Can You Sell a Cracked or Broken Phone?
By The BuyBackBear Team · Published June 1, 2026 · Updated June 1, 2026 · 4 min read
A cracked screen or a phone that won't turn on isn't worthless. Damaged devices are bought for refurbishment or parts every day. Here's what to expect and how to get the most for one.
Key takeaways
- •A phone with a cracked screen that still works typically fetches 40 to 50% of its flawless value.
- •Broken phones that won't power on still hold real money, especially for recent flagship models.
- •You should back up, sign out of accounts, and factory reset even a damaged phone if it still powers on.
- •Reputable buyback services confirm device condition on inspection and provide photo evidence if the grade differs.
What damaged phones are worth
A phone with a cracked screen that still works typically fetches 40 to 50% of its flawless value. Broken but powers on is lower, and won't power on / for parts is lowest, but still real money, especially for recent flagships. Pick the matching condition on any model page for an exact quote.
Be honest about condition
Grade your device accurately. A fair buyback service will confirm the grade on inspection and, if it differs, show you photo evidence and let you decline for free. Over-grading just leads to a revised offer later.
Still wipe it
Even a cracked phone should be backed up, signed out (Activation Lock / Google account removed), and reset if it still powers on. If the screen is dead, we handle erasure on receipt and certify it.
Ready to sell?
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Selling your device here, at a glance
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- Cash by PayPal, Zelle, Venmo or check after inspection, no fees
- Free prepaid label both ways, free return shipping if you decline
- We beat any competitor's written quote by $2
- Cracked screen, broken or won't power on? Still worth real money
- Certified NIST 800-88 data wipe with an emailed certificate
- Trade-in value paid in cash, not a 24-36 month carrier bill credit
- Every model priced: unlocked or carrier-locked, any storage size