Thinking of trading in your phone? Don’t just grab the first offer you see. Some places pay more, some pay faster, and a few make it harder than it needs to be. This guide keeps things simple: who to use, what affects your price, and how to get paid quickly without the faff.
Looking for something specific? Sell your iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel, or other Android, get an instant quote and compare prices.
So where’s the best place to sell your iPhone in the UK? Let’s break it down.
How we compare (and why prices move)
Offers change with the market. New model launches, seasonal demand, storage size and the condition of your phone all influence the number you will see on any given day. To give you a fair snapshot, we check typical UK buyers using the same device and the same condition, and we show the date we last looked. If you plan to sell today, a live quote will always be the most accurate figure, but the context below helps you understand why two buyers can look at the same phone and land on different offers.
What really affects your offer
The model and its age have the biggest impact. Recent flagship phones usually hold value better than older or entry models. Storage is next in line, as the same device with more space often commands more. After that, condition decides the fine detail. A clean screen, working cameras and reliable Face ID or Touch ID help; visible cracks, heavy wear or faults reduce the figure. Battery health matters as well, especially if the phone shows a service warning. Finally, any network lock or evidence of liquid damage and non original parts can lower confidence for the next owner and pull the price down. The most important step is to describe the condition honestly when you request a quote, because that prevents adjustments after inspection and keeps the payout moving.
Which route should you choose?
There are three common paths, and the right one depends on what you value. Online trade in is the simplest route to predictable cash. You get an instant quote, a prepaid label or pack, and payment once the phone arrives and passes checks. Private sales can sometimes bring a higher headline figure, but you take on messages, low ball offers, and the risk of disputes or returns! In store options are useful if you want money or credit that same day but cash offers in store are often lower than online, while vouchers can add value if you plan to spend with the same retailer. If speed and certainty matter most, use trade in. If squeezing out every last pound is the priority and you are comfortable managing the admin, then private sales can work.
When to sell for the best return
Timing makes a big difference too, offers often soften around new launches, with iPhone announcements usually in September and Samsung Galaxy launches in late winter or early spring. If you know you are upgrading, selling before a launch can help you get more value from your device. If you already have your new device, waiting rarely improves the value of the phone you are replacing, so it is usually better to complete the sale and move on as soon as you’ve upgraded, or even before.
Who Are the Main Players?
When it comes to iPhone trade-ins, these are the names you’ll see pop up again and again:
- The iOutlet (our top pick, of course)
- Apple Trade-In
- MusicMagpie
- CeX
- Envirofone
- Mazuma Mobile
Each one offers different perks, and some have a few sneaky drawbacks. Here’s how they stack up.
iPhone Trade-In Comparison (August 2025)
To make it easier, here’s how the biggest names compare side by side.
| Platform | Price for iPhone 14 (128GB) | Ease of Process | Speed of Payment | Reviews & Trust |
| The iOutlet | £260 cash / £273 voucher | Quick online quote + free post | Same day it arrives (bank transfer) | ★★★★★ Excellent reviews; trusted UK brand |
| Apple | £230; credit only | Built into the purchase process | 3–5 business days (can take longer) | Apple’s brand trust is unmatched |
| MusicMagpie | £255 | Instant quote + SMARTDrop kiosks | Same day (if processed quickly) | High volume of positive reviews |
| CeX | £213 cash or £276 voucher | In-store or post-in | 1 week (post), 30 mins (in-store) | Mixed reviews; better in-store experience |
| Envirofone | £255 Cash or £285 Voucher | Prepaid post-in pack | Same day once received | Good reputation, reliable payouts |
| Mazuma Mobile | £255 Cash | Free postage + same-day payment | Same-day bank transfer on arrival | High Trustpilot score, long-running brand |
Note: Prices correct as of August 2025. Based on an excellent condition iPhone 14 128GB model.
So…where should you sell?
If you want fair cash offers, quick payouts and a process that makes sense from the first click to the confirmation email, The iOutlet is a strong choice. We usually pay more than Apple trade in, which provides credit rather than cash, and we often match or beat the large recyclers on cash offers. If you plan to buy tech from us, our voucher option adds a little extra. Every device we receive is tested thoroughly and securely wiped, which is better for you and for the next owner too!
A short word on preparation
Good preparation protects your data and helps us process your phone without delay. Back up your photos and files, sign out of iCloud or Google and turn off Find My, remove any SIM or eSIM and screen locks, then erase all content and settings. Give the screen a quick clean so the condition is clear, pack the phone securely, and keep proof of postage and tracking for your records!
Ready to Sell? Skip the Faff. Get Your Cash.
Selling your iPhone doesn’t have to be complicated. No dodgy DMs. No last-minute price drops. No waiting weeks for a voucher you didn’t ask for. Just a decent price, fast payment, and a process that makes sense.
Search for your device here and get a quote today. Your future self (and your wallet) will thank you.
