Google has launched its Pixel 11 lineup, with prices starting at $899 for the base model and rising to $1,900 for the Pixel 11 Pro Fold, but the company is offering unusually generous trade-in values that could significantly offset the cost for buyers upgrading from an older phone. This matters because trade-in rates at rivals such as Apple, Amazon and Best Buy are often far less competitive, meaning shoppers could be leaving hundreds of dollars on the table by not checking Google's own programme first.

For example, a 128GB Pixel 9 Pro XL that cost $1,099 in 2024 fetches only up to $255 with Apple, $310 with Amazon or $300 at Best Buy, whereas Google offers substantially more for the same device. Google's trade-in scheme accepts devices as old as the original Pixel ($100), Samsung Galaxy S10 ($30) and iPhone 6s Plus ($30), with newer models commanding much higher sums, such as $600 for a Pixel 10 Pro, $700 for a Galaxy S26 Ultra and $550 for an iPhone 17. The process is completed via the Google Store at checkout, with shipping costs covered, though it is still worth comparing rivals, since Best Buy and Amazon offer bundled gift cards or discounts that may suit shoppers who already favour those retailers.