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Top Tips to Sell Your Old Phone Online

Top Tips to Sell Your Old Phone Online
Posted by Sam Hargreaves | On February 19, 2025

Top Tips to Sell Your Old Phone Online for the Best Price

Upgrading to a new phone? Instead of letting your old device gather dust, selling it online can help you get the best value. But with so many platforms and buyers, how do you ensure you get the highest price while avoiding scams? Here are the best tips for selling your phone online quickly and safely.

1. Compare Trade-In Offers Before Selling

One of the best ways to maximise your phone’s value is to compare offers from multiple buyers. Trade-in sites, private sales, and network buyback schemes all offer different prices. Using a sell my phone comparison tool allows you to check multiple offers in one place and find the best deal.

2. Reset and Wipe Your Phone Before Selling

Before handing over your device, ensure all personal data is removed. Follow these steps:

  • Back up your photos, contacts, and important files to the cloud or a computer.
  • Sign out of your Apple ID (for iPhones) or Google Account (for Android devices) to disable activation locks.
  • Factory reset your phone to erase all data and settings.

Skipping this step can leave personal data vulnerable to new owners.

3. Check Your Phone’s Condition

The condition of your phone significantly impacts its resale value. Buyers will assess the phone based on:

  • Screen condition (scratches, cracks, or dead pixels)
  • Battery life and performance
  • Cosmetic wear and tear
  • Functionality of buttons, ports, and speakers

If your phone has damage, be honest about it when listing or trading it in to avoid disputes.

4. Use a Secure Payment Method

If you're selling your phone through a private listing, choose a secure payment method. PayPal (Goods & Services), bank transfers, and cash on collection are safer than unprotected payment apps.

For an easy and hassle-free sale, trade-in platforms offer instant quotes and prepaid postage, so you don’t have to deal with buyers directly.

5. Sell at the Right Time

Phone values drop when new models are released. If you're selling an iPhone 14, for example, its price will decrease once the iPhone 15 or 16 launches. If you’re planning to upgrade, trade in your phone sooner rather than later to get the best price.

Check out sell my iPhone 14 for the latest trade-in values.

6. Keep the Original Box and Accessories

Having the original box, charger, and accessories can boost your phone’s resale value. Buyers prefer complete sets, as they make the device feel new and ready for use.

Sell Your Phone for the Best Price Today

By following these tips, you can sell your phone online for the best price while ensuring a smooth and secure transaction. Whether you're trading in or selling privately, using a sell my phone service makes the process quick and hassle-free.