What's a Laptop Computer Worth in Scrap?
Based on current Australian scrap yard rates and a typical laptop computer's metal composition. Actual yard offers vary by city, load size, and material condition.
Component breakdown
A typical laptop computer weighs 2.5kg total. Here's where the value comes from — sorted by component, with the metal type, grade, and estimated payout.
| Component | Metal & grade | Weight (kg) | Est. mid value (AUD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Body (on premium models) or steel chassis | Aluminium · Aluminium Sheet | 0.5 | $1.10 |
| Wiring, transformer | Copper · #2 Copper | 0.1 | $1.08 |
Before you take it in
A few minutes of preparation can lift the value toward the high end of the estimated range.
- → Remove battery — lithium-ion batteries must not enter general scrap loads
- → Specialist e-waste channels typically pay more than general scrap for working laptops
- → Wipe data before drop-off
Safety & legal notes
Lithium-ion battery removal required. Do not crush, puncture, or burn laptop batteries.
Where to sell a laptop computer
Any scrap yard accepting the relevant metals will buy a laptop computer. Use our city directory to find yards in your area and see region-specific rates — payouts in regional and remote areas are typically lower than capital cities due to transport costs.
For larger items, call ahead to confirm pickup arrangements or weighbridge access. Most yards have minimum drop-off weights.
Other electronics
Frequently asked questions
How much is a laptop computer worth in scrap? +
A laptop computer is worth approximately $1.85 to $2.51 AUD in scrap value, with a mid estimate of $2.18. The exact amount depends on the city you sell in (yards in remote cities pay less due to transport costs), the condition of the components, and how well the item is prepared before drop-off.
What metals are in a laptop computer? +
A typical laptop computer contains 0.5kg of aluminium, 0.1kg of copper, totalling about 2.5kg. The aluminium component contributes the most value (around $1.10), even though it's not always the heaviest.
How do I prepare a laptop computer for scrapping? +
Several steps lift the return: (1) Remove battery — lithium-ion batteries must not enter general scrap loads (2) Specialist e-waste channels typically pay more than general scrap for working laptops (3) Wipe data before drop-off
Where can I sell a laptop computer for scrap? +
Any scrap yard accepting the relevant metals will buy a laptop computer. See our <a href="/cities/">city directory</a> for region-specific yards and rates. Larger items may need pickup arrangement or weighbridge access — call ahead to confirm hours and acceptance.
Is it worth scrapping a single laptop computer? +
At a mid estimate of $2.18, a single laptop computer usually isn't worth a dedicated trip to the yard. Combine multiple items into one load to make the trip worthwhile, or hold until council collection if available.
Are there any safety or legal considerations with scrapping a laptop computer? +
Lithium-ion battery removal required. Do not crush, puncture, or burn laptop batteries.