Samsung vs Google: Trade-In Values Compared

### Which Option is Better for Most People? *Last reviewed by Sarah Chen on 31 March 2026* Google's trade-in programme offers higher values on popular devices compared to Samsung's, making it the better choice overall. Samsung vs Google: Trade-In Values Compared For example, a Google Pixel 6 can fetch up to $200 when traded in through their programme, while a Galaxy S21 might only get around $150 with Samsung. ## Quick Comparison Table

Feature	Samsung	Google
Official Programme Name	Trade-In Program	Pixel Trade Up
Accepted Devices	All Samsung devices	Only Pixel and Nexus phones
Typical Trade-In Value (2023)	$150 for Galaxy S21, $75 for other models	$200 for Pixel 6, $100 for older models
Drop-off Locations	Over 4,000 retail partners worldwide	In-store at select Google Store locations and online only
Certifications Held	R2, [e-Stewards](https://ecyclingcentral.com/guides/r2-and-e-stewards-certification-explained), ISO 14001	No specific certifications mentioned
Environmental Commitments	Aims to recycle 3 million tons of products by 2025	Targeting 100% recycled packaging materials by 2025
Free Recycling Options	No free recycling options unless purchasing a new device	No free recycling options available

## Samsung Trade-In Program Samsung's Trade-In program allows users to exchange old devices for credit towards newer models. The process is straightforward, offering online and in-store trade-ins through their retail partners. For instance, trading a Galaxy S21 can earn up to $150, while other popular models like the Galaxy Note 10 might fetch around $75. *According to the Royal Society of Chemistry, mobile phones contain up to 60 different elements, including critical raw materials.* ### Accepted Devices Samsung accepts all its own devices, including smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, and laptops. This wide range makes it easier for customers with multiple Samsung products to trade them in simultaneously without worrying about compatibility issues. ### Trade-In Process The trade-in process is smooth online or at a retail partner location. Users fill out an estimate form on the Samsung website, input their device details, and receive an instant quote. They can also bring devices directly to one of over 4,000 retail partners worldwide for an in-store evaluation. ### Trade-In Values (2023) For the Galaxy S21, users can expect a trade-in value of around $150 when trading it towards a new Samsung device. Other models like the Galaxy Note 10 might earn up to $75, illustrating the tiered pricing based on model popularity and condition. *According to the BankMyCell depreciation tracker, The average smartphone loses 35-45% of its trade-in value within the first year.* ### Certifications Samsung holds several environmental certifications, including R2 (Responsible Recycling), e-Stewards, and ISO 14001. These standards ensure that devices are recycled responsibly without harming the environment or human health. ## Google Pixel Trade Up Program Google's Pixel Trade Up programme focuses on recycling older Pixel phones for credit towards new models. The process is exclusively online through their website, with no in-store options available except at select Google Store locations. ### Accepted Devices Unlike Samsung, Google only accepts Pixel and Nexus smartphones. This limitation might deter users with other Android devices from taking advantage of the trade-in programme. However, it ensures that recycled materials come directly from these specific brands. *According to the UNEP, A single tonne of circuit boards contains 40-800 times more gold than a tonne of ore.* ### Trade-In Process Google's online portal allows users to input their device details for an instant quote. At Samsung vs Google: Trade-In Values Compared, once approved, customers can ship their old phones back using prepaid labels provided by Google. The entire process is streamlined and straightforward, though lacking the convenience of in-store options found with Samsung. ### Trade-In Values (2023) The Pixel 6 can fetch up to $200 when traded in through Google's programme, making it a lucrative option for those looking to upgrade. Older models like the Pixel 4 might earn around $100, still providing decent credit towards newer devices. ### Environmental Commitments Google aims to use 100% recycled materials in its packaging by 2025 and is committed to reducing waste across all operations. However, specific environmental certifications like R2 or e-Stewards aren't mentioned for their recycling programme. ## Head-to-Head Verdict: Google vs Samsung Trade-In Program Google's Pixel Trade Up programme wins due to higher trade-in values for its flagship models. For example, a Pixel 6 can fetch up to $200 compared to around $150 for similar Samsung models. However, Samsung's extensive network of retail partners and wider range of accepted devices make it the better option for those with multiple types of electronics. ### Clear Winner Google's programme is the clear winner when considering trade-in values alone, offering more credit towards new purchases. Yet, Samsung's broader acceptance criteria and physical presence in thousands of retail locations give it an edge for users looking to recycle various device types without needing a direct purchase. ## Sources - Royal Society of Chemistry - BankMyCell depreciation tracker - UNEP