What the hell? Should you sell or trade in your old phone?
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By JAMIE TUCKER Consumer Technology Reporter
Is it just me or is getting a brand new phone almost as exciting as getting a new car? Maybe you don’t feel the same way, but one thing is still the same: the question of what to do with your old one.
Whether it’s a new car or a phone, you need to think about how to get the most out of the old one. Is it a matter of trading it in or selling it to someone else?
Here’s what I found when I compared prices and trade-in values for the new iPhone 15.
When a new phone comes out, carriers and manufacturers are so interested in selling you one that they’re willing to give you something for your old phone.
For example, if you upgrade to an iPhone 15, Apple will give you a trade-in value of $430 for an iPhone 14, $250 for an iPhone 12, and up to $60 for an iPhone 8.
You’ll do better if you trade in your old phone to your carrier. T-Mobile, AT&T, and Verizon are currently offering deals, and depending on your plan, you may get significantly more than Apple. If you pay for an upgrade plan with one of these providers, you may receive a trade-in value that is almost equal to the cost of the new device.
I noticed something interesting. A phone’s trade-in value does not take storage space into account. An iPhone 12 Pro with 512GB of storage has the same trade-in value as one with 128GB, even if you paid $200 more for it.
That’s quite a bargain and seems to be the same across Apple and all wireless carriers. So this is a relatively new change
Be aware if it’s been a while since you traded in a phone.
In general, Android phones aren’t as valuable as iPhones, but carriers are more likely to trade a new Android device for an older one. Upgrading to the new Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 is free on AT&T by trading in the Z Flip, which is only worth about $35, but again that depends on your current plan.
The trade-in route is easier and best if you are upgrading to a new phone. However, if you want to get the most money for your old device or want to sell the device, you have to buy a not-so-new phone, it is best to sell it. On Facebook Marketplace, iPhone 12s sell for between $250 and $500, and on Gazelle, the iPhone 12 Pro is worth $329. This is cash.
So if you want to upgrade a phone, your best bet is to trade it in with your carrier. And check for offers. Most providers are willing to offer a better deal if you are willing to switch providers.
