Electronics lose value quickly as newer models arrive, batteries wear down and software support changes. Garage sale buyers also cannot easily tell whether a device works, so a clear test, complete accessories and an honest description can make the difference between a sale and a pass.
Electronics price chart
These are starting ranges from our electronics price guide. Age, condition, included accessories and local demand all matter. Price older models toward the low end, and check current sold listings before pricing anything unusually collectible.
| Item | Typical garage sale price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Flat-screen TV, smaller size | $20-$100 | Range varies by size, age and remote; show it powered on. |
| Flat-screen TV, medium size | $20-$100 | Include the remote and any stand or cables. |
| Flat-screen TV, larger size | $20-$100 | Let buyers see the screen working; arrange safe pickup. |
| DVD or Blu-ray player | See notes | No separate player range is listed in the price guide; test playback and include the remote if available. |
| Older game console | $40-$150 | Test power, video output and controllers. |
| Previous-generation console | $40-$150 | Include power and video cables; sign out of accounts. |
| Video game | $5-$30 | Check that the disc or cartridge matches the case. |
| Laptop, 5+ years old | $50-$250 | Price depends on condition and working battery; wipe the drive. |
| Tablet | $20-$100 | Factory reset it and remove accounts and memory cards. |
| Older phone | $10-$60 | Remove SIM and SD cards and factory reset it. |
| Digital camera | $15-$100 | Include a working battery, charger and memory card only if wiped. |
| Bluetooth speaker or soundbar | $5-$25 | Test sound and include the power cable or remote. |
| Headphones | $5-$30 | Clean them and demonstrate that both sides work. |
| Printer | See notes | No printer range is listed in the price guide; include ink status and test a page. |
| Router | $5-$20 | Reset it and remove saved network settings if applicable. |
| Cables and chargers (bag) | See notes | Bundle compatible, working cables; do not sell recalled chargers. |
| CRT TV | See notes | Hard to sell and heavy; check local e-waste rules before disposal. |
| Small kitchen electronics | $4-$20 | Toasters are $4-$8, coffee makers $5-$20 and blenders $5-$15; see the kitchen price guide. |
Test it and prove it works
Keep an outlet or extension cord nearby, and have fresh batteries for battery-powered devices. Let shoppers test items where it is safe and practical. A simple "tested and working" tag tells buyers what you checked; be specific about missing parts or faults.
For anything you cannot test, use this short wording: "Untested - sold as-is; operation unknown." Price it accordingly and do not imply that it works.
Wipe your data before you sell
Treat any device that stores personal information as a privacy risk. Back up anything you want to keep, then use the device's current reset or secure erase option and confirm it returns to its initial setup screen.
- Factory reset phones and tablets after backing up anything you need.
- Sign out of Apple ID, Google and console accounts, and remove the device from account lists when available.
- Remove SIM cards and SD or other memory cards; do not leave personal storage behind.
- Reformat or securely erase laptop and PC drives before sale. If you cannot verify the erase, remove the drive and sell the computer without it, clearly labeled.
What not to sell
Do not put recalled chargers or damaged power adapters on the table. Never sell lithium batteries that are swollen, punctured, leaking or otherwise damaged. Keep damaged batteries away from heat and follow local hazardous-waste guidance for handling and disposal. Read what not to sell for more items to leave out.
Display and haggling tips
Group electronics together, keep accessories with their device and label what is included. Use the price guide to compare ranges and print clear tags with the sticker maker. For a tidy layout, see setup and display ideas; decide your lowest acceptable price before shoppers arrive and use these how to haggle tips to keep offers friendly.
Leftovers
Take working electronics to a resale or donation option if accepted. Recycle broken devices, cables and batteries through an appropriate e-waste program, and check local rules for CRT televisions. See what to do with leftovers after a garage sale for more cleanup options.
Frequently asked questions
How much should I sell a TV for at a garage sale?
A working flat-screen TV typically sells for $20-$100. Size, age, condition and whether the remote is included affect where it fits in that range.
Do old video games sell?
Yes. Ordinary video games are listed at $5-$30 in the price guide. Check condition and research collectible titles separately before pricing them.
Should I sell a phone at a garage sale?
You can sell an older phone, typically around $10-$60, after backing it up, signing out of accounts, removing SIM and SD cards, and factory resetting it.
How do I prove an item works?
Set out an outlet or extension cord, bring batteries for battery devices and let shoppers test items safely. Tag working items as tested and working; label untested items honestly.
What do I do with electronics that don't sell?
Offer working items through an appropriate resale or donation option. Take unwanted electronics and batteries to local e-waste recycling, following local rules for CRT TVs and damaged batteries.