Newegg expands its GPU trade-in program to include CPUs

In brief: Newegg is expanding its GPU trade-in program to include another type of PC hardware: CPUs. The e-retailer has also collaborated with Intel to run a PC trade-in program that allows users to send in qualifying items, including desktops, as long as they're no older than 7 years old.

Much like Newegg's GPU trade-in program that launched in September last year, the CPU addition lets customers send in their old processors for credit toward a new CPU.

Newegg says that their program is unique in that customers can see the amount they will get for their current CPU or GPU upfront, buy the new product, and send in their old hardware at a later date so they are never without a component. Once Newegg tests the older CPU/GPU and confirms everything is working, the trade-in credit will be refunded.

Newegg's CPU trade-in program is limited in what will be accepted. The only Intel chips accepted are those from the 12th, 13th, and 14th generations, while AMD processors are limited to the Ryzen 7000 series.

Another similarity with the GPU program is the questionable amounts Newegg is offering for the used CPUs. The largest amount, $320, is for a Ryzen 9 7950X3D. That's about half what you would get for selling it on eBay. Here are the rest of the prices.

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The GPU program also highlights how you'd be better off selling older hardware on eBay if you want an upgrade, even with its 10% fee taken from the final selling price. Newegg offers $447 for an RTX 4070 Ti Asus ROG Strix 12G Gaming. The same models sell for around $700 or more on the auction site.

Newegg has also partnered with Intel to allow customers to trade in devices when purchasing a new PC with an Intel processor up until August 11. These include desktops, laptops, 2-in-1, convertibles, detachables, MacBooks, iPads, and Chromebooks, all of which must be no older than seven years old. The devices must work and be undamaged (other than reasonable wear and tear). Newegg says it will give users gift cards valued up to $400 for eligible trade-ins. It also offers free postage for users to send in the old hardware.

Despite the less-than-attractive trade-in prices and the danger that a used item could be rejected, Newegg says it has received "thousands of eligible pre-owned graphics cards" since the program's launch. Like the CPUs, these will be sold as part of its refurbished product line.

Intel will no doubt be hoping its trade-in partnership with Newegg helps its business. Team Blue is dealing with the crashing Raptor Lake CPU crisis that could lead to a class action lawsuit. It's also reportedly set to let go of thousands of employees as part of cost-cutting measures.