Do iPhones Really Hold Their Value?

The feeling of purchasing a new iPhone is unmatched. The sleek design, performance, and advanced features combine to create an exciting experience. While it’s easy to get swayed by the appeal of a shiny new iPhone, one question that naturally comes to mind is: What happens to old devices that you’re no longer using?

Selling used iPhones is a great way to recover a significant portion of the initial cost for your next purchase. It makes more sense than keeping it tucked away in a drawer, forgotten. What many users don’t realise is that holding onto an unused device can drain its value. However, the good news is that iPhones tend to retain their worth far better than most other brands, even after years of use.

So, with the prices of Apple phones skyrocketing every year, if you’re wondering, “Do iPhones hold their value well?”, the short answer is yes. In fact, the offer you may get might even surprise you. In this blog, we’ll discuss why iPhones retain their value better and walk you through how to get the best possible price for your device.

Like most gadgets, iPhones don’t escape depreciation. Still, they tend to lose value far more slowly than other alternative brands. The rate of decline is where iPhones stand apart.

Here are the reasons why iPhones hold their value better than others:

• Long-term Software Support: Apple supports all their iPhone series for a long time. You are guaranteed security-related software updates for up to 7-8 years. From a buyer’s perspective, this delivers good value for money since even an older iPhone will remain current and usable. This simplifies reselling it at a solid price later on.
• Strong Resale Demand: iPhones dominate the second-hand and refurbished market globally. High demand creates competition, which in turn protects their value.
• Brand Familiarity: Buyers feel comfortable purchasing used iPhones because Apple has built trust among users by delivering quality consistently. They know what they’re getting, which reduces hesitation and keeps prices steady.
• Ecosystem Loyalty: People already using Apple products prefer iPhones over other brands. This loyalty directly benefits sellers as buyers are willing to pay good prices.
• Premium-built Quality: What’s more, iPhones are designed to last, which shows when it’s time to resell. A well-maintained device looks solid even after years of rigorous use.

Many users also ask, “How quickly does iPhone trade-in value decrease over time?” Well, the drop is more predictable than you may expect. Understanding this timeline helps you decide when selling the device makes the most sense.

iPhones generally depreciate in the following manner:

• First Year: Around 20-30% value drop.
• 10 Weeks after New Series Launch: 44.3% of its original retail price on average.
• Second Year: A further 10–15%.
• Third Year and Beyond: Slower, incremental decreases every year.

This predictable pattern of depreciation is why iPhones are often considered a safer long-term purchase. New launches usually trigger a dip in resale prices as more devices hit the market. That being said, seasonal demand, especially around tax season and the end of the year, can temporarily raise prices. The major takeaway is that waiting indefinitely doesn’t help; selling strategically does.

Not all iPhones sell for the same price, even if they’re the same model. The phone’s condition, battery health, and present market conditions can significantly impact what buyers are willing to pay. Some factors that influence the final price include:

• Overall Condition: Scratches, dents, or cracks lower perceived value, whereas well-kept iPhones hold their value well and attract stronger offers.
• Battery Health: Buyers pay more attention to battery health these days. That’s because a healthier battery signals reliability and saves them from early replacement costs.
• Model and Release Year: Newer models sell for more, but older iPhones still hold their value well if they’re still supported by iOS updates.
• Storage Capacity: iPhones with higher storage space remain more desirable across the board.
• Colour and Finish: Neutral or popular colours often sell faster than niche options.
• Unlocked Status: An unlocked phone provides flexibility to buyers, which translates to better resale value.
• Accessories and Packaging: Including original boxes, cables, and receipts in the sale can help you get a more favourable offer.

Before selling, follow these tips to get a better quote for your iPhone:

• Sell before major launches to avoid sudden price dips
• Clean and reset your device properly
• Check battery health early so there are no surprises
• Include original accessories if possible
• Check warranty status, as it matters, even for older devices
• Remove carrier lock
• Log out of your Apple ID
• Choose the right selling method, based on your needs

By now, you’ve got your answer to the question: Do iPhones hold their value well? This should give you a confidence boost when selling your device. Furthermore, even if the iPhone can’t be resold, for whatever reason, its parts are still valuable.

The next step is knowing where to sell your device without the stress that often comes with private buyers. Selling an iPhone on your own can mean endless messages, price negotiations, and uncertainty about payment or data security. Choosing a professional service removes those hassles and gives you clarity from the start.

That’s where Mobile Guru makes the difference. Our process is simple, transparent, and secure. You know your phone’s worth upfront, won’t need to deal with multiple buyers, and there’s no back-and-forth over price. Everything is handled carefully, so you can sell confidently.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• Upfront pricing with no hidden deductions
• Strong reputation backed by genuine customer reviews
• Strict data security practices to protect your personal information
• Straight forward selling process
• Fast and reliable payments you can count on
• Ethical refurbishing and responsible recycling practices
• Local store based in Melbourne

An iPhone’s trade-in value does decrease with time. So, don’t let your old device lose its worth gathering dust. Instead, make a smart move by selling it to Mobile Guru in a secure manner. From instant quotes to fast payments and free postage, everything is managed by us, so you can focus on your next upgrade.

Visit our website to get a free quote for your device. You can also call us on 1300 362 017 or email us at hello@mobileguru.com.au for further enquiries. If you’re planning to upgrade, don’t forget to check our refurbished iPhones collection here. We make upgrading to the latest models affordable and hassle-free.