What Factors Affect the Value of Your Used Phone or Laptop?
11/25/2025
11/25/2025
Selling your old phone or laptop can put extra cash in your pocket, but how much money you get depends on many different factors. Understanding what buyers look for helps you get the best possible price for your device. This guide breaks down everything that affects the value of used electronics.
The age of your phone or laptop is one of the biggest factors in determining its value. Newer models always sell for more money than older ones. Phones typically lose about 40% to 50% of their value in the first year. After two years, most phones are worth only 30% to 40% of their original price. Laptops follow a similar pattern but may hold value slightly longer depending on their specifications.
Flagship models from popular brands hold their value better than budget devices. The specific model matters too. Phones and laptops with better processors, more memory, and higher storage capacity keep their value longer. A phone with 256GB of storage will always sell for more than the same model with 64GB.
The physical condition of your device directly impacts how much money you can get for it. Buyers pay premium prices for devices that look almost new. If you’re looking to sell used iPhone devices, keeping them in excellent physical condition can significantly increase the price buyers are willing to pay.
Devices without any scratches, dents, or signs of wear command the highest prices. These devices look like they just came out of the box.Â
Devices with minor cosmetic wear but no major damage fall into this category. Small scratches on the back or frame are acceptable, but the screen should be free from scratches. These devices sell for about 15% to 25% less than mint condition devices.
Fair condition means the device has visible wear and tear. There might be scratches on the screen, dents in the frame, or scuffs on the body. The device still works properly, but it clearly shows signs of use. Expect to get 30% to 50% less than mint condition prices.
Devices with cracked screens, broken buttons, or other damage fall into poor condition. These devices sell for significantly less money. A cracked screen alone can reduce the value by 40% to 60%.
A device that works perfectly is worth much more than one with problems. Buyers want to know that everything functions as it should.
Battery condition is extremely important, especially for phones and laptops. Phones with battery health below 80% lose significant value. Many buyers will pass on a device with poor battery life or demand a steep discount.
You can check battery health on most phones by looking in device settings, or under Device Care. Laptops often show battery condition in System Information under Power. Replacing a worn battery before selling can increase your device's value more than the cost of the replacement.
The screen needs to work perfectly. Check for dead pixels, discoloration, or touch sensitivity issues. Even small problems with the screen dramatically reduce value.
All physical buttons should click properly. Power buttons, volume buttons, and home buttons (if applicable) need to work smoothly. Charging ports must work without wiggling the cable. Headphone jacks should provide clear audio without crackling.
Phone cameras need to focus properly and take clear photos. Both front and rear cameras should work. Laptop webcams should provide clear video for calls.
WiFi, Bluetooth, cellular connection (for phones), and GPS must all work properly. Problems with any connectivity features reduce value significantly.
Storage space has a direct impact on price. Devices with more storage always sell for more money. The price difference between storage tiers stays relatively consistent over time. If a 512GB model originally cost $200 more than a 128GB model, the used versions will typically maintain that $150 to $200 price difference.
Buyers look for enough storage to meet their needs. Most people want at least 128GB on a phone and 256GB on a laptop. Devices with lower storage capacity have a smaller pool of interested buyers.
Some brands hold their value much better than others. This happens because of build quality, brand loyalty, and software support. Phones and laptops from less popular brands typically lose value faster. Budget brands, even when they offer good specifications, struggle in the resale market. Buyers often prefer known brands for reliability and support.
Supply and demand economics apply to used electronics just like anything else. Popular models in high demand sell for better prices.
Used electronics sell better at certain times of the year. Back-to-school season (August and September) increases demand for laptops. The holiday shopping season increases demand for phones. Selling during these peak times can get you 10% to 20% more money.
The weeks after a new model launches can actually be good for selling the previous generation. Many people want to upgrade, creating more supply, but some buyers specifically look for the previous model at a discount.
If your exact model is hard to find new or is no longer manufactured, it might hold value better. Conversely, if stores have major discounts on new units, your used device value drops.
The software running on your device affects its value in multiple ways.
Devices running the latest operating system are more valuable. Buyers want access to new features and security updates. If your device can update to the current OS version, make sure you do so before selling.
Devices that can no longer receive OS updates lose value faster. Apple and Google provide software support for several years, but eventually, older devices get left behind.
Unlocked phones that work with any carrier sell for 20% to 30% more than locked devices. Carrier-locked phones limit the buyer pool to customers of that specific carrier.
If your phone is paid off, contact your carrier to unlock it before selling. This simple step can significantly increase your selling price.
Before selling, you must remove all passwords, passcodes, and activation locks. A device with activation lock enabled is essentially worthless to buyers. Make sure you sign out of any cloud storage and sign out of all accounts on devices.
Having the original accessories increases your device's value. Buyers prefer complete packages.
For laptops, the original power adapter is particularly important. Replacement laptop chargers can cost $50 to $100, and buyers will deduct this from their offer.
Specific technical specifications and special features impact value. When considering whether to trade in MacBook Air models, higher specs like a faster processor, more RAM, and superior display quality can significantly increase your trade-in value.
Having proof of purchase and warranty information can increase your device's value. A receipt proves the device is not stolen and provides information about the purchase date and location. This documentation makes buyers more comfortable with their purchase.
Devices that have been professionally repaired by authorized service providers hold value better than those repaired by third parties. Unauthorized repairs, especially screen replacements, can reduce value because they may use lower-quality parts.
When you sell matters almost as much as what you are selling.
Taking specific steps before selling can increase how much money you get. Start by cleaning your device thoroughly. Use appropriate cleaning materials to make it look as new as possible. A clean device photographs better and makes a better impression on buyers.
Gather all original accessories and packaging. Even if you find these items in a drawer, they add value. Document your device's condition with clear photos. Show all angles, including any damage or wear. Honest, detailed photos build buyer trust and can actually get you better offers than misleading photos.
Research current prices for your exact model in similar condition. Check multiple platforms to understand the market rate. Price your device competitively but fairly. Write a detailed, honest description. Include model number, storage capacity, carrier lock status, and condition details. Transparency prevents disputes and attracts serious buyers.
Many factors work together to determine how much your used phone or laptop is worth. Age, condition, specifications, and timing all play important roles. Understanding these factors helps you make smart decisions about when and how to sell.
Taking care of your device from the day you buy it preserves its resale value. Using a case and screen protector, avoiding damage, and maintaining good battery health all pay off when selling time comes.
Research your specific device's current market value before setting a price. Be honest about conditions and include all relevant details in your listing. With the right approach, you can maximize the value of your used electronics and get the best possible price. For expert guidance on selling your devices and maximizing their resale value, contact GoRoostr today to help you get the best price possible.