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Looking to turn your broken TV into cash?
It’s frustrating, especially when TVs are such a central part of our entertainment these days. Replacing one can strain the wallet, particularly if you weren’t expecting it.
The good news is that even broken TVs have value. There are several options for selling them and recouping some of your investment. Let’s go through the best avenues to get you some cash for your broken TV.
Can you really sell broken TVs?
In the past, selling a broken TV was easy. Now, things are a bit different. With the rise of complex components and stricter recycling regulations, many electronics companies shy away from taking them or even charge a disposal fee.
Here’s the good news: broken TVs still hold value! The relative affordability of modern TVs might make them seem worthless, but their parts can be useful for repairs or hobbyists. Don’t worry; I’m here to guide you through the best ways to turn your broken TV into cash. Keep reading to discover your options!
Where can I sell a broken TV for cash near me & online?
Frustrated with a broken TV and wondering how to turn it into cash? Don’t worry, even damaged TVs hold some value! Here’s your guide to selling your broken flat screen, curved, LCD, QLED, LED, or any other type of TV, smart or not.
We’ll explore a mix of local and online options to get you the best deal. Whether you prefer a quick in-person transaction or a wider online audience, there’s a solution for you.
Let’s dive into the best places to get cash for your broken TV.
1. eBay
eBay can be a great platform to sell your broken TV, especially if you want a wider audience. With over 182 million active buyers, there’s a good chance you’ll find someone interested in your TV for parts or repair.
One of eBay’s biggest advantages is the ability to set your price. Research what similar broken TVs are selling for to ensure your price is realistic.
Keep in mind that eBay charges seller fees when your item sells. To maximize your profit, consider offering local pickup only to avoid shipping costs. This can also speed up the transaction for both you and the buyer.
2. 5miles
Local online marketplaces like 5miles cater specifically to buying and selling used items in your area. This can be a great option if you’d prefer a face-to-face transaction to avoid shipping costs.
5miles offers a wide range of categories, including electronics, making it easy to list your broken TV. The best part? They don’t charge commission fees on your sale, so you keep 100% of the profit. However, there are listing fees associated with putting your TV up for sale, so factor those in when determining your final price.
3. OfferUp
OfferUp, another popular online marketplace similar to 5miles, is a great option for selling your broken TV locally. OfferUp recently merged with LetGo, creating an even larger user base for potential buyers.
Listing your TV on OfferUp is quick and easy. You can showcase your TV with photos and descriptions, and since it caters to local buyers, you can arrange a convenient face-to-face transaction and avoid shipping costs. This can also be a good security measure, allowing you to meet the buyer and verify their identity before handing over the TV.
4. Varage Sale
There are even hyper-local options like VarageSale to consider. This online platform functions like a virtual garage sale, allowing you to sell various items, including broken TVs, to people in your immediate area.
The benefit of VarageSale is the focus on local buyers. This can streamline the transaction process by eliminating shipping needs and allowing you to arrange a quick and secure in-person exchange.
5. Shpock
Here’s another option: Shpock, an online marketplace with the motto “shop in your pocket.” Like OfferUp and 5miles, Shpock lets you list and sell various items, including broken TVs, to local buyers.
The biggest advantage of Shpock is its fee structure—there are zero commissions or listing fees! This means you keep 100% of the profit from the sale. Just be sure to factor in any potential shipping costs when setting your price.
6. eBid
eBay isn’t the only online auction game in town! If you’re looking for an alternative platform to sell your broken TV, consider eBid. Like eBay, eBid offers a vast marketplace with over 25,000 categories, including electronics, making it a suitable platform for your broken TV.
However, eBid functions slightly differently. They offer tiered membership plans. The free “Basic Seller” account is perfect for casual sellers but comes with a 5% final value fee when your item sells.
To avoid these fees, you can opt for their paid “Seller+” plan. This membership offers fee-free selling but requires a subscription which ranges from $1.99 for a week to a lifetime membership for $139.99 (with occasional special offers).
The best plan depends on how often you sell items. The free Basic Seller account might suffice if you plan to sell your TV quickly and don’t intend to use eBid frequently. However, for frequent sellers, the paid Seller+ plan can offer significant cost savings in the long run.
7. TV Repair Shops
Local TV repair shops can be a hidden gem when selling your broken TV. These businesses often refurbish and resell TVs, so they might be interested in buying yours for parts or repair.
Finding them is simple. Go to your favorite search engine and type “TV repair shop near me.” If the results aren’t ideal, try broader terms like “who buys broken TVs near me” or “places that buy broken TVs for parts.” This will include electronics stores, repair shops, and even pawnshops that might be interested in your TV.
A quick call ahead can save you a trip. Simply ask if they buy broken TVs – you don’t want to lug your TV around unnecessarily!
8. Craigslist
Craigslist can be another avenue to explore for selling your broken TV locally. It’s a free platform where you might find hobbyists or repair enthusiasts looking for TVs for parts or refurbishment projects.
The biggest perk? Craigslist doesn’t charge listing fees, so you keep 100% of the sale proceeds. This makes it a budget-friendly option compared to marketplaces with seller fees or listing costs.
Remember, creating a compelling listing with clear descriptions and good-quality photos is key to attracting potential buyers on Craigslist.
9. Yard Sale
Let’s focus on alternative local options besides repair shops. Consider a yard sale!
It’s a great way to sell your broken TV directly to someone in your community. Just be upfront about the TV’s condition in your advertisement and at the sale itself. This transparency will attract the right buyer, potentially someone who repairs electronics or enjoys tinkering.
Yard sales offer the benefit of a face-to-face transaction, so you get paid on the spot and avoid shipping hassles. While you might not always find a buyer at your yard sale, it presents a low-effort opportunity to potentially turn your broken TV into some quick cash.
10. Facebook Marketplace
Social media platforms like Facebook Marketplace can be a great resource for selling your broken TV locally. Since it caters to users in your area, you can arrange a convenient in-person exchange and avoid shipping costs.
Here’s the beauty of Facebook Marketplace: potential buyers might be hobbyists or repair enthusiasts looking for a project TV. They might be able to fix your cracked screen or use parts from your TV for their electronic tinkering.
Listing your TV on Facebook Marketplace is simple and free. To attract the right buyer, include clear descriptions and photos of the TV’s condition.
11. Buyback Boss
There are several ways to sell your broken TV, but consider Buyback Boss for a quick and hassle-free experience. This reputable company specializes in buying used electronics, including TVs in various conditions.
They boast an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and a stellar 4.8-star review average on Trustpilot, giving you peace of mind when selling your broken TV.
The process is simple:
- Visit their website and answer a few questions about your TV’s condition. They’ll then provide you with an instant quote.
- If you accept the offer, Buyback Boss will send you a prepaid shipping label so you can track your TV’s journey.
- Once they receive it, they’ll send your payment the same day via check or directly to your PayPal account – the choice is yours!
12. ClassifiedAds.com
Like Craigslist, ClassifiedAds.com is another free online classifieds platform where you can sell your broken TV locally. Set your own price and target potential buyers in your area who might be interested in a repair project or parts.
When selling locally on sites like Craigslist or ClassifiedAds.com, prioritize clear communication and transparency about the TV’s condition in your ad and during interactions with potential buyers. This will help attract the right buyer and ensure a smooth transaction.
Places to recycle your old TV for free
Even though selling your broken TV can earn you some cash, recycling is a responsible alternative, especially if it’s in rough shape.
Let’s explore some options for free TV recycling!
13. MRM Recycling
The Electronic Manufacturers Recycling Management Company (MRM Recycling) has a nationwide network of drop-off locations. Visit their website to find the closest one to you.
MRM Recycling recommends contacting the specific drop-off location beforehand to confirm operating hours and potential restrictions. This quick call can ensure a smooth and hassle-free TV recycling experience.
14. The LG Electronics Recycling Program
If you have a broken LG TV, you’re in luck! LG Electronics offers a convenient and responsible recycling program for its consumer electronics brand. This program allows you to drop off unwanted or damaged LG TVs at over 1,000 designated locations across the United States.
For added flexibility, LG also provides a mail-back option. They’ll send you a pre-paid shipping label so you can return your TV to their recycling partners at no cost.
Visit the LG Electronics Recycling Program website to learn more and find a nearby drop-off location. It’s a simple and eco-friendly way to dispose of your old LG TV.
15. Samsung Recycling Program
Likewise, Samsung offers a robust recycling program for its TVs.
Visit their website to explore their various recycling options. They provide clear instructions and a locator tool to find certified recyclers that accept Samsung TVs in your area. This is a convenient and responsible way to dispose of your old Samsung television.
The bottom line
Disposing of a broken TV can feel daunting, but there are more options than you might think! Unlike smaller electronics like phones or tablets, TVs require different strategies.
The good news is there’s a solution for everyone. If you’re looking to recoup some cash, several avenues are available. Online marketplaces like eBay, OfferUp, or Facebook Marketplace can connect you with local buyers searching for parts or repairable TVs. You can also try selling directly to a local TV repair shop that might refurbish your TV for resale.
For a quick and hassle-free experience, companies like Buyback Boss offer instant quotes and handle shipping.
Several programs offer free TV recycling if your TV is beyond repair and you prioritize eco-friendly disposal. Manufacturers like LG and Samsung have established recycling initiatives, and companies like MRM provide nationwide drop-off locations.
So, don’t just toss your broken TV to the curb! Explore these options, turn your unwanted electronics into cash, or contribute to a more sustainable future through responsible recycling.