If you were hoping to upgrade to the Pixel Watch 3 by trading in an older model, you might be disappointed to find that trade-in values have significantly decreased. Initially, Google offered generous trade-in credits for the Pixel Watch 3, with values reaching up to $120 for the original Pixel Watch and $240 for the Pixel Watch 2.
However, these values have sharply dropped recently, and the trade-in incentives are no longer as attractive as they were at launch.
The Pixel Watch 3, which is considered Google’s best smartwatch to date, represents a significant upgrade for those using the first-generation model. Despite the promising initial trade-in values, Google Store’s trade-in values have seen a dramatic decline. Currently, the original Pixel Watch’s trade-in value has plummeted from over $120 to just $35, while the Pixel Watch 2 now only offers a $120 credit towards a new Pixel Watch 3.
Trade-in values for other smartwatches have also decreased. For example, various Apple Watch models have reduced trade-in values, with the Apple Watch Ultra 2 still holding the highest value at $350, but other models like the Series 8 and Series 9 offer much lower credits. Samsung’s Galaxy Watch models and Fitbit smartwatches also have lower trade-in values, with the maximum for the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic at $115 and Fitbit Versa 4 at $30.
These reduced trade-in values apply regardless of whether you choose the 41mm or 45mm variant of the Pixel Watch 3. Historically, Google boosts trade-in values for new product launches and pre-orders, but such opportunities are rare and generally short-lived, as seen with the Pixel 9 series. The best trade-in values are typically available around the launch of a new device.
Other retailers are not offering better trade-in deals either. At Best Buy, the trade-in value for the first-generation Pixel Watch is only $20, and the Pixel Watch 2 fetches $65. Amazon has stopped accepting trade-ins altogether. Therefore, if you’re looking to trade in your old smartwatch for the Pixel Watch 3, you might need to consider other options or hold onto your device until values improve.
