Trade-In or Sell Your Old Phone? A Practical Guide to Getting Value Back

The two paths for an old phone

When a new phone arrives, the old one still has value. Engadget reports that owners can either trade the device in or sell it themselves, and the choice affects how much money comes back, how much effort is involved, and which devices are even eligible.

Trading in: speed and safety, lower payout

Trade-in is described as the quickest and easiest route. Options include retail chains such as Best Buy and GameStop, smaller independent traders, and official brand stores like Apple or Samsung. Payouts generally come as store credit or a discount on a new device; some outlets, including GameStop and CeX, may offer cash, though Engadget notes that cash usually brings less than store credit.

The main advantage is convenience and reduced risk. There is no need to photograph a device, write a listing, monitor inquiries, or worry about a buyer walking away without paying, a scenario Engadget links to Facebook Marketplace.

The trade-off is value. Engadget cites the iPhone 17 at $899 in the US and Apple's trade-in page, which states a maximum return of $585, assuming the phone is essentially like new. That figure is a maximum, not a guaranteed payout, and Apple pays in discount or store credit rather than cash. Engadget says the same pattern applies at Samsung, Best Buy, and many other retailers.

Selling yourself: more money, more work

For the best possible value, Engadget recommends selling directly on platforms such as eBay or Facebook Marketplace. Sellers set the terms and can often get more than a trade-in offer. This route also accepts devices that work but carry damage too significant for a local store to take, provided the listing is accurate and honest.

The cost is preparation. Engadget notes that sellers may want an expert evaluation, such as the service Apple offers in its stores, before committing. A listing needs accurate details about the make and condition of the phone, plus the right keywords to be visible. Sellers also handle photographs, inquiries, and the risk of non-payment.

Preparation applies either way

Whatever route is chosen, Engadget says the phone must be prepared before it leaves the owner's hands. Data and passwords should be backed up, and the device should be scrubbed clean by logging out of all accounts and performing a factory reset.

What this means for buyers and sellers

The decision comes down to a trade-off between convenience and return. Trade-in suits people who want a fast, low-risk transaction and are willing to accept less value, often in the form of credit tied to a retailer or brand. Selling directly suits people willing to invest time in listing, communication, and evaluation in exchange for a higher payout and a wider range of acceptable device conditions.

Engadget's reporting does not provide a universal answer on which route pays more in every case. Values depend on the make, condition, and condition assumptions behind any quote, and trade-in maximums are not guarantees. Readers comparing options should check current offers for their specific model rather than relying on a single example.