Old smartphones can retain significant resale value

Old smartphones can retain significant monetary value, particularly newer iPhone models. According to 2025 data from the Danish second-hand retailer Green, a well-maintained iPhone 14 could be worth approximately 193 euros, while an iPhone 11 remains valued at around 116 euros. Factors such as storage capacity, battery health, and screen condition heavily influence these prices, though even defective units hold value for repair parts.

To encourage recycling and reuse, the electronics retailer Elgiganten introduced the ‘Elretur’ system on March 3, 2026. This program functions similarly to a deposit scheme, allowing customers to trade in old devices at local warehouses in exchange for digital gift vouchers or discounts on future purchases. This initiative addresses the fact that while many people keep old devices in drawers, only about 18 percent of Danes currently participate in electronic recycling.