You want the new iPad, but you already own one of the earlier models. Such a dilemma! But if you really want the new one (which is shaping up in our tests to be one of the best tablets we’ve seen), why not trade in your old iPad and get some money toward your purchase? Many retailers have trade-in programs, where they’ll pay you for your old gadgets and give you credit or a gift card to use toward something else. You can get an estimate on the retailers’ websites, then send in your gadget or drop it off at a store.
I checked with five popular retailers to see what they’d give me for an iPad2, 16 GB, Wi-Fi only, in good condition with no engraving and no visible damage, plus the box and all cords. Estimates varied by up to $40—a good reminder to shop around before you trade in. Here are the offers I got, plus links to the retailers’ trade-in sites:
THE WINNER
Apple $270
Best Buy $265
Amazon $262.25
RadioShack $250
Target $230
What about all the other old gadgets cluttering up your home? In addition to trading them in, you could also sell them, donate them, or recycle them. Just don’t throw them away! Here are some tips I shared on Fox Business channel!

