How Much Is Your iPhone 15 Worth? Price Comparison (2026)
Last updated: 26 March 2026
iPhone 15 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
Trade in your iPhone 15 for some cash or credit today! Depending on its condition, you could get anywhere from $200 to $450. Several providers are available to help you with this process.
Providers and Options
trading in your iPhone 15, there are a few options:
- Apple Trade In: Apple offers both trade-in credit toward new products or cash if you prefer.
- Decluttr, Back Market, Gazelle, and SellCell also provide similar services but focus on giving you cash for your device. They're good alternatives if you want to shop around.
Trade-In vs Sell
Before we dive in, it's important to know the difference between trading in and selling your phone:
- Trade-in: You get credit toward a new Apple product.
- Sell: You receive cash directly from a provider like Decluttr or Gazelle.
Preparing Your iPhone 15
To ensure you get the best trade-in value, follow these steps:
#### Step 1: Back Up Your Data Before doing anything else, make sure to back up your data. Connect your iPhone to your computer and use iTunes (for older OS) or Finder (for newer systems) to create a backup.
#### Step 2: Remove Passcode Go into Settings > Touch ID & Passcode or Face ID & Passcode on your iPhone 15, then select "Turn Off Passcode." This makes it easier for the trade-in provider to assess your device.
#### Step 3: Reset All Settings deal with to Settings > General > Reset > Reset All Settings. This clears all settings but doesn't affect your data or personal information.
Wiping Your Data
It's important to wipe your iPhone completely before trading it in:
- Go into Settings > [Your Name] (or Settings > General for older models).
- Scroll down and select "Reset."
- Choose "Erase All Content and Settings." This will reset your phone to its factory settings.
According to the BankMyCell depreciation tracker, The average smartphone loses 35-45% of its trade-in value within the first year.
Condition Grading
The condition of your iPhone 15 greatly affects the trade-in value:
- Good: No cracks or major damage; works perfectly.
- Fair: Some scratches, dents, or minor issues but still functional.
- Broken: Major damage like a cracked screen that prevents normal use.
Maximising Your Trade-In Value
Here's how to get the most out of your trade-in:
- Factory Reset: As mentioned earlier, this clears your device and ensures all data is wiped.
- Clean Device: Make sure there's no dirt or dust inside ports and connectors.
- Include Accessories: If you have the original box, charger, headphones, and other accessories, include them as it can boost your value.
- Time It Right: Trade-in values drop by 20-30% when new models launch, so consider selling before major announcements.
According to the UNEP, A single tonne of circuit boards contains 40-800 times more gold than a tonne of ore.
When to Sell
If you're thinking about trading in or selling your iPhone 15, aim for the period right after a model's release but before the next one. For example, if Apple announced an updated version on September 20th and your phone is from last year, consider trading it in by early October. This way, you won't miss out on the highest possible value.
By following these steps, you can ensure that you get the best deal for your iPhone 15 when you decide to trade it in or sell it.
Sources
- BankMyCell depreciation tracker
- UNEP
How to Cite This Page
Sarah Chen (2026). 'iPhone 15'. eCycling Central. Available at: https://ecyclingcentral.com/trade-in/iphone-15 (Accessed: 23 March 2026).
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I get the best price for my iPhone 15?
Compare prices across multiple platforms. Decluttr, Back Market, and manufacturer programmes all offer different rates. Timing matters too, as values drop when new models launch.
What condition does my iPhone 15 need to be in?
Most trade-in providers grade devices as: working/good, fair (cosmetic damage), and broken/damaged. Even broken devices have value for parts and material recovery.