Selling vs exchange offer vs buyback: which is best for your old phone?

There are three common ways to turn an old phone into money. Each has pros and cons.

1. Selling to a stranger (online classifieds)

• Good: you can sometimes get a high price.
• Not so good: many calls and bargaining, meeting strangers, fake payment screenshots and other scams.

2. Exchange offer when buying a new phone

• Good: quick, and the discount goes straight onto your new phone.
• Not so good: the value is often lower, you only get it if you buy a new phone from that shop, and the final value is decided at delivery.

3. Buyback service (like Changekro)

• Good: instant online price, free pickup, paid before you hand over the phone, data wipe and a bill of sale.
• Not so good: a private buyer may sometimes pay a little more if you have the time and patience.

Our tip

Check your price online first — it takes a minute and costs nothing. Then compare it with any exchange offer before you decide.