The short answer
Many Apple products are worth reselling, especially recent iPhones, iPads, Macs and Apple Watches in good working order. Older devices often still find buyers for parts, everyday use or, in some cases, collecting. A device that is locked to someone's account is a different story: it is hard to sell and often only useful for parts.
Find the exact model
- iPhone and iPad: open Settings, then General, then About to see the model name, storage, serial number and model number.
- Mac: choose About This Mac from the Apple menu to see the model, year and chip or processor.
- Apple Watch: open the Watch app on the paired iPhone, or check the settings on the watch itself. Note the case size and material.
- Devices that will not turn on: many have a model number printed on the back, the underside or inside the band slot. Apple's support site explains where to look for each product.
- Verify: enter the serial number on Apple's coverage check website to confirm the model and see any remaining coverage.
What tends to make one more desirable
- Newer models: recent devices usually have the widest demand.
- Storage and configuration: more storage, more memory and higher-end chips often attract more interest.
- Unlocked phones: phones that work with any carrier appeal to more buyers. Check carrier lock status in settings or with your carrier.
- Battery health: on iPhone, check Settings, then Battery, for battery health information where available. Macs show battery condition in System Information.
- Accessories and box: the original box, charger and cables help, particularly for Macs and watches.
- Collectible vintage Apple: very early computers, some early Macs and some first-generation devices are collected, especially complete and in original packaging.
Check locks before anything else
Activation Lock ties a device to an Apple Account. Before you sell, turn off Find My and sign out of your Apple Account, then erase the device. If you buy a used device, make sure it is not locked to someone else's account. A device with Activation Lock still on is commonly treated as for parts only, and it may be lost or stolen. Also check that the device has not been reported lost or blocked by a carrier.
Condition and testing
- Screen: look for cracks, scratches, dead pixels, discoloration and burn-in.
- Body: note dents, scuffs and bent corners.
- Functions: test cameras, speakers, microphones, buttons, charging, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and Face ID or Touch ID.
- Repairs: on many recent iPhones, settings show whether parts such as the screen or battery were replaced, and whether they are genuine Apple parts. Disclose any repairs.
- Macs: check the keyboard, trackpad, ports and battery cycle count.
Wipe it safely
- Back up your data.
- Unpair any Apple Watch, AirPods or other accessories.
- Sign out of your Apple Account and turn off Find My.
- Erase all content and settings, following Apple's instructions for your device.
- Remove the SIM card, or delete the eSIM, and remove the device from your Apple Account device list.
Fakes and misrepresented devices
Counterfeit iPhones, AirPods and accessories exist, and some refurbished devices contain non-genuine parts. Check the model and serial number with Apple, confirm the software is genuine iOS or macOS, and inspect build quality. See our guides to spotting a fake iPhone and fake AirPods for detailed checks.
Photograph it for a WorthAI scan
- The front of the device with the screen on, in soft light without glare.
- The back and sides, including any model text.
- The About screen showing model and storage. Hide the serial number in public listings.
- Battery health information, where available.
- Close-ups of scratches, cracks or dents, and the included accessories.
Where Apple products sell
- General marketplaces and local selling: often the best return for a working device, with some effort and care.
- Trade-in programs: quick and simple, usually for a lower amount.
- Refurbishers and electronics buyback sites: convenient for damaged or older devices.
Meet in a safe public place, accept secure payment, and never hand over a device before payment clears.
Where WorthAI fits
WorthAI identifies the likely model from a photo, gives an estimated worth with a range and a suggested asking price, reads buyer demand and shows the marketplace listings behind the estimate, so you can check the model, storage and condition match. Add a photo of the About screen if WorthAI asks for more detail, or tap Refine Result. WorthAI cannot check Activation Lock, battery health or carrier status, so do those checks yourself.
Frequently asked questions
How do I find the model of my iPhone or iPad?
Open Settings, then General, then About. You will see the model name, model number, storage and serial number. Apple's support site explains how to identify devices that will not turn on.
Can I sell an iPhone with Activation Lock on?
Only the original owner can remove Activation Lock. A locked device is commonly sold for parts only, and buyers should be cautious, because it may be lost or stolen.
Should I sell my Apple device or trade it in?
Selling it yourself often returns more but takes time and care. Trade-in is quicker and safer. Compare both before deciding.