Are Old iPhones Really Worth Anything?

Many believe an older iPhone has little monetary value, often ending up in a drawer or as electronic waste. However, many older iPhones do retain some value, which can be recovered through various avenues. The amount of value depends on several factors, and understanding these can help in determining whether selling or trading in your device is a viable option. Understanding its characteristics and preparing it for the secondary market can unlock this potential value.

Factors Influencing Value

The specific model and age of your iPhone significantly impact its resale value; newer models generally command higher prices. iPhones tend to hold about half their original value after three years, though this can vary. Newer models, like the iPhone 14, 15, and 16, have shown significant depreciation in their first year, indicating a trend of faster initial value loss compared to older models.

The physical and functional condition of the device also plays a large role in its worth. iPhones with significant scratches, dents, cracks, or non-functional components like the touchscreen, microphone, or speakers will see their value reduced. Battery health is another important consideration; a battery health percentage below 80% or a high cycle count (over 500) suggests a need for replacement, leading buyers to offer less. Conversely, a battery health of 90% or higher retains value more effectively.

Storage capacity affects pricing, with higher capacities generally selling for more. An unlocked iPhone consistently sells for 10-20% more than a carrier-locked version. The presence of original accessories, such as the box, charger, and headphones, can slightly enhance appeal, though their absence usually does not drastically reduce value. The overall demand for a specific model in the secondary market also influences its price.

Preparing Your iPhone for Resale

Before selling your iPhone, take several steps to protect your personal data and ensure the device is ready for its next owner. Back up your data using iCloud (Settings > your name > iCloud > iCloud Backup) or to a computer via iTunes for Windows or Finder for Mac.

After backing up your data, sign out of all accounts associated with the device. Sign out of your Apple ID (Settings > your name > Sign Out), entering your password when prompted. Disable “Find My iPhone.” This feature is automatically removed when you turn it off in settings or erase all content and settings.

Once all accounts are signed out and “Find My iPhone” is disabled, erase all content and settings to perform a factory reset. This action completely wipes all personal data from the device. Erase all content and settings (Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Erase All Content and Settings). Finally, physically remove your SIM card, typically using a SIM-eject tool or a straightened paperclip. A thorough physical cleaning of the iPhone can also enhance its appeal to potential buyers.

Selling Your iPhone

When considering where to sell your iPhone, various options offer different benefits in terms of convenience and potential payout. Trade-in programs are a straightforward choice, offered by carriers, Apple itself, and third-party electronics recyclers or resellers like Gazelle or ecoATM. These programs provide a simple process, often with instant quotes and free shipping, but they might offer a lower payout compared to selling directly to another individual. Apple, for instance, typically offers store credit or gift cards rather than cash.

Online marketplaces present an opportunity to achieve a higher sale price by selling directly to buyers. Platforms such as eBay, Swappa, and Facebook Marketplace are popular choices for listing used iPhones. When selling through these platforms, create a detailed listing with clear, high-quality photos. For safety, especially when arranging local pickups, consider meeting in a public, well-lit place, such as a police station exchange zone or a busy coffee shop, rather than a private residence.

Payment security is paramount in online transactions. It is advisable to use secure payment methods like PayPal Goods and Services or Zelle, and to confirm that payment has cleared before shipping the item or handing it over. Avoiding methods like checks, money orders, or PayPal “Friends and Family” can mitigate risks of scams, such as overpayment schemes. For very old or significantly damaged iPhones that may not have substantial resale value, responsible recycling through designated electronic waste programs is a suitable alternative for proper disposal.