What to Do with My Old Computers?

General
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I’ve got a couple of old computers(PC/Mac) lying around at home, and I’m not sure what to do with them. They still work, but they’re too slow for what I need now. I don’t want to just toss them out, so I’m looking for suggestions.

Should I try upgrading them, donating, or maybe recycling? What do you guys usually do with your old machines? Any tips on wiping the data securely before getting rid of them?

Thanks in advance for your advice!

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As technology evolves at a rapid pace, it’s easy to accumulate old computers that no longer meet your needs. Whether it’s an outdated PC or Mac, deciding what to do with old computers can be a challenge. Tossing it in the trash isn’t the best option both for security reasons and the environment.

I think the first step is to evaluate the condition of your old computer.

Is it still functional? If it powers on and operates, even slowly, it may be worth upgrading or repurposing. If it’s beyond repair, recycling might be the best route. You should also check the hardware specifications—older machines may still have some valuable components, such as memory or storage drives, that could be reused.

For example, to test the hardware health: For Mac, you can read(How to Check Hard Disk Health on Mac?); For Windows, you can read(How to Perform SSD Health Check?)

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Why not check the storage on them?

If you feel it can be reused, clean the disk space, then put it into usage.

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When you have new and better computers, there is a good chance that you will not use the old equipment anymore.
If you don’t wanna give it away, you can choose to sell it or give it to people at home and around you who need it.
Before selling or donating, remember to backup all data and wipe them.

(1) Even if you haven’t used the machine in a while, there may be documents, photos, or software licenses you don’t want to lose. Transfer your data to an external hard drive or use cloud storage options like Google Drive, Dropbox, or iCloud. This ensures your files are safe before moving forward.
(2) To protect your personal information, you should securely wipe the hard drive before parting with your old computer. Simply deleting files isn’t enough—specialized software can permanently erase the data.
Some professional tools can help you wipe all the data completely: iBoysoft DiskGeeker, which can clean all the files, to avoid being recovered.
iBoysoft DiskGeerker for Windows and iBoysoft DiskGeeker for Mac.

For an added layer of security, consider physically removing the hard drive if you plan to recycle or donate.

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Whether you need to do what, the safest way is to wip it then consider:

  • Repurpose: If your old machine still works, consider repurposing it for lighter tasks. You could use it as a media center for streaming movies, a file server, or even a backup device. Older computers can also be good for web browsing or as an educational tool for children.
  • Recycle: If the computer is beyond practical use, recycling is the most eco-friendly choice. Many electronics stores and e-waste recycling centers accept old computers and ensure that hazardous materials are properly handled. Be sure to find a certified e-waste recycler that adheres to environmental guidelines.
  • Sell or Donate: If the computer still has some life left in it, consider selling it online or donating it to someone in need. Many schools, charities, and community organizations accept old computers and refurbish them for use. When donating, it’s always a good idea to confirm the organization can use the equipment and that it’s in suitable condition.

Hope you can make a smart choice.