Best and Worst Computer Brands in Terms of Resale Value

6 min readApr 24, 2023

Modern computers are much more affordable nowadays. Yet, unfortunately, we cannot say the same about smartphones. It seems that new phone models become increasingly expensive each year. And given that, generally, new technology isn’t cheap, it makes sense for users to seek some reimbursement once they are done with their gadgets.

This begs the question: What are some of the brands and models that are still worth something used or even defective? Is it easier to resell certain brands over others? Please keep reading to find out.

Best Computer Brands When It Comes to Retaining Value

Apple

Apple computers truly are the best investment if you plan on reselling your stuff down the line (and you should!). But you probably already knew that. Yes, Apple gadgets are usually more expensive than their non-Apple counterparts, but they also hold their value for much longer. Why? Several factors contribute to that:

Unique design, using high-end and recycled materials.
Better longevity.
Great software.
Ease of use.
Quality.

Furthermore, Apple has now moved to manufacture its own computer processors and graphics chips, further widening the gap between them and its competitors. Just look at Apple’s M2 Max CPU -nothing on the market can even come close to it right now (sorry, Intel).

So many users choose Apple software over Microsoft or Android. By adding built-in-house hardware to the mix, the manufacturer even further solidified its fanbase support. There is an undeniable appeal to Apple computers and other gadgets. It’s like an exclusive club if you will. Apple means status. As a result, there is a substantial demand for pre-owned Apple electronics. Used Apple tech sells for more money and retains its value better over time. No, we are not saying that the brand is immune to depreciation. But your used Apple computer can be resold several times in its lifespan before it becomes obsolete.

Alienware

Alienware is not the first brand to manufacture gaming computers, but it is one of the best. In fact, when you say “gaming computer,” Alienware is the first thing that comes to mind. Unique futuristic design with UFO elements and premium hardware continues to attract gamers and PC users. Some worried that the quality might be impacted after Dell purchased the brand in 2006, but those worries did not materialize. Alienware continues to be its own gaming division within Dell, constantly delivering some of the best gaming hardware each year.

As a result, used Alienware computers continue to retain their value over time. For example, an old (ancient, really) Alienware M18x laptop with Core 2 Duo (!) processor still can be resold for $$$. Imagine that. Any other 12-year-old computer renders worthless today. So why would someone still pay money for old Alienware? For one, those models are highly customizable and upgradable. Dual GPUs and overclocked processors still have some game left in them even today.

Besides, old-school design has its appeal. Even though old Alienware laptops are uber heavy and better suited for stationary use, long-time gamers and enthusiasts are reminiscent of those sharp looks, including a large illuminated Alien head logo on the back cover. That is why many people will be willing to pay a pretty penny for an older used Alienware computer.

Razer

Another gaming brand. Razer has a lot of competitors breathing down its neck. In fact, some of you might be surprised to see Razer here instead of, say, MSI computer. And sure, MSI GS66 Stealth outperforms Razer Blade 15. Yet, the latter has better resale value on the used electronics marketplace. There is a higher demand for used Razer technology; therefore, reselling an unwanted Razer computer is easy. Why the increased interest, you ask? Razer Blade laptops (as well as PC towers) are better designed and usually lighter than competitors. Razer chassis is made with high-end aluminum material that looks way better than most other brands’ plastic casing. In addition, aluminum is easier to recycle.

Just like with Apple, owning a Razer computer is associated with status. No wonder used Razer computers are highly thought after and have higher resale value as a result.

Worst Computer Brands to Resell

We figured out what the top three best reselling computers are. Now let’s look at some of the worst-selling used computer brands.

Gateway

Gateway had a solid following back in the day but was forced out by Dell and HP computer sales. Yet, in 2020, the company decided to re-enter the computer market. Gateway came back with a new approach: No more towers and even more affordable notebooks. But, unfortunately, cheap technology cannot withstand even the shortest period of time.

For example, you can get a Gateway laptop with an Intel Core i7 12th generation processor, touchscreen display, and 512GB SSD storage for less than $400 in Walmart. What a steal, right? But don’t expect to get anything more than $165–200 if you decide this computer is not your best choice. All this is because Gateway uses low-cost and low-configuration components to make computers affordable. Which is excellent if you are looking for a cheap but capable laptop. But bear in mind this fact also impacts its resale value. When you are done with it, it would be much easier to recycle your computer than to resell it.

Acer

OK, not all Acer computer series deserves to be in the worst-reselling price category. In fact, Acer Nitro, Predator, and Predator Triton computers can be considered a good long-term investment.

However, if we talk about the popular Acer Aspire series or Acer Chromebooks, the resale price of these notebook models diminishes about as quickly as Gateway.

Again, nothing is wrong with Aspire computers, just like nothing is wrong with new Gateway laptops. But the manufacturer employs cheaper hardware and materials to bring the retail price down. As a result, if you buy a new computer for less than $500–600 in about 13–15 months, its resale value is expected to be close to nothing.

The same is true for other laptop brands. For example, the cheaper Inspiron series has the lowest resale value among all Dell lines. But the Latitude did not get too far either. You would expect a reasonable price for a used business notebook, yet, lower market demand dictates lower resale value.

Conclusion

Not all computer brands are equal. Likewise, not all used computers are comparable in terms of salvage value. But the rule of thumb is the following: The cheaper your gadget is, the less likely you are to sell it at the end of its life. We could make a much longer list, but these five best and worst computer brands to resell were chosen based on many years of experience dealing in pre-owned technology. So our advice to you, dear reader, is this: If you go for more affordable tech, upgrade it more frequently so that you can still sell your old stuff and put that cash towards a newer, better model. And lastly, if you want to know what your gadget is worth today, do not hesitate to visit GadgetSalvation.com for a free instant estimate!

Originally published at https://www.gadgetsalvation.com on April 24, 2023.