A reader recently alerted us to a discrepancy in Google’s device trade-in values on Google Fi versus the Google Store. After taking a peek ourselves, we’re left wondering, what the heck is going on here, Google?
The example the reader provided was for the new Pixel 5a 5G. They were looking to trade in a Galaxy S20+, with Google Fi offering them a credit of $290, which seems relatively low for such a new device. They then checked the Google Store, finding that Google would offer them $580. That’s a huge, massive difference, so much so that the Google Store’s offer would cover the cost of the new device so long as you can cover the initial $449 purchase and wait for your refund.
I checked this myself today and found the same. When buying a Pixel 5a 5G (or any other device) from Google Fi, the trade-in values of devices are seemingly always different from what the Google Store will give you, even when you’re buying the same device. To me, a consumer, this makes no sense when you consider Google and Google Fi are ultimately the same people. Technically separate, yes, but still the same company.
Google Store vs. Google Fi
Kellen’s first thought was, “Never do a trade-in with Google Fi,” but after looking at different examples, Google Fi isn’t always the worst deal. For example, if you want to trade in a Pixel 4a 5G, Google Fi will offer you $200, while the Google Store offers $150.
The moral of the story is, if you are on Google Fi, be sure to check both Fi and the Google Store to ensure you’re getting the best value for your trade-in device. You don’t want to leave potentially hundreds of dollars on the table when it comes to buying your next phone.
We’re watching you, Google.
Cheers David!
Trade in value this morning (8/20) on the Galaxy S20+ 5G at the Google store has dropped from $540 to $290 matching the Fi offer. C’mon Google. I was ready to order but not with that trade in value.
Does anyone realize how stupid it is to only offer $150 for the 4a5g when it is nearly identical to the $450 5a? That is far too low of a trade in value IMO.
The market dictates price. They (The third party) are paying you wholesale not retail.
I’ve been using Swappa for years. Consistently more money for selling devices compared to trade ins.
I’ll keep my launch day Pixel 2 XL as my Backup Phone after I get my Pixel 6 Pro. I want to have a Backup Phone and a Backup Unactivated SIM Card in my Go Bag/Oh Shiiit Bag. If your phone gets lost or stolen or destroyed at 2am on a Sunday morning during a drunken night out it’s nice to know that you can be back up and running again almost immediately. Always be prepared for the unexpected. Redundancy. Backup the Backups.
Which backup sim do you roll with?
AT&T Prepaid for Primary and Backup SIM. $30/Month for 5GB LTE+Rollover+Unlimited Slower Data. I only have one active plan tho. I just bought two SIM Cards for $5 Each at an AT&T Corporate Store and threw one Unactivated SIM Card into my bag. The Backup SIM Card can be activated at any time. I buy my Pixels Unlocked direct from Google.
https://www.att.com/prepaid/
I think it’s related to the offers they are running to buy those phones. They’re only selling the S20+ for $400, which is $800 off and cheaper than the P5a
Verizon trade ins suck as well. Google, to create value, should offer a lot more on their own devices. If a year old they should offer 75%. That would create value. Something mist android phones don’t hold well over time. Trading in my S21 Ultra for the 6 Pro. Looks like it’ll be the Google store. Lol
Google really needs to upgrade their trade-in values, especially if they want compete with Apple’s and Samsung’s new offerings.
Google Fi has turned into a terrible provider.
I’m still waiting for the Pixel 5 to be eligible for trade-in. Samsung didn’t have it listed for the Z Fold 3, nor Fi for anything else.
Samsung offered me me 200 for an iphone 6s for trade in. that is kind of crazy
Samsung has great trade in deals, even for old devices. A friend of mine traded in a couple months ago an S8+ with a cracked screen, and got like $250 or so.
Anytime I’ve done a trade-in I’m pretty confident they don’t even check the phone. Crack screen won’t power up it doesn’t matter.
Why is a Galaxy S20+ worth $580 vs. $540 for a Galaxy S20+ 5G. Wasn’t every S20+ sold in the U.S. a 5G phone?
sundar too bizzy counting his billions to care…what a giant joke! #firesundar
128-gig P4XL is up to $172 through the store trade-in. It was $125 a few weeks ago. I’m thinking I’ll keep mine and wait for one of those “Buy a Pixel 6 Pro and get a Nest Home Hub” deals they’ll likely offer around Christmas time.
I checked yesterday….wanted to trade a 3 month old pixel 4a for the new 5a, they offered $130 for a $350 phone.
Unfortunately, it’s not based on when you bought it but instead when it was released.
Almost. It’s based on the value to them. Usually, but not always, the more recent releases have higher value.
Correct, which is what I was alluding to in my comment.