Imagine trading old gadgets for groceries. A true budget-friendly swap. That’s exactly what Costco’s Trade-In program offers. And the best part? No Costco membership required.
“Costco’s trade-in program is a fantastic opportunity for consumers looking to extract value from their used electronics,” said Dane Nk, founder of That Video Game Blog.
Let’s dive into what electronics Costco wants and how much you can earn.
Costco’s Trade-In program is run by Phobio, a third-party company. No need to visit a Costco warehouse. Everything happens online. You access the program through Costco’s website, which directs you to Phobio. There, you pick your device model, answer a few questions about its condition, and get an instant quote.
“You essentially assess your item’s value online through Costco’s partner site, ship it for free, and, if it meets the criteria, you’ll receive a Costco Shop Card. The payout can vary significantly, hinging on your item’s condition and its market relevance,” Nk explained.
You can print your shipping label or have a box sent to you for shipping. Just make sure to erase your data first.
The program currently accepts used Apple devices. Phones, laptops, tablets, smartwatches, desktops, displays, and media players are all included. For Macs or iMacs, the models must be from 2013 or newer.
Samuel Davity, founder of tufting.com, suggested that even if your device isn’t perfect, it’s still worth trading in.
“What many consumers might not realize is that even older or slightly damaged items can still hold value in this program. For example, a cracked screen or an outdated model might still bring in a decent return,” Davity said.
Jonas Torrang, co-founder of IsBrave.com, agreed. Getting something back, no matter the condition, beats getting nothing.
“In my experience, even older models in great shape can yield surprisingly good trade-in values, making it a worthwhile option for upgrading your tech affordably,” Torrang shared.
The value you receive depends on the item’s market value and condition. According to Phobio, you could get up to $1,080 for a used Apple laptop. Desktops can bring in up to $1,025. Smartphones might get you up to $750. Tablets, up to $450. Displays, up to $400. Smartwatches, up to $200. And media players, up to $40.
Patience is key, though. The process isn’t instant. Phobio may take up to three weeks to evaluate your device and send your gift card.
Opting for a digital card might be quicker. But if you choose a physical Costco gift card, expect it to arrive in up to 20 business days after Phobio’s evaluation.