Best Places to Sell Your iPhone 15: Price, Rating & Safety (2024)

08/22/2024 eric Blog

As someone who’s spent years navigating the ever-evolving smartphone market, I’ve come to realize that selling your iPhone is an art as much as it is a science. With the release of the iPhone 16 series, the stakes are even higher. Everyone wants the best price, a hassle-free experience, and, most importantly, a safe transaction. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the best places to sell your iPhone 15 in 2024, using detailed transaction and user feedback data to help you make the most informed decision.

Understanding the Market: What to Expect in 2024

Before diving into where to sell, it’s essential to understand what the market looks like in 2024. The iPhone 15 has made waves with its new features—ranging from the improved camera system to the A17 Bionic chip. But how does this translate to resale value?

iPhone 15’s Market Value

As of 2024, the iPhone 15’s resale value is holding up quite well, but it varies based on a few key factors. For instance, a 128GB iPhone 15 in excellent condition could fetch anywhere from $800 to $1,000, depending on where you sell it. However, this is just a ballpark figure, and the actual amount you’ll receive can fluctuate significantly.

Factors Influencing Price

Several factors will influence how much you can sell your iPhone 15 for:

Condition: A phone in pristine condition with no scratches, dents, or functional issues will always command a higher price.
Storage Capacity: Models with more storage typically sell for more. A 512GB iPhone 15, for example, will likely fetch more than a 128GB model.
Market Demand: The iPhone 15 is still relatively new, so demand is high. However, as new models are announced, expect this demand—and the corresponding resale price—to drop.

By understanding these factors, you can better position yourself to get the highest possible return when selling your iPhone 15.

Top Platforms for Selling Your iPhone 15

With the groundwork laid, let’s explore the best platforms for selling your iPhone 15 in 2024. I’ve broken these down into three categories: online marketplaces, trade-in programs, and direct sale options.

Online Marketplaces

eBay
- Price: eBay is well-known for allowing sellers to set their prices, which means you could potentially earn more here than on other platforms. However, prices can vary greatly depending on how well you market your listing and whether you choose to auction your phone or set a fixed price.
- Rating: eBay’s rating system for sellers plays a crucial role. As a seasoned seller, maintaining a high rating can help attract more buyers and secure a better price.
- Safety: While eBay offers protections for both buyers and sellers, it could be more foolproof. Scams can happen, so it’s essential to follow eBay’s safety guidelines, like using tracked shipping and avoiding off-platform communication.
Swappa
- Price: Swappa is a marketplace specifically for tech gadgets, which means buyers here are generally more knowledgeable and willing to pay a fair price for your iPhone 15. Swappa’s transparent fee structure also ensures you know exactly what you’ll earn.
- Rating: The platform’s community-driven ratings can be a double-edged sword. Positive ratings can boost your sales prospects, but any negative feedback can make selling more challenging.
- Safety: Swappa is known for its stringent listing requirements, which help weed out scammers and ensure that transactions are safe. The platform’s PayPal integration also adds an extra layer of security for both buyers and sellers.

Trade-In Programs

Apple Trade-In
- Price: Apple’s trade-in program is often less lucrative in terms of cash returns, but it’s incredibly convenient. For an iPhone 15 in excellent condition, you might get around $600 to $700 in credit, which can be used toward a new Apple product.
- Rating: Apple doesn’t have a user rating system for trade-ins, but its reputation for fairness and reliability is well-established.
- Safety: The safety of trading in with Apple is unmatched. You’re dealing directly with the company, so there’s no risk of scams or fraudulent activity. Plus, Apple takes care of data wiping if you still need to do so yourself, adding an extra layer of security.
Carrier Trade-Ins (Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile)
- Price: Carrier trade-in programs typically offer lower prices than selling directly to a consumer. However, they often come with perks like account credits, which can offset the lower cash offer.
- Rating: Similar to Apple, carriers don’t have a rating system, but their long-standing business practices offer a degree of trust and reliability.
- Safety: Trading in through your carrier is generally safe, with the added convenience of applying the trade-in value directly to your bill or toward a new device.

Direct Sale Options

Facebook Marketplace
- Price: Selling on Facebook Marketplace can be hit or miss. On the plus side, you have control over the price and can negotiate directly with buyers. However, prices can vary widely based on your location and the urgency of your sale.
- Rating: Facebook’s rating system is relatively new, and while it can help build trust, it could be more robust than eBay’s or Swappa’s. A good rating can help you sell faster, but it’s not a guarantee.
- Safety: The biggest risk with Facebook Marketplace is safety. Because you’re dealing directly with buyers, there’s a higher chance of encountering scams or unsafe situations. Always meet in a public place, preferably during the day, and consider bringing a friend along for added security.
Gazelle
- Price: Gazelle offers instant price quotes, making it one of the easiest platforms to use. However, the convenience comes at a cost—Gazelle’s offers are generally lower than what you could get on eBay or Swappa.
- Rating: Gazelle doesn’t have a seller rating system, but it’s a well-established company with a solid reputation for reliability and customer service.
- Safety: Gazelle provides prepaid shipping labels, and the transaction is handled entirely online, minimizing the risks associated with meeting buyers in person. The company’s stringent inspection process ensures that you get paid quickly, and there’s minimal risk of fraud.

Analyzing Transaction Data: Price vs. Rating

With these platforms in mind, let’s take a closer look at some transaction data to compare the average prices offered by these platforms and how they align with user ratings and feedback.

Price Comparison

eBay: On average, iPhone 15 units sold on eBay fetch around $850. However, this figure can swing up or down depending on the condition of the device and the seller’s rating. Sellers with higher ratings and more positive feedback tend to achieve higher prices, as buyers are willing to pay a premium for trustworthiness.
Swappa: Swappa’s average sale price for an iPhone 15 is slightly lower at around $820. This platform’s strict listing guidelines and tech-savvy user base mean that listings are typically more competitive, which can drive prices down slightly.
Apple Trade-In: The Apple Trade-In program offers around $650 in credit for an iPhone 15 in excellent condition. While this is lower than the other platforms, the convenience and safety make it a popular choice.
Facebook Marketplace: Prices here are the most variable, with some sellers managing to get upwards of $900 while others might only get $750. The lack of a standardized pricing model means you’re largely at the mercy of local market conditions and your negotiating skills.
Gazelle: Gazelle typically offers around $700 for an iPhone 15, which is lower than other platforms. However, the convenience of an instant offer and the security of dealing with a reputable company makes it an attractive option for those who prioritize safety over maximizing profit.

User Ratings & Feedback

eBay: Users often praise eBay for its wide reach and the ability to set your price, but complaints about fees and the occasional difficult buyer are common. Sellers with high ratings report smoother transactions and quicker sales.
Swappa: Swappa is consistently rated highly for its focus on tech products and its user-friendly interface. Sellers appreciate the low fees and the knowledgeable buyer base, but the competitive market can sometimes make it harder to get top dollar.
Apple Trade-In: Apple’s trade-in program is lauded for its simplicity and safety, but the lower trade-in values are a common point of contention among users.
Facebook Marketplace: Feedback here is mixed. Some users have had great experiences selling their iPhone 15 for a high price, while others have encountered unreliable buyers and safety concerns.
Gazelle: Gazelle is praised for its ease of use and quick payouts, but the lower prices are a frequent criticism.

Ensuring Transaction Safety

When selling a high-value item like an iPhone 15, safety should be a top priority. Here’s how you can protect yourself and ensure a secure transaction on each platform.

Online Security Tips

Avoid Sharing Personal Information: Never share personal details like your home address or phone number with buyers. Use platform messaging systems to communicate, and consider setting up a dedicated email account for transactions.
Use Secure Payment Methods: Stick to secure payment methods like PayPal, which offers protection for both buyers and sellers. Avoid using cash apps or direct bank transfers, as these offer little recourse if something needs to be fixed.
Beware of Scams: Be cautious of offers that seem too good to be true, especially on platforms like Facebook Marketplace. Scammers often target sellers of high-value items, so take your time to vet buyers carefully.

Platform-Specific Safety Features

eBay: eBay’s Buyer Protection program helps ensure that sellers get paid and buyers receive their items as described. The platform’s dispute resolution system is also robust, providing a safety net in case of issues.
Swappa: Swappa’s strict listing policies and PayPal integration offer strong protections for both parties. The platform also encourages transparency by requiring sellers to include clear photos of the device and its condition.
Apple Trade-In: Apple’s trade-in process is handled entirely online or in-store, minimizing risk. Apple takes care of data wiping for you, but it’s always a good idea to do this yourself beforehand.
Facebook Marketplace: Safety is a bigger concern here due to the nature of direct sales. Always meet in a public place, and consider using a payment method that offers some form of buyer/seller protection.
Gazelle: Gazelle’s prepaid shipping labels and straightforward process reduce the risks associated with selling online. The company’s rigorous inspection process also ensures that you get paid promptly without any haggling or disputes.

Personal Recommendations: Maximizing Your Sale

Based on my experience, here’s how I’d recommend approaching the sale of your iPhone 15, depending on your priorities:

Highest Price

If your primary goal is to get the highest price, eBay or Swappa are your best bets. Both platforms allow you to set your price and reach a wide audience, though Swappa’s tech-focused community might be more appealing if you’re selling a high-end model.

Fastest Sale

For a quick sale, Apple Trade-In or Gazelle are the way to go. You won’t get the highest price, but the convenience and speed of these platforms are unmatched. Apple’s trade-in program is especially appealing if you plan to put the credit toward a new device.

Safest Transaction

If safety is your top concern, Apple Trade-In offers the most secure process. You’re dealing directly with Apple, so there’s no risk of scams, and the entire process is handled either in-store or online.

Preparing Your iPhone 15 for Sale Regardless of where you decide to sell, properly preparing your iPhone 15 for sale is crucial. Here’s how to ensure you get the best price and a smooth transaction:

Back-Up Your Data: Before selling, make sure to back up all your data to iCloud or your computer.
Sign Out of iCloud: To avoid any issues for the buyer, sign out of iCloud and remove the device from your account.
Erase All Content and Settings: This will reset the phone to its factory settings, ensuring all your personal information is wiped clean.
Clean the Device: A clean, well-maintained phone is more appealing to buyers. Wipe down the screen and body to remove any smudges or fingerprints.

Conclusion

Selling your iPhone 15 in 2024 can be a straightforward process if you choose the right platform based on your priorities. Whether you’re after the highest price, the fastest sale, or the safest transaction, there’s an option out there for you. By understanding the market, analyzing transaction data, and prioritizing safety, you can ensure a successful sale that leaves both you and the buyer satisfied. As someone who’s been in this field for years, taking the time to research and prepare will pay off in the end. So, choose your platform wisely, and prepare your phone carefully!