The Growing Market for Used IT Gear and What It Means for Your Business

​Is your business sitting on ageing hardware that's still in good condition? You could be missing a valuable opportunity to sell used IT equipment and recover costs. 

With over 50 million tons of e-waste generated globally each year, an increasing number of companies are recognising the financial and environmental benefits of recycling and reselling technology.

In today's cloud-driven world, hardware upgrades are happening faster than ever—but that doesn't mean your old equipment is obsolete. Whether you're migrating to cloud infrastructure, downsizing your data center, or transitioning to hybrid work, the ability to sell used IT equipment can significantly offset upgrade expenses and reduce your carbon footprint.

This thriving secondary market for refurbished gear is no longer just for startups or nonprofits.

Forward-thinking enterprises of all sizes are tapping into this model to support ESG goals, lower operational costs, and stay agile without overinvesting in new hardware.

​What happens to enterprise-grade hardware when companies upgrade or move to the cloud? 

Surprisingly, it's not destined for the landfill. Instead, this equipment—servers, routers, switches, laptops, hard drives, and more—is given a second life. 

With over $3 billion in global secondary IT hardware sales annually, the demand for used IT gear is stronger than ever.

Whether a business downsized, migrated to cloud-based platforms, or simply over-purchased, this "retired" equipment is often fully functional. It's professionally wiped, refurbished, and tested before being reintroduced to the market through certified resellers, IT asset disposition (ITAD) providers, online marketplaces, or broker networks.

Many sellers specialize in trusted brands like Cisco, Dell, or HP, offering high-performance equipment at up to 75% less than the cost of new. 

It's a smart move for organizations running hybrid setups that blend cloud with on-premise infrastructure—giving them enterprise-grade hardware at a fraction of the cost.

The secondary market for used IT equipment has exploded in recent years. 

Economic uncertainty, supply chain disruptions, and the global shift to hybrid work have all contributed to a surge in demand for refurbished IT hardware. 

According to IDC, the market for refurbished IT and telecom equipment is projected to reach $91 billion by 2026, reflecting just how mainstream second-hand tech has become. 

So, what's trending in the used IT world right now?

• Hybrid Work Is Fueling Demand for Refurbished Hardware - As companies embrace remote and hybrid work models, there's been a sharp rise in demand for refurbished laptops, network switches, docking stations, and routers. Businesses are reconfiguring office setups and equipping home offices with reliable gear—without breaking the bank. According to Gartner, 74% of CFOs plan to shift some employees to remote work permanently, making cost-effective IT provisioning essential. Refurbished IT equipment allows businesses to stay agile while meeting performance and connectivity needs.
• Data Center Downsizing Creates Supply - The rise of cloud-based solutions like AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud has led to significant downsizing of on-premises data centers. Many companies are decommissioning equipment that's still in excellent condition—servers, storage systems, and firewalls that are only a few years old. This creates a consistent influx of high-quality, enterprise-grade hardware into the resale market. For IT buyers, this means access to powerful equipment at up to 70% off retail prices.
• Refurbished Is the New Normal - Gone are the days when "refurbished" meant "unreliable." Today's refurbished IT gear often comes certified, tested, and warrantied, backed by reputable IT asset disposition (ITAD) vendors. Many companies now prefer refurbished over new—not only for the price savings, but for faster deployment times. New devices often have lead times of weeks or months, while refurbished hardware can be delivered and installed within days.
• Sustainability Is Influencing Buying Decisions - Environmental impact is a top priority in procurement today. The United Nations reports that e-waste is the fastest-growing waste stream, with over 53.6 million metric tons generated globally in 2019 alone. As organizations pursue Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) goals, policies are shifting toward green IT strategies—buying refurbished gear, leasing instead of buying, and extending product lifecycles. Governments and enterprises alike are embedding these strategies into RFPs and purchasing policies.

For businesses of all sizes, these trends open the door to smarter IT investments. 

Whether you're looking to sell used IT equipment after migrating to the cloud, or source budget-friendly hardware to support a growing remote team, the used IT market delivers both performance and sustainability. 

As the industry evolves, participating in the circular economy of IT hardware isn't just good for your budget—it's good for the planet.

With the growing popularity of the secondary IT hardware market, many businesses are asking: What kind of IT equipment can I actually sell or buy? 

Whether you're offloading old infrastructure or looking for cost-effective upgrades, there's a wide range of tech assets that hold value—even after years of use.

From enterprise-grade servers to everyday peripherals, the options are vast. 

Here's a breakdown of the most common—and most valuable—items in today's used IT ecosystem.

• Servers and Storage Devices - Refurbished servers are among the most in-demand items in the secondhand IT market. Brands like Dell PowerEdge, HP ProLiant, and IBM System x continue to hold their value, especially when they're only 2–4 years old.
• Alongside servers, storage arrays—including SANs (Storage Area Networks) and NAS (Network Attached Storage)—are frequently bought and sold by companies scaling their cloud or hybrid environments.
• Networking Equipment - Switches, routers, firewalls, and access points from brands like Cisco, Juniper, Ubiquiti, and Fortinet are also hot commodities. These are essential for maintaining secure and scalable internal networks, especially in remote or multi-location environments. Used networking gear is particularly valuable for organizations looking to expand infrastructure without committing to long-term leases or expensive new hardware.
• Laptops and Desktops - Modern businesses regularly refresh employee laptops and desktops, making these devices top choices for resale and refurbishment. Equipment from Lenovo, HP, Dell, and Apple tends to perform well in the resale market, especially if it's less than 5 years old and in good condition. This is especially relevant as hybrid work models increase demand for affordable devices that can support remote teams.
• Monitors, Peripherals, and Accessories - Don't overlook the small stuff. Monitors, docking stations, keyboards, mice, external drives, and even webcams are frequently purchased in bulk by schools, nonprofits, and startups. While they may not sell for high prices individually, grouping peripherals together can improve resale value.
• Telephony and Video Conferencing Equipment - With more meetings going virtual, VoIP phones, conference cameras, and speaker systems are also popular resale items. Brands like Polycom, Cisco Webex, and Yealink retain good value when properly tested and reset to factory settings.

The used IT equipment market is more robust than ever, offering businesses a chance to sell old IT gear and reinvest the value—or buy refurbished hardware to scale up without breaking the bank. 

Whether you're upgrading to the cloud or just cleaning out storage rooms, consider the value your old hardware still holds.

Want help getting started? 

Reach out to a certified ITAD (IT Asset Disposition) partner who can evaluate, erase, and resell your equipment responsibly—keeping your business efficient, sustainable, and budget-smart.

​Are you still discarding old servers and networking hardware when upgrading your infrastructure? 

If so, you're missing out on significant value. 

The decision to buy or sell used IT equipment is no longer just about saving money—it's a smart business move that supports sustainability, equity, and long-term scalability.

Here's why businesses of all sizes are now tapping into the refurbished IT equipment market:

​New enterprise-grade IT hardware is often overpriced, especially when scaling hybrid or cloud-based environments. 

Fortunately, refurbished servers, laptops, and routers from certified resellers can offer up to 70% in cost savings, without sacrificing performance or reliability. Most of these devices are only 2–3 years old, still supported by OEM warranties, and fully functional.

This makes used equipment ideal for companies building cloud-hybrid infrastructure, managing distributed teams, or setting up temporary office spaces.

​According to the United Nations, over 50 million metric tons of electronic waste is produced globally every year. 

By opting to sell used IT hardware, businesses help reduce the carbon footprint, conserve raw materials, and cut down on landfill waste.

Whether you're aligning with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) frameworks or simply improving your sustainability practices, IT asset recovery is a measurable, eco-conscious strategy.

Refurbished IT gear doesn't just benefit large organizations. 

When companies donate or resell used IT equipment through IT asset disposition (ITAD) partners, it enables access to affordable tech for:

• Nonprofits and NGOs
• Public and underfunded schools
• Startups in emerging markets

This contributes to digital equity, giving smaller organizations the infrastructure needed to compete and grow.

​Many companies are adopting a hybrid IT model, combining cloud services with on-premise hardware for tasks like local file storage, secure VPNs, or compliance-related applications. 

Instead of overspending on new equipment, businesses can buy refurbished firewalls, backup servers, and networking switches to expand on-demand.

This flexibility allows teams to scale operations efficiently while avoiding long-term commitments or budget overruns.

Selling outdated but functional IT equipment is a great way to recover sunk costs. Many certified ITAD providers offer buyback programs, where businesses can:

• Recoup capital
• Ensure secure data erasure
• Comply with disposal regulations

Instead of letting old servers gather dust in a storeroom, put them to use in the IT secondary market—or pass them on to organizations in need.

In today's digital-first world, most companies are focused on cloud migration, software upgrades, and streamlining operations. 

But what happens to the equipment left behind in dusty server rooms or unused storage closets? 

If your business recently transitioned to cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud, you could be sitting on a hidden asset. 

Selling used IT equipment isn't just environmentally responsible—it's financially strategic.

Idle servers, routers, desktops, and other legacy hardware lose value over time. By working with a certified IT asset disposition (ITAD) provider, you can recoup costs, ensure secure data disposal, and give your equipment a second life. 

These vendors either refurbish and resell the gear or recycle components responsibly—making it a win-win for both your balance sheet and the planet.

Pro Tips for Selling Used IT Equipment Effectively

If you're considering offloading outdated gear, follow these best practices to maximize return and protect your data:

• Work with Certified Vendors - Choose R2- or e-Stewards-certified ITAD partners to ensure secure recycling and proper data destruction.
• Maintain a Clean Inventory - List serial numbers, configurations, and asset tags. A detailed inventory speeds up appraisal and avoids misquotes.
• Wipe Data Thoroughly - Before selling, back up your data and use certified data erasure tools to prevent security risks.
• Bundle for Value - Selling equipment as a package—e.g., 10 laptops with 2 servers and peripherals—can fetch better offers from buyers.
• Time It Right - Don't wait too long. The longer hardware sits unused, the more it depreciates.

Ultimately, the ability to sell used IT hardware is a cost-saving and sustainable move that aligns with modern business priorities—from efficiency and compliance to environmental responsibility.

When it comes to selling used IT hardware, maximizing value and minimizing risk starts with choosing the right partner. 

Here are the key factors to evaluate before making a decision:

• Seller Reputation - Before selling your IT equipment, take time to research the buyer's reputation. A company's track record speaks volumes about the reliability and quality of service you can expect. Look for recent customer reviews, testimonials, and case studies that highlight real-world experiences. A trustworthy partner should have a transparent process and a history of fair dealings.
• Data Security - Data security should be your top priority when selling technology. IT hardware often contains sensitive business information, and failing to properly erase it can lead to compliance issues or data breaches. Partner only with companies that are certified in secure data handling. Look for credentials like Cyber Essentials and ISO 27001, which indicate adherence to industry best practices. These certifications demonstrate that the buyer follows strict protocols to ensure your data is securely wiped before resale or recycling.
• Environmental Responsibility - Sustainability doesn't end with your own operations—it extends to the vendors you work with. When selling IT assets, choose partners who comply with recognized environmental standards.  Certifications like R2v3 and high EcoVadis scores show a commitment to responsible recycling, minimal environmental impact, and sustainable business practices. For example, Techbuyer ranks in the top 15% globally on the EcoVadis sustainability scale, showcasing its dedication to ethical IT disposal. 

As businesses continue to prioritize sustainability, cost-efficiency, and scalability, the decision to buy or sell used IT equipment has evolved from a budget tactic to a strategic advantage. 

Whether you're decommissioning on-premise infrastructure post-cloud migration or outfitting a hybrid workforce on a budget, the secondary IT market delivers meaningful benefits.

Used IT hardware isn't garbage. It's not outdated. 

And it's definitely not just for bargain hunters. It's part of a smarter, faster, more sustainable business model—especially for companies operating with a mix of cloud-based and on-premises solutions. Refurbished gear allows you to scale efficiently while reducing capital expenditure and environmental waste.

With the global refurbished IT market projected to exceed $19 billion by 2027, it's clear this shift isn't a passing trend—it's a long-term transformation. 

By working with trusted partners that uphold certifications in data security and environmental compliance, you can safely offload aging assets, support ESG goals, and even give back by enabling access to tech in underserved areas.

If you've recently upgraded your tech stack, migrated to the cloud, or simply want to make better use of your IT budget, it's time to embrace both sides of the second-hand market. 

Buy what you need, sell what you don't, and help your business—and the planet—thrive in the process.