Gift cards have become a staple in modern gifting and personal finance for birthdays, holidays, or rewards, and they offer a simple yet thoughtful way to give someone the freedom to choose their favorite product or service.
Did you know that gift cards are more than convenient presents? They can also be exchanged for cash or resold, making them valuable assets in the secondary market.
Understanding which gift cards hold the highest resale rates can be a game-changer. Why? Because not all gift cards are created equal. While some retain significant value, others might sell for far less than their face value, leaving you with a less profitable exchange.
This article goes into the world of gift card reselling. We’ll identify the top-performing gift cards, explain the factors influencing their rates, and share insider tips to ensure you get the best value possible.
Top Gift Cards with the Highest Rates
Let’s examine some of the most sought-after gift cards and explain why they dominate the secondary market.
1. Amazon Gift Card
Amazon gift cards top the list for several reasons. As the largest online marketplace globally, Amazon offers virtually everything—electronics, clothing, groceries, and even subscriptions. This versatility makes Amazon gift cards highly desirable for personal use and resale.
Why Amazon Gift Cards Are the Most Valuable
- Universal Appeal: Amazon has an expansive product catalog, making the gift cards useful for anyone.
- Global Usage: Amazon cards are available and redeemable in multiple countries and are a favorite worldwide.
- Ease of Exchange: The demand for Amazon gift cards ensures they sell quickly, often at competitive rates.
Current Average Resale Rate for Amazon Gift Cards
The resale rate for Amazon gift cards is exceptionally high, typically ranging from 85% to 95% of the card’s face value. For example, a $100 Amazon gift card could fetch $85 to $95 when resold, making it one of the most reliable choices for maximizing value.
2. Walmart Gift Card
Thanks to its massive retail footprint and competitive pricing, Walmart gift cards come in a close second. With a presence in nearly every town and an extensive product range, Walmart cards are in steady demand in the resale market.
Walmart’s Popularity and Demand in the Market
- Widely Accessible: Walmart stores are ubiquitous in the U.S., and their online presence adds to their reach.
- Affordable Pricing: Consumers flock to Walmart for its budget-friendly shopping, ensuring steady demand for gift cards.
Resale and Exchange Rate Comparison
Walmart gift cards typically resell for 80% to 90% of their value. While slightly lower than Amazon’s, this rate is still favorable, making Walmart cards a solid resale choice.
For instance, a $50 Walmart card could sell for $40 to $45, depending on the platform and demand.
3. Steam Gift Card
Steam gift cards are unique in that they cater specifically to the gaming community. With millions of gamers worldwide, Steam remains the leading platform for PC games, software, and gaming-related content.
Importance of Steam Gift Cards in the Gaming Community
- Dedicated Audience: Steam’s popularity among gamers ensures consistent demand.
- Flexibility: These cards are perfect for purchasing games, expansions, in-game items, and more.
Resale Value and Why It’s a Top Choice
Steam gift cards typically resell at 75% to 85% of their face value. While the resale rate is slightly lower than that of Amazon or Walmart, the niche audience makes them a reliable option for gaming enthusiasts. For example, a $25 Steam card might sell for $18 to $21 on the secondary market.
4. Google Play Gift Card
Google Play gift cards are a go-to for anyone who enjoys Android apps, games, movies, or subscriptions. Their broad applicability within the Android ecosystem ensures they maintain high resale value.
The popularity of Google Play for App Purchases and Subscriptions
- Wide Usage: From app purchases to premium subscriptions like YouTube Premium or Google One, these cards are versatile.
- Global Reach: Google Play services are available in most countries, making gift cards highly accessible.
Current Rate Trends
Google Play gift cards resell for 80% to 90% of their face value, depending on the denomination and demand. For instance, a $30 gift card might sell for $24 to $27, offering a respectable return for resellers.
5. iTunes Gift Card
iTunes gift cards are another top contender, thanks to Apple’s strong global presence and the extensive ecosystem of music, apps, and media tied to the iTunes store.
Apple Ecosystem and Its Global Value
- Premium Appeal: Apple products and services are synonymous with quality, increasing demand for iTunes gift cards.
- Versatility: These cards can be used for app purchases, music, movies, and even iCloud subscriptions.
iTunes Card Resale Rates and Popularity
iTunes gift cards typically resell at 80% to 90% of their value, similar to Google Play. For example, a $50 iTunes card could fetch $40 to $45. The high demand for Apple services ensures steady resale rates, making them a reliable choice for buyers and sellers.
Factors That Impact Gift Card Rates
Several factors influence their resale value when it comes to selling or exchanging gift cards.
1. Brand Reputation and Consumer Demand
The brand’s reputation behind the gift card is significant in its resale value. Because of their popularity and consumer confidence, gift cards from well-established and trusted brands generally have higher resale rates.
Why Brand Reputation Matters
- Trustworthiness: Brands like Amazon, Walmart, and Apple are trusted by millions worldwide, making their gift cards more desirable.
- Product Range: Brands that offer a wide variety of products or services tend to have more versatile gift cards, increasing their demand.
- Loyal Customer Base: Established brands often have a loyal following, which keeps their gift cards in high demand, even in the resale market.
Impact on Resale Rates
Gift cards from top brands typically retain 80% to 95% of their face value, as they are more likely to sell quickly at competitive prices.
2. Gift Card Usability and Flexibility
The more flexible and versatile a gift card is, the higher its resale rate. Consumers are more likely to buy gift cards that can be used for various purposes, whether in-store or online.
What Makes a Gift Card Flexible?
- Wide Redemption Options: Cards that can be used for multiple categories (e.g., groceries, electronics, or subscriptions) have broader appeal.
- No Expiry Date: Cards without expiration dates are more attractive, as buyers don’t feel pressured to use them immediately.
- Cross-Platform Usability: Gift cards that can be redeemed in physical stores and online have a distinct advantage.
Example of High Flexibility
Amazon gift cards, for instance, can be used for virtually anything available on the platform, making them a top choice for resale.
3. Geographical Location and Availability
Geographical factors significantly impact the demand and resale value of gift cards. The value of a gift card can vary depending on where you are and the local demand for specific brands or services.
Regional Influences
- Local Popularity: Certain brands have a more substantial presence in specific regions. For example, Walmart cards are more valuable in areas where the store has a significant footprint.
- International Usability: Gift cards that can be redeemed globally (like Amazon or Google Play) are in higher demand and have better resale rates.
How Availability Affects Rates
If a gift card brand is scarce or unavailable in a particular region, its value might decrease due to limited utility. Conversely, resale rates tend to soar in areas where the brand is in high demand.
How to Check Your Gift Card Rates
One of the most efficient tools for this is the SnappyExchange Live Rate Calculator. This tool provides real-time rates and ensures you make informed decisions. Here’s how to quickly and easily check your gift card rates on SnappyExchange.
1. Visit the SnappyExchange Website
The first step is to visit the official SnappyExchange website. Its clean and user-friendly interface makes navigation straightforward for beginners. Look for the ‘Rates’ section on the homepage, which prominently displays access to the live rate tool, or CLICK HERE.
2. Select Your Gift Card Type
Once on the Live Rate Calculator, you’ll see a drop-down menu listing various gift card types. Choose the specific card you own. For example:
- If you have a $100 iTunes Gift Card, select it from the menu.
- SnappyExchange supports multiple brands, so your card is listed as Amazon, Walmart, Google Play, or another.
3. Enter the Gift Card Details
After selecting the card type, input its face value. For instance:
- If your card is worth $100, enter “100” in the required field.
The Live Rate Calculator instantly fetches the exchange rate and converts the card value into Nigerian naira. This ensures you see real-time market rates, updated frequently to reflect current trends.
4. View Your Gift Card’s Value
Within moments, the calculated value of your gift card will be displayed. For example:
- A $100 iTunes Gift Card might show a value of ₦65,000, depending on the current market rate.
How to Sell Your Gift Card for High Rate
Ready to turn your unwanted gift cards into cash? SnappyExchange makes the process simple and fast. Follow these easy steps to sell your gift cards and get paid quickly.
Step 1: Create an Account
Before selling your gift cards, you must create an account on SnappyExchange. This allows you to manage your transactions and track your sales securely.
Registration is quick and easy. You just need to provide basic information like your name, email, and password. Once registered, you’ll receive a confirmation email to verify your account.
Step 2: Select the “Sell Gift Card” Option
After logging in, head to the “Sell Gift Card” section on the homepage. This is where you’ll start the selling process.
Step 3: Select the Gift Card Type
Next, choose the specific type of gift card you’re selling. SnappyExchange accepts a wide range of cards, including:
- Amazon
- iTunes/Apple
- Walmart
- Visa and many more.
Make sure to select the correct card to avoid any delays in processing.
Step 4: Enter Gift Card Details
Now it’s time to enter the details of your gift card.
Input details such as the country of the card’s location, the amount, and the quantity you want to sell. Ensure that the balance you enter matches the amount on the card.
Step 5: Upload a Picture of the Card
You’ll be asked to upload a clear gift card image for added security. This helps verify the card’s authenticity.
Ensure the image is in a standard format, such as JPEG or PNG. The picture should also be clear, with the card number and other important information visible.
Step 6: Wait for Verification
Once you submit your card details, SnappyExchange will verify the information. This process is typically fast, taking only a few minutes. You’ll receive a notification once the card has been approved.
Step 7: Get Paid
After verifying your gift card, you’ll receive payment. SnappyExchange offers fast and secure payout options.
With quick processing times, you can receive your funds within 2 minutes or, at most, 5 minutes.
Tips for Getting the Best Rate for Your Gift Card
Below are some actionable tips to help you maximize your returns.
1. Identify the Most Valuable Gift Cards
Not all gift cards hold the same value in the resale market. Some brands consistently fetch higher rates due to their popularity, usability, and demand. To get the best rate, identify the most valuable gift cards.
How to Identify Top-Value Cards
- Choose Wide-Used Brands: Gift cards from companies like Amazon, Walmart, or Google Play are in constant demand and often retain 80–95% of their value.
- Focus on Versatility: Cards that can be used for various products or services tend to have higher resale rates.
2. Sell Gift Cards During Peak Seasons
Timing is everything in the gift card resale market. During certain times of the year, the demand for gift cards spikes, leading to higher resale rates.
Best Times to Sell Gift Cards
- Holiday Seasons: Christmas, Thanksgiving, and New Year’s are prime times when buyers are looking for gift cards to use as presents.
- Back-to-School Season: Cards for retailers like Walmart and Amazon see increased demand for school supplies and electronics.
- Festive Sales Events: Events like Black Friday and Cyber Monday are great times to sell gift cards, as shoppers often purchase discounted items using gift cards.
3. Compare Rates Across Platforms
The resale rate for your gift card can vary significantly depending on where you sell it. Comparing rates across multiple platforms ensures you get the best value for your card.
Popular Platforms to Check
- SnappyExchange: Offers real-time rate updates and competitive prices for various gift cards.
- Peer-to-Peer Trading: Selling directly to individuals often yields better rates, but it requires caution to avoid scams.
4. Ensure Gift Cards Are in Good Condition
Your gift card’s physical and digital condition can directly affect its resale value. Buyers want assurance that the card is valid and redeemable without issues.
Steps to Maintain Your Card’s Value
- Keep It Unused: Avoid partially using the balance on the card, as buyers prefer full-value cards.
- Preserve the Physical Card: Physical gift cards should be clean, undamaged, and have readable codes.
- Verify the Balance: Check and confirm the balance before listing the card for sale. Providing proof of the balance can build trust with buyers.
- Secure Digital Cards: If you sell an e-gift card, ensure the codes are correct and unused.
Read Also: Google Play Gift Card Issues and How to Resolve Them
Conclusion
Gift cards are more than just convenient presents—they’re also valuable assets when traded wisely.
To recap, Amazon, Walmart, Steam, Google Play, and iTunes gift cards are among the top-performing options in the resale market. Their widespread demand, versatility, and brand reputation ensure that they consistently retain higher percentages of their face value.
Timing your sales during peak seasons, maintaining the condition of your cards, and comparing rates across platforms are crucial steps to ensure you get the best deal.
Additionally, reliable platforms like SnappyExchange can simplify the entire process. Tools like their Live Rate Calculator provide access to accurate, real-time values, ensuring transparency and fair pricing.
The platform’s secure trading environment and user-friendly interface make it a top choice for novice and experienced sellers.