If you have a broken iPhone sitting in a drawer, you might be wondering what to do with it. Maybe the screen is cracked, the battery no longer holds charge, the camera has stopped working, or the phone will not switch on at all. Many people assume that once an iPhone is damaged, it has little or no value. However, the truth is that even broken iPhones can still be worth money.
Whether your device has a smashed screen, water damage, a faulty charging port, Face ID issues, battery problems, or serious internal faults, there are still buyers who may be interested. Some companies purchase broken iPhones for parts, while others refurbish them, repair them, resell them, or recycle valuable components. This means your damaged device could still put cash in your pocket rather than sitting unused or ending up in landfill.
Selling a broken iPhone can also be a smart way to help fund your next phone upgrade. If you are thinking about selling broken iPhone devices, it is important to compare your options before accepting the first offer. Instead of letting an old or damaged device collect dust, you can turn it into money and make the most of its remaining value. In this guide, we will look at why broken iPhones still have value, where you can sell them, how to prepare your device before selling, and how to get the best possible price.
Why Sell a Broken iPhone?
Before looking at the best places to sell your broken iPhone, it is worth understanding why selling it is often better than throwing it away, storing it in a drawer, or keeping it as a backup device you may never use.
One of the biggest reasons to sell a broken iPhone is that it can still be worth money. Many people do not realise that selling broken iPhone models can still bring in a good return, especially if the device is newer. iPhones are popular devices with strong demand, and even damaged models may contain valuable parts. Components such as the motherboard, camera, battery, screen, charging port, speaker, microphone, buttons, and housing can all be useful to repair shops and refurbishers. Even if the phone itself does not work properly, individual parts may still be removed, repaired, reused, or recycled.
Selling your broken iPhone is also better for the environment. Electronic waste is a growing issue, and old phones often contain materials that should not be thrown into general waste. When phones are sent to landfill, they can contribute to pollution and waste valuable resources. By selling your broken iPhone to a responsible buyer, repair shop, refurbishment company, or recycler, you can help ensure that the device is either repaired, reused, or processed correctly.
Another benefit is convenience. The process of selling broken iPhone models has become much easier thanks to online buyers, repair shops, and recycling companies. Many companies now make it quick and easy to sell broken iPhones online. You can often get an instant quote, send the phone using a prepaid postage label, and receive payment once the device has been checked. This is far easier than trying to repair the device yourself or leaving it unused for years.
Selling your broken iPhone can also help you upgrade. If you are planning to buy a newer iPhone, the money from your damaged device can be put towards the cost. Even a phone with serious damage could still contribute something towards your next purchase.
Do Broken iPhones Really Have Value?
Yes, broken iPhones can absolutely have value. One of the biggest benefits of selling broken iPhone devices is that you can recover value from a phone you no longer use. The amount you can get depends on the model, condition, storage capacity, and type of damage. Newer iPhones are usually worth more, even when broken, because replacement parts are in higher demand and the repaired device can still be resold for a good price.
For example, a broken iPhone 14 or iPhone 15 may still be worth a reasonable amount if the main logic board is working and the phone is not locked. A cracked screen, faulty battery, damaged camera, or broken back glass may reduce the value, but the phone could still be repaired and sold on. Older models, such as the iPhone X, iPhone 11, or iPhone 12, may be worth less, but they can still attract buyers if they are usable for parts or refurbishment.
The type of damage makes a big difference. A phone with a cracked screen but fully working internal components will usually be worth more than one that does not power on. Similarly, a device with battery issues may be easier and cheaper to repair than one with severe water damage. Phones with iCloud lock, activation lock, or missing ownership information are usually much harder to sell and may have little value unless they are sold strictly for parts.
Storage capacity can also affect value. A 256GB or 512GB iPhone is usually worth more than a 64GB model of the same generation. Colour, cosmetic condition, and whether you still have the original box or accessories may also influence the final offer.
Best Places to Sell Broken iPhones
There are several ways to sell a broken iPhone. Some options are fast and convenient, while others may take longer but offer a higher payout. The best choice depends on whether you want the quickest sale, the highest possible price, or the simplest process.
1. Sell Your Broken iPhone to a Local Repair Shop
Local phone repair shops are one of the most straightforward places to sell a broken iPhone. Many independent repair shops buy damaged phones because they can use the parts, repair the device, or resell it after refurbishment.
If speed matters most, selling broken iPhone handsets to a local repair shop may be one of the quickest options. This option is especially useful if you want quick cash and do not want to deal with postage, online listings, buyer messages, or payment delays. You can take your phone into the shop, have it inspected, and receive an offer on the spot.
Advantages of Selling to a Local Repair Shop
The main advantage is speed. In many cases, you can sell your phone the same day. You do not need to wait for shipping, inspection, or online payment processing. This can be ideal if you need money quickly or want to get rid of the device without hassle.
Another advantage is that you can speak directly with the buyer. If you are unsure what is wrong with your iPhone, the repair shop may be able to assess it and explain what parts still have value. You may also be able to negotiate the price, especially if the phone is a newer model or has reusable components.
Selling locally also avoids the risk of shipping damage or disputes about the condition of the device. Once you agree on a price and receive payment, the transaction is usually complete.
Disadvantages of Selling to a Local Repair Shop
The downside is that local repair shops may offer less than online buyers or private buyers. Because they need to make a profit after repair or resale, they will usually offer a price that leaves them enough margin. Some shops may only buy certain iPhone models, especially newer or more popular ones.
The valuation process may also vary from shop to shop. One shop may offer a much higher price than another, so it is worth visiting or calling multiple repair shops before accepting an offer.
Tips for Selling to a Local Repair Shop
Before visiting a repair shop, make sure you know your iPhone model, storage capacity, and main issues. Before selling broken iPhone handsets, always check whether the device is signed out of iCloud and ready for resale. Be honest about the damage. If the phone has been dropped in water, repaired previously, or has intermittent faults, mention this. Accurate information helps the shop give a fair quote and prevents disputes.
It is also a good idea to compare at least two or three local offers. Do not accept the first price unless you are satisfied with it. If one shop offers more, you can sometimes use that quote to negotiate with another buyer.
2. Sell Your Broken iPhone on Online Marketplaces
Online marketplaces such as eBay, Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, Gumtree, and similar platforms allow you to sell directly to individual buyers. This route can often produce a higher payout because you are selling to the end buyer rather than a company that needs to resell the phone at a profit.
For those who want the best price, selling broken iPhone devices through a marketplace may produce a higher payout. However, selling privately takes more effort. You need to create a listing, take photos, write a description, respond to messages, negotiate with buyers, arrange payment, and possibly deal with shipping.
Advantages of Online Marketplaces
The biggest advantage is the potential to get more money. Since you can set your own asking price, you may be able to achieve a better return than with a trade-in programme or instant-buy website. This is especially true for newer iPhones, rare models, or phones with minor damage.
Online marketplaces also give you access to a large audience. Buyers may include repair technicians, refurbishers, people looking for spare parts, or individuals who are willing to repair the phone themselves.
Another benefit is flexibility. You can choose whether to sell locally for collection or ship the device to a buyer. You can also decide whether to accept offers or hold out for your desired price.
Disadvantages of Online Marketplaces
The main disadvantage is that selling can take time. There is no guarantee that your broken iPhone will sell quickly, especially if the price is too high or the model is older.
There is also a risk of scams. Some buyers may claim the phone was not as described, request refunds unfairly, use fake payment confirmations, or try to negotiate aggressively after agreeing to buy. Local collection can also carry safety concerns if you are meeting strangers.
Selling on some platforms may also involve fees. For example, eBay may charge seller fees, and payment processors may take a percentage of the sale. These costs should be considered when setting your price.
Tips for Selling on Online Marketplaces
Good photos are essential. When selling broken iPhone devices online, clear photos and an honest description can help you attract serious buyers. Take clear pictures of the front, back, sides, screen damage, camera area, charging port, buttons, and any visible cracks or dents. Buyers are more likely to trust your listing if they can clearly see the condition.
Your description should be honest and detailed. Include the iPhone model, storage capacity, colour, network status, battery health if available, whether it powers on, whether the screen works, whether Face ID works, and whether the phone is iCloud unlocked. Mention any known issues, such as water damage, cracked back glass, faulty speakers, or charging problems.
Use safe payment methods. For online sales, avoid suspicious payment links or buyers who claim they have sent money when it has not appeared in your account. For local sales, meet in a safe public place and consider accepting cash or instant bank transfer only once you are confident the payment has cleared.
3. Use Apple Trade-In or Retail Trade-In Programmes
Apple and other retailers often offer trade-in programmes for old iPhones. These programmes allow you to exchange your device for store credit, a gift card, or credit towards a new purchase. Some mobile carriers also offer trade-in deals when you upgrade your phone contract.
Apple’s trade-in programme may accept certain damaged devices, although the value is usually lower than for fully working phones. In some cases, if the phone is too damaged, Apple may offer to recycle it rather than provide credit.
Advantages of Trade-In Programmes
Trade-in programmes are usually simple, safe, and reputable. You are dealing with a recognised company, which reduces the risk of scams or payment issues. The process is often guided, with clear instructions on how to check your device, send it in, or take it to a store.
This option is also convenient if you are already planning to buy a new iPhone or upgrade your contract. The value of your old phone can be applied directly to your purchase, reducing the upfront cost.
Trade-in programmes are also good for people who do not want to deal with buyers, listings, negotiations, or shipping arrangements beyond the company’s own process.
Disadvantages of Trade-In Programmes
The biggest disadvantage is that trade-in values are often lower than what you might get by selling privately. Companies offering trade-ins need to account for repair, refurbishment, resale, and processing costs, so their offer may be conservative.
Another drawback is that payment may be in store credit rather than cash. If you do not plan to buy from that company, the trade-in value may not be as useful.
Damaged phones may also be rejected or revalued after inspection. If the condition does not match what you described, the final offer may be reduced.
When Trade-In Makes Sense
Trade-in programmes make the most sense when convenience matters more than getting the absolute highest price. They are also a good option if you are buying a new device from the same company and want a simple way to reduce the cost.
4. Sell to Specialised Online Buyers
Specialised online buyers are companies that purchase used, damaged, or broken phones. Examples may include phone recycling websites, refurbishment companies, comparison sites, and businesses that focus specifically on broken devices.
Specialised phone-buying websites make selling broken iPhone models simple by offering instant quotes and free postage. These companies usually make the process very straightforward. You enter your iPhone model, storage capacity, and condition on their website, receive an instant quote, and send the phone using a prepaid shipping label. After the phone is inspected, you receive payment by bank transfer, PayPal, cheque, or another method depending on the buyer.
Popular options can include musicMagpie, The Big Phone Store, SellCell, and similar phone-buying services. EcoATM may also be available in some locations through physical kiosks that provide instant cash offers.
Advantages of Specialised Online Buyers
The biggest advantage is convenience. You do not have to create a listing, answer buyer questions, negotiate, or handle disputes. The quote process is usually quick, and many companies provide free postage.
Specialised buyers are also used to dealing with damaged phones, which means they may accept devices that other trade-in programmes reject. This can include phones with cracked screens, faulty batteries, broken buttons, damaged cameras, or other issues.
Comparison websites can also help you see offers from multiple buyers in one place. This makes it easier to find a competitive price without visiting each website individually.
Disadvantages of Specialised Online Buyers
The final price may change after inspection. If the company finds additional damage, if the phone does not match the condition you selected, or if there are problems such as iCloud lock, the offer may be reduced. In some cases, you may be able to reject the revised offer and have the phone returned, but policies vary.
Payment may also take a few days, depending on shipping time, inspection speed, and the payment method.
Online buyers may not always offer the highest possible price compared to selling privately, but they are often a good balance between convenience and value.
5. Sell Through Phone Recycling Companies
Phone recycling companies are another good option, especially if your iPhone is very badly damaged or no longer turns on. These companies buy old phones to refurbish, dismantle for parts, or recycle responsibly.
This can be a suitable route for phones with serious faults, including water damage, broken screens, heavy cosmetic damage, or non-working components. Even if the device has little resale value, the materials and parts inside may still be useful.
Advantages of Recycling Companies
Phone recycling companies often accept a wide range of conditions. They may still take phones that are too damaged for traditional trade-ins. The process is usually simple and often includes free postage.
Selling to a recycler also helps reduce electronic waste. Rather than throwing the device away, you can make sure it is handled in a more responsible way.
Disadvantages of Recycling Companies
The payout may be lower than selling to a private buyer or repair shop, especially if the device is heavily damaged. If the phone is completely dead or has major internal damage, the offer may be modest.
However, if your main goal is to get something back while disposing of the phone responsibly, recycling companies can be a worthwhile choice.
6. Use EcoATM or Similar Kiosks
EcoATM and similar phone-buying kiosks provide a fast way to sell old or broken phones in person. These machines are usually located in shopping centres, supermarkets, or retail locations. You place your phone in the kiosk, answer questions about its condition, and receive an offer.
If you accept, you can often receive payment quickly. This makes kiosks one of the fastest options for selling a broken iPhone.
Advantages of EcoATM Kiosks
The main benefit is speed. You do not need to wait for online buyers, shipping, or marketplace messages. The process can usually be completed in one visit.
Kiosks are also convenient for people who want a simple transaction and do not want to negotiate with buyers.
Disadvantages of EcoATM Kiosks
The offer may be lower than other selling methods. Kiosks are designed for convenience, and the price may reflect that. They may also reject certain devices depending on condition, model, or security status.
Before using a kiosk, make sure your phone is signed out of iCloud and factory reset if possible. You may also need identification to complete the sale.
How Much Can You Get for a Broken iPhone?
The amount you can get for a broken iPhone depends on several factors. There is no single fixed price because every device is different.
The value of selling broken iPhone devices depends on the model, storage size, damage level, and overall condition. Newer models usually sell for more because they are more expensive to buy new and have stronger demand in the repair and resale market. For example, a damaged iPhone 14, iPhone 15, or iPhone 15 Pro may still be worth a significant amount if key components work. Older models, such as the iPhone 8 or iPhone X, may still have value but usually sell for less.
The condition is equally important. A cracked screen is usually less serious than a damaged logic board. A phone that powers on and can be tested will usually be worth more than one that is completely dead. Water damage can reduce value significantly because it may cause hidden internal problems.
Storage capacity also matters. Higher-capacity models usually attract better prices. A 256GB iPhone will normally be worth more than a 64GB version of the same model, assuming similar condition.
The phone’s lock status is critical. An iPhone that is iCloud locked or still linked to someone’s Apple ID is much harder to sell. Many buyers will not accept locked devices because they cannot be properly reused. Always remove the phone from your Apple ID before selling.
Market demand can also affect pricing. Some iPhone models are more popular with repair shops and refurbishers because parts are easier to resell or repairs are more profitable.
As a rough guide, a broken newer iPhone may still sell for hundreds of pounds depending on the damage. A broken iPhone 14 might sell for around £300 to £500 if the damage is not too severe, while a broken iPhone 12 might fetch around £150 to £300. Older models such as the iPhone X may sell for around £50 to £150, depending on condition. These figures can vary, so it is always best to compare live quotes from multiple buyers.
How to Prepare Your Broken iPhone Before Selling
Before selling your broken iPhone, it is important to prepare it properly. This protects your personal data and helps avoid delays or reduced offers.
First, back up your data if the phone still works. You can use iCloud or a computer to save your photos, contacts, messages, and other important information. Once the phone is sold, you may not be able to recover anything from it.
Next, sign out of iCloud and remove the device from your Apple ID. This is one of the most important steps. If Find My iPhone is still enabled, the buyer may not be able to activate or reuse the phone. This can cause the sale to fail or the offer to be reduced.
After signing out, perform a factory reset if possible. This removes your personal information from the device. Go to the settings menu, erase all content and settings, and confirm the reset. If the screen is broken but the phone still connects to a computer, you may be able to erase it using Finder or iTunes.
Remove your SIM card before selling the phone. Your SIM card may contain personal information or be linked to your mobile account.
Clean the phone if possible. You do not need to repair it, but wiping away dust, fingerprints, and dirt can make it look more presentable. If you still have the original box, charger, cable, or accessories, mention them when selling. Some buyers may pay slightly more for a complete package.
Finally, be honest about the condition. Do not hide damage or claim the phone works if it does not. Accurate descriptions help prevent disputes and ensure you receive a fair offer.
How to Get the Best Price for a Broken iPhone
To get the best possible price, compare multiple selling options. Comparing quotes is one of the best ways to maximise your return when selling broken iPhone devices. Do not rely on just one quote. Check online buyers, local repair shops, marketplace prices, and trade-in programmes before making a decision.
Private selling often gives you the highest potential payout, but it requires more time and effort. Online buyers and recycling companies are usually faster and simpler, but the offer may be lower. Local repair shops can be a good middle ground because they may pay quickly and allow some negotiation.
Timing can also make a difference when Selling Broken iPhone. iPhone values tend to drop when new models are released, so selling sooner is usually better than waiting. The longer you keep a broken phone, the more likely its value will decrease when Selling Broken iPhone.
If the damage is minor, consider whether a repair could increase the selling price. For example, replacing a cracked screen or battery might make the phone worth more. However, repairs cost money, so you should compare the repair cost with the expected increase in resale value. In some cases, selling as-is is the better choice.
Make your listing or quote request as detailed as possible. Include the exact model, storage size, colour, condition, battery health, and any known issues. The more accurate your information, the more reliable the quote will be.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is failing to remove iCloud. Many buyers will reduce the offer or refuse the phone entirely if it is still linked to your Apple ID. Always check this before Selling Broken iPhone.
Another mistake is accepting the first offer without comparing prices. Different buyers may value the same phone very differently. Spending a little time checking multiple options could help you earn more.
Some sellers also overestimate the value of a damaged phone. While broken iPhones can be worth money, the damage level matters. Serious faults, water damage, and non-working devices will naturally reduce the price.
Water damage can lower the value when selling broken iPhone models, but the phone may still be useful for parts. This is why it is important to describe water exposure clearly and avoid claiming the device is in better condition than it really is.
Poor listings can also reduce your chances of selling. If you are using a marketplace, blurry photos and vague descriptions can make buyers suspicious. Clear photos and honest details usually attract better offers.
Finally, avoid unsafe payment methods when Selling Broken iPhone. Be cautious with buyers who ask you to ship before payment, send suspicious links, overpay and request a refund, or pressure you to complete the sale quickly.
Is It Better to Repair or start Selling Broken iPhone?
Whether you should repair or be Selling Broken iPhone depends on the type of damage, repair cost, and resale value. If the phone only needs a simple repair, such as a new battery or screen, fixing it may increase its value. However, if the repair is expensive or the phone has multiple faults, selling it as broken may be easier and more cost-effective.
For newer iPhones, repair may sometimes be worth considering because the resale value is higher. For older models, repair costs may be close to or even higher than the phone’s value, making it better to sell as-is.
Before deciding, get a repair quote and compare it with the price you could get for the phone in its current condition. If repairing the phone would only add a small amount of value, selling it broken is likely the better option.
Why Selling Your Broken iPhone Is Better Than Leaving It Unused
Many people keep old broken phones in drawers because they assume they might need them one day. In reality, most damaged phones lose value over time. The longer you wait, the less your device may be worth, especially as newer iPhone models are released and older parts become less desirable.
Instead of leaving an old device unused, selling broken iPhone handsets can help reduce electronic waste. A phone that is repaired or reused for parts has a much better outcome than one that sits forgotten or is thrown away incorrectly. Even if your iPhone is too damaged to be refurbished, responsible recycling can recover useful materials and keep harmful components out of landfill.
Selling your damaged phone also clears clutter. Old devices, cables, boxes, and accessories can build up quickly. By selling your broken iPhone, you free up space while getting money back from something you no longer use.
Final Thoughts: Where you should be Selling Broken iPhones?
Choosing where to start Selling Broken iPhone depends on your priorities. If you want the fastest possible sale and immediate payment, a local repair shop or phone-buying kiosk may be the best option. These choices are convenient and simple, although they may not always offer the highest price.
If your main goal is to maximise the amount you receive, selling directly through online marketplaces such as eBay, Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or Gumtree may be the better route. This gives you more control over the price and access to a wider audience, but it also requires more effort and carries some risk of scams or time-wasting buyers.
If you prefer a balanced option that is easy, reliable, and relatively quick, specialised online buyers such as musicMagpie, The Big Phone Store, SellCell, or similar services can be a strong choice. They usually provide instant quotes, free postage, and straightforward payment methods. This removes much of the hassle involved in selling privately.
If you are planning to upgrade to a new iPhone, Apple’s trade-in programme or your mobile carrier’s trade-in offer may also be worth Selling Broken iPhone. While the value may be lower than a private sale, the convenience and store credit can make sense if you are already buying a new device.
Ultimately, the best place for selling broken iPhones depends on what matters most to you: speed, convenience, safety, or maximum payout. By comparing offers, preparing your phone properly, and being honest about its condition, you can get the best possible value from a damaged device.
Overall, selling broken iPhone devices is a smart way to earn money, clear clutter, and give your old phone a second life. Instead of leaving your broken iPhone in a drawer or throwing it away, turn it into cash and make an environmentally responsible choice. Whether it is repaired, reused for parts, refurbished, or responsibly recycled, selling your broken iPhone is a practical way to recover value from a device you no longer need.
