Step 1: Don't Repair It First
This is the most common mistake. People spend $200–$400 repairing a MacBook before selling, then discover the repaired price is only $150 more than what SellBroke would have paid for it broken. Get your quote first, then decide if repair makes financial sense.
The math rarely works: a broken MacBook Pro 13" 2020 M1 might fetch $320 from SellBroke. After spending $250 on a screen repair, a private buyer might pay $550 — a $30 net gain after weeks of hassle. Sell it broken.
Step 2: Identify Your Exact Model
The exact model determines your payout by hundreds of dollars. Find your serial number:
- If it boots: Apple Menu → About This Mac → Serial Number
- If screen is broken: Check the bottom of the MacBook — serial is laser-engraved near the hinge
- Completely dead: Check your original box, receipt, or Apple ID → appleid.apple.com → Devices
Once you have the serial, SellBroke's quote tool identifies your exact model automatically.
Step 3: Document the Damage Honestly
Be accurate about what's wrong — don't exaggerate damage (lowers your offer) and don't hide issues (causes price revision at inspection). Common damage types SellBroke accepts:
- Cracked or broken screen
- Won't turn on / no power
- Water damage
- Keyboard issues
- Battery not charging
- Motherboard failure
Step 4: Wipe Your Data
If it boots (macOS Monterey and later): Apple Menu → System Settings → General → Transfer or Reset → Erase All Content and Settings.
If it boots (older macOS): Restart → hold Cmd+R → Disk Utility → Erase the drive → Reinstall macOS.
If it won't boot: Don't worry — SellBroke's inspection process includes secure data destruction. Your data is wiped before any device is resold or parted out.
Step 5: Get Your SellBroke Quote
Go to sellbroke.com/sell/macbook/, select your model, answer the condition questions. You'll see a real dollar offer — not a range. Accept it and a free UPS label arrives by email within minutes.
What SellBroke Currently Pays for Broken MacBooks
| Model | Working Price | Broken/Damaged |
|---|---|---|
| MacBook Pro 16" M4 Max | Up to $1,773 | Varies by damage |
| MacBook Pro 14" M3 Pro | Up to $950+ | Varies by damage |
| MacBook Air M2 13" | Up to $400+ | Varies by damage |
| MacBook Pro 13" M1 | Up to $320+ | Varies by damage |
| MacBook Pro 2019 Intel | Up to $200+ | Varies by damage |
Why SellBroke Beats Apple Trade-In for Broken MacBooks
Apple Trade-In requires your MacBook to power on and hold a charge to get any meaningful value. A MacBook with a dead battery or cracked screen typically gets $0–$50 from Apple Trade-In. SellBroke evaluates the entire device — working components, parts value, and model demand — so a broken high-end MacBook can still get you hundreds of dollars.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does SellBroke buy MacBooks with water damage?
- Yes. SellBroke accepts MacBooks with water damage. The offer reflects the damage — corrosion severity, which components still work, and the model's parts value all factor in.
- How do I ship a broken MacBook safely?
- Use the free UPS label SellBroke emails you after you accept an offer. Pack the MacBook in a box with bubble wrap or foam around it. Drop it at any UPS location — no cost to you.
- How long does SellBroke take to pay?
- SellBroke pays within 24 hours of receiving and inspecting your MacBook. Payment goes via PayPal, Venmo, Zelle, or check — your choice.
- What if SellBroke's inspection finds more damage than I reported?
- You'll receive a revised offer. You can accept the new amount or have your MacBook returned at no cost — no obligation to sell.
- Can I sell a MacBook without the charger or box?
- Yes. SellBroke doesn't require original accessories or packaging. The quote is for the MacBook itself.
Ready? Get your instant MacBook quote in 2 minutes at sellbroke.com/sell/macbook/ →
Get an instant quote and we'll pay you within 24 hours. Working or broken.