A $75 gamble on used Apple devices turns into $700 profit

A tech enthusiast recently purchased a bag of 20 used Apple devices for just $75. The collection included various iPhones, iPods, and iPads, some of which turned out to be more valuable than expected.

The buyer met the seller in a parking lot to complete the deal. The seller had advertised all devices as unlocked and functional, but the buyer could not confirm this at the time.

The bag contained an iPhone XS, iPhone 11, iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 8, iPhone 7, an iPhone 7 Plus, an iPhone 4S, an iPod 5th-generation, an iPod Touch 2nd-generation, and three iPads. While most devices worked, some needed repairs before resale. Two iPads and the iPhone 7 Plus were locked, rendering them useless.

The unlocked iPhone XS alone sold for $100. Classic iPods and the iPhone 4S, still running iOS 5, also attracted interest from collectors. The total estimated value of the entire collection reached around $800.

After repairs and resales, the buyer made a profit of over $700 from the transaction.

The purchase proved far more lucrative than anticipated. While a few devices were locked or faulty, the majority sold well, turning a small investment into a significant return. The buyer's decision to take a chance on the collection paid off.