Depreciation and Residual Value
Depreciation is the value a phone loses while you own it; residual value is what remains when you sell or trade it in. This section helps you estimate both without pretending that a future price can be guaranteed.
Depreciation is the value a phone loses while you own it; residual value is what remains when you sell or trade it in. This section helps you estimate both without pretending that a future price can be guaranteed.
Use the right guide
| Task | Guide |
|---|---|
| Understand the mechanism | How Phone Depreciation Works |
| Identify resilient characteristics | Phones That Hold Their Value Best |
| Spot rapid-loss risks | Phones That Lose Value Fastest |
| Estimate a current phone | How to Calculate Resale Value |
Depreciation is not a fixed percentage
Brand, storage, support life, condition, repair history, demand and the timing of a replacement launch can all matter. A percentage copied from another model is a scenario, not evidence.
Use a conservative net figure
For ownership calculations, deduct selling fees, postage, packaging and likely condition deductions. A high asking price that has not resulted in a sale is not residual value.
Related guides
Sources and editorial method
Information checked 26 July 2026. The comparisons in this guide are editorial methods, not current market averages or guaranteed valuations. Recheck seller, platform and provider terms before acting.
