What is your old iPhone worth?
Your old iPhone is in the drawer. Or maybe you still use it daily, but the latest models are beckoning. You know it's still worth something, but how much exactly? Online price comparison sites offer exorbitant prices, sellers offer half what you expect, and Marktplaats buyers try to haggle until it becomes painful.
But here's what no one tells you: most sellers leave hundreds of euros on the table because they forget that their entire Apple ecosystem has value. It's not just your iPhone that's worth money—those AirPods in your bag and those charging cables and cases in your desk drawer also hold hidden value. Smart selling means seeing the whole picture, not just that one device. This way, you maximize your returns and effortlessly finance that upgrade you've been debating for months.
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Determining the real value of your iPhone
The value of your current iPhone depends on more factors than you might think. The model, storage capacity, physical condition, and battery health all play a role. For example, an iPhone 12 Pro with 256GB in good condition can still fetch €400 to €600, while an older model like the iPhone XR is worth between €150 and €250.
What many people don't know: accessories also significantly increase resale value. That original charging cable, adapter, and earbuds still tucked away in the drawer? They can add tens of euros to your purchase. The same goes for premium cases or screen protectors that are still in good condition.
Compare market prices without headaches
Online price comparison sites often give a distorted picture. One site promises the world, the next offers a pittance. This is because many platforms use outdated data or don't consider the Dutch market. The reality? A fair price usually lies somewhere in between.
When determining the value, professional buyers look at:
- Screen condition : scratches, cracks or pixel errors
- Battery health : ideally still above 80%
- Working features : cameras, buttons, speakers
- Water contact indicators : no water damage
- Original parts : no counterfeit screens or batteries
Cashing in on the entire Apple ecosystem
Your old Apple Watch, AirPods, or iPad also have value. A first-generation AirPods Pro can fetch between €80 and €120, while an Apple Watch Series 6 is worth between €200 and €300. Selling everything at once saves you time and often gets you a better deal.
Also think of those forgotten devices:
- The old iPad that serves as a digital photo frame
- That spare iPhone you keep for emergencies
- The Magic Keyboard that came with your previous Mac
- Even that Apple Pencil from your student days
Timing is everything when selling
The best time to sell your iPhone? Right before Apple announces a new model, usually in September. That's when demand for refurbished devices is highest, and you'll get the best price. If you wait until after the launch, the value drops by 15 to 25 percent.
Conversely, the best time to buy a refurbished model is right after a new launch. That's when many users trade in their previous models, and the selection is greater.
Refurbished as a smart next step
After selling your current device, the question is: what now? A brand-new model can easily cost over €1,000. A refurbished alternative offers the same user experience for 30 to 50 percent less. Plus, you get a warranty, and all components have been inspected.
The benefits at a glance:
- Financial : save hundreds of euros
- Quality : Professionally overhauled and tested
- Warranty : protection against defects
- Sustainability : reduce electronic waste
- Instantly available : no waiting times like with new releases
Practical tips for maximum yield
Preparing for sale
Prepare your device for transfer. Reset it to factory settings, but first create a backup. Remove your SIM card and memory cards. Clean the device with a microfiber cloth. A well-maintained device immediately yields more.
Keep documentation
Original receipts, warranty cards, and packaging increase the value. Buyers see this as proof of careful use. The original box can also fetch an additional €10 to €20.
Honest about flaws
Be transparent about minor defects. Mentioning a small scratch prevents disputes later. Professional buyers appreciate honesty and often offer a fair price anyway.
The circular economy in practice
By selling your Apple products instead of letting them gather dust in a drawer, you contribute to the circular economy. Each reused device means one less new device needs to be produced. This saves raw materials, energy, and CO2 emissions.
The impact is greater than you think. A refurbished iPhone saves about 70 kilograms of CO2 compared to a new one. Add to that the savings in rare earth metals, and you understand why reuse is so important.
Whether you're selling or buying, you're part of a movement that's making technology more accessible and sustainable. This isn't just good for your wallet, it's also good for the future of our planet.
Smart upgrade without breaking the bank
Selling your iPhone is about more than just handing in the device itself. It's the whole package that counts: from your old AirPods to that forgotten iPad in the closet. With the right timing and preparation, you'll get the most out of it.
This revenue makes switching to a refurbished iPhone much more accessible. This way, you can upgrade smartly without paying top dollar, and you give your electronics a second life. That's not only good for your wallet, but also for the planet. Win-win, hassle-free.
