If you're buying a phone with the intention of selling it later, the brand you choose matters a lot. iPhones and Android flagships depreciate at very different rates — here's what the actual data shows.
1-Year Depreciation Comparison
| Phone (Launch Price) | After 1 Year | % Retained |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone 16 Pro Max ($1,199) | ~$750 | 63% |
| iPhone 15 Pro Max ($1,199) | ~$520 | 43% |
| Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra ($1,299) | ~$720 | 55% |
| Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra ($1,299) | ~$540 | 42% |
| Google Pixel 9 Pro ($999) | ~$380 | 38% |
| OnePlus 12 ($799) | ~$200 | 25% |
Why iPhones Hold Value Better
- Longer software support — Apple supports iPhones for 6-7 years. Android flagships typically get 4-5 years. An older iPhone still gets security updates; an old Android doesn't.
- Consistent demand — The iPhone ecosystem (iMessage, AirDrop, FaceTime) keeps resale demand high because buyers want to stay in the Apple ecosystem.
- Fewer models — Apple releases 4 models per year. Samsung releases dozens. Less supply competition means higher prices for any individual model.
- Brand recognition — Non-technical buyers know and trust the iPhone brand. Less education required to sell one.
Best Android for Resale Value
Among Android phones, Samsung Galaxy S and Z Fold/Flip series hold value the best — typically 10-15% better than other Android brands. Google Pixels hold moderate value. Budget Android brands (Motorola, OnePlus, TCL) depreciate rapidly — often losing 50%+ of value in the first year.
💡 If resale value matters to you: buy iPhone. If you prefer Android, stick to Samsung Ultra or Fold/Flip models — they're the only Androids with meaningful resale value.
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