Should You Sell Your Cracked iPhone? What's It Worth?
We've all had that heart-stopping moment. Your phone slips from your hand, tumbles through the air in slow motion, and lands screen-down on the pavement. You pick it up, hoping for the best... and there it is. The dreaded spider web of cracks.
If you're staring at a cracked iPhone right now, you might think it's worthless. But here's the truth: cracked iPhones still have significant value, and in many cases, it doesn't make sense to repair them before selling.
Let's break down everything you need to know.
Yes, Cracked iPhones Are Still Worth Money
Here's something that surprises a lot of people: we buy cracked iPhones every single day, and we pay real money for them.
Why Cracked Phones Still Have Value:
- The screen isn't the whole phone - Most of the phone's value is in the internals: processor, camera, battery, motherboard, and storage.
- Screens can be replaced - Professional refurbishers have access to replacement parts and can fix cracked screens cost-effectively.
- Parts have value - Even if the screen is beyond repair, other components can be salvaged or the phone can be sold for parts.
- Demand is high - The used phone market is booming, and there's always a buyer for repairable devices.
How Much Is a Cracked iPhone Worth?
The value depends on several factors. Here's a general guide:
Typical Value Reduction for Screen Damage:
| Damage Level | Value vs. Perfect Condition |
|---|---|
| Minor crack (still usable, touch works) | 60-70% of mint value |
| Moderate cracks (touch works, multiple cracks) | 40-55% of mint value |
| Severe cracks (touch issues, shattered) | 25-40% of mint value |
| Non-functional display | 15-25% of mint value |
Example Prices (Approximate):
iPhone 14 Pro (128GB):
- Mint condition: $550
- Minor crack: $350-$400
- Moderate damage: $250-$300
- Severe damage: $150-$200
iPhone 13 (128GB):
- Mint condition: $380
- Minor crack: $230-$270
- Moderate damage: $150-$200
- Severe damage: $95-$150
iPhone 12 (64GB):
- Mint condition: $260
- Minor crack: $160-$180
- Moderate damage: $100-$140
- Severe damage: $65-$100
Prices vary based on storage size, carrier lock status, and other factors.
Should You Repair Before Selling?
This is the million-dollar question (okay, maybe a few-hundred-dollar question). Here's how to decide:
Probably DON'T Repair If:
- The phone is older than 3 years - Repair costs eat too much into the sale value
- Apple/authorized repair is expensive - Apple charges $199-$329 for screen replacement
- The phone has other issues - Battery degradation, camera problems, etc.
- You need money quickly - Repairs take time you might not have
Maybe DO Repair If:
- It's a newer, high-value phone - iPhone 14/15 Pro models can justify the cost
- You have AppleCare+ - Screen repairs are only $29 with coverage
- Damage is very minor - Sometimes a quick fix significantly increases value
- You found a cheap reliable repair shop - Under $100 for quality work
The Math Behind the Decision
Let's do a quick example:
iPhone 14 Pro with moderate crack:
- Sell as-is: ~$275
- Repair cost: ~$250 (third-party) or ~$329 (Apple)
- Sell after repair: ~$500
Third-party repair: $275 + $250 cost = $525 invested → Sell for $500 = LOSE $25
Apple repair: $275 + $329 cost = $604 invested → Sell for $500 = LOSE $104
In most cases, selling as-is is the smarter financial move.
What Else Affects a Cracked iPhone's Value?
Screen damage isn't the only factor. Here's what else we look at:
Storage Capacity
More storage = higher value. A cracked 256GB iPhone is worth more than a cracked 64GB model.
Model and Age
Newer models hold value better, even with damage. A cracked iPhone 15 is worth more than a perfect iPhone 11.
Carrier Lock Status
Unlocked cracked phones are worth more than carrier-locked cracked phones.
Other Damage
- Back glass damage - Reduces value but less than screen cracks
- Camera issues - Significant value reduction
- Battery health - Below 80% affects price
- Water damage - Major value reduction
- Face ID/Touch ID broken - Reduces value significantly
Functional Status
A phone with a cracked but functional screen is worth much more than one that won't turn on or has touch issues.
Tips for Selling a Cracked iPhone
1. Be Honest About the Damage
Take clear photos showing the cracks. Honest listings get better offers and faster sales.
2. Document Everything That Works
Note in your listing if:
- Touch screen works perfectly
- Face ID/Touch ID functions
- Cameras work
- No other issues
3. Include Accessories
Original box, charger, and any cases can add small value.
4. Consider Your Selling Options
| Option | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| **Cell Me Your Phone** | Same-day payment, local meetup, fair prices | — |
| Apple Trade-In | Convenient | Very low offers for damaged phones |
| Carrier Trade-In | Can apply to new phone | Lowball offers, often reject damage |
| eBay/Facebook | Potentially higher price | Time-consuming, risk of scams |
| ecoATM Kiosk | Quick and convenient | Lowest offers, especially for damaged |
What Happens to Cracked iPhones After You Sell?
Ever wonder where your cracked phone ends up? Here's the typical journey:
- Inspection & Testing - We verify all functions and assess damage
- Data Wipe - Professional secure erasure of all data
- Refurbishment - Screen replacement and any other repairs
- Quality Check - Ensures phone works like new
- Resale - Gets a second life with a new owner
Your cracked iPhone doesn't end up in a landfill—it gets repaired and used again, which is great for the environment!
Ready to Get a Quote for Your Cracked iPhone?
Don't let that cracked iPhone collect dust in a drawer. Even with damage, it's worth something—and selling it is quick and easy.
At Cell Me Your Phone:
- ✅ We buy cracked and damaged iPhones
- ✅ Honest, upfront quotes
- ✅ Local meetups in the Salt Lake Valley
- ✅ Same-day cash payment
Get Your Quote for Any Condition →
Not sure what your cracked phone is worth? Text us a photo at (385) 503-2882 and we'll give you a quick estimate!
