How to Get the Most for Your Old Apple Device

Looking to upgrade your old Apple device but not break the bank trying to do so? The Apple Trade In program is a great way to get credit for your current device, which you can then apply toward the purchase of a new one. The process is straightforward and can help you get the most money for your old iPhone, iPad, Mac, or Apple Watch.

This guide will walk you through the entire process, from checking eligibility to prepping your device for a final quote.

Step 1: Find Out What Your Device is Worth

Before you do anything else, you need to see if your device is eligible for trade-in and get a value estimate. Apple accepts a wide range of devices, including Apple products and many models from other brands like Samsung and Google.

To get your estimate, go to the official Apple Trade In page. You’ll be asked a few questions about your device’s condition, like:

• Model: The specific model of your device (e.g., iPhone 13 Pro, MacBook Air M1).
• Condition: This is a big one. You’ll be asked about the device’s physical state, including any cracks, scratches, or dents.
• Functionality: Does the device power on, and do all its features work properly?

Based on your answers, Apple will give you an estimated trade-in value. This is a preliminary quote; the final value will be set after Apple’s third-party vendor inspects the device.

Step 2: Choose Your New Device and Apply the Credit

Once you have your estimated trade-in value, you can move on with your new purchase. The trade-in value can be applied in one of two ways:

• Instant Credit: When you buy a new device online or in-store, the trade-in credit can be immediately used to lower the cost of your new item. This is the most common choice and is a great way to save money right away.
• Apple Gift Card: If you aren’t ready to buy a new device just yet, you can choose to receive the credit on an Apple Gift Card, which you can use for any future Apple purchase.

Just so you know, the estimated value is only good for a short time (usually 15 days), so it’s a good idea to finish the process quickly to lock in your quoted price.

Need help choosing your next device? Check out our Apple Deals page for the latest deals and specials on new iPhones, Macs, and more.

Step 3: Get Your Old Device Ready

To make sure your trade-in goes smoothly and you get the most credit, you need to prepare your device. If you don’t, you could get a lower quote.

For iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch:

1. Back up your data: Use iCloud or a computer to create a full backup of your device. This keeps you from losing any photos, contacts, or app data.
2. Sign out of all accounts: This includes your Apple ID, iCloud, iTunes Store, and App Store. For iPhones, this automatically turns off “Find My.” For Android devices, you must sign out of your Google account.
3. Wipe the device: Factory reset the device to erase all personal information. This is very important for protecting your privacy.
4. Remove physical components: Take out your SIM card, memory cards, and any screen protectors or cases. You don’t need to send in things like chargers and cables, and they won’t be sent back if you do.

For Mac:

1. Back up your data: Create a Time Machine backup or save your important files to an external drive or iCloud.
2. Sign out of all accounts: Log out of your Apple ID and any other personal accounts.
3. Erase your Mac: The steps for this are different depending on whether your Mac has an Apple silicon or Intel processor. Follow Apple’s instructions to securely erase all data from your internal drive.

Step 4: Mail It In or Drop It Off

Apple gives you two convenient ways to finish your trade-in. Your choice might depend on whether you’re trading in a device online or at a store.

• Mail-In (Online Trade-In): If you complete your trade-in online, Apple will send you a prepaid trade-in kit with detailed directions. Just pack your device in the provided materials and send it back within the time given.
• In-Store Drop-Off: If you’re trading in a device for an in-store purchase, a Specialist at your local Apple Store will check the device, give you a final quote, and take care of the rest right there. This gives you instant confirmation of your trade-in value.

Once Apple’s vendor gets and inspects your device, they’ll confirm its condition matches what you described. If it does, your credit will be processed. If the condition is different, you’ll be told the new, lower value and given the choice to accept or decline it.