A new survey has uncovered a surprising reality for UK households: almost everyone has at least one unused tech device lying idle.
More than half (55%) admit to having three or more forgotten gadgets gathering dust. The findings, from Back Market, a leading marketplace for refurbished technology, highlight a missed opportunity to turn these items into cash – and help the environment in the process.
The Fate of Unwanted Christmas Presents
What happens to tech gifts that miss the mark during the festive season? According to the survey, most people keep them, with 41% admitting they simply hold onto items they don’t need. Other responses include donating to charity (35%), re-gifting (34%), returning for a refund or exchange (16%), or selling online (16%).
With so many choosing to store away unwanted gifts, Back Market sees a chance to encourage Brits to rethink their approach. Selling unused tech, they argue, not only clears out clutter but also helps reduce waste while putting extra money in people’s pockets.
A Nation of Tech Hoarders
Back Market’s research reveals that millions of pounds’ worth of unused devices are sitting idle in UK homes. Smartphones are the most commonly hoarded items, with 72% of respondents admitting to keeping at least one, followed by laptops (59%), tablets (38%), gaming consoles (29%), and wearables like smartwatches (16%).
Despite their potential value, these devices are often left forgotten. Yet, there’s hope: 68% of people surveyed said they would consider selling their old tech if they knew its worth.
Hidden Treasure in Your Tech Drawer
Many of the devices gathering dust still hold significant resale value. According to Back Market, here’s what you could earn for some popular gadgets in 2025:
- iPhone 15 Pro Max (256GB): up to £590
- Galaxy S24 Ultra (256GB): up to £203
- MacBook Air (256GB): up to £402
- PlayStation 5 (825GB): up to £275
- Nintendo Switch (32GB): up to £127
Even older models like the iPhone 12 Pro Max can fetch up to £146, proving that forgotten gadgets can still yield a tidy sum.
Turning Clutter into Cash
Luke Forshaw from Back Market says the post-Christmas period is the ideal time to rethink unused tech. “By selling forgotten devices, people can earn some extra cash while reducing e-waste and promoting sustainability. It’s a win-win.”
Back Market’s platform aims to simplify the process with instant valuations and fast payments, ensuring selling old tech is easy and rewarding. Forshaw emphasises the environmental benefits too, as every device sold through the platform is either refurbished for resale or responsibly recycled.
“Our mission is to change the way people think about used tech,” Forshaw adds. “Selling unused gadgets isn’t just about decluttering, it’s a step towards a more sustainable future.”
A Circular Economy for Tech
As e-waste continues to pose a global challenge, Back Market’s vision aligns with the growing push for a circular economy. By extending the life of tech products, the company helps reduce landfill waste and makes high-quality refurbished devices more accessible to consumers.
This survey serves as a reminder: that unused tech isn’t just clutter – it’s an opportunity. With platforms like Back Market, Brits can embrace sustainability and unlock the hidden value in their devices, one gadget at a time.