What Are Some Creative Ideas for What to Do with Old Computer Monitors?

As technology zooms forward, old computer monitors are piling up more frequently. Getting rid of them the right way not only helps the environment but can also give new life to old gear.

1. Donate Old Monitors to Local Charity or Nonprofit Organizations

Got an old monitor that still works? Why not donate it? Schools, libraries, and community centers could really use them for their computer labs or programs. It’s a win-win—you help someone out and cut down on e-waste.

2. Recycle Old Monitors Properly

If it’s busted or just too outdated to donate, recycling is the way to go. Lots of electronics stores and recycling centers offer free e-waste programs. Your local government might also have options for you. Just be sure to wipe any personal data and safely remove any hazardous bits first.

3. Repurpose Old Monitors as a Secondary Display

Got a desktop or laptop? Hook up your old monitor as a secondary screen. This is a lifesaver for gamers, designers, or anybody who needs extra screen space. Just grab an HDMI, VGA, or DVI cable, connect, and adjust your display settings.

4. Turn Old Monitors into a Digital Picture Frame

Show off your favorite memories by using your old monitor as a digital picture frame. Connect it to a media player or computer, and there are software programs that’ll even let you run slideshows. It’s a neat way to personalize your space.

5. Convert Old Monitors into a Television or Gaming Display

If your monitor still has good resolution, connect it to a TV tuner or gaming console with an HDMI or VGA cable. Boom—instant entertainment center for TV shows, movies, or gaming sessions.

6. Create a DIY Standing Desk with Your Old Monitor

Want to get off your chair more often? Use your old monitor to make a standing desk. All you need is a standing desk converter, desk riser, and a mount to set it up. Now you can work, browse, or game standing up, and it feels great!

7. Turn Old Monitors into a Retro Gaming Console

If retro gaming is your thing, you can transform your old monitor into a retro gaming console. A bit of technical skill and some equipment like a Raspberry Pi can have you playing classic games in no time.

8. Use Old Monitors as a Digital Whiteboard

For educators or anyone who loves brainstorming, turn your old monitor into a digital whiteboard. With a stylus and software like Microsoft Whiteboard, you can draw, sketch, and collaborate on your screen.

9. Use Old Monitors for Home Security Monitoring

Old monitors are perfect for security camera setups. Hook them up to your home security system and place them where you can keep an eye on things easily.

10. Turn Old Monitors into a Smart Home Dashboard

Ever thought about a smart home dashboard? Your old monitor can display your local weather, traffic updates, to-do lists, or digital calendars. Services like SharpTools and HomeHabit make it easy to customize the dashboard to your liking.

11. Use Old Monitors for DIY Projects

• DIY Arcade Machine: Pair your monitor with a Raspberry Pi packed with retro games for a cool arcade machine. Add arcade-style controls for a genuine experience.
• Smart Mirror: If you’ve got an old LCD monitor, make a smart mirror by adding a Raspberry Pi. Tools like MagicMirror² give you a clock, calendar, news, and weather updates.
• Fish Tank: Remove the internals of an old CRT monitor, add plexiglass, and you’ve got a quirky fish tank.
• Media Center: Connect your monitor to a streaming device like an Amazon Fire Stick or Chromecast for a neat media center setup.

12. Sell Old Monitors

If it still works fine, sell it online or to local buyers. eBay, Craigslist, and Facebook Marketplace are good spots. Some electronics stores might also buy used monitors.

13. Repurpose Internal Parts of Old Monitors

Even if it’s not fit for general use, the internal parts can still be handy. Salvage what you can for other projects and save on buying new components.

In a nutshell, there are plenty of ways to handle old computer monitors responsibly. Whether you donate, recycle, repurpose, or sell, you can help cut down on e-waste and maybe even find some cool new uses for old tech.

Staring at your old computer monitor and wondering what to do next? Let’s dive into some smart choices that help you clean up responsibly, without leaving a mess for our planet.

First things first: is your monitor still alive and kicking or has it bit the dust? If it’s still going strong, here’s what you can do:

• Pass It On: Got a working screen gathering dust? Consider donating it to local schools or charities. They’ll love having an extra piece of technology.
• Flip It: Why not try making some cash by selling it online or through local ads? A win-win situation: you have more space, and someone else scores a good deal.

But if your monitor has seen better days, let’s talk recycling.

Decided recycling is the way to go? Start by getting it ready:

• Unplug and Remove: Ditch all the cables and bits attached to your monitor. These can often be recycled separately.
• Dust It Off: Give it a quick clean and make sure it’s free from any personal stuff.

Recycling monitors is more than a chore; it’s crucial to prevent nasty stuff like lead and mercury from mucking up the environment. Here’s how you can dive in:

• Shop Solutions: Stores like Best Buy run recycling programs, letting you drop off items hassle-free. Easy-peasy, right?
• Local Events: Some towns organize e-waste days where you can drop off your old electronics. Check out what’s happening in your area.
• Recycler Experts: Companies like Recycle Technologies specialize in making sure e-waste gets a responsible send-off. They’re pros at turning trash into treasure.

Ever heard of local laws on dumping electronics? Many places say, “No way,” to tossing them in landfills. Double-check your area’s rules to dodge fines and do your part for Mother Earth.

If your monitor’s acting up, maybe it just needs a little TLC. A quick fix might bring it back to life. Or try upgrading its cords or connectors to refresh an older model.

So, when it comes to old monitors, if they still work, pass them on or sell them. If they’re toast, recycle responsibly. Lots of places will help you do it safely and efficiently.

By following these tips, you’re not just offloading old tech. You’re playing a part in saving resources and reducing waste, so pat yourself on the back for the effort!

Getting Creative with Old Computer Monitors
Got a couple of old computer monitors collecting dust in the attic? You’re definitely not alone. With tech getting better all the time, these older screens can start to feel like relics. But don’t just chuck them — there are some nifty ways to give them a second lease on life.

---

Why Monitors Get Left in the Dust

1. Tech Keeps Growing: Newer screens have insane resolutions like 4K and 8K. Those old monitors can’t keep up.
2. Wear and Tear: Over time, parts like backlights start to fail and make the screen unreliable.
3. Mobility Trend: With laptops and tablets ruling the world, who needs a standalone monitor?

---

What Can You Do with Them?

Secondary Display Magic

• Why Bother?: It can be super handy for juggling tasks like gaming or coding.
• How-To:
  • Grab an HDMI or VGA adapter — it’s your best buddy here.
  • Software like DisplayFusion can help you get your screen real estate in order.
• Perfect For: Home offices, gaming setups, or art studios.

Pass It On to Schools or Communities

• Good Cause: Many schools or charities can’t afford fancy new tech.
• Steps:
  • Make sure it’s working (no dead pixels, etc).
  • Get in touch with local schools or charities like Goodwill.
  • Throw in some cables and keyboards to sweeten the deal.

Recycle Without Guilt

• Be a Hero: Monitors have toxic stuff like mercury, so recycling properly is a must.
• How To Do It:
  • Check for e-waste recyclers in the EPA directory.
  • Stores like Best Buy and Staples offer free recycling programs.

Upcycle for Crafts and Projects

• Get Crafty:
  • Turn it into a smart mirror with a Raspberry Pi and some two-way glass.
  • Create a lightbox for sketching by mixing LEDs and removing the backlight.
• What You’ll Need: DIY kits from Amazon and how-to guides from maker communities.

Sell or Swap

• Where to Post:
  • Try eBay or Facebook Marketplace.
  • Retail programs might give you credit for new ones on sites like Amazon Renewed.
• Pro Tips: Show off specs like resolution and ports, and definitely take good pics.

---

Keeping Future E-Waste Down

• Makeshift Maintenance: Clean them regularly, keep brightness in check, and use surge protectors.
• Go Big on Advocacy: Push for laws to make manufacturers take back old tech for recycling.

So there you have it, ways to get those old monitors off the shelf and back into action or just responsibly into the recycling bin. Whichever route you go, you’re doing your bit to keep the planet happier, and hey, you might find a cool new screen setup in the process!

Got an old computer monitor and not sure what to do with it? You’re definitely not alone. It’s a pretty common dilemma, so let’s dive into some nifty solutions you’re gonna love!

First up: Recycling Programs

• Manufacturer Programs: Turns out, a lot of manufacturers have your back with take-back programs. Check out their websites to see how you can send your old monitor packing.
• Retailer Programs: Big stores, like Best Buy and Staples, are all about recycling. Just hop onto their websites for the lowdown on drop-off spots and all that jazz.
• E-Waste Recycling Centers: Websites like Earth911 are pretty handy for finding local e-waste champs. Don’t miss out on those!

Next on the list: Repurposing Ideas

• Secondary Monitor: Who doesn’t need a little boost? Use your monitor as a second screen and watch your productivity skyrocket.
• Digital Photo Frame: Why not get a bit artsy? With the right software, you can turn that old monitor into a digital photo frame that shows off your best snaps.
• Security Monitor: Here’s a smart move—use it for displaying home security cameras. Makes you feel a bit like a tech genius, right?
• DIY Projects: Feeling crafty? Turn that monitor into a home arcade display or even a smart mirror. Talk about bragging rights!

Moving on: Donation

• Schools and Nonprofits: Ever thought of donating? Schools and nonprofits could really use them. Plus, places like Goodwill love electronics donations.
• Community Centers: Your local community center might put those monitors to good use for all sorts of projects.

Last but not least: Selling or Giving Away

• Online Marketplaces: Selling or giving away on eBay, Craigslist, or Facebook Marketplace can be as easy as pie. Get them off your hands!
• Tech Forums: Feel like chatting? Specialized tech forums often have sections where you can sell or donate electronics.

And hey, don’t forget! It’s always smart to check local recycling rules and e-waste guidelines. Protecting the planet starts with us, you know?