Selling your unwanted smartphone is a great way to get more bang for your buck and repurpose your investment – plus, it keeps hazardous materials out of landfills! With the used smartphone market expected to grow from $46.52 billion in 2024 to $218.77 billion by 2035, there’s never been a better time to cash in on your old device. Apple iPhones alone account for over 60% of refurbished sales, which makes them especially easy to sell – if you know how to market yours correctly.
Timing matters too. iPhones can lose 15-25% of their value within the first few months of a new release, so listing your device 4-8 weeks before the next iPhone launch or a big promotional season is your best bet for maximizing resale value. Let’s review how to sell an iPhone and what you can do to get the most money out of your sale.
When to Sell Your iPhone
One survey found that 36% of iPhone owners wait more than three years between upgrades. But 16% wait as little as one year. Timing matters more than ever – iPhones now depreciate faster than they used to, with the iPhone 16 losing around 35.4% of its value within the first five months of release, compared to roughly 24.7% for the iPhone 13; it’s a bit of a shift, and it means knowing when to sell is just as important as knowing where to sell.
Consider the following:
- Performance issues: While some performance issues – like cache-related glitches or sluggish performance caused by low storage – can be solved with quick fixes, some problems are too severe or recurrent to fix on your own. Unless you love your phone enough to invest in professional repair and parts replacement, this might be the perfect time to sell or trade it to a buyer who accepts used and damaged devices.
- Broken beyond repair: A broken phone might not fetch much on the direct market, but condition still matters more than you might think. For example, an iPhone 12 Pro in “Good” condition is valued at around $215, while a cracked unit still brings in roughly $111 – so even damaged devices have real resale value. Many retailers and e-waste recycling centers will also take your device and safely dispose of or repurpose it, sometimes offering payment or credit in return.
- Upcoming release: Apple typically releases new iPhone models each fall. The optimal window to list your current phone is 4-8 weeks before the next launch or a major promotional season. Waiting until after the new model drops can cost you significantly – iPhones lose 15-25% of their value within the first few months of a new release alone. Keep an eye on tech websites covering upcoming releases and follow Apple on social media to stay ahead of announcements.
- The resale market is strong right now: Apple iPhones account for over 60% of refurbished smartphone sales, and the used smartphone market as a whole is projected to grow from $46.52 billion in 2024 to over $218 billion by 2035. Demand for used iPhones is high, which means now is a favorable time to sell if you’ve been on the fence.
- Lifestyle change: Whether you got a new job that requires more connectivity, developed a passion for mobile gaming, or need more storage for photography and video, sometimes you simply outgrow your phone. If your current device is holding you back, selling sooner rather than later helps you maximize its trade-in value before depreciation eats further into it.
How to Sell Your iPhone – the Ultimate Guide
If you’re ready to upgrade to Apple’s latest release – or just want to clear some clutter from your drawers – selling an iPhone is easy; follow these steps. And it’s worth acting fast: iPhones can lose 15-25% of their value within the first few months of a new release, so timing your sale right makes a difference.
1. Transfer Data to Your New Phone
Transfer all the data that matters – like any notes, contacts, messages, apps, pictures and videos – that you want to keep from your current device to your new one before moving on. You can use Apple’s Quick Start feature, which helps you through the data move process with on-screen prompts.
You can also back up your data to a computer with iTunes or Finder:
- Connect your device to your computer.
- Open Finder or iTunes.
- Find your device listed in the menu and click.
- Choose whether you want to back your data up to iCloud or your computer.
- Select “Backup Now.”
You can also set your device to automatically back up data to iCloud overnight by going to “Settings,” then your name at the top, then “iCloud” and “iCloud Backup.”
2. Remove Personal Data From the Phone
While you could manually erase each contact, message, app and photo from your device, it’s much easier to erase your phone and reset it back to its factory settings. Don’t do this until you’re finished with the device and ready to use your new one. If you’re switching to a non-iOS smartphone, deregister from Apple-only apps, like iMessage. You can also remove your SIM card if applicable.
When you’re ready, proceed with these steps:
- Go to “Settings.”
- Tap “General.”
- Tap “Transfer or Reset iPhone.”
- Choose “Erase All Content and Settings.”
- Tap “Continue” and follow the on-screen prompts.
- Enter your passcode or Apple ID when prompted to confirm.
3. Unpair Your Devices
Unpair accessories – like wireless earbuds or your Apple Watch – and turn off Bluetooth. Gather all accessories, cases, chargers and cables and put them with your device. You might need to enter each device or accessory individually and manually unpair it from your iPhone.
You also need to disable the “Find My” feature to protect your information and let the next owner set up the device:
- Go to “Settings” and tap your name at the top.
- Tap “Find My,” then “Find My iPhone.”
- Toggle off “Find My iPhone.”
- Enter your Apple ID password when prompted.
4. Identify Your iPhone Model
Note as much information about your iPhone as you can – this will make the sale easier.
For older phones, you can check your model number in your general settings and then search for it online to see which device it matches. Some phones also have the model number printed on the inside of the SIM tray or the back of the device.
Other information you should note includes the phone’s age, any previous damage or repairs and warranty facts. Condition matters to resale value – just to give you an example, a used iPhone 12 Pro in “Good” condition can fetch around $215. But a cracked unit may only bring in around $111.
5. Time Your Sale Strategically
Timing is one of the most overlooked factors in getting a good price for your used iPhone. iPhone depreciation has been accelerating – the 5-month depreciation rate climbed from roughly 24.7% on the iPhone 13 to around 35.4% on the iPhone 16. The sweet spot for listing your device is usually 4-8 weeks before Apple’s next launch or a big promotional season, when demand for used iPhones is still strong and supply hasn’t yet been flooded by trade-ins from new buyers.
6. Clean Your Phone
Now that you’ve cleared the data from your device, it’s time to clean up the outside to get it ready for sale.
Follow these steps for a deep clean:
- Unplug your phone and power the device down.
- Remove the phone case and any physically attached accessories.
- Use a microfiber cloth to buff away fingerprints on the screen. You may need to dampen the cloth lightly if the screen is really smudged.
- Use a 70% isopropyl alcohol wipe to gently clean the back and sides of the phone. Never clean your phone with abrasive cleaning agents, bleach, aerosol disinfectants, hand sanitizer or dish soap.
- Use a soft-bristled brush or a toothpick wrapped in a small amount of tape to remove dust and lint from small crevices and ports.
- Allow your phone to air dry completely before powering it back on.
- Repeat this process with your phone case, charger and each accessory you’re bundling with your iPhone.
7. Identify the Condition
Identifying your phone’s condition gives buyers an honest look at what they’re paying for and what they should expect when purchasing your used device. Individual retailers that resell used devices have their own requirements for determining conditions. Options are usually “New,” “Like-New,” “Good” and “Fair.”
Be prepared to answer the following questions:
- Does the phone power on and off?
- Does the phone automatically start on the home screen?
- Are there any dim, flickering or dark spots or other noticeable damage on the screen?
- How long does it take to charge the phone to a full battery, and how long does that battery last with typical use?
- Are there any physical marks, like scratches, scuffs, dents or cracks?
- Is the screen fully intact?
- Is there any moisture damage?
- Does the phone still get a good signal in areas with adequate service?
- Have you tested each individual feature, including the cameras and Face ID or Touch ID, for full functionality?
- Does the phone have any performance issues, like unexpected shutdowns?
8. Prepare Your Phone for Sale
Prepare your phone for sale by collecting all device accessories and packing material. These are the most common options:
- Used phone retailers: Some retailers, like Gazelle, specialize in selling certified refurbished devices at a fair cost to keep them out of landfills, repurpose materials and offer a budget-friendly alternative for shoppers who don’t want to sacrifice affordability for premium smartphones. Apple iPhones account for over 60% of refurbished device sales, making this a well-established and trusted market.
- Individual buyers: Individual buyers, like a friend, family member or someone you’ve connected with through a community marketplace, may be easy to sell to but don’t offer the same level of security and quality assurance as a certified reseller.
- Recycling kiosks: Recycling kiosks offer a quick and convenient trade-in option, and you can usually find them near local grocery stores or big-box retailers. Kiosks are not staffed by personnel, so they may not be the best option if you’re looking for more information about the sale process or have questions about your offer.
9. Get an Estimate
Regardless of your chosen sale strategy, the next step is to receive an estimate and choose if you’re going to accept it. Depending on your sale strategy, the estimate might happen during the trade-in or sale process, or may be up for negotiation. But estimates are just that – an estimation of your phone’s value – and may be subject to change depending on your buyer, the phone’s condition, the latest smartphone market, performance tests and other factors. The used smartphone market is growing fast, expected to expand from $46.52 billion in 2024 to $218.77 billion by 2035, which means demand for quality used iPhones remains strong.
10. Package Your Phone for Trade-In
Make sure your phone is charged and turned off before packaging it for resale or shipment. Use the original box and packaging, if possible, as they are already structurally designed to support the device. Otherwise choose a sturdy box and wrap your phone tightly in protective materials before sealing. You’ll need to take extra steps if you’re mailing a broken phone or a device with a shattered screen so the buyer doesn’t get injured when unboxing it. Don’t forget to include the charger and any included accessories inside.
Choose a mailing service that has tracking and insurance options and consider expedited shipping if necessary.
11. Get Paid
Your buyer might give you instant payment, or you might have to wait for a quality inspection to verify the phone’s condition. Common payment types include:
- Cash or check: Kiosks and private buyers are most likely to offer instant cash or paper check payments, ideal if you’re looking for a quick turnaround.
- Gift card: Some retailers offer gift cards to popular retailers in exchange for your unwanted device.
- Store credit: Store credit is a good option if you’re selling your phone to a certified refurbished distributor that sells devices you might be interested in purchasing.
- Digital payment: Digital payments are delivered through PayPal, Venmo or other similar protected payment accounts and are among the safest options for online transactions with private sellers.
Tips for Getting Top Dollar for Your Phone
Timing and condition are everything when it comes to maximizing your return. iPhones depreciate fast – losing 15-25% of their value within the first few months after a new release, and that rate is getting worse. The 5-month depreciation rate surged from around 24.7% for the iPhone 13 to approximately 35.4% for the iPhone 16. If you’re planning to sell, the sweet spot is usually 4-8 weeks before the next launch or promo season, when demand is still high and supply of newer models hasn’t flooded the market.
Newer devices in or like-new condition will usually command the best prices. Condition matters more than sellers expect – for example, a used iPhone 12 Pro in “Good” condition is listed around $215. But a cracked unit fetches roughly $111. Brand recognition also plays a big part: Apple iPhones account for over 60% of refurbished smartphone sales, which makes them easier to sell and likely to draw competitive bids. Samsung Galaxy devices follow closely behind as another buyer favorite.
Get the most for your smartphone with these tips:
- Sell sooner rather than later: Given how quickly smartphones depreciate – especially flagship models – don’t sit on your old device. Every month you wait is money left on the table, particularly in the weeks following a new release announcement.
- Include accessories if applicable: Unless your next phone will be the same make and model as your current one, consider bundling any cases and accessories when advertising your phone for sale. Budget-conscious second-market shoppers will appreciate getting everything they need in a single purchase.
- Keep the original packaging: Hold onto your smartphone’s original box and packaging, including any charging cords and warranty information, and include them with your used device. Original packaging signals that a device was well cared for and can justify a higher asking price.
- Consider making repairs: For premium or high-demand models, minor cosmetic damage – like a cracked screen or scuffs – can significantly cut into your resale value. A professional screen repair on a recent flagship model may cost far less than the price difference between a “Good” and “Cracked” condition listing, making it worth the investment before you sell.
- Avoid selling during contracts or financing: Don’t attempt to trade in or sell your smartphone if it’s tied to a current contract or an active financing plan, as you are likely bound to specific ownership and sale terms and restrictions.
- Discuss the terms of the sale: If you’re selling to a friend, family member or private buyer, discuss the terms of the sale thoroughly, including the phone’s age, condition, any performance quirks, your asking price, the method of payment and when payment is due. Review the phone’s appearance and performance together before finalizing the sale.
Gazelle Will Buy Your Used Smartphone
Gazelle lets you buy and sell unwanted, used cell phones- like iPhones, in three easy steps:
- Get an offer for your used device based on its make, model, age, condition and other factors.
- Ship your phone to Gazelle for free.
- Get paid via Amazon Gift Card, PayPal or check.
Timing your sale matters more than ever. iPhones are depreciating faster with each generation – the iPhone 16 lost approximately 35.4% of its value within just five months of release, compared to around 24.7% for the iPhone 13. That makes selling sooner instead of later a smart move. Listing your device 4-8 weeks before the next iPhone launch or a big promotional season tends to yield the best returns.
You’re also selling into a growing market. The worldwide used smartphone market was valued at $46.52 billion in 2024 and it’s expected to reach $218.77 billion by 2035 – and Apple iPhones account for over 60% of refurbished sales, which means demand for your old device is strong.
Once Gazelle receives your device, they work to keep it out of landfills by refurbishing it for the second-hand market whenever possible. Learn about the Gazelle trade-in process and get an offer for your unwanted smartphone!