If you’re looking to turn unused plastic or e-codes into cash, not all gift cards are created equal. Below is an expert, practical listicle of the most valuable cards to sell this year — ranked by resale demand, liquidity, and the typical highest gift card rate sellers can expect. I’ll also cover what affects resale value and answer the question which gift card has the highest rate in practical terms.
Quick note on terminology
When I mention list of gift card rate, I mean the usual resale percentage you’ll get when selling a card (for example, 80% of face value). Rates change by marketplace and season, but the relative ranking below reflects which cards usually fetch the most cash.
1. Visa / Mastercard Prepaid Cards (Branded)
Why: Universally accepted and highly liquid.
Pro tip: These often attract buyers who want near-cash purchase power.
Typical strength: High — often among the highest gift card rate options when sold in marketplaces that accept prepaid credit-forms.
2. Amazon
Why: Massive user base and endless product choices make Amazon codes highly desirable.
Pro tip: Amazon cards sell fast, especially in regions where Amazon is dominant.
Value: Consistently high resale percentage.
3. Apple / iTunes / App Store
Why: Huge buyer pool for digital content, apps, subscriptions.
Pro tip: App developers and users needing credit for in-app purchases drive demand.
Value: Strong resale performance — a common entry in any list of gift card rate comparisons.
4. Google Play
Why: Android users need Play credit for apps, games and media.
Pro tip: Smaller sellers can find steady buyers; international demand exists too.
Value: Very good — often close to Apple/iTunes levels depending on platform.
5. Steam (Valve)
Why: Gamers buy Steam Wallet codes for sales and indie titles.
Pro tip: Sell before major Steam sales when interest spikes.
Value: High among gaming cards; timing matters.
6. Xbox Live / Microsoft
Why: Used for games, subscriptions (Game Pass) and in-game purchases.
Pro tip: Bundles and subscriptions make these attractive to resellers and players.
Value: Solid — particularly in gaming-active regions.
7. PlayStation Store
Why: PlayStation ecosystem buyers want wallet credit and subscription renewal.
Pro tip: Gift seasons and console game launches boost demand.
Value: Competitive with other gaming cards.
8. Walmart
Why: Big-box flexibility — groceries, electronics, essentials.
Pro tip: Good local resale market; accepted widely in the US.
Value: Reliable and steady, slightly below Amazon usually.
9. Starbucks
Why: High frequency of small purchases; loyal user base.
Pro tip: Great for quick sales if you’re near urban buyers who use Starbucks daily.
Value: Moderate to high for small balance cards.
10. Sephora / Ulta / Specialty Retailers
Why: Popular with beauty shoppers — consistent demand for brand-specific credit.
Pro tip: These can command excellent rates when sold to niche buyers.
Value: Can be high, but depends on geographic demand and seasonal trends.
How to Maximize What You Get
- Choose the right marketplace. Some platforms specialize in electronics or gaming and will pay more for relevant cards.
- Sell at the right time. Holidays, game launches, and platform sales increase demand — and rates.
- Verify card condition. Unused, unopened physical cards or untouched digital codes sell faster and for more.
- Split large balances. Multiple smaller listings sometimes attract more buyers than a single large card.
- Watch fees and payout methods. Lower platform fees and instant withdrawal options preserve more of the resale value.
Which gift card has the highest rate?
Short answer: there’s no single winner every time — but Visa/Mastercard prepaid cards, Amazon, and major gaming platform cards frequently rank at the top for resale value. If you’re asking which gift card has the highest rate in a specific market, check that platform’s recent listings — but the list above covers the usual leaders.
Final takeaway
If you want a quick checklist: prioritize universal or high-demand ecosystems (Visa/Mastercard, Amazon, Apple, Google Play, Steam). Use timing and the right marketplace to boost returns, and consult a current list of gift card rate comparisons on top resale platforms before you list. Sell smart, and you’ll convert unused credit into cash with minimal hassle.