The value of a used iPhone 4 varies drastically based on its condition and the platform used for the sale: Selling your old iPhone in 4 easy steps - ThePhoneLab

There is a niche market for the iPhone 4 as a "distraction-free" device. Because it cannot run modern, algorithm-heavy apps like TikTok or Instagram, it is often purchased for young children as a "starter" music player or by adults wanting a dedicated offline device for photography or local music. Market Value & Where to Sell

Companies like Gazelle (1.2.4), Mazuma Mobile (1.2.6), and uSell (1.2.2) buy old models to harvest internal components—such as gold and copper—for refurbishing other devices or for sustainable disposal.

For many, the iPhone 4 is a "design object" rather than a phone. Collectors often seek units in "mint" or "factory-sealed" condition, with some listings for pristine units reaching into the thousands of dollars. Buyers on eBay (1.3.2) specifically look for devices running their original iOS versions (like iOS 4 or 5) that haven't been updated.

While the iPhone 4 is technically "obsolete" by modern software standards, it maintains a surprisingly active secondary market. Buyers today fall into three primary categories: nostalgic collectors, specialist recyclers, and enthusiasts looking for low-cost, distraction-free devices. The Three Main Buyer Profiles