TL;DR
To reuse your old Macbook:
- Use as a second screen.
- Create a Wi-Fi hotspot.
- Host websites or FTP.
- Install Chrome OS.
- Set up as a media player.
- Stream media with Plex.
- Play retro games.
- Run older macOS.
- Install Linux OS.
- Turn into a NAS.
Tried and Tested ✅: The methods and steps mentioned in this article have been tried and tested firsthand by Ojash Yadav on his MacBook Pro M3 and rechecked for errors on Hashir’s MacBook Air M2.
An outdated Mac often feels unusable due to software or hardware limitations. But repurposing it is easier than you think. Discover practical and creative ways to give your old MacBook new life.
What to Do With Your Old MacBook?
Why You Can Trust MacBook Journal 
We always conduct first-hand research and verify every method or solution we present, ensuring you receive reliable and effective advice. Learn more about our process.
An old Mac doesn’t have to sit in a drawer collecting dust. With a bit of creativity, you can turn it into something useful and exciting. Let’s explore the best ways to give your MacBook a fresh start.
1. Use the Old Mac as a Secondary Monitor
Boost productivity with a dual-monitor setup by repurposing your old MacBook or iMac as a secondary display using Target Display Mode or apps like Duet Display.
Here’s how to use your old Mac as a second display:
- Ensure you have a cable that supports DisplayPort.
- Connect the cable from your old Mac to your new Mac.
- On your new Mac, click the Apple icon and select System Settings.
- Select Displays.
- Click the Arrangement tab. (Only visible when you connect a display).
- Your old Mac should be listed as a possible display. Adjust as necessary.
2. Set Up Your Mac as a Temporary Wi-Fi Hotspot
Your old MacBook can share its wired or wireless connection, making it a handy solution for areas with limited internet access. Here’s how to set up your Mac as a Wi-Fi hotspot:
- Connect your old Mac to your router using an Ethernet cable.
- Position the old Mac near the Wi-Fi dead zone.
- On your Mac, go to System Settings.
- Click General and select Sharing.
- Toggle on Internet Sharing.
- Configure the Wi-Fi hotspot settings as needed.
3. Use the Old Mac as a Web Server
Turn your old Mac into a web server with Apache, NGINX, or IIS. Configure it, link your domain, and it’s ready for hosting or FTP—a cost-effective option for web projects.
4. Turn Your Mac Into a Chromebook
Revive your old Mac with Chrome OS using CloudReady. This lightweight OS, known for its speed and simplicity, transforms your MacBook into a Chromebook. Enjoy efficient access to web apps, Google Drive, and other cloud-based services.
5. Use Your Old Mac as a Media Viewer
Turn your old Mac into a dedicated media device for movies, TV shows, or presentations. Set it up with apps like VLC, Kodi, or iTunes to manage your media library, keeping your main device free for work.
6. Run Plex on Your Old Mac
Transform your old Mac into a Plex server to organize and stream your movies, TV shows, music, and photos. Plex turns your Mac into a media hub, streaming content to smart TVs, phones, and more, complete with metadata for a seamless experience.
7. Turn Your Mac Into a Classic Video Game Emulator
Transform your old Mac into a retro gaming hub with emulators like OpenEmu or RetroArch. Play classics from NES, SNES, and Sega Genesis—just load your ROMs, connect a controller, and relive the golden age of gaming.
8. Use It to Run Older macOS Versions
Progress in technology can render older software unusable. Your old Mac can act as a time capsule for running apps no longer compatible with the latest macOS versions by keeping or reinstalling an older macOS.
- 💾 Legacy Software: Use your old Mac for tools that lack updates for newer macOS versions.
- 🛠️ Development and Testing: Developers can test compatibility on older systems.
- 🕰️ Nostalgia: Enjoy revisiting the look and feel of an earlier macOS version.
9. Install Linux on It
Turn your old Mac into a Linux machine to explore various open-source distributions, perfect for tech enthusiasts and learners. Here’s why you might consider this transformation:
- 🌱 Variety of Choices: From Ubuntu to Fedora to Debian, you can pick a distro that suits your taste and requirements.
- 🚀 Performance Boost: Linux can be less resource-intensive than macOS, giving your old Mac a noticeable performance lift.
- 🔒 Security: Linux is often lauded for its robust security features. Installing it on your old Mac can provide a secure browsing or development environment.
10. Make It a Network or Backup Device
Rather than buying expensive storage solutions, convert your old Mac into a Network-Attached Storage (NAS) device. It can act as a centralized location for storing files, backing up data, and sharing media across your home network. Pair it with software like Time Machine or Plex to enhance its capabilities.
If repurposing isn’t your thing, consider trading in or recycling your old Mac. Many programs, including Apple Trade-In, offer credit or discounts for upgrading to a new device. Before trading or selling your Mac, make sure to back up your data, sign out of accounts like iCloud, and erase the drive for security.
Reuse Your Old MacBook to Keep It Out of the Landfill
Your old Mac still has value! Repurpose it as a media hub, explore Linux, or sell it to promote sustainable tech use.
Here are more tips to help you make the most of your MacBook:
- If you’re unsure whether your Mac is too old for a replacement, find out what year is your MacBook Pro or Air before buying a new one.
- You can also go through my macOS Compatibility Checker to find out what macOS your Mac can run.
- Also, learn about all MacBooks ever released to find out interesting facts about your machine.
