If you’re currently navigating the world of Windows 10, you may be aware that Microsoft is set to discontinue support for the operating system in the near future. As the six-month countdown begins, users face a pivotal decision: remain with an unsupported system or transition to Windows 11. To ease the financial burden of upgrading, Microsoft has proposed an intriguing solution—trading in your Windows 10 PC to fund the purchase of a new Windows 11 device. While this suggestion may seem a bit misguided, it raises an interesting question: how much could you realistically expect to receive for your Windows 10 PC?
How much can you get for a Windows 10 PC?
The answer to this question is as complex as it is variable. Several factors influence the trade-in value of a PC, including the generation and model of the CPU, the amount of RAM and storage, and whether the machine is equipped with a dedicated GPU. For instance, a 5th-generation Intel i3 will fetch a different price than a 7th-generation i7. The presence of a robust GPU can also significantly impact the value—after all, not all graphics cards are created equal.
In my exploration of potential trade-in values, I focused on PCs featuring 7th-generation Intel CPUs, as these are on the cusp of obsolescence for Windows 11 eligibility. While Microsoft initially suggested that 8th to 10th generation chips would be the standard for new OEM devices, the reality is that many users are still operating with older hardware.
To gauge the market, I filtered eBay listings to identify 7th-generation PCs that had actually sold. The results were telling: basic workstations typically sold for around to , while gaming PCs occasionally reached up to 0. Mid-range systems averaged around 0. After analyzing the first 30 sales, I calculated an average trade-in value of approximately 5, which I rounded down to 0 for a more conservative estimate. This figure likely decreases for PCs with older CPUs, as demand for such machines wanes.
So, what can you get for 0?
With a hypothetical 0 from selling your Windows 10 PC, what options are available for upgrading to Windows 11? Let’s explore the possibilities:
1. One quarter of a new Windows 11 workstation
Starting with the most basic new systems, I searched Newegg for the least expensive Windows 11 PC. The MSI PRO DP21 Tiny Business Desktop emerged at a price of 9. While it boasts a 1TB SSD and 32GB of RAM, it represents the lower end of the market.
2. About one-half of a refurbished or second-hand Windows 11 workstation
Turning to refurbished or second-hand options, the outlook improves slightly. These units typically average around 0, meaning your 0 trade-in would cover about half the cost. While this route is more feasible, it still requires additional investment.
3. Almost the full price of a Windows 11 Home license
Perhaps the most disheartening realization is that selling your Windows 10 machine may not even cover the cost of a Windows 11 Home license, which retails for 9.99. While discounts can be found, it’s surprising that the sale of an entire system falls short of this price point.
Find a new life for your Windows 10 machine
Given the current landscape, it appears that selling your Windows 10 machine may not yield the financial return you hope for. Instead, consider repurposing the device by installing a different operating system, allowing you to extend its life and utility without the need for a costly upgrade.
