Where to Trade in an iPhone 11, 12, Or 13 for the Most Value

If you’ve upgraded your iPhone recently, there’s a good chance your old iPhone 11, 12, or 13 is sitting in a drawer right now… unused, forgotten, and losing value every single day.

However, figuring out where to trade in your iPhone isn’t as simple as it should be. Carriers, manufacturers, and online buyback companies all promise “great deals,” but many come with a lot of fine print or payouts that aren’t nearly as generous as they first appear.

To help you avoid leaving money on the table, this guide breaks down your main trade-in options, what each one really offers, and how to choose the option that gives you the most value for your old iPhone.

But first, if you’re still not convinced your old iPhone is worth the effort, here’s a quick look at why it might be worth more than you think.

Why Your Old iPhone is Still a Valuable Asset

It’s easy to assume that a phone that is a few years old has lost most of its worth, but the secondary smartphone market is thriving.

In fact, the global market for used and refurbished smartphones was valued at nearly 70 billion dollars in 2026 and is projected to grow steadily. This demand is a testament to the durability and long-term performance of devices like the iPhone 11, 12, and 13.

Apple’s commitment to long-term software support means these phones continue to receive security updates and run modern applications efficiently, making them highly sought after by budget-conscious consumers.

So when you go to trade in your phone, you are not just getting rid of an old gadget. You are supplying a valuable piece of technology to a circular economy that extends its lifespan and keeps it out of a landfill.

The key is to find a trade-in program that recognizes this inherent value and compensates you fairly for it.

A Look at Your Trade-In Options

When it comes to finding a new home for your old iPhone, you have several distinct paths to consider.

The most visible options are often mobile carriers like AT&T and Verizon, which heavily advertise promotional trade-in deals when you sign up for a new plan. Another straightforward route is returning to the manufacturer itself through Apple’s own trade-in program.

Big-box retailers such as Best Buy also offer trade-in services, typically providing store credit toward a future purchase. And finally, a growing number of online buyback companies have emerged as specialized players in this space.

Each of these options comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages related to payout value, payment method, convenience, and data security. Here’s a closer look at each so you can weigh your options for your old iPhone.

The Carrier Trade-In Route: Convenience at a Cost

Trading in your old iPhone with a major carrier like AT&T, Verizon, or T-Mobile is often presented as the most convenient option, especially when you are already in the store upgrading to a new device. These companies frequently run promotions that promise significant savings on a new phone in exchange for your old one.

However, this convenience usually comes at a price. The high-value offers are often tied to expensive unlimited plans, long-term contracts, or opening a new line of service. The credit you receive is rarely paid out in cash; instead, it is typically applied as monthly bill credits over 24 or 36 months. So if you decide to switch carriers before the term is up, you may forfeit the remaining credits.

While the process is simple, the actual value you receive is often lower than what you could get elsewhere, and it’s paid out in a way that locks you into their service.

The Manufacturer Trade-In: Going Straight to the Source

Apple’s trade-in program offers a straightforward and trustworthy process for anyone already invested in the Apple ecosystem. You can trade in your old iPhone online or at an Apple Store and receive instant credit toward the purchase of a new product. The process is straightforward, and you can be confident that your device will be handled securely.

However, the typical trade-in values offered by Apple are often a lot more conservative compared to other options. For example, as of January 2026, the estimated trade-in values for older iPhones were modest, reflecting Apple’s focus on incentivizing new purchases rather than offering the highest possible payout.

On top of that, the payout comes as an Apple gift card, which means you can only spend it on Apple products. It’s convenient if you’re loyal to the Apple ecosystem, but it’s not ideal if you’re trying to get the most cash for your device.

Online Buyback Companies: Getting the Most Cash for Your Phone

If your priority is maximizing cash value, online buyback companies tend to offer better payouts than traditional trade-in options.

These companies specialize in buying used electronics, refurbishing them, and reselling them. And since this is their entire business, they’re able to offer more competitive prices than carriers or big retailers, allowing them to pass more of that value back to you.

Here are a few of the biggest advantages of this route.

Higher Payouts and Cash Payments

The most significant advantage of using an online buyback service is the payout.

These companies often pay more for an iPhone 11, iPhone 12, or iPhone 13 than Apple or mobile carriers. So instead of locking you into store credit or bill credits, they provide payment in cash through flexible methods like PayPal, Venmo, ACH transfer, or a physical check. This gives you the freedom to use the money however you see fit, whether it’s for a new phone, bills, or something else entirely.

A Transparent and Secure Process

Reputable online buyback companies have refined their process to be both simple and secure. Here’s how it typically works:

• Get an instant quote based on your phone’s model, storage, and condition.
• Accept the offer and receive a prepaid shipping label.
• Ship your device without worrying about extra costs or logistics.
• Have your data securely wiped.
• Get paid quickly via PayPal, Venmo, ACH transfer, or check.

Everything is handled for you, so you don’t have to worry about security, shipping, or getting paid.

A Commitment to Sustainability

Choosing a buyback service is also better for the environment, too. These companies focus on extending the life of electronics by refurbishing usable devices and responsibly recycling the rest.

That means fewer working phones end up in landfills and more materials are reused instead of wasted. When you trade in your phone with a company that prioritizes reuse, you’re making a simple, responsible choice that helps reduce e-waste without any extra effort on your part.

Making the Right Choice for Your Trade-In

Deciding where to trade in your iPhone ultimately depends on your priorities.

If your main goal is to get the highest possible cash value for your iPhone, an online buyback company is almost always your best bet. These services offer competitive payouts, flexible payment methods, and a secure, transparent process. While carriers and manufacturers do provide a convenient path (if you’re already upgrading), that convenience often comes at the cost of a lower return and restrictive terms.

By taking a few minutes to compare your options, you can make a decision that benefits both your wallet and the environment.

Ready to see how much you can get for your old iPhone? Get an instant quote from SmartphonesPLUS today.

FAQs About iPhone Trade-Ins

How much can I get if I trade in my iPhone 11?

The value of an iPhone 11 trade-in depends on its condition, storage capacity, and the buyback vendor you choose. While Apple may offer up to $100, specialized online buyback companies may provide a more competitive cash offer.

Is it better to trade in my iPhone 12 or sell it myself?

Selling your iPhone 12 yourself on a marketplace like eBay or Facebook Marketplace might yield a slightly higher price, but it comes with the hassle of creating a listing, dealing with potential buyers, and handling shipping. A trade-in with a reputable online service offers a balance of a strong cash offer without the risks and effort of a private sale.

What is the best way to trade in my iPhone 13?

For an iPhone 13, comparing different offers is critical. Carrier promotions may seem attractive, but they often lock you into long-term contracts with bill credits. An online buyback company will likely provide a higher cash payout, giving you a lot more flexibility.

Do I need to erase my phone before I trade it in?

Yes, it is essential to back up your data, sign out of your Apple ID, and perform a factory reset before you trade in your phone. Most reputable buyback services will also securely wipe the device for added security.

How long does it take to get paid for a phone trade-in?

Payment speed varies by vendor.

Carrier trade-ins can apply credits over many months, while Apple provides instant credit for in-store trade-ins. Online buyback companies typically issue payment within a few days of receiving and inspecting your device.