how to trade in your old phone in UK

How to Trade In Your Old Phone in the UK (2025 Guide)

Trading in your old phone in the UK is a smart way to offset the cost of a new device while reducing electronic waste. In 2025, almost every major network, retailer, and certified refurbisher offers trade-in programs, making it easier than ever to get value from devices you no longer use.

Why Trade In Your Old Phone?

• Save money: Trade-in credits can significantly reduce the cost of your next phone or tablet.
• Eco-friendly: Extends the life of electronics and reduces e-waste.
• Hassle-free: Most programs handle assessment and recycling, so you don’t have to worry about disposal.
• Boosts resale value: Phones with good condition, recent models, and unlocked SIMs get higher trade-in value.

Where to Trade In Your Phone in the UK

Here are the main options to consider:

• Mobile networks: EE, Vodafone, O2, and Three all run trade-in schemes. You can trade your old device in-store or online.
• Retailers: Currys, Argos, and John Lewis offer trade-in programs, often with instant credit or vouchers.
• Certified refurbishers: Sites like MusicMagpie, Back Market, and Mazuma provide secure trade-ins and pay via bank transfer or PayPal.

Step-by-Step Guide to Trading In Your Phone

1. Check the device’s condition: Ensure it powers on, the screen is intact, and there’s no major water damage.
2. Compare trade-in offers: Use online calculators from multiple providers to find the best value.
3. Back up and erase data: Make a full backup, then perform a factory reset. Remove any SIM or microSD cards.
4. Submit the trade-in: For online programs, fill in the device details, get a quote, and follow shipping instructions. For in-store, bring your device and ID.
5. Receive credit: Depending on the program, you may receive a voucher, instant discount, or bank transfer.
6. Use credit for new purchase: Apply trade-in value to a new phone, tablet, or SIM-only plan.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not wiping personal data — always factory reset to protect your privacy.
• Assuming the highest offer is always best — check if vouchers are limited to certain retailers or have expiry dates.
• Ignoring carrier unlock status — locked phones may receive lower trade-in value.
• Shipping without insurance — if mailing your device, cover it against loss or damage.

Real-Life Tips

From personal experience, trading in a Samsung Galaxy S21 with slight scratches gave me a £150 credit via MusicMagpie. I then applied it to a refurbished Galaxy S22, saving money while avoiding e-waste. Always check multiple platforms — offers can differ significantly even for the same phone model.

Internal Topic Hub Links

• Performance & System hub
• Battery & Power hub
• Connectivity & Network hub

Final Thoughts

Trading in your old phone in the UK is simple, secure, and financially smart. By following these steps, checking offers across networks and refurbishers, and properly preparing your device, you can turn an old handset into valuable credit for your next purchase.