A used iPhone is worth what buyers pay for the same model and storage on the refurbished market this week, minus anything that must be repaired before resale. Six attributes set that figure: model, storage, carrier status, cosmetic condition, battery health and whether every function works. The fastest way to see your exact number is the free iPhone quote, which asks about each one.
Which factors decide what my iPhone is worth?
| Attribute | Effect on value | Where to check |
|---|---|---|
| Model | The biggest factor. Pro Max earns most, then Pro, Plus, standard and SE. | Settings > General > About > Model Name |
| Storage | Each tier adds value; 1TB and 2TB carry the largest premiums. | Settings > General > About > Capacity |
| Carrier status | Unlocked earns most; locked still sells; unpaid balances are reduced. | About > Carrier Lock |
| Condition | Light wear costs little; cracked glass costs more. | Look at the glass under bright light |
| Battery health | Below 80% brings a small deduction. | Settings > Battery > Battery Health |
| Function | Failed Face ID, cameras or speakers lower the offer. | Test each feature before you start |
Why does the model matter more than the purchase date?
Buyers pay for capability. An iPhone 15 Pro or newer runs Apple Intelligence, so demand for it stays high, while an iPhone 11 now sells mainly as a budget phone. Our iPhone resale value by model guide ranks every line we buy.
How much does storage add?
Moving from 128GB to 256GB adds a moderate amount; the jump to 1TB on a Pro model is much larger because fewer exist. See does storage change iPhone resale value.
Does a carrier lock or unpaid balance lower the price?
A carrier lock lowers it slightly. An unpaid installment balance lowers it more, because the carrier can block the IMEI later; we still buy those phones from the account holder at a reduced offer. Phones reported lost or stolen cannot be bought. Details are in can you sell a blacklisted iPhone.
How does condition change the offer?
Condition works in steps: Like New, Good, Fair, Poor and Damaged. Cracked glass or a bent frame costs more because the repair comes straight off the resale price, but a cracked phone that works still sells. Read iPhone condition grades explained.
How do I get the exact value of my iPhone?
- Find your model and storage in Settings > General > About (or use our model finder guide).
- Check Carrier Lock on the same screen.
- Grade the glass and frame honestly and test every feature.
- Enter your answers in the sell iPhone quote to see a firm offer.
Used prices drift down as newer models launch, so the offer you see today is usually the highest it will be. When to sell an iPhone explains the timing.
