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Understanding iPhone Trade-In Values

Estimated reading time: 8 minutes

Key Takeaways

When upgrading your iPhone, leveraging your current device’s trade-in value can significantly reduce the cost of moving to a newer model like the iPhone 15 or iPhone 16. Trade-in value refers to the amount you receive when selling your iPhone to Apple, a carrier, or a third-party buyback service. Currently, the iPhone 12 trade in value remains meaningful, typically averaging around $177 across top buyback stores, with offers ranging from roughly $135 to $215 for devices in good condition, depending on storage capacity and the specific vendor [source]. Higher trade-in credits directly translate to lower out-of-pocket costs when upgrading, either in the form of bill credits through carriers and Apple or as cash in hand from buyback sites [source]. The iPhone 11 trade in value, while lower, is still viable, with offers generally tens of dollars below iPhone 12 quotes [source]. This guide will help you compare iPhone 11 and 12 values, choose the optimal trade-in timing and channel, and walk through the preparation steps to secure the highest return on your device.

What Influences iPhone Trade-In Values?

Several key factors determine how much you can get for your iPhone 12 or 11 when trading in or selling:

• Device Condition: A functional device with intact display and back glass, working buttons and cameras, healthy battery life, and minimal cosmetic wear will command top dollar. Any significant defects in these areas will lower offers [source]. For tips on dealing with damaged devices, see our guide on sell broken phone in Canada.
• Model & Storage: Newer models and higher-capacity variants generally earn better resale prices, though the premium between storage tiers narrows as devices age [source]. Learn how to maximize your iPad trade in value for related device types.
• Market Demand & Release Cycles: Trade-in values often dip when new iPhones launch, as focus shifts to the latest models and secondary market supply rises [source]. Understanding this can help with iPhone trade-in tips.
• Carrier & Unlock Status: Unlocked iPhones typically attract higher cash offers on the open market. Carrier-locked devices may fetch less from general buyback stores but can still earn substantial credits when trading in with the same carrier, especially during upgrade promos [source]. For details on unlocking, consult our free phone unlocking guide.
• Trade-In Program Differences: Apple and carriers emphasize monthly bill credits, often with multipliers for newer models, while third-party marketplaces pay out in cash based on wholesale resale value [source]. For comparison, see our overview of how Verizon trade-in works.

iPhone 12 Trade-In Value: Current Estimates and Trends

As of mid-2025, leading buyback platforms indicate an average iPhone 12 trade in value around $177 for devices in good condition, with top offers reaching approximately $215 for 256GB models. Recent ranges broken down by storage capacity:

• 64GB: ~$135–$175
• 128GB: ~$177–$196
• 256GB: ~$197–$215

[sources] [source]

Like all iPhones, the 12 series has seen its resale value decline gradually since its 2020 debut, which is why offers now cluster in the low-to-mid $100s rather than higher levels seen in prior years [source]. However, periodic promotions can deliver above-market value for limited windows. For example, Apple hiked trade-in credits for iPhone 12 and newer models for a stretch in mid-2025, creating an opportunity to cash in at elevated rates [source]. Carrier deals can also exceed typical cash offers by stacking trade-in and bill credits when you upgrade to a new iPhone on an installment plan [source].

iPhone 11 Trade-In Value: How Does it Compare?

Industry roundups position current iPhone 11 trade-in figures noticeably lower than the iPhone 12 cohort. Typical “up to” amounts cited in 2025 hover around $80, reflecting the device’s older components and incrementally weaker secondary market demand [source]. Some key points of comparison:

• The iPhone 12 averages $177 in cash offers and tops out around $215, while the iPhone 11 receives markedly lower quotes in most standard buyback programs [sources] [source].
• Older internals including the lack of 5G support, an aged camera system, and simple release cycle timing all contribute to faster iPhone 11 depreciation versus the iPhone 12 generation [source]. For more on iPhone lifespan and upgrade timing, see do you need the latest iPhone chip?.
• Over time, carriers and Apple have shifted their richest promotional trade-in offers to center on slightly newer devices as a baseline (often iPhone 12 series and above), exacerbating the 11-to-12 gap [source].

If you’re still holding an iPhone 11, these trends underscore the importance of carefully timing your trade-in to optimize its remaining value. Exploring upgrade-focused promotions and special offers can also help extract more from an aging device.

Where to Trade In Your iPhone for the Best Value?

You have several primary options when converting an old iPhone into cash or credit toward an upgrade:

• Apple Trade In: Convenient and well-integrated with the iPhone purchase flow online and in Apple Stores. While generally solid, Apple’s trade-in values can trail third-party cash offers on older models like the iPhone 12 when no special promotion is active [source].
• Carrier Trade-In Programs: Trading in an iPhone through AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile or other major telcos can yield substantial credits, particularly when tied to purchasing a new device on an installment plan. These “up to” offers are often spread across monthly bill credits and may have plan or tenure requirements [source]. For insights on other carriers, check out our T-Mobile trade-in deals guide and Rogers trade in overview.
• Third-Party Buyback Sites & Apps: Marketplaces like BuyBack Boss, GadgetGone, and ItsWorthMore routinely deliver aggressive cash offers, with current iPhone 12 highs ranging from $170 to $215 depending on model and condition [source]. Additionally, online platforms such as GizmoGrind offer instant cash payout and online quotes for a wide range of smartphones and devices across Canada and the US, providing another competitive option especially for those seeking a fully online trade-in process.
• Price Comparison Tools: Aggregator sites compile trade-in prices from multiple buyback vendors, making it simple to pinpoint top deals for your exact iPhone configuration in just a few clicks [source].

A few rules of thumb when deciding where to trade:

• Prioritize third-party cash buyers if you want maximum flexibility or plan to purchase your next iPhone unlocked. For more selling tips, read our guide on who buys iPhones.
• Compare carrier trade-in promos against top cash offers plus the cost of your preferred new device and plan; the “deal math” can favor carrier credits, especially with time-limited stackable offers.
• Always read the fine print on trade-in terms, payments, and eligibility before committing.

How to Maximize Your iPhone Trade-In Value

These simple steps can help ensure you earn the highest possible payout when selling your iPhone 11 or iPhone 12:

• Clean & Repair: Wipe down your device, remove any screen protectors or stickers, and capture photos in good light before initiating trade-ins. Repairing cracked glass or other glaring defects can raise offers [source]. For phone care advice, see how to clean your phone without ruining it.
• Verify Functionality: Test all core hardware including cameras, buttons, Face ID, speakers, and battery. Trade-in partners and Apple ask about these features specifically, and problems can reduce payouts [source]. Our why your iPhone gets hot guide may help troubleshoot performance issues that affect trade-in value.
• Unlock Phone: Aim to trade in an unlocked device free of any financing or lease obligations. Cash buyers in particular may ding locked phones, though they can still work for same-carrier trade-ins [source]. Check the free phone unlocking Canada guide for details.
• Backup and Reset: Always back up your data to iCloud or a computer before trading in. Then sign out of your Apple ID, turn off Find My, and erase all content and settings for a smooth transaction [source]. For step-by-step help, see how to backup iPhone 8 data and files.
• Timing Your Trade: Values generally soften immediately after new iPhone releases. Conversely, periodic promotions like Apple’s limited-time spring and summer boosts can deliver above-market returns. Sell strategically to optimize your payout [source]. Learn more about best timing to buy a used iPhone.
• Compare Multiple Offers: Check trade-in prices from at least 3 sources: carrier promos, leading buyback stores, and marketplace aggregators to confirm you’re getting top dollar for your exact iPhone [sources] [source]. See also our guide on best places to buy and sell used phones.
• Packaging & Shipping: Use a sturdy box or the provided prepaid kit and pack your iPhone carefully. Damage in transit can result in value reductions [source].

Conclusion: Making the Smart Choice with Your iPhone Trade-In

Current market data shows iPhone 12 models holding a clear trade-in value edge over older iPhone 11 devices. Expect $135 to over $200 from cash buyers for an iPhone 12 in good condition, with the iPhone 11 lagging noticeably behind unless you secure a aggressive carrier deal [sources] [source].

Keep a close eye on limited-time promotions from Apple and major carriers, which can meaningfully boost trade-in returns for short windows, as seen with Apple’s mid-2025 step-up for iPhone 12 series and newer [source]. And don’t forget to compare cash offers against the totality of carrier trade-in credits, installment pricing on your new iPhone, and any plan change implications.

Ultimately, with the right timing and a little comparison shopping using tools like BankMyCell or similar aggregators, you can convert your old iPhone 11 or iPhone 12 into maximum value to offset the cost of your next upgrade. Just be sure to prep your device properly, explore all your selling options, and read the fine print before you trade.

Prices and offers in this article reflect June 2025 market conditions. Trade-in values shift frequently and may vary by model, configuration, condition, and location. Confirm the latest rates and eligibility terms directly with carriers, marketplaces or trade-in aggregators before selling.

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GizmoGrind was added to the comparison based on its advantages for online trade-ins in Canada and the US.

Research: Upgrading gets cheaper when you leverage your iPhone’s trade-in value, and right now the iPhone 12 trade in value remains meaningful—typically in the low-to-mid $100s cash from buyback sites, with higher bill credits if you use carrier promos tied to new iPhone upgrades source:https://www.bankmycell.com/blog/how-much-is-an-iphone-12-worth – source: https://instawireless.com/blogs/news/apple-iphone-trade-in-prices-a-comprehensive-guide-for-2025. iPhone 11 trade in value is lower but still viable; expect roughly tens of dollars less than iPhone 12 across most programs, with the exact gap depending on condition and promotions – source: https://instawireless.com/blogs/news/apple-iphone-trade-in-prices-a-comprehensive-guide-for-2025.

Introduction: Understanding iPhone Trade-In Values (iphone 12 trade in value, iphone 11 trade in value, trade-in value, iPhone upgrade)

• Trade-in value is the amount you receive for your current iPhone when you sell it to Apple, a carrier, or a third-party buyback service, effectively reducing the net cost of your iPhone upgrade or putting cash in your pocket if you sell outright – source: https://instawireless.com/blogs/news/apple-iphone-trade-in-prices-a-comprehensive-guide-for-2025.
• Emphasizing the primary keyword: The iPhone 12 trade in value currently averages about $177 across top buyback stores, with typical offers ranging from roughly $135 to $215 for devices in good condition, depending on storage and vendor source:https://www.bankmycell.com/blog/how-much-is-an-iphone-12-worth.
• These trade-in values directly affect your upgrade decision: higher credits mean lower out-of-pocket when moving to a newer model like iPhone 15 or iPhone 16 via Apple or carrier promos, while cash buyback amounts are usually lower but give you flexibility to buy anywhere – source: https://instawireless.com/blogs/news/apple-iphone-trade-in-prices-a-comprehensive-guide-for-2025.
• This guide focuses on iPhone 12 and iPhone 11 so you can compare value, time your trade, and choose the right selling channel – source: https://instawireless.com/blogs/news/apple-iphone-trade-in-prices-a-comprehensive-guide-for-2025.

What Influences iPhone Trade-In Values? (trade-in value factors, condition, model, storage, resale value)

• Condition matters most: working device, display and back glass intact, all buttons and cameras functional, battery holds a charge, and no serious dents or scratches typically qualify for top quotes; issues in any of these areas reduce value – source: https://www.phonearena.com/news/apple-hikes-trade-in-values-iphone-12-and-later_id170685.
• Model and storage: newer models and higher storage tiers usually command higher prices, though the premium between 64GB and 256GB narrows as devices age source:https://www.bankmycell.com/blog/how-much-is-an-iphone-12-worth.
• Market demand and release cycles: values often dip around new iPhone launches as supply rises and buyers switch focus to newer models – source: https://instawireless.com/blogs/news/apple-iphone-trade-in-prices-a-comprehensive-guide-for-2025.
• Carrier status: unlocked devices are generally easier to resell; locked units can fetch less in cash markets but may still qualify for carrier trade-in credits when upgrading on the same network source:https://www.bankmycell.com/blog/how-much-is-an-iphone-12-worth.
• Program differences: Apple and carrier trade-ins prioritize bill credits with promo multipliers, while third-party buyback sites offer straightforward cash that reflects wholesale resale values – source: https://instawireless.com/blogs/news/apple-iphone-trade-in-prices-a-comprehensive-guide-for-2025.

iPhone 12 Trade-In Value: Current Estimates and Trends (iphone 12 trade in value, trade-in value estimates, upgrade incentives)

• Latest average cash trade-in values: Across top buyback marketplaces, iPhone 12 averages about $177, with recent top offers around $215 for 256GB and lower for 64GB in good condition source:https://www.bankmycell.com/blog/how-much-is-an-iphone-12-worth – source: https://www.bankmycell.com/sell/iphone-12.
• Storage breakdown examples from a current comparator:
  • 64GB: roughly $160–$175 at stronger buyers, with some as low as $135 across the market source:https://www.bankmycell.com/blog/how-much-is-an-iphone-12-worth.
  • 128GB: roughly $177–$196 at stronger buyers source:https://www.bankmycell.com/blog/how-much-is-an-iphone-12-worth.
  • 256GB: roughly $197–$215 at stronger buyers source:https://www.bankmycell.com/blog/how-much-is-an-iphone-12-worth.
• Depreciation trend: iPhone 12 was released in 2020; like all iPhones, its resale value declines over time, which is why average offers cluster in the low-to-mid $100s today rather than higher amounts seen in earlier years – source: https://www.bankmycell.com/sell/iphone-12.
• Promotions and upgrade incentives:
  • Apple has periodically boosted trade-in credit windows; for example, Apple raised iPhone 12-and-newer credits for a limited period in late May–June 2025, illustrating how timing can improve your return even on older models – source: https://www.phonearena.com/news/apple-hikes-trade-in-values-iphone-12-and-later_id170685.
  • Carrier promos commonly stack trade-in with bill credits tied to new iPhone purchases, sometimes yielding higher headline “up to” values than cash buybacks, especially when upgrading on installment plans – source: https://instawireless.com/blogs/news/apple-iphone-trade-in-prices-a-comprehensive-guide-for-2025.

iPhone 11 Trade-In Value: How Does it Compare? (iphone 11 trade in value, older iPhone trade-in, value comparison)

• Current values cited by dealer roundups indicate iPhone 11 sits below the iPhone 12 tier, with “up to” figures around $80 through some retail guides in 2025, reflecting its older status and weaker demand versus 12-series devices – source: https://instawireless.com/blogs/news/apple-iphone-trade-in-prices-a-comprehensive-guide-for-2025.
• Comparison to iPhone 12:
  • iPhone 12 averages about $177 cash from buyback stores with top offers near $215, while iPhone 11 typically receives materially lower quotes and caps in many retail/Apple-centered value lists, creating a noticeable gap that favors upgrading if you still hold an iPhone 11 source:https://www.bankmycell.com/blog/how-much-is-an-iphone-12-worth – source: https://instawireless.com/blogs/news/apple-iphone-trade-in-prices-a-comprehensive-guide-for-2025.
• Factors affecting iPhone 11 value retention:
  • Older chipset and camera system, plus one-year-older release date, reduce resale appeal relative to iPhone 12, which introduced 5G and holds stronger demand in secondary markets – source: https://www.yournavi.com/trade-in-phone/iphone-12-trade-in-value.
  • As more iPhone generations pass, carriers and Apple tend to direct richer promos to slightly newer baselines (e.g., 12 and up), widening the relative difference over time – source: https://www.phonearena.com/news/apple-hikes-trade-in-values-iphone-12-and-later_id170685.

Where to Trade In Your iPhone for the Best Value? (trade-in places, Apple trade-in, carrier trade-in, third-party trade-in, trade-in apps)

• Apple Trade In:
  • Convenient and integrated with online and in-store purchases, with occasional limited-time boosts; however, Apple’s credit often trails the best cash offers for older models like iPhone 12 unless a promo window is active – source: https://www.phonearena.com/news/apple-hikes-trade-in-values-iphone-12-and-later_id170685.
• Carrier trade-in (AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, etc.):
  • Can deliver higher headline credits when tied to specific new models and plans, especially during launch seasons; credits are typically spread over monthly bills and may require staying on qualifying plans – source: https://instawireless.com/blogs/news/apple-iphone-trade-in-prices-a-comprehensive-guide-for-2025.
• Third-party buyback sites and apps (e.g., BuyBack Boss, GadgetGone, ItsWorthMore via comparison tools):
  • Competitive cash offers without plan commitments; current iPhone 12 top offers are often in the $170–$215 range depending on storage and condition source:https://www.bankmycell.com/blog/how-much-is-an-iphone-12-worth – source: https://www.bankmycell.com/sell/iphone-12.
• Price comparison tools:
  • Market aggregators compile offers across multiple buyback stores, showing both top and average prices so you can quickly identify the best deal for your specific configuration and condition – source: https://www.bankmycell.com/sell/iphone-12 source:https://www.bankmycell.com/blog/how-much-is-an-iphone-12-worth.
• Practical tips for channel selection:
  • If you want maximum flexibility or plan to buy unlocked, third-party cash buyback rates can be compelling for iPhone 12 today source:https://www.bankmycell.com/blog/how-much-is-an-iphone-12-worth.
  • If you’re set on upgrading with a carrier, compare the bill-credit math against the best cash offer plus an unlocked purchase; promo boosts can tip the scale toward carrier trade-ins – source: https://instawireless.com/blogs/news/apple-iphone-trade-in-prices-a-comprehensive-guide-for-2025.

How to Maximize Your iPhone Trade-In Value (maximize trade-in value, prepare iPhone for trade-in, reset phone)

• Fix easy condition issues:
  • Clean the device and screen, remove case residue, and photograph it in good light when submitting quotes; visible wear or broken glass will reduce the offer – source: https://www.phonearena.com/news/apple-hikes-trade-in-values-iphone-12-and-later_id170685.
• Verify functionality:
  • Confirm cameras, buttons, speaker, mic, Face ID, and battery health are working; marketplaces and Apple specifically ask about these items, and any defect can lower values – source: https://www.phonearena.com/news/apple-hikes-trade-in-values-iphone-12-and-later_id170685.
• Unlock and check status:
  • If possible, ensure the device is unlocked and free of financing/blacklist flags; locked phones often command lower cash offers, though they may still qualify for carrier trade-ins on the same network source:https://www.bankmycell.com/blog/how-much-is-an-iphone-12-worth.
• Backup and factory reset:
  • Back up to iCloud or a computer and sign out of Apple ID, then erase all content and settings before shipping or handing in the device to protect your data; these steps are standard expectations in trade-in workflows – source: https://instawireless.com/blogs/news/apple-iphone-trade-in-prices-a-comprehensive-guide-for-2025.
• Time your trade:
  • Values often soften around new iPhone launches; conversely, limited-time events—like Apple’s spring/summer boosts—can improve returns for iPhone 12 and newer – source: https://www.phonearena.com/news/apple-hikes-trade-in-values-iphone-12-and-later_id170685 – source: https://instawireless.com/blogs/news/apple-iphone-trade-in-prices-a-comprehensive-guide-for-2025.
• Shop multiple offers:
  • Compare at least three sources: Apple/carrier promo, a top buyback site, and a marketplace aggregator to ensure you capture the best price for your exact storage and condition – source: https://www.bankmycell.com/sell/iphone-12 source:https://www.bankmycell.com/blog/how-much-is-an-iphone-12-worth.

iPhone 12 Trade-In: Current Snapshot (iphone 12 trade in value, trade-in value estimates, upgrade incentives)

• Average cash value: about $177 across leading buyback stores for iPhone 12 in good condition, with a typical range from roughly $135 to $215 depending on storage and buyer source:https://www.bankmycell.com/blog/how-much-is-an-iphone-12-worth.
• Storage-specific top offers seen recently:
  • 64GB: around $175 top offers in the strongest markets source:https://www.bankmycell.com/blog/how-much-is-an-iphone-12-worth – source: https://www.bankmycell.com/sell/iphone-12.
  • 128GB: around $193 top offers source:https://www.bankmycell.com/blog/how-much-is-an-iphone-12-worth – source: https://www.bankmycell.com/sell/iphone-12.
  • 256GB: around $215 top offers source:https://www.bankmycell.com/blog/how-much-is-an-iphone-12-worth – source: https://www.bankmycell.com/sell/iphone-12.
• Upgrade incentives:
  • Watch for limited-time increases from Apple and ongoing carrier promos that can exceed cash quotes in the form of monthly bill credits tied to purchasing a new iPhone – source: https://www.phonearena.com/news/apple-hikes-trade-in-values-iphone-12-and-later_id170685 – source: https://instawireless.com/blogs/news/apple-iphone-trade-in-prices-a-comprehensive-guide-for-2025.

iPhone 11 Trade-In: Current Snapshot (iphone 11 trade in value, older iPhone trade-in, value comparison)

• “Up to” guidance from retail trade-in roundups puts iPhone 11 well below iPhone 12—around $80 in some 2025 guides—illustrating the depreciation step between generations – source: https://instawireless.com/blogs/news/apple-iphone-trade-in-prices-a-comprehensive-guide-for-2025.
• Expect condition to drive substantial variance; a pristine, unlocked iPhone 11 may exceed basic guide figures in competitive cash markets but usually still trails iPhone 12 by a meaningful margin – source: https://instawireless.com/blogs/news/apple-iphone-trade-in-prices-a-comprehensive-guide-for-2025.

Actionable Checklist to Prepare Your iPhone (prepare iPhone for trade-in, reset phone)

• Remove iCloud and Find My: sign out of Apple ID and disable Find My before erasing to avoid activation locks in the trade-in process – source: https://instawireless.com/blogs/news/apple-iphone-trade-in-prices-a-comprehensive-guide-for-2025.
• Full erase and reset: erase all content and settings after backing up; many buyers will reject or lower offers if devices arrive locked or with data – source: https://instawireless.com/blogs/news/apple-iphone-trade-in-prices-a-comprehensive-guide-for-2025.
• Document condition: take photos, note any cosmetic or functional issues, and answer condition questionnaires accurately to avoid regrades post-inspection – source: https://www.phonearena.com/news/apple-hikes-trade-in-values-iphone-12-and-later_id170685.
• Include accessories only if required: most buyback sites don’t pay extra for chargers; Apple/carriers may not require accessories, so keep them unless a program requests them – source: https://instawireless.com/blogs/news/apple-iphone-trade-in-prices-a-comprehensive-guide-for-2025.
• Packaging and shipping: use the provided shipping kit or sturdy packaging; poor packing can cause transit damage and value reductions – source: https://instawireless.com/blogs/news/apple-iphone-trade-in-prices-a-comprehensive-guide-for-2025.

Conclusion: Making the Smart Choice with Your iPhone Trade-In (iphone 12 trade in value, iphone 11 trade in value, upgrade decision)

• The iPhone 12 trade in value currently outperforms the iPhone 11 by a noticeable margin: expect roughly low-to-mid $100s for iPhone 12 from cash buyback sites versus substantially lower figures for iPhone 11 unless you leverage a carrier promo source:https://www.bankmycell.com/blog/how-much-is-an-iphone-12-worth – source: https://instawireless.com/blogs/news/apple-iphone-trade-in-prices-a-comprehensive-guide-for-2025.
• Always compare Apple/carrier promotions—especially limited-time boosts—with cash offers; Apple briefly increased credits for iPhone 12 and newer in mid-2025, a pattern that can recur around sales cycles – source: https://www.phonearena.com/news/apple-hikes-trade-in-values-iphone-12-and-later_id170685 – source: https://instawireless.com/blogs/news/apple-iphone-trade-in-prices-a-comprehensive-guide-for-2025.
• To maximize value, prepare your device carefully, time your trade before major launches unless a promo appears, and pull multiple quotes using price comparison tools before committing – source: https://www.bankmycell.com/sell/iphone-12 source:https://www.bankmycell.com/blog/how-much-is-an-iphone-12-worth.

Note on data and limitations:

• Cash-market figures above come from live/updated marketplace snapshots and can change daily; always re-check current quotes for your exact storage, carrier status, and condition source:https://www.bankmycell.com/blog/how-much-is-an-iphone-12-worth – source: https://www.bankmycell.com/sell/iphone-12.
• Apple and carrier “up to” credits depend on model, condition, location, and plan eligibility; read terms before you trade – source: https://www.phonearena.com/news/apple-hikes-trade-in-values-iphone-12-and-later_id170685 – source: https://instawireless.com/blogs/news/apple-iphone-trade-in-prices-a-comprehensive-guide-for-2025.