Decluttr vs Back Market: Which Is Better for Recycling?

Decluttr vs Back Market: Which Is Better for Recycling?

Last reviewed by James Hartley on 01 April 2026

Back Market is the better option for recycling electronics due to its higher trade-in values and broader acceptance of various conditions. For instance, a Samsung Galaxy S10 could fetch up to $275 on Back Market compared to around $230 at Decluttr.

Types of Devices Accepted

Decluttr accepts phones, tablets, laptops, smart home devices, cameras, and gaming consoles. In contrast, Back Market focuses primarily on smartphones, laptops, and tablets but also includes a wide range of other electronics like headphones and smartwatches.

Back Market offers higher trade-in values for most common devices due to its focus on refurbished electronics sales. For example, an iPhone 12 can be traded in for between $375 and $425 on Back Market, whereas Decluttr typically pays around $300-$350 for the same model.

How the Process Works

Decluttr allows users to receive a trade-in quote online or drop off devices at one of their 18 physical stores across North America. Alternatively, you can mail in your device with a prepaid label. Back Market operates solely through an online platform where customers receive quotes and ship their devices using a provided label.

Current Trade-In Price Ranges

For common devices like iPhones, Samsungs, and MacBooks, Back Market consistently offers higher trade-in prices. For instance, a MacBook Air 2018 model could fetch up to $450 on Back Market compared to around $375 at Decluttr.

Turnaround Time for Payment

Both platforms offer prompt payment upon receipt of the device. Typically, customers receive their funds within 1-2 business days after verification through a direct deposit or PayPal account.

Condition Requirements

Back Market accepts devices in any condition as long as they're repairable. This includes phones with cracked screens or water damage. In contrast, Decluttr only accepts items that still function properly and doesn't accept severely damaged units.

Number of Locations or Coverage Area

Decluttr has 18 physical stores across North America, providing a more localized experience in select regions. Back Market operates exclusively online but covers the entire globe with services available in over 20 countries, including the UK, US, EU, and Australia.

Data Wiping/Deletion Policy

Both Decluttr and Back Market ensure that all data is securely wiped before resale or recycling. They use certified destruction methods to protect personal information.

Customer Ratings and Reputation

Back Market has a better reputation for customer satisfaction due to its high-quality refurbished products. Decluttr vs Back Market: Which Is Better for Recycling? maintains an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars on Trustpilot, compared to Decluttr's 3.8.

Any Fees or Free Services

Decluttr charges no fees and provides free shipping labels for mail-in services. Back Market also offers free shipping but may require users to pay a fee if the device isn't accepted after inspection.

Detailed Section on Decluttr

What Is It? Decluttr is an online platform and brick-and-mortar store chain that specializes in buying back used electronics from consumers. Founded in 2013, it has grown into one of the largest trade-in services in North America.

Types of Devices Accepted

Decluttr accepts a wide range of devices including smartphones, tablets, laptops, smart home gadgets like Amazon Echo and Google Home, cameras, gaming consoles such as PlayStation and Xbox, and even musical instruments. However, the focus remains on mobile phones and other portable electronics.

How the Process Works

Users can receive an instant quote online for their devices through Decluttr's user-friendly website or mobile app. Decluttr vs Back Market: Which Is Better for Recycling? has the option to drop off items at one of 18 physical locations spread across the United States and Canada or mail in their items using a prepaid shipping label provided by the company.

Current Trade-In Price Ranges

For popular models like iPhone 12, Samsung Galaxy S10, and MacBook Air (2018), Decluttr offers trade-in prices ranging from $300 to $450. These figures are often lower than what Back Market pays for similar devices but still competitive within the industry.

Turnaround Time for Payment

After submitting a device via mail or drop-off, customers typically receive payment within 2 business days through direct deposit or PayPal. Verification times may vary slightly depending on the condition and type of item being traded in.

Condition Requirements

Items must be fully functional with no significant damage to qualify for trade-in at Decluttr. Devices that are broken beyond repair can't be accepted, making it less appealing for those looking to recycle non-working units.

Number of Locations or Coverage Area

With 18 retail stores and nationwide shipping options, Decluttr offers local support in key markets while still reaching customers across North America via mail-in services. This hybrid model provides flexibility but lacks the global reach seen with Back Market.

Data Wiping/Deletion Policy

Decluttr ensures all data is securely removed from traded devices following industry standards before resale or disposal, protecting user privacy and security.

Customer Ratings and Reputation

While Decluttr receives generally positive feedback for its service and value, customer reviews highlight occasional issues with payment delays and lower-than-expected trade-in amounts compared to competitors like Back Market. The average rating on Trustpilot is 3.8 out of 5 stars.

Any Fees or Free Services

Decluttr doesn't charge any fees for processing trades or provides free shipping labels when mailing in items. Decluttr vs Back Market: Which Is Better for Recycling? also offer a satisfaction guarantee allowing customers to return purchases within 30 days if unsatisfied.

Detailed Section on Back Market

What Is It? Back Market is an online platform dedicated to selling refurbished electronics at competitive prices. Founded in France in 2014, it has expanded globally and is now one of the leading platforms for buying second-hand tech devices.

Types of Devices Accepted

Back Market accepts smartphones, laptops, tablets, headphones, smartwatches, and other electronic gadgets from various brands including Apple, Samsung, Google, and more. The platform's focus on refurbishment ensures a wide acceptance of different device types.

How the Process Works

Users receive an instant online quote for their devices after completing a brief questionnaire about the item's condition. They then pack and ship the unit using a free prepaid label provided by Back Market. Once received, devices undergo rigorous testing before being resold as refurbished products.

Current Trade-In Price Ranges

Back Market typically offers higher trade-in values compared to Decluttr. For instance, an iPhone 12 can be traded in for between $375 and $425, while a MacBook Air (2018) can fetch up to $450.

Turnaround Time for Payment

After receiving the device, Back Market processes payments quickly through direct deposit or PayPal. The average turnaround time is 1-2 business days, making it efficient for users needing immediate funds.

Condition Requirements

Back Market accepts devices in any condition as long as they're repairable and not severely damaged beyond repair. This flexibility makes it ideal for those looking to recycle broken but still functional units.

Number of Locations or Coverage Area

Operating solely online with services available in over 20 countries including the UK, US, EU, and Australia, Back Market provides a global reach unmatched by Decluttr's regional store network.

Data Wiping/Deletion Policy

Back Market employs certified data destruction methods to ensure all personal information is securely removed from devices before they're resold or recycled. This policy aligns with industry standards for privacy protection.

Customer Ratings and Reputation

Back Market boasts a strong reputation among users, earning an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars on Trustpilot. Customers appreciate the high-quality refurbished products and superior customer service provided by the company.

Any Fees or Free Services

While Back Market offers free shipping labels for mail-ins, there may be additional fees if a device isn't accepted after inspection due to damage exceeding repairability limits. Otherwise, all services are fee-free.

Head-to-Head Verdict

Back Market emerges as the clear winner in this comparison for its higher trade-in values and more inclusive acceptance of various conditions across multiple devices. However, Decluttr remains a strong option with localized support through physical stores and competitive prices for fully functional units. For those looking to recycle non-working items or seeking better payment terms globally, Back Market is the preferred choice.

According to the WHO, e-waste contains over 1,000 different substances, many of them toxic.

Linking to specific pages on our site:

• Decluttr
• Back Market

Sources

• WHO
• US EPA
• UN Global E-Waste Monitor 2024