Thinking about upgrading to the iPhone 17? Here's how trading in your older iPhone model can ease the transition and maximize your savings in the process.
With the iPhone 17 already on the market, trade-in values for older models have begun to drop. Apple typically reduces its offers once a new model is released, and this year is no different. If you’re holding onto an iPhone 13, 14, or even a 15, the sooner you trade, the more you’ll likely get. On average, values fall 15–20% within the first weeks after a new iPhone launch.
Current Apple Trade-In Values (September 2025)
Here’s what Apple is currently offering in the U.S. for iPhones in good condition:
iPhone 16 Pro Max — up to $700
iPhone 16 Pro — up to $580
iPhone 15 Pro Max — up to $520
iPhone 15 Pro — up to $420
iPhone 14 Pro Max — up to $400
iPhone 14 Pro — up to $320
iPhone 13 Pro Max — up to $350
iPhone 13 — around $280
These numbers are the maximum estimates. Cracked screens, worn batteries, or cosmetic damage can drop the offer significantly.
Carrier and Reseller Trade-Ins
Carriers like T-Mobile, AT&T, and Verizon are offering aggressive promotions to attract iPhone 17 buyers. These deals often look higher than Apple’s trade-in credits but come with conditions:
T-Mobile: In September 2025, offered up to $800 in bill credits for eligible iPhones when upgrading to an iPhone 17 Pro, spread across 24 months.
AT&T: Advertised up to $830 off with trade-in of an iPhone 12 or newer, also via monthly bill credits tied to a qualifying plan.
Verizon: Pitched up to $1,000 in bill credits for select iPhones if you sign up for certain unlimited plans.
These carrier offers can look generous, but they usually aren’t cash in hand — they’re credits applied over one to two years. If you cancel or switch carriers, you may lose the remaining credits.
Third-party resellers (such as Gazelle, ecoATM, or Swappa) may pay 10–25% more than Apple in cash, but the process requires shipping your phone or meeting buyers directly.
Where Should You Trade?
Apple Store (online or in-person): Best for convenience, immediate credit toward your new iPhone or an Apple Gift Card, and straightforward terms. You’ll often get slightly less value than reselling.
Carrier Programs (T-Mobile, AT&T, Verizon): Best if you plan to stick with that carrier for the next two years and want a heavily discounted new iPhone. Not ideal if you prefer upfront cash or flexibility.
Resellers / Marketplaces: Best for maximizing cash value, especially for newer models in good condition, but takes more effort and time.
Tips to Maximize Your Trade-In Value
Repair small issues first — Fixing a cracked screen or battery can move your phone into a higher value category.
Act quickly — The longer you wait after launch, the more trade-in values will decline.
Get multiple quotes — Compare Apple, carrier, and reseller values before committing.
Decide on cash vs. credits — Carriers may offer big numbers, but if you want flexibility, Apple or resellers may be better.
Bottom Line
For those prioritizing ease and immediate financing, Apple offers the most straightforward option. If your main goal is the best overall deal and you’re comfortable with bill credits, major carriers like AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon might provide better value than buying directly from Apple. If receiving cash up front is most important to you, resellers are ideal—just keep in mind that this method may require extra effort on your part.
