With 73% of Filipino households owning at least 3 unused electronic devices (DICT 2024 survey), knowing where to sell old gadgets can put extra ₱5,000-₱50,000 in your pocket. This comprehensive guide compares all selling options—from pawnshops to Facebook Marketplace—with real-world price tests conducted in Manila, Cebu, and Davao.
Understanding Your Selling Options
1. Pawnshops (Quick Cash but Lower Value)
Best For: Immediate cash needs (within 1 hour)
Typical Offers:
- Smartphones: 30-50% of original price
- Laptops: 25-40% of market value
- TVs: 20-35% of purchase price
Top Chains:
- Cebuana Lhuillier - Most branches nationwide
- Palawan Pawnshop - Best for provincial sellers
- M Lhuillier - Highest offers for Apple products
Pro Tip:
"Visit on month-end when pawnshops have more cash available" - Former pawnshop manager, Quezon City
2. Online Marketplaces (Higher Profit but Slower)
Platform Comparison:
| Platform | Average Sale Time | Price Premium |
| Facebook Marketplace | 3-7 days | +25% vs pawnshops |
| Carousell | 5-10 days | +15-20% |
| eBay Philippines | 7-14 days | +30-50% |
Success Strategy:
- Post on Sundays (peak browsing time)
- Include original box/accessories (+15% value)
- Use keywords like "RFS" (Reason for Selling)
3. Specialized Buyers (Best for Working Condition Gadgets)
Top Choices:
- CompAsia - Official partner for Samsung/Apple trade-ins
- GreenPhones - Eco-friendly buyer with free pickup
- GameXtreme - Best for gaming consoles
Price Example:
iPhone 11 (128GB)
- Pawnshop: ₱12,000
- Online: ₱15,000
- Specialized Buyer: ₱16,500
4. Physical Buy/Sell Stores (Immediate Payment)
Metro Manila Hotspots:
- Gilmore (Quezon City) - Tech capital of PH
- Greenhills (San Juan) - Best for luxury items
- SM Cyberzone Counters - Convenient but lower offers
Provincial Options:
- Cebu IT Park
- Davao's Claveria Street
- Baguio's Session Road
5. Trade-In Programs (For New Purchases)
Best Deals:
- Power Mac Center - Extra 10% for Apple-to-Apple
- Samsung Experience Stores - Voucher + cash options
- Lazada Trade-In - Free shipping nationwide
Pricing Guide for Common Items
| Device | Pawnshop | Online | Specialist |
| iPhone X | ₱8,000 | ₱10,500 | ₱11,800 |
| MacBook Air M1 | ₱25,000 | ₱32,000 | ₱35,000 |
| PS4 Slim | ₱5,500 | ₱7,000 | ₱7,800 |
| Samsung S20 | ₱7,200 | ₱9,000 | ₱9,600 |
Step-by-Step Selling Process
- Prepare Your DeviceFactory reset (keep proof of ownership)Clean thoroughly (+10% perceived value)Take 3 photos (front, back, accessories)
- Price ResearchCheck completed listings on CarousellGet 3 pawnshop quotes minimum
- Negotiation TacticsStart 15% above target priceMention competing offersBundle accessories for better deals
Avoiding Scams (Red Flags)
🚨 Buyer Warning Signs:
- Requests to meet at odd locations
- Overpayment scams (fake checks)
- "I'll send a courier with payment later"
🚨 Seller Warning Signs:
- Prices 50% above market (likely stolen goods)
- No physical inspection allowed
Maximizing Your Earnings
1. Seasonal Timing
- Best Months: January (after Christmas) & June (school opening)
- Worst Month: December (market flooded)
2. Presentation Matters
- Complete set: +20% value
- Original receipt: +10% value
- Screen protector: +5% value
3. Repair vs. Sell As-Is
- Screen replacement often costs more than value added
- Battery replacement gives best ROI (up to +30%)
Alternative Options
- Donate for Tax DeductionsDSWD-accredited charities provide certificates
- Barter GroupsFacebook groups like "Swap/Trade PH"
- Recycling ProgramsSM malls' e-waste dropboxes
Success Story:
Marites from Cavite earned ₱82,000 by selling 5 old phones + laptop through combination of Greenhills buyers and Carousell.
Final Recommendation
For most sellers:
- First try specialized buyers (CompAsia/GreenPhones)
- Then post on Facebook Marketplace + Carousell
- Finally consider pawnshops if needing immediate cash
Pro Tip: "Create a pricing spreadsheet and update it weekly to track market trends" - Power seller with ₱500k+ annual sales
Disclaimer: Prices fluctuate daily. Verify buyer credentials. All transactions should be done in safe, public spaces.
Sources:
- DICT National Digital Household Survey 2024
- Philippine Pawnshop Association Price Guides
- Online Marketplace Fraud Prevention Reports
- Greenhills Vendors Association Data
- Consumer Protection Group Guidelines
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