Best Places to Buy and Sell Used Photography Gear Online
As photographers, we're always looking for ways to upgrade our gear or declutter our camera bags.
Buying and selling used equipment is a smart strategy to keep our passion affordable.
While general marketplaces like eBay or Facebook are options, specialized sites dedicated to photography equipment often offer better deals, lower fees, and a community of fellow enthusiasts.
Here are some of the best platforms for buying and selling used camera gear:
WayToGear: The Popular Camera Gear Marketplace
With over 237,000 active users, WayToGear has become a go-to destination for photographers looking to buy or sell equipment.
Here's why it stands out:
Free listings with maximum exposure due to extensive advertising
Low fees and fast sales at fair prices
Excellent customer support
Large community of photography enthusiasts
Whether you're upgrading your mirrorless camera or selling some unused lenses, WayToGear offers a user-friendly platform to connect with other photographers.
KEH Camera: Trusted for Over 40 Years
When it comes to reputation in the used camera market, KEH Camera is hard to beat. Operating since 1979, KEH has earned photographers' trust through:
Accurate grading of every item
180-day warranty on purchases
Knowledgeable gear experts to guide you
Commitment to quality control and sustainable practices
Professional sensor cleaning services
KEH's longevity in the industry speaks volumes about its reliability and customer satisfaction.
MPB: The World's Largest Used Photo/Video Platform
For a truly global marketplace, MPB offers an impressive platform:
Simple and secure buying, selling, and trading options
Worldwide network of creators
Intuitive website with free shipping quotes
Exclusive offers for account holders
Extensive gear knowledge base
MPB's international reach can be particularly beneficial if you're looking for rare or specialized equipment, such as gear for aviation photography.
Gear Focus: Built for Photographers and Videographers
Gear Focus caters specifically to visual creators, offering:
Low 5% commission fee on sales
Exposure to thousands of passionate camera enthusiasts
Integrated shipping label purchases for easy sending
Platform designed with photographers' and videographers' needs in mind
The specialized nature of Gear Focus can lead to quicker sales and more informed buyers, especially for niche equipment like gear for street interview videos.
Other Notable Options
While not as specialized, it's worth mentioning a couple of other well-known retailers:
Adorama: A popular retailer, though reviews on their used gear buying process are mixed. Some users report communication issues and low offers.
B&H: Another reputable option, especially for in-person transactions at their physical store. However, specific information about their buying prices compared to other vendors is limited.
Key Considerations When Selling Used Gear
Convenience vs. Price: Selling to dedicated platforms is generally easier and less risky than private sales, but you might get less money.
Condition Assessment: Be realistic about your gear's condition, as it significantly impacts offers. Learn how to safely clean your camera to maintain its value.
Market Demand: Some equipment may sell better on specific platforms depending on current trends.
Timing: Offers can vary based on the vendor's inventory and market conditions. Consider the best times to buy camera gear for potential savings.
Store Credit vs. Cash: Some vendors offer better deals for store credit instead of cash.
Tips for Getting the Best Deal
Get quotes from multiple vendors (WayToGear, KEH, MPB, Gear Focus, etc.)
Compare offers to potential prices on platforms like eBay or photography forums
Consider the convenience factor against potential higher returns from private sales
Research current reviews and experiences before committing to a sale
If you're looking to upgrade, check out my guides on used DSLR and mirrorless cameras
Experiences can vary, and vendor policies may change over time.
Always do your due diligence before making a transaction.
Whether you're looking to upgrade your camera or downsize your collection, these specialized marketplaces offer the best opportunities for photographers to buy and sell used gear online.
You'll likely find better prices, lower fees, and access to a community of equipment enthusiasts compared to general marketplaces.
For more tips on managing your photography gear, check out my guide on camera gear storage and protection.
I hope that helps,
Hakan.