How to estimate a phone's resale price
Valuation5 minUpdated 2026-07-15
How to estimate a phone's resale price
Start with the median for the exact model, then compare the same storage and a similar condition only. Adjust for battery, repairs, receipt, accessories and city, then keep the result inside the observed range.
Find the right comparable group
An estimate fails when different generations, storage sizes or conditions are mixed.
- Choose the exact model, not just the brand or family.
- Separate storage, grade and functional devices from repair devices.
- Use a median with its sample size, never one isolated listing.
Adjust with evidence
Every increase or reduction should match something a buyer can verify.
- Add a little for a receipt, complete accessories and genuinely better condition.
- Reduce for weak battery, non-original parts, visible defects or missing accessories.
- Check the city: local supply and meetup convenience affect the asking price.
Test the price in the market
The market validates an estimate through enquiry quality, not views alone.
- Publish a complete listing before reducing price.
- If enquiries are numerous but poor, clarify the listing first.
- If no serious enquiry arrives, review the observed range after a few days.
Common questions
Should I use the average or median?
Median is less distorted by one unusually high or low listing. Always inspect the range and sample too.
Does city change the price?
Yes, especially when face-to-face handover is the main mode. Compare nearby supply.