Used iPhones in the Philippines: Complete 2025 Guide

Looking for a good deal on an iPhone in the Philippines? You’re not alone. New iPhones are expensive here (often even pricier than in the US), so the used market is huge. Filipinos frequently sell their old gadgets through bazaars (Greenhills Tiangge), electronics malls, and online marketplaces.

This PH-only guide will teach you exactly how to buy a used iPhone safely: from what to check (IMEI, iCloud lock, battery health, etc.) to finding reputable sellers. We also cover trade-in/swap programs (“apple swap iphone philippines”), and compare new vs used models with local examples. For instance, a fresh iPhone loses a huge chunk of value as soon as you unbox it – roughly 50–60% in the first year globally – so buying used can save you a bundle. Read on for this very detailed, step-by-step guide!

New iPhone vs Used iPhone

New iPhone Pros: Brand-new iPhones in PH guarantee the latest features (faster chip, new camera tech, etc.) plus official Philippine warranty. Official retailers often run promos: for example, Beyond the Box offered around ₱6,000 off on a cash purchase of any iPhone 15 model. Carriers like Globe, Smart, and DITO bundle postpaid plans or freebies (cases, chargers) with new phones. You’ll also avoid hassles like unlocked/locked issues since new units are sold unlocked or with official SIM-lock contracts.

New iPhone Cons: The big drawback is price. Philippine SRPs for iPhones have always been high due to taxes and import costs. Even with discounts, a flagship iPhone can cost well over ₱50K. Plus, iPhones depreciate quickly: after one year an iPhone 15 (128GB) loses about 59% of its value in good condition, so you’d be losing a lot if you buy new and resell later. Some new models (especially DITO or carrier offers) might be locked to a network for a period

Used iPhone Pros: Buying used can save you tens of thousands of pesos. For example, if an iPhone 15 Pro Max is ₱80K new, a 1-year-old unit in good shape might sell for ₱50K or less depending on condition and warranty left. Used buyers can get last year’s model at a fraction of original price. Filipino resale culture means lots of options: malls like Greenhills or Glorietta have shops selling second-hand iPhones; online platforms like Facebook Marketplace, Carousell (formerly OLX), and Shopee/Lazada (official or gray markets) list hundreds of used phones. You can haggle, pay cash, and immediately walk out with the phone – no waiting for shipping or pre-orders.

Used iPhone Cons: There are more risks. No official Apple warranty if it’s out of the 1-year coverage or if AppleCare has lapsed. The phone may have hidden issues (water damage, worn battery, non-original parts). Carriers may have blacklisted it if stolen. You must vet the seller. And Philippines-specific quirks apply: some used iPhones come with altered software (e.g. foreign market firmware), or have no charger/box. Moreover, the local grey market has “BYP” or “BT” phones (often meaning unofficially unlocked or transferred units) which can be problematic.

10 Things to Check Before Buying a Used iPhone

Buying a used iPhone safely means inspecting everything carefully. Here are the top 10 checks:

• Check Your IMEI/Serial Number: Dial *#06# or go to Settings > General > About to get the IMEI and serial. Confirm these match any box or receipt. Use an online checker (e.g. Apple’s warranty/coverage checker) to ensure the IMEI is valid and not flagged. PH carriers (Globe/Smart) share blacklists of stolen phones; you can’t easily find an official public check, but some third-party sites attempt it. (If the seller refuses to show IMEI info, that’s a red flag.)
• Activation Lock / iCloud Status: Make sure the phone is signed out of the previous owner’s iCloud/Apple ID. Go to Settings > [name] > Find My – if it says Find My iPhone: On, request that they turn it off by entering their Apple ID password. Alternatively, try to erase the phone: Settings > General > Reset > Erase All Content and Settings. If it asks for the previous owner’s Apple ID, and it’s Activation Locked? Never buy an iPhone that still has Activation Lock (iCloud lock) enabled.
• Battery Health: In Settings > Battery > Battery Health, check the Maximum Capacity percentage. New phones start at 100%. Anything above ~85% is generally OK for a year-old phone; anything below ~80% may indicate heavy use or need for replacement soon. (Apple’s official guide notes you can find “Battery Health” info under Settings.) If the seller won’t show you the battery health screen, consider it suspicious.
• Physical Condition: Inspect every side of the phone. Look for dents on the aluminum/steel frame, scratches on the screen or back glass, and any separation of edges. Check the corners and camera bump carefully. Visually inspect the screen when it’s both off and on – ensure no dead pixels, discoloration, or cracked glass under the display. Also press the screen corners and buttons to confirm touch response and haptic feedback.
• Water Damage Indicators: iPhones have internal Liquid Contact Indicators (LCIs) that turn red if water-damaged. Ask the seller to open the SIM tray and check if the tiny white sticker inside is red. If it’s red, the phone has been in water or high humidity – a big risk.
• Genuine Parts (Screen, Back, Battery): Ask if any repairs have been done. If the screen or back glass was replaced, “True Tone” (auto color balance) may be disabled. You can test True Tone by going to Settings > Display and toggling it on/off while watching the screen colors adjust. Also look at the Apple logo on the back: on genuine iPhones it’s engraved metal, not printed sticker. If possible, check the battery model number (only Apple batteries have specific part numbers). Many sellers won’t show internals, but you can at least ask questions about repair history.
• Warranty and Receipt: A valid original receipt from an Apple Authorized Reseller (Power Mac, Beyond the Box, etc.) is helpful to prove it’s legitimate. It may also show purchase date for warranty. Check if Apple’s one-year limited warranty (or AppleCare+ if applicable) is still active by entering the serial on the Apple coverage website. Even without original receipt, ask for warranty status.
• Network Lock Status: Determine if it’s locked to a carrier. A PH-locked iPhone (Globe or Smart) can only take that SIM unless unlocked (official or unofficial). If the seller says it’s locked to Globe/Smart or “fully-paid,” clarify. Better to buy factory unlocked units (often grey market, e.g. imported from Middle East, etc.). Insert your SIM if possible, or ask them to demonstrate dialing without Wi-Fi. Be careful: some used iPhones are “interim unlocked” or reliant on third-party tools (BT/BYP) which may stop working.
• Features Check: Verify if the hardware works. Like testing the camera (both front and rear), flashlight, speakers, microphone, charging port (try a cable), and all sensors (e.g. Face ID or Touch ID). Test the mute switch, volume buttons, vibration motor (by toggling silent mode). Check the headphone jack or lighting port sound output with headphones.
• Pricing & Authenticity: Compare the asking price to the used iphone price range (see below). If it’s way under market value, that’s suspicious. Also check if the model number in Settings > General > About matches what they claim (e.g. an 11 Pro vs a plain 11). Don’t accept vague stories – e.g. “this is an employee store demo” or “bought abroad then unlocked” – without proof. Above all, inspect it in person if you can.

Major Red Flags When Buying a Used iPhone in the Philippines

When hunting for a used iPhone, be on high alert for these red flags:

• Blacklisted IMEI: Phones reported lost or stolen to carriers are put on a national blacklist. If you later insert a local SIM, it may auto-disconnect or show an “invalid SIM” error. Never buy if you suspect this – ask the seller about it directly. (Insist on seeing a valid IMEI status.)
• Stolen/Snatch Syndicate Phones: There have been cases of “tuktok” or street robbery syndicates stealing iPhones and selling them through second-hand markets. If a deal is extra sketchy (seller says “need to sell quickly” or no ID, only e-cash deal), pass.
• Fake Receipts or Box: Some scammers will show you a random receipt or box, then swap the phone for a different (often busted) unit after the deal. Always bring the phone to a safe place (e.g. a mall security office) before finalizing. If the IMEI on the box/receipt doesn’t match the phone’s, walk away.
• Missing or Mismatched IMEI: If you take the SIM tray out and the IMEI sticker is missing or doesn’t match the phone’s system info, that’s a big sign of tampering.
• “Too Good to Be True” Price: If an iPhone 14 Pro is listed for like ₱15,000 (when everyone else is at ₱45K), be very skeptical – it’s likely stolen or defective.
• Facebook Marketplace Only (no store): FB can be convenient but also rife with scammers. If possible, meet in a public place or consider buying from an established store. Sellers who insist on offline payment or shipping without showing the phone first are risky.
• “BT/BYP” Offerings: In PH online forums, “BT” or “BYP” often refers to grey-market phones that use unofficial unlocking/bypassing methods. These may lose functionality after a software update. Treat any advertisement mentioning these acronyms as suspicious.

Where to Safely Buy Used iPhones in the Philippines

Choosing where to buy is as important as what to check. Here are some venues and their pros/cons:

• Power Mac Center Certified Pre-Owned: Official Apple reseller Power Mac has a Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program. CPO iPhones come with inspection and a (limited) warranty, so you know they’re genuine. Prices are higher than open-market used, but you get peace of mind. (Note: Power Mac often adds a P500 bonus on certain trade-ins, though offers change regularly.)
• Beyond the Box / Switch (CPO Stores): Similar to Power Mac, these are Apple Authorized Resellers offering refurbished models. They test and re-box items. You get a short warranty and authentic accessories. Prices are more reasonable than brand-new, though still above random private listings.
• Mall Kiosks and Pawnshops: Some pawnshops like Ace or SB can have sealed-but-preowned iPhones (e.g. someone pawned an unopened set). Pawnshop deals can be good price, but no warranty. Inspect carefully (open it with them present).
• Official Online Stores (Shopee/Lazada): There are official storefronts on Shopee or Lazada (or Shopee Mall) that sell refurbished iPhones. These can offer competitive prices plus a short warranty (often 3-6 months). Make sure they’re marked “official” or “authorized”. Avoid random sellers on these platforms – only buy from highly rated stores or official partners.
• Classified Ads / FB Marketplace: People often sell on FB, Carousell, OLX, etc. The risk is higher: you’re dealing with individuals. If you go this route, meet in public, bring someone with you, and inspect fully before handing cash. Many experienced buyers avoid these unless it’s a solid known seller.
• Gadget Sensei PH:

How to Check IMEI Before Buying a Used iPhone (Step-by-Step)

Always check IMEI before buying used iPhone. Here’s how:

• Find the IMEI/Serial: On the phone, dial *#06# or open Settings > General > About. Write down the IMEI and serial number.
• Match Physical Labels: If the seller has the original box, compare that IMEI/serial with Settings > About and the SIM tray sticker. They must match exactly. Mismatches are a red flag.
• Apple Coverage Checker: Apple’s official site (checkcoverage.apple.com) lets you enter the serial number to see warranty status and verify it’s a genuine Apple device. While it doesn’t say “stolen or not,” it will flag if the serial is invalid (which could mean it’s fake or a clone).
• Blacklist Check: The Philippines doesn’t have a single public blacklist portal, but carriers have internal lists. You can try third-party sites that claim to check status (do so with caution). Some local forums mention services that check against PLDT/Smart/Globe lists. Alternatively, put a local SIM into the phone after checking everything else – if it shows an “Invalid SIM” or similar, it might be blacklisted.
• Ask Directly: Legit sellers have nothing to hide. You can say “I want to verify the IMEI myself” and ensure you do so before handing over cash.

By doing this step-by-step IMEI check, you minimize the chance of accidentally buying a blocked or counterfeit device.

iPhone Depreciation Price in Philippine Pesos

A. Brand-New iPhone Prices (latest models, PH SRP)

Model	Storage	Approx. New Price (₱)
iPhone 15	128GB	~₱43,990
iPhone 15 Plus	128GB	~₱49,990
iPhone 15 Pro	128GB	~₱59,990
iPhone 15 Pro Max	256GB	~₱69,990
iPhone 14 Series (for comparison)	128GB (14)	~₱37,990 128GB (14 Pro) ~₱59,990

(SRPs from Apple PH; actual store deals may be lower, as Unbox PH reported discounts on iPhone 15 up to ₱11K on high-end model

B. Used iPhone Price Ranges (as of 2025, estimates in ₱)

These are ballpark ranges for good-condition units. Exact prices depend on condition, age, and market demand.

Model	Typical Used Price Range (₱)	Notes
iPhone 14 (128GB)	25,000 – 30,000	Last-gen mid-tier
iPhone 14 Pro (128)	45,000 – 50,000	High-end older gen
iPhone 13 (128GB)	18,000 – 25,000	Very popular, holds some value
iPhone 13 Pro (128)	30,000 – 35,000	Good specs, still sells well
iPhone 12 (128GB)	15,000 – 20,000	Older but still serviceable
iPhone 11 (64/128)	10,000 – 15,000	For budget, used widely
iPhone 8/SE/other	5,000 – 10,000	Lower specs, cheap

Note: These are approximations. Always survey current listings (Shopee, FB, etc.) to see real offers.

Trade-in / Swap iPhone in the Philippines

Want to turn your old iPhone into credit for a new one? PH has several trade-in programs. People often ask, “can i swap my iphone for a new one”, and the answer is yes – but with conditions.

• Apple Store (Apple Swap iPhone). Apple’s official PH site offers a trade-in. You enter your serial on their trade-in page and get an estimated value (e.g. an iPhone X might only get a few thousand pesos). If you go to an Apple Store or authorized reseller, they can finalize it. Typically, Apple trade-in covers any brand, not just iPhone. It’s very convenient but values are usually on the lower side.
• Power Mac Center (UpTrade). Power Mac calls their trade-in program UpTrade. They accept Apple products and some others. They have promotions (e.g. extra ₱500 bonus) but generally their trade-in values are similar to Apple’s or slightly higher for iPhones. They only accept in-store, so you must bring the unit to a Power Mac.
• Beyond the Box / Switch Trade-in. These authorized retailers also run trade-in promos. Value for iPhones here tends to align with Apple’s own program, but occasionally they run “trade more on launch” deals. It’s worth asking them. Usually they need the phone in good condition (no severe damage, not too old).
• Globe and Smart Trade-in. Both local telcos run device buyback programs. For example, Globe’s website has an UpTrade Portal (device trade-in) with fixed values for select models (often outdated ones). Smart had the Smart Device Block List portal where you can see values. These carrier programs mostly give you bill credits or GCash load in exchange for handsets. Note: If your iPhone is already blacklisted, carriers won’t accept it (they’ll check it via their internal system).
• Metrobank/Bank Promos. Occasionally banks partner with stores: e.g. a Metrobank promo gave a bonus discount if you traded in any iPhone (regardless of model) when buying an iPhone 15. These deals come and go. Keep an eye on announcement by major credit cards around Apple launch season.
• Phone Condition and Restrictions. All programs require the old iPhone to be working. Cracked screens or water damage will reduce value or make it ineligible. Also, Japan models of iPhone are often excluded or get less trade-in value due to region differences (like the mandatory shutter sound). Samsung/Middle East models also sometimes have region locks. Always ask if your specific model qualifies.

In summary, yes, you can swap your iPhone for a new one. The trade-in value depends on store. For example, Digital Walker’s promo offered up to ₱56,100 off a new iPhone 15 Pro Max if you traded a top-end iPhone 14 Pro Max. In contrast, Apple’s site might only give ~₱40–50k for the same phone. It pays to compare and maybe bring the phone to multiple trade-in counters.

Estimated Trade-In Value Comparison (PH)

Below is a rough comparison of trade-in values in pesos for a midrange used iPhone (e.g. iPhone 14 Pro Max 128GB), across different programs. These change often, so check current rates:

Program	Approx. Value for iPhone 14 Pro Max (128GB)	Notes
Apple Store PH	~₱40,000	Gift card / credit towards new Apple purchase
Power Mac Center (UpTrade)	~₱45,000	May include occasional bonus (e.g. +₱500)
Beyond the Box / Switch	~₱42,000	In-store credit, sometimes limited models only
Globe Trade-in (UpTrade Portal)	₱0 (not currently listing latest iPhones)	Globe’s portal often lists older models; best for Galaxy/old iPhones
Smart Trade-in / GDDS	₱0 (platform closed for newer models)	Similarly, mostly older or brands; new iPhones usually via phone promo

Note: These are illustrative. Actual values depend on condition and time. For lesser models (iPhone 11/12), all programs drop to a few thousand pesos at best. See Unbox PH for example values: trading an iPhone 11/12 fetched only ~₱1,000, while an iPhone 14 Pro Max 1TB got ~₱56,100.

Factory Unlocked vs Network-Locked iPhones (PH Guide)

In the Philippines, factory unlocked iPhones are typically imported models (from US/EU/Middle East/Asia) and are not tied to any carrier. These are ideal for full compatibility and resale. Network-locked iPhones are tied to a particular carrier’s contract: for example, Globe or Smart lock their postpaid iPhone units (these were more common before telco locks were relaxed).

• Globe-locked units: Globe’s iPhones often have a carrier lock for 24 months (or until fully paid off). They will only accept Globe SIMs. However, nowadays Globe sells many unlocked too. Always ask the seller: “Is this Globe-locked or unlocked?”
• Smart-locked units: Smart Postpaid iPhones used to be locked to Smart’s network. Smart’s lock is similar: only Smart SIMs will work. If you put a Globe SIM in a Smart-locked iPhone, it won’t connect to network.
• US carrier-locked iPhones: Some people import US models (AT&T, Verizon). If still under contract, you’d need a SIM from that carrier or a proper unlock code. Unlocked US models will show LTE bands (there’s a “*” in the model code on Settings). Check Settings > General > About for the “Carrier Lock” entry (iOS 16+ shows “No SIM restrictions” if unlocked).
• Japan models: Japan-sold iPhones always have the camera shutter sound on (by law). Other than that, they work fine in PH (they support LTE bands here). But note, Japan units often require official unlocking and may not come with English manuals. Cannot trade in Japan models easily (most kiosks won’t accept them) because of these quirks.
• Middle East / Asia units: Some iPhones sold in Middle East (e.g. UAE) may have a built-in “Translate” app. They generally work fine locally. Chinese iPhones (if any reach PH) may lack LTE band 28 (B28), affecting Smart/DITO 700MHz coverage.

Always verify the model number (like A####). You can google that to see which country it’s from. For local buyers, prefer factory-unlocked global models.

Overseas iPhones: Risks for PH Buyers

Beware of these region-specific issues in “overseas” units:

• Japan Model (shutter noise): As mentioned, you cannot silence the shutter on Japanese iPhones. If you buy one (without knowing), your camera will always click. This is a dealbreaker for some.
• US Models (band compatibility and locks): US versions often support Band 71 (next-gen 600MHz) but if locked, you’ll need that carrier’s SIM. Sometimes forum sellers import them “unlocked.” Make sure the model is unlocked and has the right bands (some older US iPhones lack B28 700MHz used by Smart/DITO).
• Region Locks: Rarely, very old models had region locks, but modern iPhones are generally free for global use once unlocked.
• Dual SIM (Physical vs eSIM): Certain Chinese or Hong Kong/SE Asia units (A2xxx models) allow dual SIM (one nano + eSIM). Standard US/Europe models use nano + eSIM. This usually isn’t an issue, just note it if seller advertises “dual SIM” usage.

When in doubt, ask the model number and Google it. And avoid units without clear origin documentation.

Common Scams in the Philippines When Buying Used iPhones

• Non-Delivery Scam: On online marketplaces, seller posts phone, buyer sends payment (e.g. via bank transfer), but the item never ships. Always meet in person or use escrow if possible.
• Cash Drops / Switcheroo: The buyer meets seller and hands over money, but the seller switches the real phone with a broken dummy after payment. To avoid this, don’t let the phone and money be out of sight at any time. Perform the final handover in a safe place.
• Fake Receipts: We mentioned, fake receipts from “cashier tape” can be printed easily. A legit receipt from a known retailer (with logo and serial number) is hard to fake, but still verify.
• “Stolen” Ad: Criminals sometimes pose as sellers offering a “steal” of a deal. If it’s far below market, almost certainly stolen.
• Payment Diversion: Scam seller may ask to pay through a different account (e.g. GCash, Paymaya) or claim their machine is broken – be wary.
• ICT Scam: “International Credit Transfer” scammers offer huge discounts if you transfer money as “overseas remittance”; in reality, you’ll never see the phone.

Always stick to secure methods: meet at a bank to withdraw cash and hand it over, or meet at a business center where there are cameras and guards.

Photos and Screenshots to Request from Online Sellers

If buying online (before meeting), ask the seller to send clear photos of:

• IMEI sticker or About screen: A photo of Settings > General > About showing IMEI, serial, model name.
• Battery Health screen: Screenshot showing battery capacity %.
• Activation Lock status: A photo of Settings > [your name] > Find My screen, or a quick video of them disabling Find My iPhone in front of you.
• All sides of the phone: Front (screen on and off), back, edges.
• Ports and buttons: Zoom in on charging port, SIM tray area, camera lens, headphone jack if present.
• Original box (if available): For model number and accessory check.
• Accessories: Ask to see the charger, cable, and any included AirPods or case. If “original” charger is included, ensure it looks authentic (a plain white 5W adapter and Lightning cable).

Having these images in advance helps spot inconsistencies (like mismatched IMEI). Of course, final verification should be in-person, but this filters out obvious fakes.

Price Depreciation Explained

Smartphones (and iPhones in particular) lose value fast. In fact, iPhones tend to depreciate more steeply than many Android phones. According to data, an iPhone 15 (new in 2023) will be worth around 59% less after a yea. By two years, it could be down ~75%. This is due to rapid tech refresh cycles and Apple’s own trade-in deals. In the Philippines, this means if you buy a new iPhone and then try to sell it second-hand a year later, you’ll likely get only half the original price (or less). Conversely, buying a one-year-old model means you dodge that initial drop.

Depreciation also varies by model: the base iPhone (14/13) tends to drop more in percentage terms than Pro models, because Pro models have luxury and scarcity value. Low-storage models drop more because demand shifts to higher storage.

Globally, sites like SellCell track this: e.g. an iPhone 15 128GB lost 59.2% of its launch value by late 2024. That’s huge! The takeaway: if you can save by buying used, you should, unless having the absolute latest is worth the premium to you.

Screenshot-Friendly Checklist

• Check IMEI/serial: dial *#06# and compare with box; use Apple coverage.
• Verify iCloud/Activation Lock is OFF: seller should log out of Find My iPhone.
• Battery Health: should ideally be >80% for newer phones.
• Test hardware: screen, cameras, speakers, buttons, Face ID/Touch ID.
• Inspect for damage: no water damage (LCIs white), no deep dents or scratches.
• Ensure True Tone works: (only on genuine screen).
• Original parts: No aftermarket screens or batteries.
• Check origin and lock status: unlocked is best; avoid unknown BYP units.
• Ask for accessories & box: see proof of purchase if possible.
• Negotiate price vs condition: use the price tables above as reference.

Final Recommendation

• Buy New iPhone If: You value full warranty and latest features, and you can stretch your budget (or avail of promos/plan deals). For people who prefer zero risk and will keep the phone long-term, a new iPhone from an official store is safest.
• Buy Used iPhone If: You want top specs for less money, don’t mind missing out on official warranty, and are willing to do checks. Used is ideal if your budget is limited or if you’re okay with last year’s model that’s still fast and supported. Ensure you buy from a trusted source (like a CPO store) or thoroughly vet the unit.
• Trade-in/Swap If: You have an older iPhone in good condition and want a newer one without paying full price. Compare trade-in values across Apple, Power Mac, and retailers. The best time to trade in is often right when a new model launches (they’ll give higher credit). Check if your current iPhone model qualifies (Japanese or too-old models might not).

Always weigh the risks: a used iPhone with unknown history might save ₱20K, but a problem could cost you that in repairs. Use this guide’s checklist and local tips to minimize those risks.