When to sell your phone for the best price
The best time to resell your phone is as soon as you stop using it — ideally before the new generation launches (September for iPhones, early in the year for Galaxy S). A smartphone loses on average 5–10% of its value per quarter; keeping it « just in case » in a drawer costs you money.
The depreciation curve
Value loss is fastest in the first year, then slows. In practice, the longer you wait, the less your buyback returns — and the drop is rarely offset by the use you get after replacing the device.
The effect of new releases
With each new generation, previous models take a clear price drop. For an iPhone, selling in summer — before the September announcement — avoids that step. For a Galaxy S, aim for year-end, before the first-quarter new series.
Models that hold value better
Premium models (Pro lines, large capacities) depreciate more slowly than entry-level ones. An iPhone Pro keeps a better buyback value than a standard model of the same age.
And a very old phone?
Even an old or broken device keeps some value: for parts or materials. Rather than let it sit, get an estimate — even a grade D « parts value » beats a drawer, and recycling avoids waste.
Frequently asked questions
How much does an iPhone lose per year?
As an order of magnitude, an iPhone often loses 20–30% of its value in the first year, then less afterwards. Pro models usually hold better than standard ones.
Sell before or after the new release?
Before. Announcing a new generation lowers the price of existing models; selling a few weeks earlier avoids that markdown.
Does my old phone still have value?
Often yes, even broken: it can be bought back at parts value. A free estimate will tell you in two minutes.
When to sell your phone for the best price
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