Apple Trade-In Values Drop for iPhones, Rise for Macs
If you’re planning to upgrade your iPhone or Mac soon, timing matters. In mid-January 2026, Apple quietly adjusted its official trade-in values across its ecosystem—lowering payouts for most iPhones and iPads but significantly boosting offers for several Mac models. Whether you're clearing out an old device or eyeing a new MacBook Pro, these changes could affect how much credit you receive toward your next purchase.
iPhone Trade-In Values See Modest Declines
Apple’s latest update shows a consistent, though slight, downward trend in iPhone trade-in estimates. Flagship models like the iPhone 16 Pro Max now fetch up to $650—down $20 from the previous $670. Similarly, the standard iPhone 16 dropped from $420 to $410. Even older devices weren’t spared: the iPhone 14 Pro Max fell from $370 to $350, and the iPhone 12 mini now nets just $80, down from $90.
Notably, some models held steady—like the iPhone SE (3rd gen) and iPhone 13 Pro—suggesting Apple sees stable residual value in certain configurations. Still, the overall pattern is clear: if you’ve been sitting on a recent iPhone, trading it in sooner rather than later may yield better returns.
iPad and Apple Watch Offers Also Trimmed
The cuts weren’t limited to smartphones. Apple reduced iPad trade-in values across the board, with the iPad Pro dropping from $695 to $685 and the iPad Air falling from $415 to $400. The base iPad and iPad mini saw smaller dips, but every model lost at least a few dollars in estimated value.
Apple Watch owners also face slightly lower payouts. The Series 10 now maxes out at $150 (down from $160), and the Series 9 dropped to $115 from $125. Even the premium Apple Watch Ultra slipped from $245 to $225. While these changes may seem minor individually, they add up—especially if you’re bundling multiple devices.
Mac Trade-In Values Surge—Then Shift Again
Here’s where things get interesting. Apple initially posted dramatically higher trade-in values for Macs—soaring from previously low figures that many found puzzling. The MacBook Pro jumped from a baffling $760 to an impressive $2,515, while the iMac leapt from $375 to $875. These numbers suggested Apple was finally aligning trade-in estimates with real-world resale markets.
But in a rare midday revision, Apple adjusted those Mac values again just hours later. The MacBook Pro settled at $710, the MacBook Air at $470, and the iMac back to $375—essentially reverting close to earlier levels. Only the Mac Pro and Mac Studio retained their elevated quotes, with the Mac Pro holding at $2,520 and the Mac Studio unchanged at $1,030.
The volatility raises questions about Apple’s internal valuation algorithms—and whether temporary system errors or strategic recalibrations caused the swings. For consumers, it underscores the importance of checking trade-in offers in real time before finalizing a deal.
What This Means for Your Next Upgrade
These adjustments reflect broader market dynamics: smartphone depreciation is accelerating slightly, while high-end Macs—especially professional desktops—retain stronger long-term value. If you own a Mac Pro or Mac Studio, now might be an ideal window to trade up. Conversely, iPhone users should act quickly if their device is still in good condition, as further declines could follow.
Remember, Apple’s trade-in values are estimates based on device condition, storage capacity, and carrier status. Final offers are confirmed only after Apple inspects your hardware. Still, these published ranges offer a reliable benchmark for planning your next move.
Timing Is Everything in Apple’s Trade-In Game
Apple’s shifting trade-in landscape in January 2026 serves as a reminder: tech resale value isn’t static. With inflation, supply chain shifts, and new product cycles influencing pricing, even small changes can impact your wallet. Whether you’re upgrading to the latest iPhone or finally retiring that trusty 2019 MacBook Air, check Apple’s trade-in tool today—before the next update reshuffles the board again.
