When it comes to selling used electronics, timing can make the difference between a quick sale and a higher payout. If you’ve ever asked yourself, “What’s the best time to sell my phone?” you’re not alone. Phones depreciate quickly, sometimes losing as much as 30% of their value within the first year of release. That means knowing when to sell can help you get the most for your device before its resale value drops.
In this guide, we’ll explore seasonal phone resale patterns, how product launch cycles affect resale prices, and why back-to-school or holiday seasons can be the perfect opportunity to cash in.
Why Timing Matters for Phone Resale Value
Phones aren’t just tools—they’re part of a fast-moving tech cycle. Every few months, manufacturers release updated models, software upgrades, or new features that make older devices feel outdated. As soon as a new flagship is announced, resale markets are flooded with last year’s model, driving down prices.
By understanding these cycles, you can sell your phone before the market shifts and increase resale value by as much as 20%.
Key Times of Year to Sell Your Old Phone
1. Right Before Major Phone Launches
The most predictable time for phone resale value drops is right after a flagship launch. For example, Apple typically announces new iPhones in September. As soon as that event happens, older iPhone models see an immediate decline in value.
- Best strategy: Sell your old iPhone in August or early September, before the announcement.
- Android owners: Samsung usually releases its Galaxy S-series early in the year (January–March). Selling your older Galaxy model in December or early January maximizes value.
Why this works: Demand is still high for your model, and buyers who don’t want to pay full retail for a new phone look for gently used options instead.
2. Holiday Season (November–December)
The holiday season is one of the strongest times to sell electronics online. Shoppers are actively looking for deals, and many prefer gently used phones as gifts.
- Black Friday and Cyber Monday: Demand peaks as buyers hunt for discounts.
- December gifting season: Phones bundled with accessories often sell faster.
Tip: If you plan to upgrade during the holidays, list your old device before shopping season officially kicks in to avoid being undercut by other sellers.
3. Back-to-School Season (July–August)
Students heading back to school or college often need affordable smartphones. Parents also shop for reliable devices at lower prices during this time.
- High demand: Budget-friendly and mid-tier phones often sell quicker.
Perfect timing for Android sellers: Especially good for last year’s models when buyers want functionality without premium costs.
4. Tax Refund Season (February–April)
Another overlooked window is early spring when many consumers receive tax refunds. Extra cash in hand often translates to bigger purchases, including used smartphones.
- Best for higher-value devices: Flagship phones in excellent condition tend to move quickly.
Good for trade-ins: Some sellers use refunds to buy newer models while offloading old ones.
5. Any Time Before Your Upgrade
One of the most common mistakes is waiting until after you’ve upgraded to sell your old phone. By then, its value may have already dropped.
- Avoid overlap: As soon as you know a new phone is coming, prep your old device for sale.
Sell before demand drops: Pre-upgrade sales usually fetch 10–15% more than waiting until after launch day.
How Depreciation Affects Your Timing
Phones start losing value the moment they’re purchased. On average:
- First year: Phones lose about 30% of their value.
- Second year: Losses rise to around 50%.
- Three years and older: Many devices lose more than 70% of original retail price.
That means waiting even six months can have a noticeable impact. Selling your phone early, particularly before a launch or seasonal shift, helps you sell electronics for cash while buyers still see strong value.
Extra Tips to Maximize Resale Value
1. Keep Your Phone in ‘Like New’ Condition
- Use a case and screen protector.
- Get small repairs done (like screen or battery replacement).
- Clean and reset before listing.
2. (Coming Soon: How to Keep Your Phone in Like New Condition).
3. Sell With Accessories if Possible
- Including the original box, charger, or earbuds can add perceived value.
- Even generic accessories make buyers feel they’re getting more for their money.
4. (Coming Soon: Should You Sell With or Without Accessories?).
5. Bundle Devices for Extra Cash
- Selling multiple phones or pairing a phone with a tablet/charger can command higher offers.
6. (See: Selling Multiple Devices? How to Bundle for More Cash).
7. Choose the Right Marketplace
- Trade-in programs are convenient but usually pay less.
- Selling online through trusted platforms like Gizmogo helps you get the most for your device quickly and securely.
Final Thoughts
The best time to sell your old phone isn’t just about convenience—it’s about strategy. Selling before new models launch, during the holiday rush, or ahead of back-to-school season can significantly increase your payout. Remember that depreciation is constant, so the sooner you act, the better.
By planning your sale around seasonal trends, maintaining your device in excellent condition, and choosing the best place to sell used electronics, you can maximize your phone’s resale value and put more cash in your pocket.
For more tips, check out our guide: (Coming Soon: Maximizing the Value of Your Used Electronics).