A gaming monitor sitting unused in a closet is money doing nothing. Figuring out where to sell a gaming monitor comes down to weighing speed against payout, since the fastest options rarely pay the most and the best-paying options take more effort.

Key Takeaways
  • Local marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist typically get the highest payout but require more effort and safety precautions.
  • eBay reaches the widest buyer pool and works well for higher-end or specialty monitors, but fees cut into profit.
  • Trade-in programs at retailers like Best Buy are the fastest option but usually pay the least.
  • Specialty electronics resale sites and forums like r/hardwareswap can be a middle ground for niche high-refresh-rate models.

Local Marketplaces: Best Payout, More Legwork

Selling locally cuts out shipping risk entirely, which matters a lot for a fragile, boxy item like a monitor.

  • Facebook Marketplace: the most active option in most areas, easy to list with photos and specs, and buyers can inspect before paying.
  • Craigslist: still used in some markets, generally similar payout to Marketplace but less traffic than it used to have.
  • OfferUp: a reasonable secondary option, particularly in denser metro areas.

Meet in a public, well-lit place, and if possible, plug the monitor into a laptop or handheld device before completing the sale so the buyer can confirm it works.

eBay: Best for Reaching a Wider Pool

If the monitor is a well-known gaming model, especially a higher-end 144Hz, 240Hz, or OLED panel, eBay puts it in front of buyers who specifically search for that model and know what it’s worth.

  • Good original packaging boosts sale price and buyer confidence noticeably.
  • Shipping a monitor safely takes real care: original box if you have it, foam corners, and a sturdy outer box are worth the effort to avoid damage claims.
  • eBay and payment processing fees typically eat 10 to 13 percent of the sale price, so factor that into your asking price.

Heads Up: monitors are one of the more commonly damaged items in shipping because of the glass panel and thin bezels. If a model is heavy or oversized, factor freight shipping costs into your listing price rather than getting surprised later.

Trade-In Programs: Fast but Lower Payout

Retailers and some manufacturers run trade-in programs that give instant store credit or a quick payout.

  • Best Buy’s trade-in program accepts many monitor models, though payouts run noticeably below private sale value.
  • Some manufacturers run their own trade-up promotions when a new generation of their own monitors launches.
  • These options make sense if convenience matters more than maximizing cash, especially for older or lower-demand models.

Niche Communities for Enthusiast Models

For higher refresh rate or specialty gaming monitors, dedicated communities often have buyers who know exactly what they want.

  • r/hardwareswap on Reddit is popular for PC component resale, including monitors, with built-in reputation tracking.
  • Discord servers for specific PC building or esports communities sometimes have want-to-buy channels.
  • These buyers tend to be well informed, which can mean faster, fairer negotiations for niche or high-demand panels.

Before You List It Anywhere

  • Check for dead or stuck pixels and disclose them honestly, since buyers will notice.
  • Note the panel type, resolution, refresh rate, and any accessories included (cables, stand, box).
  • Research recent sold listings, not just asking prices, to price realistically.

FAQ

1. Where can I sell a gaming monitor the fastest?

A retailer trade-in program or a local marketplace listing priced slightly below market value will typically move fastest, often within a day or two.

2. Is it safe to ship a gaming monitor when selling online?

Yes, if packed properly with the original box or a sturdy replacement, foam padding, and clear “fragile” labeling. Insure higher-value shipments through the carrier or platform.

3. How much should I expect to get for a used gaming monitor?

It varies widely by model, age, and condition, but a reasonable starting point is checking recently sold (not just listed) prices for the same model on eBay or your local marketplace.

4. Does it matter if I still have the original box?

It helps both with buyer confidence and safer shipping, and can modestly increase what buyers are willing to pay, especially for higher-end models.

Resale values and marketplace conditions mentioned here vary by region and change over time; check current listings for accurate pricing before selling.