iPhone 12 Trade-In Prices - Compare and Sell (2026)

iPhone 12 can be traded in for cash or credit. This guide compares current trade-in values across multiple providers and explains how to get the best price.

People often search for "sell old phone" when looking for recycling options. Here's what you need to know.

Last reviewed by Sarah Chen on 23 March 2026

The iPhone 12, released in October 2020, is one of Apple's popular models. If you're looking to upgrade and wondering how much your device is worth, trade-in values for an iPhone 12 currently sit between $60 and $180 based on its condition.

When deciding where to trade in or sell your phone, consider providers like Apple Trade In, Decluttr, Back Market, and musicMagpie. Each of these platforms offers different benefits depending on what you're after-trade-in credit for a new device with Apple, a cash payout from Decluttr, refurbished options through Back Market, or the flexibility to trade in your phone at any time with musicMagpie.

According to the UN Global E-Waste Monitor 2024, The world generated 62 million tonnes of e-waste in 2022, up 82% from 2010.

Trade-ins offer credits towards purchasing another device directly from the provider, while selling converts your old gadget into actual cash. For those looking to upgrade their hardware, the former can be a more convenient option if you plan on sticking within Apple's ecosystem for your next device.

To prepare your iPhone 12 for trading in or selling:

• Back up all data using iCloud. - Remove any SIM cards and reset network settings. - Perform a factory reset through Settings > General > Reset. This ensures that personal information is removed from the phone. - Clean the exterior with a soft cloth to remove dirt and fingerprints.

Data wiping is important for privacy reasons, so follow these steps specifically for phones:

1. Enable Find My iPhone on your device.
2. Log into iCloud.com or use another Apple ID-enabled device to sign out of all accounts.
3. Use a trusted third-party app like Eraser or Dr.Fone if you're concerned about data security.

According to the European Parliament, less than 1% of rare earth elements in e-waste are currently recycled.

Condition grading affects the trade-in value significantly:

• "Good" means the phone functions normally, but might have minor scratches.
• A "fair" rating indicates some noticeable wear and tear, yet the device still works well.
• If your iPhone 12 is "broken," it won't be accepted for a trade-in. Instead, consider repair services or selling parts separately.

To maximise your trade-in value:

• Factory reset your phone before trading in to ensure no personal data remains.
• Clean all surfaces and include any original accessories like the box, charger, and headphones.
• Time your trade-in strategically-values drop by 20% to 30% around major product announcements, so consider selling a week or two ahead of expected new model releases.

In summary, trading in an iPhone 12 can provide you with credit towards a newer device or cash. By preparing it properly and understanding the value ranges offered by different providers, you ensure you get the best deal possible for your used phone.

Sources

• UN Global E-Waste Monitor 2024
• European Parliament

How to Cite This Page

Sarah Chen (2026). 'iPhone 12'. eCycling Central. Available at: https://ecyclingcentral.com/trade-in/iphone-12 (Accessed: 23 March 2026).