
How to Get the Best Price for Your Old Mobile Phone in Ireland
Upgrading to a new smartphone? Don’t let your old mobile gather dust—sell it for cash! Whether you’ve got an iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, or another brand, there’s a thriving market in Ireland for second-hand smartphones. But how can you ensure you’re getting the best price possible? In this guide, we’ll walk you through the How to Get the Best Price for Your Old Mobile Phone in Ireland and maximize your earnings.
Why Sell Your Old Mobile Phone?
Before diving into how to sell, let’s look at why selling your used phone makes sense:
- Earn extra cash: Don’t leave money sitting in your drawer.
- Reduce e-waste: Selling promotes reuse and keeps electronics out of landfills.
- Make space: Declutter your tech drawer and put that money toward something new.
Best Places to Sell Your Old Mobile Phone in Ireland
Here are some popular platforms you can use to sell your phone:
Platform | Type | Pros | Ideal For |
---|---|---|---|
Creative IT | Trade-in service | Instant cash offer, secure, eco-friendly | Anyone wanting a quick sale |
Adverts.ie | Marketplace | Local audience, no listing fees | Selling to individuals locally |
DoneDeal.ie | Marketplace | Large user base, easy listing | Quick and simple local selling |
Facebook Marketplace | Social platform | Easy to use, wide reach | Local and informal selling |
eBay.ie | Auction platform | Reach buyers outside Ireland | Sellers open to shipping |
CEX | Retail trade-in | Walk-in option, instant credit or cash | In-person transactions |
Tips to Get the Highest Value for Your Phone
1. Know Your Phone’s Value
Start by researching the current market price for your phone model and condition. Use platforms like:
- Creative IT’s Sell Page: Instant quote based on phone condition and model
- eBay Sold Listings: See real-world sale prices
- CEX Trade-In Tool: Compare retail trade-in values
Pro Tip: Phones in “like new” condition can fetch up to 30% more than those with scratches or wear.
2. Clean and Prep Your Phone
Presentation matters! Buyers will pay more for a phone that looks cared for.
- Clean the screen and casing
- Remove stickers or cases
- Restore factory settings
- Wipe all personal data (very important for privacy)
3. Include Accessories
Bundling your phone with accessories can bump up your asking price. Include:
- Original box (if available)
- Charging cable
- Earphones
- Phone case

4. Be Honest About the Condition
Accurate listings build trust. Use clear language like:
- Like New – No visible damage, fully functional
- Good – Minor cosmetic wear, works perfectly
- Fair – Noticeable wear, but functional
- Broken – Not working but may be useful for parts
Buyers appreciate honesty and are more likely to complete the sale without disputes.
5. Take Great Photos
Listings with high-quality photos get more attention. Take photos from multiple angles in good lighting. Show:
- Front and back of the phone
- Screen status (on/off)
- Accessories included
- Any damage, clearly shown
6. Write a Clear and Compelling Listing
Here’s what to include in your product description:
- Model and storage capacity (e.g., iPhone 12 128GB)
- Colour and network lock status
- Condition summary
- Accessories included
- Reason for selling
7. Compare Offers from Multiple Platforms
Don’t settle for the first offer. Compare prices between:
- Creative IT’s trade-in price
- Adverts.ie private offers
- eBay auction results
- CEX in-store credit
Tip: If you want the most money, private marketplaces usually pay more. But if you prefer speed and simplicity, Creative IT is a great choice.
Safety Tips When Selling
- Always wipe your data and log out of accounts (iCloud, Google, etc.)
- Meet in public spaces if selling in person (café, Garda station)
- Use secure payment options like Revolut, PayPal Goods & Services, or bank transfer
- Avoid gift cards or suspicious payment requests
What If Your Phone Isn’t Worth Much?
If your phone is too old or damaged to sell for a good price, don’t throw it away! Consider:
- Recycling it through WEEE programs in Ireland
- Trading it in for parts at retailers like Creative IT
- Donating to charities or local schools that refurbish old devices
Conclusion
Selling your old mobile phone in Ireland is a smart way to earn extra cash while reducing electronic waste. By choosing the right platform, preparing your device properly, and being honest about its condition, you can maximise its resale value. Whether you prefer the convenience of a trade-in service like Creative IT or the potential higher earnings of a private sale, the key is to compare your options and act securely. Don’t let your unused phone sit in a drawer—turn it into value today and make a sustainable choice that benefits both your wallet and the planet.
Read More Is Selling Used Electronics Safe in Ireland? Tips for a Secure Sale
FAQ’s
Back up your data, remove SIM and memory cards, log out of all accounts (Google/iCloud), and do a factory reset.
Yes, many buyers may still accept broken phones for parts or refurbishing. Just be clear about the condition.
Yes, including original packaging and accessories like chargers or earphones can increase the value of your phone.