When you buy a smartphone, laptop, or tablet, you’re usually asked a question: How much storage do you want? At first, the cheapest model may seem tempting. But when it’s time to resell, that decision can make a big difference in how much cash you get back.
In fact, storage capacity is one of the biggest factors buyers consider when shopping for used devices. A phone with more gigabytes often commands a higher resale price — but not always in a straight line. Let’s explore why storage size matters, how it affects resale trends across iPhone and Android models, and whether paying more upfront really increases your return when it’s time to sell.
Why Buyers Care About Storage
Apps, photos, and videos take up more space than ever. With 4K video recording, high-resolution photos, and larger apps, a 64GB phone can fill up quickly. Buyers know this, which is why they’re often willing to pay more for devices with higher storage tiers.
- Practicality: More storage means fewer headaches managing files.
- Future-proofing: A 256GB phone may last longer than a 128GB model before feeling outdated.
- Resale advantage: Higher capacity devices attract more buyers and face less competition.
For sellers, this means that the right storage tier can help you increase resale value electronics and stand out in a crowded market.
How Much More is Storage Worth?
Not all storage increases translate directly into resale gains. The difference depends on brand, device type, and buyer demand.
- iPhones: Buyers often pay $75–$150 more for a higher storage tier (e.g., 256GB vs 128GB).
- Android phones: The jump is smaller, often around $50–$100 depending on the brand.
- Older devices: Storage matters less on phones older than three years, since demand is primarily for budget-friendly options.
Example:
- iPhone 13 Pro 128GB (used): ~$450
- iPhone 13 Pro 256GB (used): ~$550–$575
That’s a $100–$125 difference, which can offset the extra cost you paid when buying new.
Diminishing Returns on Ultra-High Storage
While more storage generally means a higher resale price, there’s a tipping point. Buyers usually don’t need the absolute maximum storage unless they’re professionals or collectors.
- 512GB–1TB phones: These models do resell for more, but not always proportional to the new price difference.
- Buyer psychology: Most secondhand shoppers look for mid-range options — 128GB or 256GB — which balance price and usability.
Takeaway: If you want the best resale balance, avoid both extremes (lowest and highest storage). Mid-tier storage almost always performs best on the resale market.
Storage and Flagship Models
Flagship models already hold value longer than budget phones, and storage amplifies that effect.
- Flagships with 256GB or more often remain in demand two or three years later.
- Budget phones with low storage lose value faster since buyers don’t want to deal with limitations.
iPhone Storage Resale Trends
Apple devices are the best example of how storage drives resale.
- Base models (64GB/128GB): Often resell quickly but at lower prices.
- Mid-tier models (256GB): Best balance between price and demand — usually sell for the highest percentage of original value.
- High-tier models (512GB/1TB): Limited audience; can resell for a premium but harder to move quickly.
Because iPhones receive software support for 5–6 years, storage is a major selling point. Buyers who plan to keep an iPhone for several years prefer models with higher storage.
Android Storage Resale Trends
Android resale depends heavily on brand.
- Samsung Galaxy S & Note series: Higher storage options fetch good resale, though not as dramatic as iPhones.
- Google Pixel: Mid-tier storage tends to be the sweet spot for resale value.
- Other Android brands: Often see less difference in resale value between storage sizes, especially on budget and mid-range models.
This means if you’re buying Android with resale in mind, sticking with flagship lines and mid-level storage is your safest bet.
Laptops and Tablets
Storage doesn’t just affect smartphones — it also impacts resale value for laptops and tablets.
- MacBooks and iPads: Higher storage models consistently resell for more, especially among creative professionals.
- Windows laptops: Extra storage adds some value, but RAM and processor upgrades often matter more.
Tablets: Storage upgrades can make a big difference since many don’t support expandable memory.
How to Choose Storage with Resale in Mind
If you’re buying a new phone or laptop today but planning to resell later, here’s a simple guide:
1. Avoid base models with minimal storage. They’re cheapest upfront but usually suffer from the steepest depreciation.
2. Choose mid-tier storage. For most devices, this offers the best resale ratio.
3. Only buy ultra-high storage if you truly need it. While it can resell for more, the buyer pool is smaller.
When to Sell for Maximum Storage Value
Timing still plays a huge role in resale, even with storage upgrades.
- Before new model launches: Buyers want last year’s flagship at a discount.
(See: Best Time of Year to Sell Your Old Phone.) - Holiday season: Demand spikes for high-capacity phones as gifts.
Tax refund season: Great for selling premium models with extra storage, since buyers have more disposable cash.
Tips to Boost Resale Value Regardless of Storage
Even if your device doesn’t have the highest storage, you can still maximize its value:
1. Keep the device in like-new condition. Use a case, screen protector, and clean regularly.
(Coming Soon: How to Keep Your Phone in Like New Condition.)
2. Include accessories and original packaging. Buyers pay more when they get the full set. (See: Should You Sell With or Without Accessories?.)
3. Highlight storage in your listing. Always mention capacity upfront to attract serious buyers.
4. Bundle with other devices. Selling multiple electronics together can increase your total payout. (Coming Soon: Selling Multiple Devices? How to Bundle for More Cash.)
Final Thoughts
So, does storage size affect resale value? Absolutely. Phones, laptops, and tablets with larger storage options almost always sell for more, attract more buyers, and hold value longer. But the smartest move is usually aiming for the mid-tier — enough capacity to meet demand, without overspending upfront.
When it’s time to sell used electronics, highlight your device’s storage capacity in listings, time your sale strategically, and choose a trusted resale platform like Gizmogo. That way, you’ll get the most for your device and make the most of your original investment.
For more tips, visit our guide: (Coming Soon: Maximizing the Value of Your Used Electronics.)