Before you sell your phone, one question matters more than any other: what is it actually worth? Get that number right and you walk away with the best possible price. Get it wrong and you risk handing over a valuable device for far less than it deserves.
This guide shows you exactly how phone values are calculated, what pushes your price up or down, and how to lock in the strongest offer in Bristol — today, in cash.
Four factors set the price of almost every used phone. Understand them and you’ll know roughly where your device sits before you even ask for a quote.
1. The model and age. This is the heavyweight factor. A current-generation iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, or Google Pixel holds strong value, while each year that passes chips away at the price. Flagship models hold their value far better than budget handsets.
2. The storage size. A 256GB phone is worth noticeably more than the 128GB version of the same model. More storage means more demand on the second-hand market.
3. The condition. Buyers grade phones from pristine to faulty. A spotless device with no marks fetches the top price. Light scratches knock a little off, and cracks or faults reduce it further — though even broken phones still carry real value.
4. Whether it’s unlocked. An unlocked phone works on any network, so it appeals to every buyer. A device locked to one carrier sells for less.
Exact prices shift constantly with demand, so treat these as ballpark ranges rather than fixed figures — the only way to get your real number is a quick check in store.
Recent iPhones (the latest two or three generations) hold the strongest resale value of any phones on the market, especially Pro and Pro Max models with larger storage. Samsung Galaxy S and Z series flagships also retain value well, particularly when unlocked and in good condition. Google Pixel handsets sit a step below the flagship iPhones and Samsungs but still command fair prices, especially recent models. Older or budget phones are worth less individually, but they sell quickly and still beat leaving them in a drawer to gather dust.
The pattern is simple: newer, bigger storage, unlocked, and undamaged equals more cash.
A few small steps before you sell can meaningfully lift your offer.
Back up, then sign out. Save your photos and data, then sign out of iCloud, Google, or your Samsung account and factory-reset the device. A phone that’s ready to resell is worth more than one still locked to your account.
Give it a gentle clean. Wipe the screen and casing with a soft, lint-free cloth. A tidy phone presents better and grades higher.
Find the box and accessories if you can. The original charger, cable, and box can nudge the price up, though they’re not essential.
Don’t wait too long. Phones lose value steadily, and a new model launch can drop prices overnight. If you’re planning to sell, sooner almost always beats later.
Online valuation tools are handy for a rough idea, but they share one big flaw: the quote is only an estimate until someone physically inspects the phone. Mail-in services frequently quote a tempting figure online, then cut it sharply once your device reaches their warehouse — and by then you’ve already posted it away.
An in-store valuation in Bristol removes that risk entirely. We inspect your phone with you across the counter, explain exactly how we reached the figure, and the price we agree is the price you’re paid. No surprises, no posting your phone into the unknown, no waiting days for payment.
You don’t need to guess what your phone is worth. Phone Craft offers a free, no-obligation valuation — bring your device to 58A Union Street, Broadmead, and our team will test it, grade it, and give you a clear cash offer on the spot.
We value and buy iPhone, Samsung, Google Pixel, tablets, iPads, MacBooks, and laptops, in conditions from pristine to broken. You can take the cash, or put your phone’s value straight toward an upgrade from our shelves.
Find out what your phone is really worth. Visit Phone Craft in Bristol for a free valuation and sell now — fast, fair, and paid the same day.
Is the online estimate the price I’ll actually get? Online estimates are a guide only. The confirmed price comes after a quick in-store check, where we test the device and agree the final figure with you in person.
Do you offer free valuations? Yes. Every valuation at Phone Craft is free and carries no obligation to sell.
Will an unlocked phone get me more money? Usually, yes. Unlocked phones work on any network and appeal to more buyers, so they tend to fetch higher prices than carrier-locked devices.
Can I put my phone’s value toward a new one? Absolutely. Use your device’s value as instant credit toward a new or refurbished phone, tablet, or laptop in our store.
What do I need to bring? Your device and valid photo ID. If the phone powers on, please sign out of your accounts first.
