Market Analysis
iPhone vs Samsung: Which Holds Resale Value Better in 2026?
A detailed comparison of iPhone and Samsung Galaxy resale values. Discover which brand depreciates faster, which models hold their value best, and what this means when you sell your phone.
When it comes time to sell your phone, one of the biggest factors in how much you'll get back is the brand. Apple iPhones and Samsung Galaxy phones dominate the UK smartphone market, but they behave very differently when it comes to resale value. At Cash My Tech, we process thousands of trade-ins every month, giving us unique insight into how these two brands compare. Here's what the data shows.
The Big Picture: iPhone Wins on Resale Value
Let's start with the headline: iPhones consistently retain more of their original value than Samsung Galaxy phones. On average, an iPhone retains roughly 15-20% more of its launch price after one year compared to an equivalent Samsung Galaxy flagship. After two years, that gap widens to 20-25%.
Average Value Retention After 12 Months
- iPhone (flagship): 55-65% of original retail price
- Samsung Galaxy S series: 40-50% of original retail price
- Google Pixel (for reference): 35-45% of original retail price
Why iPhones Hold Their Value Better
1. Controlled Supply and Pricing
Apple rarely discounts iPhones through official channels, which keeps the perceived value high. Samsung, by contrast, frequently runs promotions and trade-in deals that effectively lower the street price of Galaxy phones within weeks of launch. When new devices are discounted, second-hand values follow suit.
2. Longer Software Support
Apple provides iOS updates for 5-6 years, sometimes longer. This extended software support means older iPhones remain functional and secure for longer, keeping demand — and prices — elevated. Samsung has improved significantly (now offering 7 years of updates for flagship models), but historically shorter support cycles have conditioned the market to value older Samsung phones less.
3. Brand Perception and Demand
In the UK, iPhones carry strong brand cachet that translates directly to resale demand. There's simply more demand for second-hand iPhones, which supports higher prices. The refurbished iPhone market is particularly robust, with grade A refurbished iPhones selling quickly at premium prices.
4. Fewer Models, More Focus
Apple releases 4 iPhone models per year. Samsung releases dozens of Galaxy models across multiple price tiers (A series, S series, Z series). This fragmentation dilutes demand for any individual Samsung model, whereas each iPhone model benefits from concentrated buyer interest.
Model-by-Model Comparison
Flagship vs Flagship (After 12 Months)
- iPhone 16 Pro Max (£1,199 RRP): Resale value approximately £620-£680 (52-57%)
- Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra (£1,299 RRP): Resale value approximately £520-£580 (40-45%)
- Difference: iPhone retains roughly £100-£120 more value
Mid-Range Flagship (After 12 Months)
- iPhone 16 (£799 RRP): Resale value approximately £440-£480 (55-60%)
- Samsung Galaxy S25 (£799 RRP): Resale value approximately £340-£380 (43-48%)
- Difference: iPhone retains roughly £80-£120 more value
When Samsung Closes the Gap
It's not all bad news for Samsung owners. There are scenarios where the gap narrows:
- Samsung Ultra models hold value better than standard Galaxy S models, thanks to their premium positioning and unique features like the S Pen.
- Samsung trade-in promotions often offer more than market value when upgrading within the Samsung ecosystem. If you're staying with Samsung, their trade-in deals can offset the lower resale value.
- Longer hold periods (3+ years): After three years, both brands have depreciated significantly and the gap narrows to just 8-12%.
What This Means for You
If You Upgrade Every Year
iPhone is the clear winner. The higher resale value means your effective cost of ownership is significantly lower. An iPhone that retains 60% vs a Samsung that retains 45% saves you over £100 per upgrade cycle on an £800 phone.
If You Upgrade Every 2-3 Years
iPhone still has the advantage, but Samsung's improved software support and durable build quality make Galaxy phones a competitive option. The total cost difference over three years is roughly £150-£200 in iPhone's favour.
If You Keep Your Phone 4+ Years
At this point, both brands have depreciated heavily and resale value differences are minimal. Choose based on features, ecosystem preference, and personal taste rather than resale value.
Tips to Maximise Resale Value (Both Brands)
- Use a case and screen protector from day one — condition is the second biggest factor after model and age.
- Keep your phone unlocked — network-locked phones fetch 10-15% less.
- Store the original box and accessories — adds 5-10% to resale value.
- Sell before the next model launches — timing matters more than most people realise.
- Get multiple quotes — prices vary between buyback services. Cash My Tech offers competitive, transparent pricing for both iPhone and Samsung devices.
Conclusion
The data is clear: iPhones hold their value better than Samsung Galaxy phones in the UK market. However, Samsung has been closing the gap with longer software support and stronger flagship positioning. Whichever brand you own, the key to maximising your return is selling at the right time and keeping your device in great condition. When you're ready to sell, Cash My Tech makes it easy with instant quotes for both iPhone and Samsung Galaxy devices.