If your old smartwatch still works, keep it as a backup or pass it on after checking compatibility and securely removing your data. If you want money toward the upgrade, compare current trade-in terms with private resale; if it is broken or no longer useful, use an electronics recycling route that accepts devices with lithium-ion batteries. For a cellular watch, handle its service plan separately from the reset.
Choose what to do based on the watch’s condition
Keep it or pass it on if it still works
A working watch can serve as a backup, a dedicated exercise or sleep tracker, or a hand-me-down. Before giving it to someone, check that its model works with their phone and supports the features they need. Compatibility can vary by watch model, phone, carrier, and feature.
Apple says Apple Watch Series 4 or later can be set up for a family member who does not have their own iPhone through Apple Watch For Your Kids. Check Apple’s current requirements and feature availability for the exact watch and intended use: Apple Watch For Your Kids.
Compare trade-in and private resale
Check offers for your exact model, condition, and country before counting on upgrade credit. Apple’s U.S. Trade In program says old or severely damaged devices may not qualify: Apple Trade In. Samsung’s U.S. program uses a qualifying-device list; verify that list and its current terms before sending a watch: Samsung Trade-In and Samsung Trade-In FAQ. Eligibility and credit can change, so neither route guarantees a particular amount.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
With a private sale, describe the generation, case size, GPS or LTE connectivity, working and battery condition, included accessories, and cosmetic damage accurately. No one route is reliably better for every watch: net value depends on the model, condition, current offer, location, and buyer demand. In either case, remove your accounts and personal data before the watch leaves your hands.
Recycle it if it is broken or unwanted
Look for a manufacturer or retailer take-back program, a certified electronics recycler, or your local solid-waste or household hazardous-waste guidance. Google’s Fitbit recycling instructions describe requesting a prepaid label from its recycling partner or using a collection site; options depend on location and current program terms: Recycle your Fitbit device.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
In the United States, the EPA says lithium-ion batteries and devices containing them should not go in household garbage or recycling bins. A damaged battery can cause a fire during collection or sorting; use a separate recycling or household hazardous-waste route and follow local instructions. Do not try to remove a built-in watch battery yourself. See the EPA guidance on used lithium-ion batteries.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Prepare the watch before a sale, gift, trade-in, or recycling
Exact menus differ by brand and model, so use the manufacturer’s current instructions for your specific watch. A reset on the watch alone may not remove its account association or disable a device lock.
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Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
- Save what you want to keep. Sync or back up relevant data before erasing. Samsung advises backing up a Galaxy Watch before resetting it.
- Unpair and erase it using the brand’s process. Apple’s pre-transfer steps explain how to unpair an Apple Watch; Apple says unpairing removes personal information and turns off Activation Lock: Apple Watch pre-transfer steps. For a Samsung watch, follow the model-specific reset and Bluetooth unpairing guidance: Perform a reset on your Samsung smart watch. Samsung notes that the steps can vary by model.
- Remove it from the associated account. For Fitbit, erase the device and remove it from your Fitbit or Google account using the Fitbit device data and account instructions. Check whether the watch stores separate payment or transit credentials.
- Remove payment cards and transit passes where needed. Fitbit says Suica is not removed by the regular erase process; remove it separately in the app if you used it. The Fitbit instructions explain the additional step.
- Contact the carrier about cellular service. If the watch has LTE or another cellular plan, ask the carrier to cancel or transfer it. Resetting the watch does not necessarily end the subscription; Apple and Samsung both flag carrier action for cellular watches in their transfer or reset guidance.
- Follow the destination’s handoff requirements. For a trade-in, confirm current eligibility, shipping, packaging, and what accessories to include. Samsung’s U.S. trade-in FAQ advises removing personal information and security locks before sending a device. For recycling, confirm that the chosen route accepts electronics containing lithium-ion batteries.
Quick comparison of your options
| Option | Best fit | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Keep as a backup | The watch still works and you have a use for it. | Whether it remains compatible with your phone and the features you want. |
| Give it to someone | A family member or friend can use the model. | Phone, carrier, and feature compatibility; erase and unlink the watch first. |
| Trade it in | A current program accepts the exact model and condition. | Eligibility, credit, data/security preparation, and shipping terms for your country. |
| Sell it privately | You are willing to create a listing and handle the transfer. | Accurate condition and model details, buyer demand, and secure account removal. |
| Recycle it | It is unusable or you no longer want it. | Use a route that accepts watches with lithium-ion batteries; follow local rules. |
What not to assume
- A reset button by itself has removed every account link, lock, payment credential, or transit pass.
- A trade-in program will accept every model or condition, or offer a particular credit.
- A watch that works with one phone will support every feature on another person’s phone or carrier.
- A cellular plan ends automatically when the watch is erased or unpaired.
- In the U.S., a watch with a lithium-ion battery belongs in household trash or curbside recycling.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
