Each year, millions of electronic devices are discarded, many of which are not entirely beyond use. Even a broken phone or tablet can retain some value.
The article explains how to convert your damaged devices into cash, focusing on environmentally responsible practices for upcycling and ethically disposing of digital devices.
Whether it’s for recycling, refurbishing, or simply salvaging parts, this guide provides insights into making the most of your old and damaged device.
Types of phone and tablet issues
- Physical damage: Dents, scratches, or broken buttons may slightly impact a device’s value. Extensive damage like cracks or shattered glass, especially if it affects touchscreen functionality, can greatly reduce the phone or tablet’s value.
- Internal damage: Issues with the battery, speaker, or camera can make the phone unreliable or unusable, leading to lower offers since repairs can be expensive.
- Water damage: This may cause corrosion and functional problems, significantly decreasing the device’s value. Most recyclers avoid water-damaged phones due to their compromised performance and longevity.
- Software problems: These may show up as persistent glitches, crashes, or failure to boot.
Can you sell broken phones and tablets?
Yes, selling broken devices is not only possible but also practical. Many businesses and online platforms recognize the value of damaged devices for parts, recycling, or refurbishing.
Repair shops can sometimes fix broken phones and tablets, or they may need broken devices for parts. Additionally, some companies recycle old electronics, and they can extract valuable materials from broken phones and tablets.
Therefore, even in a damaged state, smartphones and tablets, which are high-cost items, can retain significant value. That said, the money you get depends on:
- Type of damage: A cracked screen will fetch less than water damage or a completely dead phone.
- Phone model: Newer, high-demand phones tend to have more valuable parts.
- Repair difficulty: If the phone is easily repairable, it holds more value for parts.
- Buyer: Different buyback programs or recyclers may offer varying prices.
Do broken phones and tabs have any value?
Absolutely.
Even if a phone is damaged, many of its components, such as the screen, battery, and internal parts, might still be functional and valuable.
By selling your broken phone, you not only recoup some of your initial investment but also contribute to environmental sustainability. It helps reduce electronic waste by diverting these devices from landfills and allowing them to be refurbished or recycled responsibly.
Where to sell broken phones and tablets: Exploring your options
Here are some places that will buy your broken phone or tablet:
Buyback programmes
For those who prefer an immediate transaction, local buyback programs are a viable option. These programs often offer instant cash for phones or store credit, making them straightforward solutions for damaged phones. Online platforms also specialize in purchasing water-damaged phones, broken phone screen devices, and those with dead batteries or faulty buttons.
Online platforms for selling
Online marketplaces like eBay and specialized electronics sites are excellent for selling damaged phones. These platforms serve a wide range of users and can help you find buyers interested in buying used phones that they can repair or use for parts.
These services typically ask you to describe the condition of your device and then give you a quote. You can then ship your device to them for free, and they will pay you once they receive it.
Trade-in programmes
Various trade-in programs can help you get money for your old phone or tablet, even if it is broken. The amount of money you get may rely on the device’s condition, brand, model, and current market demand.
myhalo offers a trade-in program that simplifies the process of dealing with damaged phones. This convenient option allows you to assess the value of your broken device online, buy a new device, and then trade in the old one.
This program is ideal for those looking to offset the cost of a new purchase with their cracked phone screens or malfunctioning phones.
Local repair shops & data wiping services
Local phone repair shops are often on the lookout to buy used phones for parts. If you have a phone with a broken phone screen or water-damaged phones, these shops might offer to purchase them for refurbishment.
Before selling your device, ensure that all personal data is securely wiped to protect your privacy. Data wiping is crucial to maintain security when disposing of malfunctioning phones with sensitive information.
Electronic recyclers
Electronics recyclers will take your broken phone or tablet and recycle it responsibly. You may not get any money for your device, but you will be helping the environment.
How to sell broken phones and tablets for cash: Steps
Now that we’ve learnt that even damaged phones can hold some worth, let’s explore the steps for selling your broken devices and turning them into cash.
Assess the damage & value
Examine your device to identify all damage, such as cracked screens or faulty batteries. Understand how these issues impact the resale value, which is crucial in a tech-savvy market like Singapore.
Prepare your device for sale
Back up and erase all personal data. Make sure to save your photos, contacts, and other important information before selling.
Next, reset your phone to factory settings. This step protects your privacy and makes the phone more appealing to the next owner.
Take clear and accurate photos of your phone and the damage
Capture high-quality photos from multiple angles to show the condition of your phone clearly. Good images help potential buyers assess the damage and reduce the likelihood of disputes.
List your device
When listing on a platform, be detailed and honest about the phone’s condition. Specify the type of damage and its impact on functionality. Transparency helps build trust and facilitates a smoother transaction.
Shipping and handling
Use sturdy packaging to secure the phone during transit. Offer shipping options with tracking and insurance to reassure buyers and protect the device from further damage during delivery.
Benefits of selling broken phones and tablets
When your device breaks, it might seem like the end of its life cycle, but selling it can offer numerous advantages. Here are some compelling reasons to consider this option:
- Maximize your return: Don’t just discard your broken phone—sell it. Even devices with cracked screens or faulty components can fetch a good price as refurbished units or parts through trade-in platforms.
- Environmental protection: Selling your damaged device helps prevent environmental harm by keeping toxic substances out of landfills and reducing the ecological impact of new device production.
- Minimize electronic waste: E-waste is rapidly becoming one of the largest categories of waste worldwide. Selling your damaged device reduces the volume of waste, as these phones are either made functional again or recycled responsibly.
- Convenience: You may choose to sell your broken phone through a dedicated platform, which simplifies the process. From easy online valuation tools to convenient pickup services, these platforms make it straightforward to convert your broken phone into cash without leaving your home.
Best place to sell broken phones in Singapore
Selling broken phones and tablets to authorized dealers like myhalo ensures optimal value retrieval.
It ensures that your device is rightfully assessed for its true value while providing competitive compensation.
Additionally, myhalo is also committed to reducing e-waste, aligning with broader environmental protection goals. This commitment to environmental sustainability drives us to upcycle, refurbish, and re-love used devices, ensuring that customers not only receive instant cash for phones but also contribute to significant e-waste reduction.
Conclusion
By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ve empowered yourself to make an informed decision about selling your broken phone or tablet.
Remember, even a damaged device can hold value, and selling it responsibly benefits both your wallet and the environment. So, don’t let that broken tech gather dust – unearth its hidden potential and turn it into cash!