What are the most resellable Smartphones? Can you guess?
In the ever-evolving world of smartphones, certain brands consistently stand out for their exceptional resale value. These brands have established a reputation for producing high-quality devices that remain in high demand among consumers, even years after their initial release. If you’re seeking a smartphone that promises a strong return on investment upon resale, consider opting for one from these esteemed brands.
The smartphone resale market has grown tremendously over the past few years. With phone prices rising and upgrade cycles shortening, more people are choosing to sell their used devices to fund the purchase of new ones. Some smartphone brands hold their value better than others on the resale market. Here :
Top 10 most resellable smartphone brands in 2023 based on current resale value data
1. Apple iPhone
Apple tops the list of most resellable smartphone brands. Sell iPhones typically retain over 50% of their value after one year and over 30% after two years. The premium branding, build quality, loyal fan base, and long software support contribute to the high resale value. The latest iPhone 14 and iPhone 15 series has good resale prices in 2023.
2. Samsung Galaxy
Samsung Galaxy smartphones are the closest Android competitors to iPhones in terms of resale value. The flagship S series and foldable phones like the Z Flip and Z Fold retain their value better than other Android devices. Great brand recognition, high-end hardware, and cameras help Samsung phones retain over 40% of value after a year. Sell Galaxy S23 series phones and S24, with Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, 200MP camera, and One UI improvements, have the potential to be the most sought after by buyers and sellers.
3. Google Pixel
Google’s Pixel phones are rising fast as resellable Android phones due to their premium software experience and excellent cameras. With guaranteed Android version updates for 3 years, Pixel devices provide a clean software experience comparable to iPhones. The Pixel 7 series in particular with the Google Tensor G2 chip and improved cameras can retain up to 40% in a year.
4. OnePlus
OnePlus emerged as a leading premium Android brand with phones that provide top-notch hardware at reasonable prices. Phones like the OnePlus 10 Pro and OnePlus 10T retain their value well due to the high-end processors, ample RAM and storage, fast charging, and clean OxygenOS. OnePlus phones can retain over 35% value after a year.
5. Asus
Asus made a mark in the gaming and creator smartphone space with its ROG and Zenfone series. Phones like ROG Phone 6 with the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1, AMOLED display with 165Hz refresh rate, and large batteries have great resale value for gamers. The Zenfone 9 with compact form factor and flagship specs also fares well with over 30% resale value retention.
6. Motorola
Motorola’s mid-range to flagship phones like the Moto G Stylus, Edge 30 Pro, and Razr foldable have good resale value. Moto phones offer great hardware and software experience for the price. Phones like the Edge 30 Fusion with Snapdragon 888+ and 144Hz display can retain over 30% value in a year. The Razr foldable also enjoys resale demand.
7. Sony Xperia
Sony’s Xperia lineup focuses on premium build, displays, and optics. Phones like the 1 IV and Xperia 5 IV tout cameras developed with learnings from Sony’s Alpha camera division. With excellent media consumption experiences, Xperia phones retain over 30% value. The unique tall 21:9 aspect ratio displays contribute to the resale demand among Sony fans.
8. Nokia
The revived Nokia smartphone brand under HMD Global relies on its legacy. Phones like the Nokia X30 5G, Nokia G60 5G, and Nokia XR20 offer appealing value propositions with clean software and solid build quality. While not matching top brands, Nokias retain about 25% value after a year, appealing to budget-conscious buyers.
9. Xiaomi
China’s Xiaomi is popular for its affordable Redmi and Poco phones. But the high-end 12S Ultra with Leica-tuned cameras and the unique 12 Pro with a 1-inch camera sensor have strong resale value. Mi phones offer great hardware for the price. With over 20% resale value retention, Xiaomi remains competitive in the budget resale market.
10. Nothing
A recent startup by OnePlus co-founder Carl Pei, Nothing attracted attention with its transparent Phone 1. Powered by a Snapdragon 778G+ chip and 50MP cameras, the Phone 1 offers above-average mid-range specs and a unique design. As the company expands in 2023, the Phone 1 enjoys a resale demand of over 20% among tech enthusiasts.
Comparison Table – The Most Resellable Smartphone
| Brand | Resale Value After 1 Year | Notable Phones with Strong Resale Value |
|---|---|---|
| Apple | Over 50% | iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 14 Pro Max, iPhone 15 Pro |
| Samsung | Over 40% | Galaxy S23 Ultra, Z Fold 4, Z Flip 4, S24 |
| Up to 40% | Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel 7 | |
| OnePlus | Over 35% | OnePlus 10 Pro, OnePlus 10T |
| Asus | Over 30% | ROG Phone 6, Zenfone 9 |
| Motorola | Over 30% | Moto Edge 30 Pro, Razr 5G |
| Sony | Over 30% | Xperia 1 IV, Xperia 5 IV |
| Nokia | About 25% | Nokia X30 5G, Nokia G60 5G |
| Xiaomi | Over 20% | 12S Ultra, Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G |
| Nothing | Over 20% | Phone 1 |
Key Factors that Determine Resale Value
Several factors affect how well smartphones retain their resale value:
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- Brand reputation: Established premium brands like Apple and Samsung enjoy higher resale value due to brand recognition and trust.
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- Build quality: Metal/glass bodies tend to fare better than plastic builds in resale value over time.
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- Specs and hardware: Phones with high-end processors, ample RAM/storage, great displays, and battery life retain value.
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- Cameras: Flagship camera systems with high megapixel counts and advanced lenses maintain appeal.
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- Software: Guaranteed Android OS updates for 3+ years is a big plus. iPhone’s iOS provides 5+ years of support.
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- Condition: Phones in pristine condition sell for much higher prices compared to scratched/damaged devices.
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- Accessories: Complete sets with chargers, cables, and cases gain more value. edition cases raise value.
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- Demand and supply: Rare, out-of-production, or special edition phones enjoy higher resale fever.
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- Release cycle: Phones depreciate fastest in the first 6 months after launch. Prices stabilize later.
Tips for Maximizing Resale Value
Here are some tips to get the maximum resale price for your used smartphone:
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- Maintain it well: Use cases and screen protectors to prevent scratches and damages. These drastically reduce resale potential.
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- Reset to factory settings: Performing a factory reset clears out all your personal data and starts the phone fresh. This raises reseller confidence.
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- Keep the box and accessories: Having the original box, manuals, chargers and cables raises the resale value. edition cases also help.
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- Time it right: Phones depreciate fastest in the first 6-12 months after release. Wait for at least a year before selling to stabilize value.
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- Know the market rate: Research resale prices and set expectations accordingly. Check both online and offline markets for the best deal.
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- Prepare documentation: Keep your purchase invoice and IMEI information handy. This helps establish ownership and device details. Free IMEI Checker Online for Phone
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- Trade it in: Many smartphone brands and carriers offer trade-in programs for instant discounts on new phone purchases.
The smartphone resale market promises good value for both buyers and sellers. Sticking to premium brands like Apple, Samsung, Google Pixel and OnePlus ensures you get the highest resale price for your used device. Maintaining your phone well and timing it right further helps maximize its resale value. With a bit of research and care, you can fund a significant part of your next smartphone purchase by reselling your current one.
Frequently Asked Questions About Most Resellable Smartphones
Q1. Which smartphone brand has the highest resale value in 2023?
A1. Apple iPhones continue to enjoy the highest resale value, retaining over 50% of their original price after one year. The premium branding, build quality and long software support make iPhones the most resellable smartphones.
Q2. How much value do Android phones retain after one year?
A2. The top Android brands like Samsung, Google Pixel and OnePlus can retain 35-45% of their original value after 1 year. Other brands range from 20-30% resale value based on factors like branding, specs and condition.
Q3. Should I sell my used phone locally or on online marketplaces?
A3. Gimogo is available as a local buyer and online buyer of your phone.
Q4. Does selling phones with accessories improve resale value?
A4. Yes, selling your phone with original accessories like chargers, cables, boxes and manuals raises its resale value. edition cases also fetch a premium on used devices.
Q5. How often should I upgrade my smartphone for optimal resale value?
A5. Most experts recommend upgrading your smartphone every 2-3 years for the best resale value. Phones depreciate fastest in the first 6-12 months after launch. Waiting longer than 3 years significantly lowers resale potential.