If you’re wondering how and where to sell a used iPhone in Chicago, you’re not alone. With Apple releasing new models every year, many Chicagoans look for ways to trade in or resell their older iPhones for cash or credit. The good news is that you have multiple options—from Apple Trade In to online buyback platforms like Gadget Salvation, or even selling in person. Each method comes with its own pros and cons, and choosing the right one depends on your priorities: convenience, payout, or speed.
1. Apple Trade In Program
Apple’s official Trade In program allows you to bring your used iPhone to an Apple Store in Chicago or mail it in.
Pros:
- Convenient and straightforward process.
- Trade-in value applied directly toward a new Apple purchase.
- Environmentally responsible recycling.
Cons:
- Lower return value than independent resale platforms.
- Credit is limited to Apple purchases (not cash).
- Older or damaged models may have little to no trade-in value.
2. Selling Online
Platforms like Gadget Salvation, eBay, and Swappa let you sell your used iPhone directly to buyers or established resellers. Gadget Salvation, in particular, is a trusted buyback platform specializing in smartphones (including iPhones) and laptops.
Pros:
- Higher resale value compared to Apple Trade In.
- Cash payments instead of store credit.
- Gadget Salvation offers a convenient, streamlined selling process with free shipping and quick payouts.
Cons:
- Requires shipping your device.
- Potential wait time for payment depends on the platform.
- Risk of dealing with unreliable buyers if using peer-to-peer marketplaces, like eBay.
3. Selling In Person
Chicago offers plenty of local resale options, from electronics shops to meeting buyers through apps like OfferUp or Facebook Marketplace.
Pros:
- Instant cash in hand.
- No shipping required.
- Opportunity to negotiate directly.
Cons:
- Safety concerns when meeting strangers.
- Time-consuming to arrange meetups.
- Risk of lowball offers or scams.
4. Selling via Apple Store in Chicago
If you prefer face-to-face transactions, visiting an Apple Store in Chicago for instant trade-in is another option.
Pros:
- Immediate evaluation of your device.
- Easy process with Apple staff handling everything.
- Trade-in credit applied instantly toward a new purchase.
Cons:
- Same limitations as Apple Trade In (lower value, store credit only).
- No cash option.
iPhone Selling Options in Chicago: Comparison
| Method | Pros | Cons | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apple Trade In |
– Easy process – Immediate store credit – Eco-friendly recycling |
– Lower payout – Credit only (no cash) – Limited value for older models |
Shoppers upgrading to a new iPhone |
| Online Platforms (e.g., Gadget Salvation) |
– Higher resale value – Cash payments – Trusted buyback service |
– Requires shipping – Wait time for payment – Peer-to-peer risks (on marketplaces) |
Users seeking maximum cash value |
| In-Person Sales |
– Instant cash – No shipping – Direct negotiation |
– Safety concerns – Time-consuming – Risk of scams/low offers |
Quick sellers comfortable with meetups |
Final Thoughts
When deciding where to sell an old iPhone in Chicago, weigh your priorities:
- If you want convenience and plan to buy another Apple product, Apple Trade In may be a good option.
- If you want maximum cash value, online resale platforms like Gadget Salvation are excellent choices.
- If you prefer immediate cash and don’t mind negotiating, in-person sales could be the way to go (Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, OfferUp).
No matter which route you choose, selling your used iPhone responsibly ensures you get value back while keeping devices out of landfills. Last but not least: make sure to log out of iCloud, delete passcodes, and other linked accounts before resetting your iPhone and selling it.
