It is 2026. If you have an iPhone 8 Plus sitting in a drawer, you might think it's basically a paperweight. You'd be wrong. Surprisingly, this slab of glass and aluminum—the last "Plus" model to feature a physical Home button—still has a heartbeat in the secondary market.
But let’s be real. It’s an old phone. It was released in 2017. In tech years, that’s practically the Mesozoic era. Yet, collectors, budget-conscious parents, and "minimalists" who hate the notch are still looking for them.
So, how much is an iPhone 8 Plus worth right now?
If you’re looking for a quick number, an iPhone 8 Plus is generally worth between $40 and $130 in early 2026.
That’s a huge range. Why? Because a 64GB model with a cracked screen that only works on a specific carrier is almost worthless. On the flip side, a factory-unlocked 256GB model in "Mint" condition? That’s where the higher prices live.
💡 You might also like: Why Are Redditors So Angry? The Truth Behind the Internet's Most Opinionated Site
Here is the breakdown of what the market looks like right now across the big platforms:
- Trade-in with Apple: They’ll give you about $50. It’s the easiest path, but you’re leaving money on the table.
- Third-party Buyback (Back Market/BankMyCell): You can expect anywhere from $38 to $92. These sites are great because they pay cash, not just store credit.
- Private Sales (Swappa/eBay): This is where you maximize your profit. Unlocked 256GB versions are still selling for $115 to $150.
Honestly, the "Plus" part of the name is doing a lot of heavy lifting here. The standard iPhone 8 is struggling to stay above the $40 mark, but that 5.5-inch 1080p screen still feels "modern enough" for some people.
The Condition Reality Check
Condition isn't just about whether the screen is cracked. In 2026, the biggest killer of iPhone 8 Plus value is the battery.
If your battery health is below 80%, most professional buyers will categorize it as "Fair" or "Poor." They have to account for the cost of a $69 replacement. If you’ve kept it at 95% or higher, mention that prominently. It's a massive selling point for a device this age.
Storage and Carrier Status
A 256GB model is worth roughly 20-30% more than a 64GB model. It's simple math—iOS 16 (the final OS for this phone) and modern apps take up a lot of room. 128GB is the "sweet spot" that still finds buyers easily.
Also, unlocked is king. If your phone is still tied to AT&T or T-Mobile, you’re cutting your potential buyer pool in half. If it's paid off, call your carrier and get it unlocked before you list it. It takes five minutes and adds $15 to $20 to the price instantly.
Why is it still worth anything at all?
You might wonder why anyone would pay $100 for a phone that can’t run the latest iOS 26.
It’s about the hardware. The iPhone 8 Plus was a tank. It has that classic design that some people still prefer over Face ID. It’s also one of the last iPhones with a screen that doesn't use PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) for dimming, which makes it a cult favorite for people with sensitive eyes who get headaches from OLED screens.
The Software Ceiling
Let’s talk about the elephant in the room. The iPhone 8 Plus is stuck on iOS 16.
💡 You might also like: Rent to Own Apple Watch: Why You Might Actually Regret That Monthly Payment
It didn't get iOS 17, 18, or the current 2026 releases. This means you aren't getting the latest emojis, the newest security patches, or the flashy AI features Apple is pushing now. For a daily driver, this is a risk. For a "first phone" for a kid or a dedicated music player for a car, it's perfect.
Where should you sell it?
If you want the most money, go to Swappa. Their fees are low, and the community is generally tech-savvy. You'll need to take photos with a "verification code" to prove you actually have the phone.
If you want zero hassle, use a buyback site like Gazelle or Back Market. You answer a few questions, they send you a box, and you get a check. You’ll get about 20% less than a private sale, but you won't have to deal with people on Facebook Marketplace asking if you'll trade it for a used lawnmower.
Avoiding Scams
If you sell locally, cash only. Don't accept Zelle or Venmo from strangers, as those transactions can be reversed if the account was stolen. Meet at a police station or a very busy coffee shop.
Actionable Steps to Get Paid
Don't just throw it on eBay and hope for the best. Follow this checklist to make sure you get every cent the phone is worth:
- Check Battery Health: Go to Settings > Battery > Battery Health. If it’s high, screenshot it.
- Unlock It: Verify with your carrier that the IMEI is clear and the device is "SIM Out."
- Clean the Ports: Use a toothpick to gently remove lint from the charging port. A phone that "only charges at an angle" is worth half as much.
- Find the Box: If you still have the original box and the (unused) 5W brick, you can actually charge a premium for "collector quality."
- Wipe It Properly: Sign out of iCloud and Find My iPhone first. If you don't, the buyer can't use it, and you'll have to deal with a return.
The iPhone 8 Plus is officially a "vintage" device by Apple's standards, but it’s a vintage device with a market. Whether you're upgrading or just clearing clutter, now is the time to move it before it slides further down the depreciation curve.