Make money on your old electronics

NEW YORK (WABC) -- Got an old computer stashed in a storage room? Or an ancient cell phone junked in a

kitchen drawer? Just in time for Earth Day, Consumer Reports ShopSmart magazine

has some advice on what to do with old electronics and maybe make money in the

process.

If your gadget is new enough, you can actually turn it in for cash or a gift card. In

ShopSmart's search, a Samsung Galaxy S 2 fetched $94 and an Apple iPad 2, $190.

ShopSmart found the website Glyde often quoted the highest prices. Amazon proved

best for random gadgets, like hard drives and speakers. And NextWorth, allows you to

send items in, or drop them off at stores including Target.

ShopSmart says that you really have to check different sites, at different times because

prices vary from site to site, and prices can change over time. If the price you're

offered doesn't seem worth it, consider a donation. Cristina.org connects you with local

organizations that accept old electronics.

Of course, some items are just not wanted by anyone. But you should still recycle them

responsibly. Stores such as Staples and Best Buy will take old computers off your

hands. Or drop them off at a local recycling center. At the very least, you can keep more

junk out of the landfills.

Whatever you do with your old electronics, be sure to wipe them clean of all your

personal data first.