Over the years, numerous market reports have consistently shown that iPhones retain their value better than Samsung’s Galaxy smartphones. While both brands offer premium devices, Apple's phones typically sell at higher prices and experience less depreciation in the secondary market compared to their Samsung counterparts.
A recent study confirms that this trend remains firmly in Apple’s favor. In the first half of 2025, iPhones outpaced Samsung devices in both developed and emerging markets, reinforcing Apple's dominance in the used smartphone segment.
iPhones Maintain Strong Resale Premium Over Samsung
According to a new report from Counterpoint Research, Apple recorded a 7% year-over-year increase in used phone sales during the first six months of 2025. In developed markets, that growth was even more notable—up 12% year-over-year. In contrast, Samsung's global used phone sales rose by just 4% during the same period.
What makes Apple’s performance even more remarkable is that it achieved this growth despite the broader used smartphone market growing only 3% year-over-year. Models like the iPhone 13 and 14 remain in high demand, while Samsung continues to struggle with both supply and declining resale value for its flagship Galaxy devices.
Apple’s Trade-In Ecosystem Gives It an Edge
One key factor behind Apple’s continued success in the used phone market is its robust trade-in ecosystem, particularly in the United States. The report notes that one in three iPhone users either trade in or sell their current device when purchasing a new one.
This strong trade-in culture helps maintain a steady supply of used iPhones in the market—something Samsung has yet to match, despite offering some of the most generous trade-in values for Galaxy phones through its online store.
As a result, Apple remains the leader in both the new and used premium smartphone segments, while Samsung continues to face challenges in capturing similar long-term value from its devices.