Spring 2016 Apple iPhone/iPad trade-in guide

March 14, 2016

Apple is likely to unveil a new 4-inch iPhone next Monday, March 21. They are also expected to announce a next-generation 9.7-inch iPad. When they do, millions of customers will begin unloading their older devices. What are these worth? Let’s take a look.

Current prices

How much is your old iOS device worth? That depends on the vendor you choose.

While you can certainly try your chances on Craigslist and elsewhere to get more money, we recommend using one of the following five online services to sell your mobile device: Amazon, Apple, Gazelle, Glyde, or NextWorth.

The following is a look at what each service is offering for iPhones and iPads in “good” condition as of today, March 14, 2016. The prices listed are for iPhones and iPads with 32GB of storage, unless otherwise stated. Expect to get a little bit less for your 8GB or 16GB models, and more for 64GB devices.

iPhone trade-in

These prices are for iPhones with normal wear and tear. Plus, all assume the iPhone is free of water damage and comes with its original cables and AC adapter. You may get more or less than the price quoted. All iPhones are unlocked.

For our iPad trade-in guide, we’re looking at current values for the iPad with Retina display, iPad Air, and iPad Air 2. For the first two, we’re including pricing on 32GB models; for the third, the 64GB model. These are Wi-Fi only models.

iPad trade-in

These prices are for iPads with normal wear and tear. Plus, all assume the iPad is free of water damage and comes with its original cables and AC adapter. You may get more or less than the price quoted.

Pros and cons by vendor

Amazon

The largest online retailer in the world loves to buy iPhones — assuming that you don’t mind receiving an Amazon gift card in exchange. Amazon offers the highest prices in the industry on iPhone trade-ins.

Pros: They typically offer the best prices.
Cons: You can’t buy a new iPhone with an Amazon gift card, at least on launch day.

Apple

Apple accepts old handsets online and through its retail stores as part of the company’s Reuse and Recycle Program. For each sale, customers receive an Apple gift card that is usable online and in Apple retail stores.

Pros: Convenient, especially in stores.
Cons: Prices being offered tend to be lower than others.

Gazelle

Gazelle offers three ways to receive your cash: through check, PayPal, or an Amazon gift card. If you choose Amazon, you’ll receive 5 percent more than the quoted price. You can also give to charity.

Pros: Great and reliable service that has been around for a long time.
Cons: Prices typically drop quickly as we get closer to the release date of new handsets.

NextWorth

This popular service offers four types of payments: PayPal, check, NextWorth Discover Prepaid Card, and Target gift card.

Pros: If you’d rather talk to someone face-to-face, the Target tie-in could be important since you make the trade in the store. Prices are very competitive. Quotes are good for 30 days.
Cons: There really aren’t any, except that prices tend to fall once Apple announces new handsets.

Glyde

Unlike the other options, Glyde attempts to match buyers with sellers. Meaning, if no one likes the price you set, you’re out of luck. Luckily, the site offers tools that help you set the best price, based on current market conditions and recent sales data.

We’ve used Glyde many times over the years and enjoy what it has to offer. Its upgrade tool is impressive and sales tend to be completed very quickly, although that is not guaranteed. Proceeds go directly into your bank account.

Pros: You set the price and get paid once the buyer receives the iPhone. Site is easy to navigate.
Cons: It might take longer to find a buyer. Watch those seller fees.

Wrap-up

There are plenty of places that will purchase your iPhone or iPad. Shop around to get the best price. And enjoy your new “iPhone SE” or 9.7-inch iPad Pro.