What to do with old MacBook? If you’re like most people, you probably have an old MacBook lying around that you no longer use. Maybe it’s too slow to keep up with your needs, or perhaps you’ve upgraded to a newer model. Regardless of the reason, you’re probably wondering what to do with it. Fortunately, there are plenty of options available to you.

One option is to sell your old MacBook. Depending on its age and condition, you might be able to get a decent amount of money for it. Alternatively, you could donate it to a school or nonprofit organization that could use it. Another option is to repurpose your old MacBook for a different use, such as turning it into a media center or using it as a secondary monitor for your primary computer. Whatever you decide to do, there’s no need to let your old MacBook go to waste.

What to Do with Old MacBook

If you have an old MacBook lying around, you might be wondering what to do with it. Fortunately, there are several things you can do to give your outdated Mac new life.

One option is to turn your old MacBook into a media viewer. MacBooks traditionally have great screens, so you may want to consider hanging on to your old one after you upgrade just for streaming media. Streaming video from Apple TV, Netflix, and other sources doesn’t take a lot of power, so even older MacBooks can handle it pretty well.

Another option is to use your old MacBook as a secondary monitor for your primary computer. Macs have great displays, and a good way to reuse an old Mac is to use it as a secondary monitor for your primary computer. It will increase your screen real estate and make working on projects easier and more efficient.

You can also consider turning your old MacBook into a network-attached file server (NAS). You can use a Mac mini or older Mac Pro as a file server, or even use a Mac laptop as a file server. General tips for setting up a Mac file server include making sure your Mac is always connected to a power source and using a wired Ethernet connection for the best performance.

If you’re a fan of Plex, you can run it on your old MacBook. This will allow you to stream your media library to other devices in your home. You can also use your old MacBook to watch or play media, even if it’s not connected to a network.

Lastly, you can trade or sell your old MacBook. Apple has a comprehensive trade-in scheme that you can take advantage of if you want a discount for your next purchase. The older your device is and the worse condition it’s in means you get less money, but something is better than nothing. Some Macs, if in great condition, can give you a pretty hefty discount.

Overall, there are many things you can do with an old MacBook. Whether you choose to use it as a media viewer, secondary monitor, file server, or trade it in, there’s no reason to let your outdated Mac go to waste.

Upgrading Your Old MacBook

If your old MacBook is running slow or struggling to keep up with your needs, upgrading it might be a great option. Here are some ways to upgrade your MacBook:

Increasing Storage

If you are running out of space on your MacBook, upgrading your hard drive or SSD is a great way to increase storage. You can replace your old hard drive with a new one or add an SSD to your MacBook to speed up your computer’s performance. An SSD will also reduce the spinning wheel of death, which can be frustrating when you are trying to get work done.

Boosting RAM

Upgrading your MacBook’s RAM can also help to speed up your computer. If you are running multiple applications at once and your MacBook is struggling to keep up, upgrading your RAM can help. Adding more RAM will allow your MacBook to run more smoothly and efficiently.

Updating macOS

Keeping your MacBook up to date with the latest version of macOS can also help to improve its performance. The latest version of macOS usually comes with performance improvements and bug fixes that can help to speed up your computer. Updating your MacBook’s operating system is easy, and you can do it from the App Store.

Upgrading your old MacBook is a great way to extend its life and improve its performance. Whether you need more storage, more RAM, or the latest version of macOS, upgrading your MacBook is a simple and cost-effective way to get the most out of your computer.

Repurposing Your Old MacBook

If you have an old MacBook lying around, don’t let it go to waste. There are several ways to repurpose it and give it a new lease of life. Here are some ideas to get you started.

Turning into a Media Center

Your old MacBook can be turned into a media center that streams movies and TV shows to your TV. You can use software like Plex to organize and stream your media collection. All you need is an HDMI cable to connect your MacBook to your TV. With Plex, you can also access your media library remotely from any device with an internet connection.

Using as a Wi-Fi Hotspot

You can turn your old MacBook into a Wi-Fi hotspot and share your internet connection with other devices. This is particularly useful if you have a weak Wi-Fi signal in certain areas of your home. To do this, go to System Preferences > Sharing > Internet Sharing and select Wi-Fi from the list of options. Connect your MacBook to your router with an Ethernet cable and share your internet connection.

Converting into a NAS Device

Your old MacBook can also be converted into a network-attached storage (NAS) device. This allows you to store your media and files on your home network and access them from any device. You can use software like FreeNAS or OpenMediaVault to set up your NAS. All you need is an Ethernet cable to connect your MacBook to your router.

With these ideas, you can give your old MacBook a new purpose and save money on buying new devices. Whether you want to stream media, share your internet connection, or store your files, your old MacBook can do it all.

Selling Your Old MacBook

If you’re looking to sell your old MacBook, there are a few things you should consider before putting it on the market. In this section, we’ll go over how to determine the value of your device, where to sell it, and how to prepare it for sale.

Determining the Value

The value of your MacBook will depend on several factors, including its age, condition, and specifications. You can get an estimate of its value by checking online marketplaces like eBay, Craigslist, and Sellyourmac. You can also check the trade-in value at Best Buy or the Apple Trade In Program. Be honest about the condition of your device and its specifications to get an accurate estimate.

Places to Sell

There are several places where you can sell your MacBook, including online marketplaces like eBay, Craigslist, and Facebook Marketplace. You can also sell it to services that specialize in selling used Apple products, like Sellyourmac. If you’re looking for a more convenient option, you can trade it in at Best Buy or the Apple Trade In Program. Consider the pros and cons of each option before making a decision.

Preparing for Sale

Before you sell your MacBook, you need to prepare it for sale. First, make sure to back up all your data to an external hard drive or cloud storage. Then, use Disk Utility to erase your hard drive and format it for a new owner. Finally, physically clean your device to make it look presentable. Clean the screen, case, keyboard, and trackpad, and make sure it’s in good working condition.

With these tips, you can sell your old MacBook with confidence. Just remember to be honest about the condition of your device and its specifications, and take the time to properly prepare it for sale.

Donating Your Old MacBook

If you’re looking to donate your old MacBook, there are several options available to you. Donating your old MacBook can be a great way to give back to your community and help someone in need. Here are some places you can consider donating your old MacBook to:

Schools

Many schools are in need of computers for their students. Donating your old MacBook to a school can be a great way to help students who may not have access to a computer at home. You can contact your local schools to see if they are in need of any computers.

Charities

There are many charities that accept computer donations. These charities will often refurbish the computers and donate them to people in need. Some charities that accept computer donations include Goodwill, The Salvation Army, and Computers with Causes.

Give Away

If you know someone who could use a computer, giving away your old MacBook can be a great way to help them out. You could give it to a friend, family member, or coworker who needs a computer.

Donate

There are many organizations that accept computer donations. These organizations will often refurbish the computers and donate them to people in need. Some organizations that accept computer donations include the National Cristina Foundation, World Computer Exchange, and TechSoup.

When donating your old MacBook, it’s important to make sure that all of your personal information has been removed from the computer. You should also make sure that the computer is in good working condition before donating it.

Recycling Your Old MacBook

When it comes to disposing of your old MacBook, recycling is a great option that not only helps the environment but also potentially earns you some extra cash. Here are a few things to keep in mind when recycling your old MacBook:

Check for a Recycling Program

Before you start looking for ways to recycle your old MacBook, check if Apple has a recycling program. Apple’s recycling program allows you to trade in your old device for a gift card or credit toward a new purchase. This is a great way to get rid of your old MacBook and get some money back.

Find a Responsible Recycler

When recycling your old MacBook, it’s important to find a responsible recycler. Not all recycling companies are created equal, so make sure to do your research and find a company that follows environmental regulations and disposes of electronics responsibly.

Avoid Landfills

It’s important to avoid sending your old MacBook to a landfill. Electronics contain toxic materials that can harm the environment if they end up in a landfill. Recycling your MacBook ensures that these materials are properly disposed of and don’t harm the environment.

Prepare Your MacBook for Recycling

Before you recycle your old MacBook, make sure to prepare it properly. Back up all your data and erase your hard drive to protect your personal information. You can use Apple’s built-in Disk Utility to securely erase your hard drive.

Get Paid for Recycling

Some recycling companies offer cash for old MacBooks, so you can get paid for recycling your old device. Make sure to shop around and find a company that offers a fair price for your MacBook.

Recycling your old MacBook is a responsible and environmentally-friendly way to dispose of your old device. By following these tips, you can ensure that your MacBook is properly recycled and potentially earn some extra cash in the process.

Switching to a Different Operating System

If you’re looking to switch from macOS to a different operating system, there are a few options available. In this section, we’ll explore two popular choices: installing Linux and using Chromebook features with ChromeOS Flex.

Installing Linux

Linux is a free and open-source operating system that can be installed on many different types of computers, including Macs. There are many different versions, or “distributions,” of Linux available, each with its own unique features and user interface.

To install Linux on your old MacBook, you’ll first need to create a bootable USB drive with the Linux distribution of your choice. You can do this using a tool like Etcher or Rufus. Once you have your bootable USB drive, you’ll need to restart your MacBook and hold down the Option key to access the boot menu. From there, you can select the USB drive and follow the on-screen instructions to install Linux.

Keep in mind that installing Linux on a MacBook may void your warranty, and some hardware components may not work as well as they do on macOS. However, if you’re looking for a free and open-source alternative to macOS, Linux is worth considering.

Using Chromebook Features with ChromeOS Flex

If you’re not quite ready to switch to a completely different operating system, you might consider using Chromebook features with ChromeOS Flex. This is a lightweight version of ChromeOS that can be installed on many different types of hardware, including old MacBooks.

ChromeOS Flex is based on the open-source Chromium project, which means it has many of the same features as a traditional Chromebook, including access to the Google Play Store and support for Android apps. However, it’s also more customizable than a traditional Chromebook, allowing you to install Linux applications and even run a full Linux desktop environment if you prefer.

To install ChromeOS Flex on your old MacBook, you’ll first need to create a bootable USB drive with the ChromeOS Flex image. You can do this using a tool like Chromebook Recovery Utility. Once you have your bootable USB drive, you’ll need to restart your MacBook and hold down the Option key to access the boot menu. From there, you can select the USB drive and follow the on-screen instructions to install ChromeOS Flex.

Keep in mind that ChromeOS Flex is not an official Google product, and some features may not work as well as they do on a traditional Chromebook. However, if you’re looking for a lightweight and customizable operating system that still has access to many of the same features as a Chromebook, ChromeOS Flex is worth considering.

Exploring Alternative Uses

If you have an old MacBook lying around, don’t let it collect dust. There are many alternative uses for it that you might not have considered before. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Using as a Secondary Monitor

One of the best ways to reuse your old MacBook is to turn it into a secondary monitor for your primary computer. This is especially useful if you need more screen real estate for work or gaming. You can use your MacBook’s display as a second monitor by connecting it to your primary computer using a Mini DisplayPort to DisplayPort cable.

To set up your MacBook as a secondary monitor, go to System Preferences > Displays > Arrangement and check the box next to “Mirror Displays.” This will allow you to use your MacBook’s display as a second monitor. You can also adjust the resolution and orientation of your MacBook’s display to fit your needs.

Turning into a Gaming Console

If you’re a gamer, you can turn your old MacBook into a gaming console. There are many lightweight games that you can play on your MacBook, such as Minecraft, Stardew Valley, and Terraria. You can also use your MacBook to stream games from your primary computer using Steam’s In-Home Streaming feature.

To turn your MacBook into a gaming console, you’ll need to install the games you want to play and connect a game controller to your MacBook. You can use a wired or wireless game controller, depending on your preference. Once you have everything set up, you can sit back and enjoy your favorite games on your old MacBook.

Keep in mind that not all games are compatible with older MacBooks, so make sure to check the system requirements before you buy or install a game.

That’s it for this section. Try out these alternative uses for your old MacBook and see which one works best for you.

Dealing with Potential Issues

When dealing with an old MacBook, you may encounter some potential issues that need to be addressed. These issues may include security concerns, system preferences, and customization options. Here’s what you need to know:

Addressing Security Concerns

One of the biggest concerns when using an old MacBook is security. Older operating systems may not receive the latest security updates, leaving your computer vulnerable to attacks. To address this issue, you should:

• Update your operating system to the latest version that is compatible with your MacBook.
• Install anti-malware software to protect your computer from viruses and other types of malware.
• Use a strong password to protect your user account and enable two-factor authentication whenever possible.
• Be cautious when downloading and installing software from the internet, as some programs may contain malware.

Handling System Preferences

Another potential issue you may encounter when using an old MacBook is system preferences. Some settings may not be compatible with older operating systems, or certain features may not work as intended. To handle system preferences, you should:

• Check your system preferences to make sure everything is set up correctly.
• Disable any unnecessary features or services to improve performance.
• Customize your settings to suit your needs, such as changing the desktop background or adjusting the screen resolution.

Customization Options

One of the benefits of using an old MacBook is the ability to customize your settings and personalize your experience. Some customization options you may want to consider include:

• Changing the dock appearance and behavior.
• Installing new themes or icons to change the look of your desktop.
• Using third-party apps to add new features or functionality to your computer.

Overall, when dealing with an old MacBook, it’s important to address potential issues such as security concerns, system preferences, and customization options. By taking the necessary steps to protect your computer and customize your settings, you can continue to use your MacBook for years to come.

Utilizing Old MacBook for Apple Services

If you’re looking to maximize the use of your old MacBook, consider utilizing it for Apple services. Here are some ways to get the most out of your old MacBook:

iCloud

With iCloud, you can store your photos, videos, documents, and more in the cloud, making them accessible from any device. You can also use iCloud to sync your contacts, calendars, and reminders across all your devices. To set up iCloud on your old MacBook, simply go to System Preferences > iCloud and sign in with your Apple ID.

App Store

The App Store offers a wide variety of apps for your MacBook, including productivity apps, entertainment apps, and more. You can browse the App Store on your old MacBook and download any apps that you want to use. Just make sure that your old MacBook is running a compatible version of macOS.

iTunes Store

If you have a collection of music, movies, or TV shows that you’ve purchased from the iTunes Store, you can access them on your old MacBook. Simply open iTunes and sign in with your Apple ID. You can also use iTunes to purchase new music, movies, or TV shows.

Apple Services

Apple offers a variety of services, including Apple Music, Apple TV+, Apple Arcade, and more. You can subscribe to these services on your old MacBook and enjoy them on any device. Just make sure that your old MacBook is running a compatible version of macOS.

Deauthorize

If you’re planning to sell or give away your old MacBook, make sure to deauthorize it from your Apple account. This will prevent anyone from accessing your Apple services using your account. To deauthorize your old MacBook, open iTunes and go to Account > Authorizations > Deauthorize This Computer.

Apple Store Gift Card

If you have an Apple Store gift card, you can use it to purchase new accessories or devices from the Apple Store. You can also use it to purchase apps, music, movies, or TV shows from the App Store or iTunes Store. Simply enter the gift card code at checkout.

By utilizing your old MacBook for Apple services, you can get the most out of your device and continue to enjoy the benefits of Apple’s ecosystem.

Key Takeaways

If you have an old MacBook, there are several things you can do with it instead of letting it collect dust. Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind:

• Consider using it as a media viewer: If your old MacBook has a great screen, you can use it for streaming media from sources like Apple TV, Netflix, and more. Even older MacBooks can handle streaming video pretty well, so this is a great option to consider.
• Trade or sell it: Apple has a comprehensive trade-in scheme that can give you a discount for your next purchase. If your device is in great condition, you can get a pretty hefty discount. Alternatively, you can sell your old MacBook to someone who might still find it useful.
• Make it a network-attached file server (NAS): If you have a Mac mini or an older Mac Pro, you can use it as a file server. You can also use a Mac laptop as a file server. This is a great way to repurpose your old MacBook and make it useful again.
• Run Plex on your old Mac: If you’re a fan of Plex, you can use your old MacBook to run it. This is a great option if you want to use your old MacBook as a media server.
• Install Linux on your old Mac: Linux is known as a lifesaver for old Macs. If you’re interested in learning more about Linux, you can install it on your old MacBook and use it to experiment with different operating systems.
• Consider securely disposing of your old MacBook: When you plan to dispose of your MacBook, make sure you take the necessary steps to remove your data and protect your privacy. This includes removing your MacBook from Apple’s accounts and making sure your data is securely erased.

Overall, there are many things you can do with your old MacBook. Whether you want to use it as a media viewer, a file server, or experiment with different operating systems, there are plenty of options to consider.