Phone & Tablet Flipping Guide 2026: How to Buy, Test & Resell iPhones, iPads & Samsungs for Profit

Smartphones and tablets are the single highest-velocity electronics category in the resale market. Over 350 million used phones will change hands globally in 2026, and the secondary market is projected to exceed $90 billion. For resellers who know which models to target, how to test properly, and where to sell, phone flipping offers some of the most consistent margins in the entire flipping business.

But it also carries unique risks that don’t exist in other categories. Buy an iCloud-locked iPhone and you’ve got an expensive paperweight. Miss a carrier blacklist and your buyer opens a return case. Overlook a hairline screen crack and your $400 flip becomes a $200 loss.

This guide covers every aspect of phone and tablet flipping in 2026: what to buy, where to source, how to test, grading systems that affect pricing, carrier and lock issues, platform selection, timing around new releases, and the specific buy/sell price spreads you can expect across the most popular models.

Quick Stats: Phone & Tablet Flipping at a Glance

Which Phones Are Worth Flipping in 2026

Not every phone is worth the effort. In 2026, these are the models and price ranges that consistently generate profit.

iPhones: The Resale Kings

Apple devices dominate the used phone market for the same reasons they dominate the new market: brand loyalty, ecosystem lock-in, and predictable depreciation. Here are the iPhone tiers that matter for flippers:

Tier 1: The Sweet Spot (iPhone 14 Pro – iPhone 16 Pro Max)

These models offer the best balance of sourcing availability, buyer demand, and profit margin. People upgrade from these frequently, creating a steady supply.

Tier 2: Budget Flips (iPhone 13 – iPhone 14)

Lower price points mean lower absolute profit but faster turnover and less capital at risk.

Tier 3: Avoid (Generally)

• iPhone 12 and older: Margins are compressed below $20 per device unless you find them for under $100. Still worth it in bulk lots.
• iPhone SE 1st/2nd Gen: Too cheap to be profitable on a per-unit basis unless bundled
• Any non-Pro iPhone 15/16: Margins are thinner than Pro models — only buy at significant discounts

For detailed analysis of Apple product pricing, see our Apple products flipping guide.

💡 Pro Tip: Storage capacity is a massive profit lever. The jump from 128GB to 256GB adds $70–$100 in resale value but buyers often don’t price their used phones accordingly. A 256GB iPhone sourced locally might cost only $30 more than a 128GB — but you’ll sell it for $80 more.

Samsung Galaxy: The Android Opportunity

Samsung is the only Android brand with resale dynamics worth building a flipping business around. Here’s what to target:

Galaxy S Series (Flagships)

Galaxy Z Fold / Flip Series

Samsung foldables are an underrated flipping opportunity. Early adopters upgrade frequently, and refurbished units have strong demand from buyers curious about foldables at a lower entry price.

Avoid: Galaxy A series (low resale value, thin margins), Galaxy S FE models (market confusion depresses pricing), any Samsung older than 3 generations.

iPads: High Value, Slower Turnover

iPads offer excellent per-unit profit but sell slower than phones. They’re worth flipping if you don’t mind holding inventory for 1–3 weeks.

Always price-check with the iPhone Resale vs Trade-In Calculator to compare what trade-in programs offer versus what you can sell for on the open market. The gap is where your profit lives.

Where to Source Phones and Tablets

The sourcing channel directly impacts your margins. Here’s every viable source ranked by typical ROI:

1. Facebook Marketplace & Craigslist (Best Margins)

Why it works: Sellers on local marketplaces are often motivated (upgrading, need quick cash, moving) and don’t research market value. You can negotiate in person and inspect devices before paying.

Target pricing: 50–70% of eBay sold comps. If an iPhone 15 Pro sells for $600 on eBay, target $360–$420 locally.

Tips:

• Set notifications for new listings of target models
• Respond within minutes — underpriced phones move fast
• Meet at police station or public location (phone theft is real)
• Always test before paying (more on this below)

2. eBay Lots & “For Parts” Listings

Why it works: Sellers often list phones “for parts or not working” when they simply can’t remember the passcode, or when they have one defect that’s cheap to fix. Experienced flippers filter for fixable issues.

Target pricing: 30–50% of working retail for devices with minor issues.

Common fixable “for parts” issues:

• Screen lock / forgot passcode (often just needs a restore)
• Cracked back glass ($15–$30 repair)
• “Battery needs replacement” (Apple does it for $89, or $25 DIY)
• “No charger, can’t test” (just needs to be charged)

Warning: Never buy “for parts” listings that mention iCloud lock, blacklisted IMEI, or “unknown carrier status.” These are almost always unsolvable.

3. Trade-In Program Arbitrage

Carrier stores, Apple, Best Buy, and Samsung all run trade-in programs — but they typically give below-market value. Here’s the flip side: you can buy from people who don’t know their trade-in offer is below market.

More practically, you can find arbitrage in trade-in pricing differences:

• Carrier stores may offer $150 for an iPhone 14 in store credit
• That same iPhone 14 sells for $320–$380 on eBay
• If you can buy from the person directly for $200 before they trade in, everyone wins

4. Estate Sales & Garage Sales

Why it works: Older adults and estate executors often don’t know the value of electronics. iPhones and iPads are regularly priced at $20–$50 at estate sales when they’re worth $200–$500.

Risks: Devices may be locked to a deceased person’s iCloud account. Always check for activation lock before buying (instructions below).

5. Wholesale & Pallet Lots

Why it works: Buying in bulk (5–50+ units) reduces your per-device cost significantly. Sources include liquidation companies like Direct Liquidation, B-Stock, and phone-specific wholesalers.

Target pricing: $50–$150 per device for Grade B/C lots

Risks: Higher upfront capital, mixed condition, and some percentage will be unsellable (expect 10–20% loss rate on ungraded lots).

For more sourcing strategies across all categories, see our complete sourcing guide.

💡 Pro Tip: The best local deals appear between 7–9 AM on weekdays. Many sellers post before work hoping for fast cash. Set up keyword alerts on Facebook Marketplace for “iPhone,” “iPad,” “Galaxy” in your area.

The Essential Testing Checklist: Never Skip This

Testing is non-negotiable in phone flipping. One missed issue can turn a $100 profit into a return case and a loss. Run through this complete checklist for every device before purchasing (or immediately after if buying online).

1. IMEI Verification (30 seconds)

The IMEI is the device’s unique identifier, and checking it tells you whether the phone is:

• Clean: Good to activate and sell
• Blacklisted: Reported stolen or involved in fraud — unsellable on most carriers
• Financed: Still being paid off — may be blacklisted later

How to check:

• Dial *#06# on the phone’s dialer to display the IMEI
• Go to imei.info or swappa.com/imei and enter the number
• Verify the device is CLEAN — any other status means walk away

2. Activation Lock Check (1 minute)

For iPhones (iCloud Lock):

• If the phone is at the setup screen and asks for an Apple ID and password to proceed, it is iCloud locked — DO NOT BUY
• If you can access the Home Screen or the setup proceeds normally, it’s clear
• Check in Settings → [Name at top] → Find My → Find My iPhone. If it’s ON, ask the seller to turn it off and sign out of iCloud before you pay

For Samsung (Google FRP Lock):

• Similar concept — if Factory Reset Protection is enabled and you don’t have the Google account credentials, the phone is a brick
• Check by doing a factory reset. If it asks for a Google account you don’t control, walk away

This is the #1 risk in phone flipping. A locked phone is worth only $30–$80 for parts regardless of the model.

3. Battery Health (30 seconds)

iPhone: Settings → Battery → Battery Health & Charging → Maximum Capacity

• 90–100%: Excellent — price at top of range
• 85–89%: Good — minor discount expected ($10–$20)
• 80–84%: Fair — meaningful discount ($30–$50)
• Below 80%: Needs replacement — factor $89 (Apple) or $25–$40 (DIY) into costs

Samsung/Android: Use apps like AccuBattery or check Settings → Battery → Battery Information (varies by model)

• Battery condition is less visible on Android, so the impact on resale is smaller, but buyers still care

4. Screen Inspection (1 minute)

• Open a pure white and pure black image (search “white screen test” or “black screen test” in browser)
• Look for dead pixels, discoloration, burn-in, or dim spots
• Check edges for hairline cracks (run your fingernail along the border)
• Test touch responsiveness in all four corners and the center

5. Camera Test (30 seconds)

• Open the camera app
• Take a photo (front and rear camera)
• Check for blur, focus issues, lens scratches, or haze
• Record a 5-second video with audio

6. Speaker / Microphone / Earpiece (30 seconds)

• Play music through the speaker at full volume — listen for distortion or crackling
• Make a voice memo or speakerphone call to test the microphone
• Hold the phone to your ear to check the earpiece

7. Button & Port Test (30 seconds)

• All physical buttons (power, volume up/down, silent switch on iPhone)
• Charging port: plug in a cable and confirm it charges and connects
• SIM tray: insert and eject cleanly

8. Face ID / Touch ID (15 seconds)

• Set up biometric unlock to verify the sensor works
• If Face ID or Touch ID is non-functional, the device loses $50–$100 in value

9. Water Damage Indicator (15 seconds)

• Check the SIM tray slot — there’s a small indicator that turns red/pink if water damage has occurred
• On iPhones, it’s visible inside the SIM slot (use a flashlight)
• Red/pink = water exposure history. Doesn’t mean the phone is dead, but it’s a risk factor that may cause future failure

This full checklist takes about 5 minutes and can save you hundreds of dollars in losses. Never rush through it.

💡 Pro Tip: Create a shortcut to your test checklist on your phone so you can reference it while sourcing. Speed matters when a deal might disappear, but thorough testing matters more.

Grading Phone Condition: How A/B/C/D Affects Pricing

Professional phone resellers use a grading system that directly maps to price tiers. Understanding these grades helps you buy at the right price and list with the right expectations.

Grading Scale with Price Impact

Real Price Examples by Grade (iPhone 15 Pro, 256GB, Unlocked)

Key insight: Grade B devices often offer the best ROI because the buy-sell spread is widest. Mint devices have less room to buy at a discount (sellers know they’re mint), while Grade C/D devices require more accurate descriptions to avoid returns.

Use the Condition Grade Impact Calculator to see exactly how much condition affects pricing for any electronics category, and the Electronics Depreciation Calculator to project how values will change over the coming months.

Carrier Lock Status: Understanding the Value Impact

Carrier lock status significantly affects resale value. Here’s the hierarchy:

How to Unlock a Carrier-Locked Phone

• AT&T: Request unlock at att.com/deviceunlock (device must be paid off, 60 days on network)
• T-Mobile: Call 611 or use T-Mobile app (device must be paid off, 40 days on network)
• Verizon: Phones locked for 60 days after purchase, then auto-unlock

The flip opportunity: Buy carrier-locked phones at a discount, unlock them (free if paid off), and sell at the unlocked price. This simple step can add $50–$80 to your sale price.

iCloud & Google Lock Issues: The Biggest Trap

iCloud Activation Lock (iPhone/iPad)

If a device has Find My iPhone enabled and the owner hasn’t signed out, the device is activation locked. This means:

• You cannot set up or use the device without the owner’s Apple ID password
• Apple will not remove the lock without proof of purchase (and even then, it’s difficult)
• The phone is worth only parts value ($30–$80 depending on model)

How to avoid: Always verify the device is signed out of iCloud before paying. Go to Settings → [Name] → Sign Out. If the seller can’t do this, walk away immediately regardless of how good the price is.

Google Factory Reset Protection (Samsung/Android)

Same concept for Android. After a factory reset, the phone requires the previously linked Google account credentials to proceed with setup.

How to avoid: Factory reset the device in front of the seller and verify it goes through setup normally without requesting any Google account.

Stolen Phone Check

Beyond IMEI checking, look for these red flags:

• Seller can’t turn on the device or won’t let you test it
• Price is dramatically below market (50%+ below comps)
• Seller wants to meet in an unusual or rush setting
• No accessories, no box, no backstory on where they got it
• Device is on a carrier the seller doesn’t use

💡 Pro Tip: On iPhones, check Settings → General → About → Limited Warranty or Coverage. If it shows someone else’s name and the seller can’t explain it, proceed with extreme caution.

Data Wiping: Protect Yourself and the Seller

Before reselling any phone, perform a complete factory reset:

iPhone:

1. Settings → General → Transfer or Reset iPhone → Erase All Content and Settings
2. This removes all personal data, Apple ID association, and activation lock (if signed in)

Samsung/Android:

1. Settings → General Management → Reset → Factory Data Reset
2. Confirm and wait for the process to complete

Why this matters legally: Reselling a device with someone else’s personal data on it creates liability. Always reset, and confirm the setup screen appears fresh.

Maximizing Sale Price: The Accessories Premium

Accessories significantly boost your selling price — often by more than they cost:

Total investment: ~$15–$30 per device → Added value: $50–$95

This is one of the highest-ROI moves in phone flipping. A “complete in box” listing commands significantly more than a solo phone listed with a blurry photo on a kitchen counter. For photography tips that boost sale prices, see our product photography guide.

Use the Flip Profit Calculator to model exactly how adding accessories changes your net profit per device.

💡 Pro Tip: Buy empty iPhone boxes in bulk on eBay. Search “iPhone 15 Pro box only” — they sell for $8–$15 each. Including the original box makes your listing look professional and justifies a $20–$40 price premium.

Best Platforms to Sell Phones & Tablets

Swappa (Best for Speed + Price)

• Fees: ~3% (buyer pays Swappa fee, seller pays PayPal/Stripe processing)
• IMEI check required: Yes — they verify before listing goes live
• Best for: iPhones, iPads, Samsung flagships, Pixel phones
• Pros: Very low fees, built-in buyer trust, fast sales
• Cons: Smaller audience than eBay, strict listing requirements

eBay (Best for Volume + Reach)

• Fees: ~13.25% final value fee
• Total audience: Massive — highest visibility of any platform
• Best for: All phones and tablets, especially rare or high-value models
• Pros: Largest buyer base, global reach, auction format for hot items
• Cons: Higher fees, buyer-friendly return policies can burn sellers
• Tip: Use our eBay Fee Calculator to see exact costs

Facebook Marketplace (Best for Local Sales)

• Fees: 0% for local pickup, ~5% + processing for shipped items
• Best for: Budget phones, quick cash, avoiding shipping
• Pros: Zero fees on local, instant cash, no shipping hassle
• Cons: More scam risk, negotiation culture, no buyer protection for sellers

Back Market (Best for Refurbished)

• Fees: 10–15% depending on category
• Best for: Refurbished devices with warranty
• Pros: Higher prices for certified refurbished devices, buyer trust
• Cons: Requires refurbished certification, strict quality standards

Compare fees across all major platforms with the Platform Fee Comparison Tool and use the Crosslisting Platforms Comparison to decide which platforms to list on.

For broader platform guidance, see where to sell online in 2026.

Timing: How New Releases Affect Used Phone Prices

This is one of the most predictable (and exploitable) patterns in phone flipping.

The iPhone Cycle

The Strategy

Best time to BUY used iPhones: October–January, when everyone is trading in their old phones. The used market is flooded with supply, driving prices down 20–30%.

Best time to SELL used iPhones: March–August, when the upgrade frenzy has passed and prices stabilize. Also strong in December for gift-giving.

The smart play: Stock up on previous-gen iPhones (iPhone 16 series) in October–November 2026 when the iPhone 17 launches. Prices will drop 20–30% as the market floods. Hold them 3–4 months and sell in February–March when prices recover.

Samsung follows a similar pattern with Galaxy S launches (typically January–February) and Galaxy Z launches (July–August).

Use the Best Time to List Calendar to time your phone listings for maximum demand.

Screen Replacement ROI: When Refurbishment Pays Off

Cracked screens are the most common phone defect — and one of the most profitable to fix.

iPhone Screen Replacement Costs vs. Value Added

When Screen Replacement IS Worth It

• Profit gain exceeds repair cost by at least 50%
• The rest of the device is in Grade A/B condition
• You can do it yourself ($30–$60 savings vs. pro repair on most models)
• No other major issues (Face ID works, no water damage)

When Screen Replacement IS NOT Worth It

• iPhone 13 or older (low resale value makes the math tight)
• Face ID/Touch ID is also broken (repair cost compounds)
• The screen is aftermarket OLED (buyers can tell — reduces value)
• Battery is also below 80% (now you need two repairs)

For calculating whether a specific repair is worth the investment, use the ROI Calculator for Resellers — input the repair cost as your “buy price” and the value gain as your “sell price.”

💡 Pro Tip: If you plan to do screen replacements regularly, invest in an iFixit kit ($30) and practice on cheap older phones first. A single successful screen replacement on an iPhone 15 Pro can save you $40–$60 compared to having a shop do it.

Avoiding Stolen Phones: Red Flags and Protection

Buying or selling stolen devices carries legal consequences and financial losses. Protect yourself with these practices:

Before Buying

1. Always check the IMEI against databases (imei.info, Swappa)
2. Request proof of purchase or account screenshots showing the device under their name
3. Meet at a police station — many have designated safe exchange zones
4. Verify Find My / FRP is disabled with the seller present
5. Watch for pressure tactics (“I need to sell right now,” “cash only, no questions”)
6. Trust your gut — if the deal feels too good or too sketchy, pass

Record-Keeping for Your Protection

Maintain a simple log for every phone you buy:

• Seller name and contact info
• IMEI number
• Date, time, and location of purchase
• Price paid
• Screenshot of IMEI check results
• Photo of the seller’s ID (if they agree — not required but helpful)

This log protects you if a device you purchased in good faith is later reported stolen. You can prove you bought it legitimately and cooperate with law enforcement.

Building a Phone Flipping Operation: Scaling Up

Once you’ve flipped 10–20 devices and understand the market, consider these scaling strategies:

Volume Targets and Income Projections

Systems to Build

• Testing station: Dedicated desk with chargers for Lightning and USB-C, test SIM cards (AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon), good lighting
• Listing templates: Pre-written descriptions for each model you sell regularly
• Pricing database: Track your buy/sell prices over time for each model
• Sourcing schedule: Dedicated days for checking local listings, hitting estate sales, and processing eBay lots

For more on scaling, see our guide on how to start reselling and the beginner’s easy items to flip.

FAQ: Phone & Tablet Flipping

Q: How much money do I need to start flipping phones?

A: You can start with as little as $200–$300 by focusing on budget models (iPhone 13, iPhone SE, Galaxy S23). Buy one device, flip it, reinvest the profit plus your capital into two devices. Most full-time phone flippers started with under $500.

Q: What’s the single most important thing to check before buying a used phone?

A: Activation lock status (iCloud on iPhone, Google FRP on Android). A locked device is worth parts value only — typically $30–$80 regardless of the model. Always verify the device is signed out of all accounts before paying.

Q: Is it legal to buy and resell used phones?

A: Yes, buying and reselling used phones is completely legal. However, you should check the IMEI to ensure the phone isn’t stolen, properly data-wipe every device before resale, and report your income for tax purposes. Keep records of all purchases for your protection.

Q: How do I know if a phone’s screen has been previously replaced?

A: On iPhones with iOS 16+, go to Settings → General → About and look for “Parts and Service History.” Apple flags non-genuine displays. On Samsung, third-party screens often have slightly different color temperature, touch sensitivity, or AMOLED quality. Testing under bright light reveals most aftermarket screens.

Q: Which platform gives me the most money for phones?

A: Swappa typically nets the most because of its low 3% fee structure. eBay has the largest audience but takes ~13.25%. Facebook Marketplace is great for local cash sales (0% fee). Compare your expected net proceeds on each platform using the Platform Fee Comparison Tool before listing.

Q: Should I flip phones or tablets — which is more profitable?

A: Phones offer faster turnover (3–10 days vs. 7–21 days for tablets) and more sourcing opportunities. Tablets offer higher per-unit profit but require more capital and patience. Most successful flippers focus on phones and add tablets opportunistically.

Q: How do new iPhone releases affect Samsung resale prices?

A: New iPhones primarily affect iPhone resale prices. Samsung prices follow Samsung launch cycles (Galaxy S in January/February, Z Fold/Flip in July/August). However, a blockbuster iPhone launch can slightly depress the overall used phone market as people fixate on Apple announcements.

Q: What if a buyer claims the phone I sold them doesn’t work?

A: Document everything before shipping: take video of the phone powering on, showing IMEI, battery health, and all functions working. Include your testing results in the listing description. If you sell on eBay, their buyer protection policies apply — good documentation is your best defense. See our eBay scam prevention guide and handling returns guide for protection strategies.

Q: Can I flip phones bought from carrier trade-in programs?

A: Carrier trade-in programs give you credit, not a phone to flip. However, the opportunity is buying from people who would trade in but haven’t yet — you can offer them slightly more than the carrier while still buying well below market. This requires relationship-building at carrier stores or targeting local marketplace sellers who mention they’re about to trade in.

Q: How do I handle phones that turn out to have issues I missed?

A: It happens. Your options: repair (if cost-effective), sell “as-is” on eBay or Facebook with full disclosure, or sell for parts to repair shops. Build a 5–10% “loss margin” into your business plan — not every phone will be a win. Use the Break-Even Price Calculator to determine the minimum you need to sell at to break even on a problem device.

Start Flipping Phones Today

Phone and tablet flipping is one of the most accessible and consistently profitable niches in reselling. The devices are compact (no shipping headaches), high-value (strong profit per unit), and in constant demand (everyone needs a phone).

Start with these steps:

1. Pick a model you know — start with what’s in your own pocket
2. Download our testing checklist and memorize it
3. Set up Marketplace alerts for that model in your area
4. Buy your first phone at 60–70% of eBay sold comps
5. Test, photograph, and list on Swappa or eBay
6. Reinvest your profit — double your inventory each month

Within 60 days, most people can build a sustainable $500–$1,000/month side income from phone flipping.

And if you want to skip the manual comp research, try Underpriced free — snap a photo of any phone or tablet and get instant AI-powered profit analysis including real sold comps, fee calculations, and a buy/pass recommendation. Your first 10 analyses are free, no credit card required.