The priciest Galaxy S21 model is now worth half its price, the most expensive iPhone 12 variant has only lost 31 percent of its value
Galaxy S21 series trade-in value depreciation
iPhone 12 series trade-in value depreciation
Overall, Apple’s newest phones are holding on to their value better than the Galaxy S21. This is doubly annoying for Samsung Galaxy S21 owners because the range costs more than the iPhone 12 series on a like-for-like basis.
The most expensive iPhone 12 model, the 512GB iPhone 12 Pro Max that costs $1,399, has lost around 31 percent of its value since its launch in October last year. The priciest Galaxy S21 model, the 512GB S21 Ultra that goes for $1,599, has depreciated by 53.3 percent since launch.
Trade-in depreciation is usually higher for Android phones
Smartphone upgrade cycle is lengthening
Still, why do Android phones depreciate at a faster rate than iPhones? SellCell believes it may have something to do with brand loyalty. Nearly a third of Samsung users may consider switching to Apple, says the site, but the majority of iPhone users are unlikely to leave the Apple ecosystem. The higher demand for iPhones helps them retain their value better than Android handsets.
On the bright side, if you have been eyeing the Galaxy S21 series, a used model sounds like a good idea.
Also, keep in mind that millions of smartphones are sold every year via various channels and the number of transactions on SellCell may not be high enough to reflect a wider trend.
