Which Cellphones Hold Their Resale the Longest in 2026?

Phone resale values matter more than ever—smartphones cost serious money, and knowing which models hold their value helps you make smarter buying decisions. The average smartphone loses approximately 40% of its value within the first year of ownership, though some models only drop around 15%. This difference can save you hundreds of dollars over time.

Phone resale values depend on specific factors like software update longevity and brand ecosystem strength. Software update longevity and established brand ecosystems play crucial roles in determining how well devices maintain their market value over time. Today’s purchase decision directly impacts future resale returns, sometimes by hundreds of dollars.

Key Takeaways

• iPhones Lead Resale: iPhone 15 and 16 Pro models retain over 70% of their value after one year, largely due to Apple’s 5+ years of software support.
• Android Support Gap Closing: Samsung and Google now offer seven-year update promises, significantly boosting the long-term resale value of newer Galaxy and Pixel models.
• Foldables Retain Value: Devices like the Galaxy Z Fold 6 hold 60-70% of their value because of market rarity and high demand for unique form factors.
• Timing is Critical: The best time to sell is 2–4 weeks before a new model launch to avoid the price drop that occurs immediately after tech events.
• Condition Matters: Maintaining battery health above 80% and keeping the original box/charger can add $100+ to the final sale price.

Here’s which models keep their worth the longest and what makes resale prices increase or decrease in today’s market.

Why iPhones hold their resale value best

Apple phones continue to lead the resale market in 2025, with measurably higher value retention than competing brands. The latest data shows that iPhone 15 and 16 Pro models keep over 70% of their original value after a full year of ownership.

The primary driver is Apple’s extended software support timeline for its devices. Apple gives you five or more years of iOS updates for each device. Most Android phones historically received two years of updates, though this is changing with newer models. This support disparity significantly influences buyer behavior in the secondary market, directly affecting used phone pricing.

The financial implications become particularly noteworthy when examining upgrade patterns. Almost half of all new iPhone buyers now pay for their upgrades by trading in or reselling their old phones. This represents a substantial increase from previous years as consumers recognize the strong value retention of Apple devices. This shift fundamentally alters the upgrade economics, effectively transforming used devices into down payments for new purchases.

Here’s how the iPhone 14 Pro compares to the Galaxy S23 after they’ve been on the market for 18 months. A recent third-party marketplace study shows the iPhone kept about 65% of its value while the Samsung model dropped to roughly 45%. This depreciation gap continues to expand over the device lifecycle, with the differential reaching 30+ percentage points by the 24-month mark.

Apple’s higher initial pricing takes on different significance when total cost of ownership includes resale value calculations.

Consider the total cost of ownership: a $1,200 iPhone that retains $800 in resale value after two years represents a net cost of $400. In contrast, a $700 Android device that depreciates to $250 results in a $450 loss. This calculation demonstrates how higher initial investments can yield lower overall costs when resale values are factored into the equation, fundamentally altering the value proposition of premium devices.

Battery degradation significantly impacts resale values, with devices showing reduced battery health experiencing steeper depreciation. iPhones with degraded batteries experience accelerated depreciation beyond typical wear-and-tear patterns. If you need to replace the battery, it costs about $89 when you go through Apple. And if you need expensive repairs that aren’t covered by AppleCare, those can really cut into what you’ll make when you resell the phone.

Android phones with strong resale value

While Android devices historically depreciate faster than iPhones, several 2025 models show significantly improved value retention. The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra exemplifies this trend, with its titanium construction contributing to stronger value retention. Google’s Pixel 9 Pro is another solid pick because of its software and camera reputation.

Samsung’s seven-year update promise really changes the game for Android users. This extended support narrows the historical gap between Android and iPhone value retention significantly. Extended update commitments increase buyer confidence in device longevity, directly supporting higher secondary market pricing. Seven-year software support extends practical device lifespan considerably, which translates to stronger resale demand as buyers recognize the extended usability window. This shift in thinking boosts demand in the used phone market.

The OnePlus 13 appeals to tech enthusiasts seeking flagship performance at mid-tier pricing. This dedicated user base maintains consistent demand in the secondary market, supporting stronger resale values even as newer models launch. Android’s customization capabilities attract a dedicated user base that actively seeks these devices in the secondary market, maintaining consistent demand even as new models launch. The ability to customize and modify your phone attracts a dedicated group of buyers.

Seasonal promotions introduce complexity into the depreciation equation. Early adopters purchasing at launch prices typically experience more rapid initial depreciation when promotional pricing begins. However, promotional pricing often coincides with model maturity, meaning discounted devices may already be approaching their replacement cycle. Purchase timing significantly impacts depreciation patterns. Early adopters face steeper initial value drops when promotional pricing begins, while delayed purchasers start with lower baseline values. If you wait for a better deal, you might save money upfront but miss the best time to resell later.

Why foldables keep higher resale value

Foldable phones typically retain 60% or more of their launch price after one year due to limited market availability and premium positioning. The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Pixel Fold 2, usually keep their value much better than most Android phones do. Limited manufacturer participation in the foldable segment creates supply constraints that support stronger secondary market pricing.

Market data confirms this pattern, with lightly used foldables consistently selling for 60% or more of original retail pricing after twelve months. When you compare that to standard phones that usually drop down to 40% in the same amount of time, you can see why this matters. The Galaxy Z Fold 5 usually keeps around 60-70% of its value by the end of the year – there just aren’t that many of them available, so prices usually stay higher.

Foldable devices demonstrate notably different depreciation curves compared to traditional smartphones, with slower initial value loss due to sustained market demand. Since there aren’t tons of these phones out there, the people who want them keep looking for them. So when you’re ready to upgrade to something new, you can get more of your money back.

However, durability concerns present challenges for foldable device resale. Potential buyers often express reservations about hinge longevity and folding screen vulnerability, factors that can impact secondary market pricing. Screen protector replacement costs can be substantial, and limited third-party repair support presents additional ownership challenges, with many service providers declining foldable device repairs.

You see the same pattern happen with specialty phones like the ASUS ROG Phone 8. Gaming enthusiasts maintain strong demand for these specialized devices in the secondary market, supporting above-average resale values. Even when most people have moved on to newer models, there’s still strong demand in those gaming circles.

Gaming phones appeal to people who like unique devices. This niche market prioritizes specialized gaming features over mainstream appeal, creating sustained demand independent of broader market trends. So your device ends up being worth quite a bit to the right group of buyers.

The value proposition of foldable devices must account for increased durability concerns and more demanding care requirements compared to traditional smartphones.

How does my location affect phone resale value?

Where you live can raise or lower a phone’s price for three main reasons:

• Local demand & supply: …
• Duties & taxes: …
• Network fit: …

Before you list, compare …

Regional markets demonstrate significant variations in phone resale values. Devices that maintain strong value in North American markets may depreciate rapidly in South Asian markets due to distinct local factors.

In India, the Google Pixel 9a commands premium pricing on platforms like Flipkart despite its mid-range positioning in global markets. Import duties and the fact that you can’t just get them through official channels create this artificial scarcity that keeps the prices up – so supply chains end up mattering more than how much companies spend on marketing. Conversely, devices like the Poco F6 outperform global flagships in secondary markets by aligning specifications and pricing with local buyer preferences.

Southeast Asia tends to follow similar patterns but you’ll see different winners there. The Samsung Galaxy A26 5G tops the resale charts in countries where Samsung has built up strong brand trust over many years. Its AMOLED display and performance make it a safe choice for buyers who are worried about ending up with a bad phone.

Additional complexity emerges when considering grey-market devices. Grey-market devices enter these regions at attractive price points but lack official warranties and region-appropriate firmware, making documentation verification critical for value protection. Initial cost savings often evaporate during resale as informed local buyers discount grey-market devices significantly, creating price premiums for properly documented units.

Network compatibility often proves more critical to resale value than headline specifications suggest. A phone that can’t connect to local networks will never keep its value, no matter how impressive its camera or processor might be.

Ways to Get the Best Resale Price

• Timing: List your phone 2–4 weeks before new model announcements.
• Battery Health: Aim to keep health above 80%; consider a replacement if it’s lower to boost sale price.
• Accessories: Include the original box and charger to prove the device was well-maintained.
• Carrier Status: Ensure the phone is “Unlocked” to double your potential buyer pool.
• Security: Perform a factory reset and sign out of all two-factor authentication accounts.

Physical condition significantly impacts offer values, with pristine devices commanding substantially higher prices than those showing wear. Visible cosmetic damage directly impacts resale pricing, with each imperfection serving as a potential negotiation point that reduces final sale values. Carrier-unlocked devices appeal to a broader buyer base, effectively doubling the potential market compared to carrier-locked alternatives. Locked phones only work for some people, while unlocked devices attract budget carrier users and international customers too.

Protective accessories like cases and screen protectors preserve device condition throughout ownership, maintaining higher resale values by preventing cosmetic damage that reduces buyer appeal. Minimizing cosmetic damage simplifies the selling process by reducing the need for extensive condition documentation.

Factory resets and two-factor authentication sign-outs are essential preparation steps. While straightforward, these security measures prevent activation complications that can complicate device transfers. Proper device preparation ensures smooth transactions and optimal pricing.

Battery replacement before sale can prove financially advantageous in certain scenarios. A $60 battery replacement can increase sale prices by $100 or more, as devices with battery health below 80% face significant buyer resistance and pricing penalties. Fresh batteries get you higher prices because buyers don’t want to worry about replacing the battery themselves anytime soon. The decision depends on current market values for specific models and conditions.

Trade your old phone for cash

Analysis of phone resale values reveals clear market leaders, though the smartphone market continues evolving in ways that reshape depreciation patterns. The data shows us some interesting patterns. While iPhones continue to hold their value better than other phones in the resale market, top-tier Android models are now closing that gap more than ever before. The fact that Samsung and Google are now giving their phones longer software support means that these phones will probably hold their value better when you’re ready to upgrade.

Individual ownership patterns and device care practices significantly influence long-term resale values. When you choose to sell your phone matters. How well you’ve taken care of it and even which storage size you picked when you bought it – these factors play bigger roles than lots of people realize.

Daily device care and timely software updates preserve resale value in ways that many owners underestimate.

When we look ahead to 2026, the new models that come out might really shake up how fast phones lose their value, especially as phone makers continue to bring out new AI features and better designs. These changes usually happen faster than most people expect.

To get the most value from the phone you have now, at ecoATM we make it simple to turn your old phone into cash right away. With more than 6,000 kiosks across the country, you can check what your phone is worth right there and get cash the same day – or have it sent to you online – without dealing with any of the usual hassles. Just find a location near you and see what your phone is worth now while helping the environment too.

Frequently asked questions

How much value does an iPhone keep after one year?

New-generation iPhones usually hold 60%–75% of their original price after 12 months. Pro models and higher-capacity configurations often sit toward the top of that range, while condition, battery health, and carrier unlock status can push pricing up or down.

How do I check what my used iPhone is worth right now?

Start by confirming the exact model, storage size, and carrier status (unlocked vs. locked), then factor in condition and battery health. For a live quote, the phone can be scanned at an ecoATM kiosk or valued through ecoATM online, which provides a current offer based on the device details and condition.

What is the 20/80 battery rule, and does it help resale value?

The 20/80 rule means charging a phone when it drops to around 20% and unplugging near 80% to reduce battery wear over time. While it doesn’t guarantee a specific battery-health percentage, maintaining battery health above 80% typically supports stronger resale value because buyers discount devices with more noticeable degradation.

When is the best time to sell my iPhone for the most cash?

Sell roughly 2–4 weeks before Apple unveils new iPhones. Values often drop quickly once the next model is announced, as buyers shift demand to the latest release and resale markets adjust pricing across older generations.