Ask Engadget: best way to sell my old gadgets?

We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, then here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget inquiry is from Todd, who has fallen out of love with his aging gadgets and wants to swap 'em back for some money. If you're looking to ask one of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com.

"When upgrading your kit, you'll naturally want to sell your old hardware. eBay has been the go-to place to auction your items, but lately its newer policies leave a lot of holes for unsavory buyers to exploit sellers. I've had a $1,200 laptop stolen from me, and I'm sure others have experienced similar, so I'd like to ask what's the best way to sell a used gadget?"

Well Todd, while we wouldn't ever dream of getting rid of gadgets (an Engadget editor's apartment is very much like a technology-focused episode of Hoarders), we won't judge your desire for minimalism. As such:

• Stores like Amazon and Best Buy offer trade-in programs for your old gear, the only downside being that you're paid in credits for that particular establishment.
• Online recycling services like Gazelle, NextWorth and CashforGadgets have you send the gear in and judge it based on its criteria. While you'll probably not get the most money for your gear, the process is relatively easy.
• Other than that, you could always enlist the services of an independent retailer who buys and sells second-hand tech or, you know... sell it privately.

Let's turn the question over to the Engadget fraternity, and see what successes and failures they've had when it comes to flogging their gadgets -- you know what to do, folks.

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