Is it worth separating power supplies from the rest of a computer haul given their copper and transformer content?
Short answer: Yes — power supplies contain a meaningful amount of copper windings and sometimes usable transformers that are worth more separated out and sold or tested individually than left bundled into a generic "computer scrap" pile, especially at any real volume.
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List Free →What’s actually inside a power supply
Beyond the circuit board, computer power supplies contain copper-wound transformers and inductors, which have real copper recovery value distinct from the rest of a computer’s board-level e-waste content.
Why bundling undersells them
If power supplies stay mixed in with cases, cables, and other bulk e-waste, they typically just get weighed and priced at a generic e-waste rate, missing the specific copper and transformer value a buyer who wants that content specifically would pay more for.
What to do at volume
For a handful of power supplies, separating them out isn’t likely worth much extra effort. If you’re processing a genuinely large volume of retired computers regularly, pulling power supplies into their own category is a straightforward way to capture more value from the same haul.
How ScrapTrade Makes This Easier
Listing power supplies as their own lot on ScrapTrade — noting approximate quantity and whether they’re tested working or not — connects you with buyers specifically sourcing that transformer and copper content.
Ready to sell or source computer scrap without the guesswork? ScrapTrade connects verified buyers and sellers with escrow-protected payments and transparent weighing.
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