I dug into Apple’s trade-in page, three major carriers, and several third-party buyers to find out what people really get for their old iPhones. What I found surprised me. Most owners leave real money on the table because they assume their iPhone is worth more than the market will pay, or they trade in too late and watch the value crater.
If you are staring at a drawer full of old iPhones or thinking about upgrading this year, this guide will help you figure out what your device is actually worth. We will break down the 40-80 rule, share current iPhone trade-in value ranges by model, compare the major programs, and give you a clear timing strategy to get the most money back.
Table of Contents
What Is the 40-80 Rule for iPhone Trade-Ins?
The 40-80 rule is a simple guideline that explains how much of an iPhone’s original value is lost within the first two years. According to this rule, an iPhone typically retains only 40% to 80% of its original resale value after 12 to 24 months of ownership.
In practice, this means a brand-new iPhone you paid $1,000 for might only fetch $400 to $800 at trade-in after the first year. By the second year, the range narrows toward the lower end of that scale, especially once a newer model is announced.
I have watched this play out across multiple upgrade cycles. A flagship iPhone purchased for $1,200 often trades in for $580 after 18 months, which is roughly 48% of original value. That tracks with the rule, but it also shows how much timing affects the final number.
Why the 40-80 Rule Matters for Your Wallet
The rule exists because iPhones depreciate on a predictable curve tied to new model launches. Apple typically announces new iPhones in September, and trade-in values for older models drop 15% to 20% almost immediately afterward.
Knowing this curve helps you make smarter upgrade decisions. If you trade in two weeks before the announcement, you usually capture the higher pre-launch value. If you wait until October, the same phone is worth noticeably less.
Current iPhone Trade-In Values by Model
Below is a table of estimated iPhone trade-in value ranges based on data from Apple’s trade-in program, major carriers, and third-party services as of 2026. Actual offers vary by condition, storage, and current promotions.
| iPhone Model | Storage Range | Apple Trade-In (Good Condition) | Carrier Trade-In Range | Third-Party / Sell Direct |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| iPhone 17 Pro Max | 256GB – 1TB | $570 – $695 | $600 – $900 | $650 – $1,000 |
| iPhone 17 Pro | 128GB – 1TB | $480 – $615 | $500 – $800 | $550 – $900 |
| iPhone 17 | 128GB – 512GB | $380 – $480 | $400 – $650 | $450 – $750 |
| iPhone 16 Pro Max | 256GB – 1TB | $450 – $560 | $470 – $720 | $520 – $820 |
| iPhone 16 Pro | 128GB – 1TB | $370 – $470 | $390 – $620 | $430 – $720 |
| iPhone 16 | 128GB – 512GB | $280 – $360 | $300 – $500 | $340 – $580 |
| iPhone 15 Pro Max | 256GB – 1TB | $330 – $420 | $350 – $560 | $390 – $640 |
| iPhone 15 Pro | 128GB – 1TB | $260 – $340 | $280 – $460 | $310 – $540 |
| iPhone 15 | 128GB – 512GB | $190 – $260 | $210 – $360 | $240 – $440 |
| iPhone 14 Pro Max | 128GB – 1TB | $220 – $300 | $240 – $410 | $270 – $480 |
| iPhone 14 Pro | 128GB – 1TB | $170 – $240 | $190 – $340 | $220 – $400 |
| iPhone 14 | 128GB – 512GB | $120 – $170 | $140 – $240 | $160 – $300 |
| iPhone 13 Pro Max | 128GB – 1TB | $130 – $190 | $150 – $280 | $180 – $340 |
| iPhone 13 Pro | 128GB – 1TB | $100 – $150 | $120 – $230 | $150 – $280 |
| iPhone 13 | 128GB – 512GB | $70 – $110 | $90 – $170 | $110 – $220 |
| iPhone 12 Pro Max | 128GB – 512GB | $70 – $100 | $90 – $160 | $110 – $200 |
| iPhone 12 / 12 Pro | 64GB – 512GB | $50 – $85 | $70 – $140 | $90 – $170 |
| iPhone 11 | 64GB – 256GB | $30 – $60 | $50 – $110 | $70 – $130 |
| iPhone XR / XS | 64GB – 512GB | $25 – $55 | $40 – $90 | $60 – $110 |
| iPhone X / 8 / SE (2nd gen) | 64GB – 256GB | $0 – $30 | $20 – $60 | $40 – $90 |
These numbers reflect good to excellent condition devices with no cracks, working batteries above 80% health, and functional screens. Damaged or non-working iPhones fall into a much lower bracket that we cover later.
What Factors Actually Affect Your Trade-In Value
Five main factors determine what a trade-in program will pay for your old iPhone. Understanding each one helps you maximize what you walk away with.
1. Device Condition
Condition is the single biggest factor after model. Apple grades devices on a scale from “excellent” (no scratches, no damage) down to “no power” (won’t turn on). A flawless iPhone 14 can be worth $170 while one with a cracked screen drops to $0 at Apple’s program.
Carriers tend to be slightly more forgiving. Several Reddit users reported getting full quoted value with a tiny chip on the camera lens, while Apple would have rejected the device entirely.
2. Storage Capacity
Higher storage models command higher trade-in values, but the gap narrows as iPhones age. A 256GB iPhone 13 might fetch $120 while a 128GB version gets $90. The premium for storage has shrunk compared to the early iPhone generations.
3. Battery Health
Most programs require battery health above 80% to qualify for top-tier pricing. If your battery has degraded significantly, expect a $30 to $50 reduction. You can check this in Settings under Battery Health on any iPhone running iOS 16 or later.
4. Model Generation
The newer the model, the more value it retains. iPhones typically lose 30% to 40% of their value in the first year, then depreciate more slowly. An iPhone 16 from 2026 holds value much better than an iPhone 13 of the same age and condition.
5. Accessories and Packaging
Original boxes, charging cables, and unused accessories can add $10 to $30 to third-party offers. They rarely matter at Apple or carrier programs, but they matter when selling directly to a buyer on Swappa or Back Market.
Major Trade-In Programs Compared: Apple vs Carriers vs Third-Party
Where you trade in your iPhone matters as much as its condition. I checked Apple, AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, and several third-party services. Here is how they stack up.
Apple Trade-In
Apple’s program offers convenience and instant credit toward a new device. Values range from $35 to $695 depending on model. The trade-off is that Apple is strictest on condition. Any cracked screen, dent, or significant scratch drops your offer to $0 in many cases.
If your iPhone is in perfect condition and you want credit toward a new Apple purchase, this is the smoothest path. If your phone has any damage, look elsewhere first.
Carrier Trade-In Programs
Carriers frequently offer higher trade-in values than Apple, especially during promotional windows. AT&T in particular has been known to pay $800 for an iPhone 11 that Apple would only value at $225, based on real user reports from Reddit.
Verizon and T-Mobile run similar promotions tied to new line activations or plan upgrades. The catch is that carrier offers usually apply as bill credits over 24 to 36 months rather than cash in hand.
Third-Party Services
Services like Back Market, Gazelle, Swappa, and BankMyCell typically pay more than carriers for cash transactions. BankMyCell reports an average resale value of $77.56 for an iPhone XR in good condition.
The downside is more friction. You usually need to ship the device, wait for inspection, and accept that the final offer may be lower than the initial quote if the company finds undisclosed damage.
Quick Comparison Table
| Program | Best For | Payment Type | Condition Strictness |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apple Trade-In | Apple Store credit, hassle-free | Instant credit | Very strict |
| AT&T Trade-In | Higher value with new line | Bill credits (24-36 mo) | Moderate |
| Verizon Trade-In | Plan upgrades, promotions | Bill credits (24-36 mo) | Moderate |
| T-Mobile Trade-In | Go5G plan upgrades | Bill credits (24-36 mo) | Moderate |
| Back Market | Cash, eco-friendly resale | Cash via PayPal or check | Moderate |
| Swappa | Direct buyer, maximum cash | Cash via PayPal | Buyer dependent |
| Gazelle | Fast cash, simple process | Cash via PayPal or check | Moderate |
How to Check Your iPhone’s Trade-In Value?
Checking your iPhone trade-in value takes less than five minutes. Here is the process I recommend.
Step 1: Open the trade-in page on Apple, your carrier, or a third-party site. Apple’s estimator is at apple.com/shop/trade-in.
Step 2: Select your exact iPhone model, storage capacity, and carrier. Be accurate. Picking the wrong model can throw off your estimate by $100 or more.
Step 3: Answer the condition questions honestly. Programs ask about screen condition, body damage, battery health, and whether the phone powers on. Inflating your answers risks a reduced offer or rejection after shipping.
Step 4: Compare offers across at least three programs before committing. Carrier quotes during promotional windows often beat Apple by 30% to 50%.
Step 5: Lock in your offer before it expires. Most trade-in quotes are valid for 14 to 30 days. Once the window closes, the value may drop if a new iPhone is announced.
When Is the Best Time to Trade In Your iPhone?
Timing is one of the most underrated levers for iPhone trade-in value. Based on real user experiences and market data, the sweet spot is two to four weeks before Apple’s September iPhone event.
During this window, your current iPhone still commands top dollar because buyers know a new model is coming but inventory of the current generation is shrinking. Once Apple announces the new iPhone, trade-in values for older models drop 15% to 20% almost immediately.
If you cannot trade before September, the next best window is during holiday promotional periods (November through December) when carriers compete aggressively for upgrades. Black Friday and Cyber Monday often bring the year’s best carrier trade-in bonuses.
Trade-In vs Selling Directly: Which Gets You More Money?
Trading in is convenient but rarely the highest-paying option. Selling directly on Swappa, eBay, or Facebook Marketplace can net you 20% to 40% more than trade-in offers, especially for flagship models like the iPhone Pro or Pro Max.
The trade-off is effort. Selling directly means listing the device, shipping it, dealing with buyer questions, and handling payment disputes. Trade-in programs handle all of that for you in exchange for lower payouts.
For older iPhones worth under $100, trade-in usually makes more sense. The hassle of shipping a $50 phone is rarely worth your time. For flagship iPhones worth $400 or more, selling direct is almost always more profitable.
7 Tips to Maximize Your iPhone Trade-In Value
After comparing dozens of quotes and reading hundreds of user reports, these are the strategies that consistently produce the highest payouts.
1. Trade in 2-4 weeks before new iPhone launch. Avoid the September announcement value drop.
2. Compare at least three programs. Carrier offers frequently beat Apple by $100 or more.
3. Keep original packaging and accessories. Adds value on third-party platforms like Swappa.
4. Maintain battery health above 80%. Replace your battery before trading if it has degraded significantly.
5. Clean your iPhone thoroughly. Remove cases, clean ports, and polish the screen before shipping.
6. Factory reset and sign out of iCloud. Programs require activation lock to be removed before they pay out.
7. Get quotes in writing. Some carriers honor in-store quotes even if online estimates change before you arrive.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much are iPhone trade-ins worth?
iPhone trade-in values range from $25 for older models like the iPhone XR to $695 for the iPhone 17 Pro Max in excellent condition. Carrier programs often pay more than Apple, with ATu0026amp;T, Verizon, and T-Mobile offering between $40 and $900 depending on model and current promotions. Actual offers depend on storage, condition, and battery health.
Is it worth trading in an old iPhone?
Trading in is worth it for convenience, especially if you are upgrading to a new device and want instant credit. However, selling directly on Swappa, eBay, or Facebook Marketplace usually nets 20% to 40% more cash. For phones worth over $400, selling directly is more profitable. For phones worth under $100, trade-in is usually the better choice.
What is the 40-80 rule on iPhones?
The 40-80 rule states that an iPhone retains only 40% to 80% of its original resale value after 12 to 24 months of ownership. A $1,000 iPhone typically trades in for $400 to $800 after the first year, dropping toward the lower end after the second year. The rule helps predict depreciation and time your trade-in for maximum value.
How much do you get for trading in an old iPhone?
You can expect between $30 and $100 for an iPhone 11 in good condition, $70 to $150 for an iPhone 13, and $400 to $700 for current flagship models like the iPhone 16 Pro. Carrier programs generally pay 30% to 50% more than Apple’s trade-in program, especially during promotional windows.
Final Thoughts on iPhone Trade-In Value
Your old iPhone trade-in value depends on three things: condition, timing, and where you trade. The 40-80 rule gives you a realistic expectation for depreciation, and trading in two to four weeks before Apple’s September event typically captures the highest value. Compare offers across Apple, your carrier, and third-party services before committing. The difference between programs can be hundreds of dollars on the same device.