Selling your old phone can be one of the simplest ways to get quick cash, but lots of myths are holding people back. From safety worries to not understanding trade‑ins, timing or process, there is a lot of wrong information there.

If you asked “Should I sell my broken phone or recycle it?” or “Is it smart to sell my old Samsung phone before a launch?” you’re not alone. This blog looks at eight of the most common myths about selling gadgets online in the UK. 

Why So Many Brits Are Holding Onto Their Old Devices

We all have an old phone in a drawer, left unused and gathering dust.

And while most of us know we could sell it, we still hesitate.

Why?

• Because many feel confused. 
• Because they have doubts. 
• Because they still trust old or overstated tales about selling phones.

Here are the main tricky myths you should know if you are really thinking, “It is finally time to sell my old phone.”

Let’s Bust the Biggest Myths About Selling Phones Online

Think selling your old phone is risky, not worth it or too much effort? You’re not alone. These myths stop many Brits from earning quick cash, so let’s clear them up one by one.

Myth #1: “Selling old phones online is risky and unsafe”

There’s a common concern: “Is it risky to sell Apple devices online?”

The truth depends on where you go. Reputable sites like PhoneBox provide safe delivery, wipe your data, and pay quickly. If you use a verified, professional service, not random marketplaces or social media, you can trade in your iPhone safely without a second thought.

Myth #2: “Nobody wants a broken phone”

If you’ve ever thought, “I want to sell my broken phone, but who would want it?” you’re underestimating the market. Recyclers and refurbishers buy broken phones for parts or repair. Many firms, including PhoneBox, accept cracked screens, battery faults and even water-damaged devices.

Myth #3: “It’s better to trade in with Apple or Samsung”

This idea comes from brand loyalty, but there’s a catch. There’s a misunderstanding about device trade-in, Apple vs. cash sales. Trade-ins usually give store credit with limits. Selling to a third party gives instant cash with no strings attached and often a better price.

Myth #4: “Old phones have no value”

Even older phones still hold value in the secondhand market, especially in growing regions. One of the biggest false beliefs about how to sell my old phone in the UK is that only the latest models are worth selling. In fact, phones as old as the iPhone 7 or Samsung Galaxy S8 still sell well if they’re in working order.

Myth #5: “Refurbished mobile companies can’t be trusted”

Not all are equal, but a professional refurbished mobile company works to strict standards. They grade devices correctly, wipe data safely and offer fair prices. Avoid unknown resellers, but don’t assume every refurbisher is dodgy; many drive the circular economy.

Myth #6: “Selling online means losing your data”

This worry spreads fast, but is easy to fix. Clean the phone before selling it, back up your files and do a full factory reset. Reliable buyers then run a second data wipe, so your personal details stay secure.

Myth #7: “Recycling is always the eco-friendliest option”

Recycling helps, but selling can be better. If you’ve asked Should I sell my used phone for cash or recycle it?, know this: selling often counts as recycling. Devices get reused, fixed or parted out responsibly, and you earn cash too.

Myth #8: “You’ll never get the full value”

Many blame poor payouts on unfair buyers, but it usually comes down to common mistakes when trying to sell a device for cash, such as overstating damage or picking an unreliable service. Do it right, read reviews, choose a platform with guaranteed quotes after inspection, and you’ll often earn more than expected.

Why Choose PhoneBox to Sell Your Mobile Online?

Still confused about where to sell your old mobile? Read this first, PhoneBox makes it fast, safe and hassle‑free.

• Instant Quotes: Find out what your device is worth in seconds, no waiting or guessing.
• Free Tracked Postage: We send you a secure, prepaid pack with tracking so your phone arrives safely at no cost to you.
• Same‑Day Payment: After we receive and inspect your phone, you’ll get paid that very day, quick and dependable.
• Full Data Security: Every phone is wiped clean on arrival, so your personal data stays protected.
• All Conditions Accepted: Broken, old or well‑used, we’ll still make you a fair offer.

Ready to Turn Your Old Phone Into Fast Cash?

Don’t let old myths stop you from turning unused tech into cash. From thinking broken phones are worthless to fearing unsafe sales, it’s easy to fall for busted myths about selling your phone online in the UK. 

You can sell old phone models safely and for real money if you pick the right platform. Avoid the usual traps and get paid fast. Visit PhoneBox for an instant quote and see how simple selling your phone online can be.

FAQs

Is it safe to sell my phone online?

Yes, as long as you pick a trusted platform like PhoneBox. They provide safe postage, wipe your data securely and pay you on the same day.

Can I sell my broken or damaged phone?

Definitely, many services, including PhoneBox, accept phones in any condition, even broken, old or non‑working devices.

Should I sell or recycle my old phone?

If your device still has value, selling it for cash will usually earn you more than recycling. Some sites will then recycle any unusable parts for you.

Do I need to factory reset or clean my phone before selling it?

It’s best to back up your files, clean the phone before selling and perform a full factory reset. Reputable buyers will then run a second wipe for extra security.