What is my old computer worth?
A practical guide to valuing an old computer before you sell it, keep it, or pass it on.
What is my old computer worth?
It depends on four things: whether it works, whether it has its box and manuals, how rare the model is, and how much people remember it. A common working home computer from the 1980s often sells for less than people expect; boxed, tested machines and rare models sell for much more.
How do I check the real value?
Search for your exact model on eBay and filter by sold listings, not asking prices. Compare only listings in the same condition as yours (working or not, boxed or loose).
Should I clean or repair it before selling?
Clean the outside gently. Do not switch on a machine that has not been used for decades without checking the power supply and capacitors: many old power supplies fail and can damage the computer. Buyers pay more for 'tested and working' with a photo of it running.
Which old computers are worth the most?
Early and rare machines such as the Apple I and the Altair 8800 are museum pieces. For everyday machines, complete boxed sets, unusual colour versions and computers with their original software and games are worth the most.
Where should I sell it?
eBay reaches collectors worldwide. Retro computing forums, fairs and local collector groups are good for heavy machines that are expensive to post.
Find your computer
Every computer in the atlas has its own page with specs, launch price in today's money and a link to current listings. Browse all computers or see what they cost new.