Selling a laptop with a broken screen or minor damage may seem difficult, but it’s not impossible. In fact, many specialized platforms—like Gadget Salvation—accept laptops with physical defects as long as they are functional and power on. If your device has issues such as a worn-out keyboard, damaged ports, or a cracked screen, you can still get a fair payout.
In this article, we’ll explain how to sell a damaged laptop and maximize its value.
Can I sell a laptop with a broken screen or minor damage?
Yes, you can sell a laptop with a cracked screen or other defects, as long as the device powers on and functions to some extent. Resellers like Gadget Salvation purchase laptops with:
- Cracked or stained screens.
- Damaged ports.
- Worn-out keyboards.
- Scratched or cracked casing.
What matters is that the laptop is functional and that you can accurately describe its condition.
How much less will I get for a laptop with a broken screen?
Physical damage does affect resale value, but it doesn’t mean you can’t get a solid offer. Some factors that influence the price include:
- Severity of the damage: A small crack will lower the value less than a completely unusable screen.
- Brand and model: Premium laptops like Apple or Dell XPS retain higher value even with damage.
- Specs: Powerful processors, high RAM, or SSD storage remain valuable despite cosmetic issues.
On average, you could receive between 30% to 70% of the value of a fully functional laptop, depending on the damage.
Is it worth repairing the screen before selling?
Not always. Screen repairs can be expensive—especially on high-end models. Before deciding:
- Compare the repair cost to the expected increase in resale value.
- Consider that resellers like Gadget Salvation already factor repair costs into their offer, saving you the hassle.
In many cases, selling the damaged laptop is more cost-effective than paying for a repair.
Other factors that affect the value: Keyboard, battery, and ports
While the screen is usually the most expensive component to repair, other parts also influence the final value:
- Keyboard: If some keys are broken, but the keyboard still works, the price impact may be minimal.
- Battery: A battery with poor life affects the value, but not as much as structural damage.
- Ports: USB, HDMI, or charging ports should work properly. If one or two are faulty, but the rest of the laptop functions well, the impact on price is usually minor.
Platforms that buy damaged laptops
There are several options for selling laptops with minor damage, but not all offer a smooth or fair process:
- Gadget Salvation: Buys functional laptops with cracked screens or other damage. Offers instant quotes, fast payment, and a hassle-free process.
- Online marketplaces (eBay, Marketplace): You can find buyers, but you’ll need to handle inquiries, negotiations, and potential returns.
- Repair shops: Sometimes buy devices for parts, but they typically offer lower prices.
How to describe damage when selling your laptop
Being honest and detailed is key to avoiding misunderstandings and getting a fair offer:
- Mention if the screen has cracks, discoloration, or backlight issues.
- Describe any damage to the casing, keyboard, or ports.
- Clarify whether the laptop powers on and is usable.
- Include clear photos showing the damage from different angles.
On platforms like Gadget Salvation, you just need to select the type of damage from a menu, and you’ll receive a quote based on that information.
Sell your damaged laptop easily and securely
Having a cracked screen or other minor issues doesn’t mean your laptop has lost all its value. Platforms like Gadget Salvation make it easy to sell working laptops with defects quickly and without complications.
Get a fair offer, skip unnecessary repair expenses, and turn your damaged laptop into fast cash. Cracked screen? No problem! Sell your laptop now!

Frequently asked questions
Can I sell a laptop with a cracked screen or minor damage?
Yes, as long as the device is functional and powers on, platforms like Gadget Salvation will accept it.
How much does a cracked screen affect resale value?
Depending on the model and severity, resale value may drop by 30% to 70%.
Should I repair the screen before selling?
Not necessarily. If the repair is expensive, it may not be worth it. You can sell it as-is to Gadget Salvation.
Does the condition of the keyboard, battery, or ports affect the price?
Yes, but they have a smaller impact than the screen. The better the laptop functions overall, the more you can get for it.
Where can I sell damaged laptops?
Gadget Salvation is a specialized and reliable option for selling laptops with minor damage or cracked screens.
How should I describe the damage when selling my laptop?
Be clear and honest, and include photos that accurately show the laptop’s current condition.
Sources consulted:
- https://thelinuxcode.com/sell-broken-laptop/