In brief: Newegg is broadening its GPU trade-in program to incorporate another kind of PC hardware: CPUs. The e-retailer has partnered with Intel to roll out a PC trade-in program that lets users trade in qualifying items, including desktops, provided they are no older than 7 years.
Similar to Newegg’s GPU trade-in program that launched in September of last year, the CPU option allows customers to send in their old processors for credit towards a new CPU.
Newegg claims that their program is unique because customers can see the trade-in value for their current CPU or GPU upfront, purchase the new product, and then send in their old hardware later, ensuring they are never without a vital component. Once Newegg tests the old CPU/GPU and confirms functionality, the trade-in credit will be refunded.
Newegg’s CPU trade-in program accepts a limited range of processors. Only Intel chips from the 12th, 13th, and 14th generations are eligible, while AMD processors are limited to the Ryzen 7000 series.
Another similarity with the GPU program is the questionable trade-in values Newegg offers for used CPUs. For example, the highest amount, $320, is for a Ryzen 9 7950X3D, which is roughly half of what it could sell for on eBay. Here are the rest of the prices.
The GPU program also underscores that selling older hardware on eBay could be more lucrative if you’re looking for an upgrade, even with its 10% fee deducted from the final selling price. For instance, Newegg offers $447 for an RTX 4070 Ti Asus ROG Strix 12G Gaming, while the same models fetch around $700 or more on the auction site.
Newegg is also teaming up with Intel to enable customers to trade in devices when purchasing a new PC equipped with an Intel processor until August 11. Eligible devices include desktops, laptops, 2-in-1s, convertibles, detachables, MacBooks, iPads, and Chromebooks, all of which must be no older than seven years. The devices should be operational and undamaged, except for reasonable wear and tear. Newegg promises gift cards valued up to $400 for eligible trade-ins and offers free postage for sending in old hardware.
Despite the unattractive trade-in prices and the risk that a used item could be rejected, Newegg states it has received “thousands of eligible pre-owned graphics cards” since launching the program. Like CPUs, these will be sold as part of its refurbished product line.
Intel is likely hoping that its trade-in partnership with Newegg boosts its business. The company is currently coping with a crashing Raptor Lake CPU crisis that might lead to a class-action lawsuit. Additionally, it is reportedly planning to lay off thousands of employees in a cost-cutting effort.
