Selling PC parts: photos, testing and posting
Turn your old graphics card, processor or memory into cash: test it, photograph what buyers look for, describe its history and send it safely.
Upgraded your graphics card, processor or memory? The old part can pay for a good chunk of the new one. Buyers of single parts are careful, because they can't always test before they pay, so a clear, honest listing sells faster.
Test it before you list it
If you can, run the part one last time before you take it out: a game or benchmark for a graphics card or processor, a memory test such as MemTest86 for RAM, and CrystalDiskInfo for a drive. Take a screenshot of the result. It's the most convincing thing you can add to a listing.
Photos that answer buyers' questions
- The front and back of the part, in good light, on a plain surface.
- The connectors: the gold contacts on a graphics card or memory stick, the pins or pads on a processor, and the power sockets.
- The model label, so buyers can see exactly what it is.
- The box and anything else included, such as cables, brackets or a cooler.
- Any marks or damage, close up. Buyers trust sellers who show the flaws.
Cover all but the last few characters of any serial number. A buyer doesn't need the full number until they've bought it.
Describe its history
Say how old it is, what it was used for, and whether it was overclocked, repasted or repaired. If a graphics card was used for mining, say so: buyers will ask anyway, and honesty avoids disputes. When you create the listing, pick the part's category and choose it from the list so the full name and specs fill in for you.
Pricing
Look at what the same part is listed for in its category, then price a little below the newest, boxed examples if yours has been used a lot or has no box. When you list, the price check on the final step shows the typical range once there are enough similar parts to compare. Our pricing guide has more tips.
Collection or post
- Collection lets the buyer see the part working, which is reassuring for both of you. Offer to show it running if you still have the PC.
- If you post it, use an anti-static bag, the original box if you have it, and plenty of padding. Pay for a tracked, insured service that covers the full value, and keep the receipt.
- For processors, close the socket cover or use the original clamshell so nothing gets bent.