nearly a quarter of adults recycle their computers and computer accessories, while 18 % give the old computer to the family or friends. But 21 % are not sure what to do with the computer.

There are some options, but regardless of how you ignore it, it is important to remove your personal data first.

Before recycling your laptop or abandoning it, the computing and home entertainment editor recommends at CNET Josh Goldman Return him to his original condition To ensure that your sensitive data is wiped from the device.

“Remove any program that you do not use, delete any unnecessary files and update the operating system,” said Goldman. “Reserves all your important files, write all the programs you need – and look for licensing keys if you pay for them – and reset the full system to start again.”

Manufacturers usually offer a free download program to delete data safely. Windows devices have a secure option integrated into the system. End the bombing of any dust and debris with a box of compressed air and cleaning the outside with a safe cloth for electronics.

For additional protection, Goldman proposes Steel disk removal or hard drive From your computer and destruction. “This is not necessary, but it is the extra peace of mind,” said Goldman. If this is not an option, it recommends that the laptop reset, then use the program to erase the hard drive or hard drive.

You are then free in a gift or donate your device. Many communities offer free sites for electronics recycling. Goldman recommends starting your research with the Public Works Department in your city or province.

“If you are not sure where to start, use Earth911.comresearch. He said: “You only need to pop up in your postal code and will give you local options.”

Many players choose to sell old keyboards

When it comes to getting rid of the non -user Video game systems17 % of players prefer to sell old keyboards, followed by their introduction to family or friends (16 %). If you no longer use the video game system, the sale of the old console may earn some additional money for you. You just need to take some precautions.

Scott Stein, CNET in general, warns anyone who sells a retail store console to ensure that he has a fair price. You can also sell directly to buyers on EBY and community groups such as Facebook Marketplace and offer. Community groups also recommend another way for sale.

When determining the price, evaluate the value of the resale, the status of your accessories and the console. You may also look at what other sellers priced their keyboards to determine a fair price. Finally, consider the value of your games and the scarcity – which can increase the value of your console.

Before selling or gifting the video game console, set up all content and dance settings. More importantly, remove any credit card payment information that you may store on your account details. Most keyboards have an easy re -setup to facilitate erasing your data.

Other ways to recycle old technology

You are still struggling where to get rid of the devices you don’t want anymore? The main offices supply stores such as Staples and Office Depot provide recycling services, as well as Best Buy. Some stores provide store balances in exchange for your old technology.

Check the list of accepted elements before going to the store. For example, large screens can be recycled for $ 20 in FoodAnd despite the acceptance of most personal technology, medical devices and televisions are some of the elements that are not.

methodology

Cent Yougov PLC costs a wiping. All numbers, unless otherwise, from Yougov PLC. The sample size was a total of 2511 adults. Field work was conducted from 26-28 March 2025. The online survey was conducted. The numbers have been weight and all American adults (aged 18 years old) represent.