When it comes time to sell your old phone, one of the most common questions is: Should I include the charger, box, or other accessories, or sell the phone by itself?
Some sellers believe accessories don’t matter much. Others insist that original packaging and add-ons make a big difference in offers. The truth lies somewhere in the middle — and depends heavily on buyer psychology, the condition of your accessories, and how you position your device for sale.
In this guide, we’ll break down how including accessories affects resale value, which items add the most appeal, and when it may be better to sell without them.
Why Accessories Influence Resale Value
When buyers shop for a used phone online, they compare multiple listings. The presence of accessories can give your listing an edge, even if the phone itself is the same model.
Here’s why:
- Perceived completeness: Buyers feel like they’re getting a full package rather than a half-finished product.
- Added convenience: Having a charger, cable, or even a case saves buyers from making extra purchases.
- Collector appeal: Original boxes and manuals boost the value for collectors and resellers.
Even if accessories don’t always increase the cash payout by a huge amount, they can make your listing sell faster.
Which Accessories Add the Most Value?
Not all accessories are equal. Some make a significant difference, while others have little impact.
1. Chargers and Cables
Including the original charger and cable is one of the easiest ways to boost resale appeal. Buyers often expect at least the charging essentials, especially for Apple and Samsung devices.
- Impact on resale: Typically adds $15–$30 in value.
- Tip: Only include accessories in good condition. A frayed or damaged charger may hurt buyer confidence.
2. Original Box and Manuals
Surprisingly, packaging can affect resale more than you’d think. The original box signals authenticity, care, and a sense of completeness.
- Impact on resale: $10–$25, depending on condition.
- Collector bonus: Rare or limited-edition boxes can increase value further.
3. Headphones or Earbuds
If you still have unused or lightly used headphones that came with your phone, including them can be a bonus.
- Impact on resale: Around $20–$40 if in excellent condition.
- Note: Hygiene concerns mean used earbuds aren’t always appealing unless still sealed.
When Accessories Don’t Matter
In some cases, accessories won’t significantly change resale value:
- Budget phones: Buyers looking for cheaper devices care more about price than extras.
- Older models: A five-year-old phone won’t gain much from accessories, since most buyers just want a working device.
- Damaged accessories: Worn or unsafe chargers may reduce perceived value instead of adding it.
Should You Ever Sell Without Accessories?
Yes — sometimes selling without accessories is better.
- If the accessories are missing or damaged: Don’t include frayed cables or cracked chargers.
- If you plan to reuse them: You may want to keep universal chargers for your new phone.
- If shipping costs matter: Accessories and boxes can add bulk and raise shipping fees, especially when selling internationally.
Bundling Accessories for More Cash
One effective strategy is bundling accessories with multiple devices. For example, selling a phone and tablet together with shared chargers can create a more attractive package.
- Benefit: Buyers feel like they’re getting more value at once.
- Best case: Great for families or students shopping during back-to-school or holiday seasons.
(Coming Soon: Selling Multiple Devices? How to Bundle for More Cash.)
Buyer Psychology: Why the “Complete Package” Wins
Even if accessories don’t dramatically increase resale prices, they play a key role in how buyers perceive value.
- Trust factor: A phone that comes with original accessories suggests the seller cared for it.
- Ease of purchase: Buyers prefer avoiding the hassle of sourcing separate chargers.
- Comparison shopping: In a crowded resale market, accessories can make your listing stand out from identical phones.
Trade-In vs Private Sale
Accessories also play a different role depending on where you sell.
- Trade-in programs: Usually don’t require accessories — just the device itself. You may even get the same quote whether or not you include the charger.
- Private sales (online marketplaces, direct buyers): Accessories can set you apart and help negotiate a higher price.
If you’re using a platform like Gizmogo to sell electronics for cash, accessories aren’t required, but including them can help secure a better offer.
How to Highlight Accessories in Your Listing
If you’re including extras, make sure they’re clear in your description and photos.
- Title example: “iPhone 13 Pro, 256GB – With Box, Charger, and Case”
- Description tips:
- List each accessory individually.
- Note if items are original (OEM) or aftermarket.
- Highlight condition (e.g., “Charger in excellent working condition”).
Photos showing the accessories alongside the phone also increase buyer trust.
Maximizing Value: Accessories + Timing
Accessories add resale appeal, but timing still matters most. For maximum value:
- Sell before new releases: Accessories can help your listing stand out when the market floods with older devices.
(See: Best Time of Year to Sell Your Old Phone.) - Holiday sales: Bundled devices with accessories are especially attractive for gift buyers.
- Tax refund season: Buyers may be willing to spend more on complete packages.
Final Thoughts
So, should you sell with or without accessories? The answer depends on your goals. If you want the fastest sale and strongest buyer interest, including accessories like chargers, original boxes, or cases can give you an edge. While they may not always add huge dollar amounts, they increase trust, speed up sales, and make your listing look more attractive.
If you’re going through a trade-in program, accessories usually don’t matter — but in private sales, they can make the difference between an average payout and a great one.
Ultimately, the best approach is to sell used electronics in the most appealing condition possible. Whether you include accessories or not, timing your sale and maintaining your device in like-new condition will help you get the most for your device every time.
For more tips, check out our complete guide: (Coming Soon: Maximizing the Value of Your Used Electronics).