Engadget Weighs Trade-In vs. Selling an Old Phone
Engadget compares trading in an old phone with selling it yourself, noting trade-ins are faster but usually pay less, while eBay and Facebook Marketplace can yield more if sellers handle the hassle.
Engadget reports that trade-in options include chains such as Best Buy and GameStop, small independent traders, and official stores like Apple or Samsung. These outlets may offer store credit or, at GameStop and CeX, cash, though cash usually brings less than store credit. Apple and Samsung trade-ins typically provide an instant discount on a new device or credit for future use.
The report says trade-ins spare owners from concerns about unpaid buyers on Facebook Marketplace or low listing visibility, and from taking photos and monitoring inquiries. But the convenience comes at a cost. Engadget cites the iPhone 17, which retails at $899 in the US. Apple's trade-in page says the maximum value for a returned phone, assuming it is essentially good as new, is only $585. Apple stores pay only in a discount or store credit, and Engadget says the same applies to Samsung, Best Buy and many other retailers.
For the best value, Engadget says owners need to sell the phone themselves on platforms such as eBay or Facebook Marketplace. This route involves the hassles mentioned above, but sellers can set the terms and get a much better price. The report adds that an accurate and honest listing can allow the sale of devices that work fine but are slightly too damaged for a local store to accept.
Selling directly requires more preparation. Engadget says owners may want an expert evaluation, such as the service Apple provides at its stores, before committing. They need accurate details about the phone's make and condition, as well as the right keywords to make the listing visible.
Whether trading in or selling, Engadget says owners should prepare the phone before offloading it. They should back up data and passwords, log out of all accounts and factory reset the device.
Editor's Summary Engadget's report says trade-ins offer speed and simplicity but usually lower returns, while selling an old phone on eBay or Facebook Marketplace can bring more money with more effort. It highlights Apple's iPhone 17 trade-in example, where a $899 phone returns at most $585 in credit or discount. The report also advises backing up data, logging out of accounts and factory resetting the phone before any sale or trade-in.