When Is the Best Time to Sell Your Phone?

Phone recycling prices aren't fixed — they shift with product launches, demand cycles, and market conditions. Knowing when prices are at their strongest can make a meaningful difference to what you receive. Here's what you need to know.

The single biggest factor affecting recycling prices is proximity to a new model launch. When Apple or Samsung announces a successor, demand for the existing model softens and recyclers adjust their prices — sometimes within hours of an announcement. The best general rule is to sell within three to six months of upgrading, before the market has fully adjusted to your model's replacement. Prices for older models can recover slightly a few months after a new generation launches, as refurbished buyers settle on the best value tier — but in the long run, waiting almost always means accepting less.

Tips

1 · Sell before Apple's September event
Apple announces new iPhones in September each year. iPhone recycling prices typically dip at or shortly after the announcement. Selling two to four weeks before tends to yield the best return.
2 · Watch for Samsung's January/February Unpacked
Samsung launches Galaxy S-series flagships in early Q1. Selling your existing Galaxy S handset before the new generation is announced usually preserves more value.
3 · Don't leave your phone in a drawer
The longer a phone sits unused after you've upgraded, the more its recycling value has likely declined. If you've already upgraded, comparing quotes now is better than waiting.
4 · Check prices at the point you're ready to sell
Recycler quotes change daily. A price you checked last week may be different today. Always get a fresh comparison on sellmobilephones.com when you're actually ready to commit.

Frequently asked questions

When do iPhone prices drop?

iPhone prices typically soften in September when Apple announces its new lineup. Prices may recover slightly a few months after launch as the refurbished market settles.

When do Samsung Galaxy prices drop?

Galaxy S-series prices typically dip around Samsung's Galaxy Unpacked event, which usually takes place in January or February each year.

Does it matter how long I wait to sell after upgrading?

Yes. The sooner you sell after upgrading, the more likely you are to capture a stronger price. Waiting six months or more typically results in a lower return.

Are recycling prices ever higher at certain times of year?

Pre-Christmas demand (October/November) can see slightly elevated interest in refurbished phones as gift-buying increases. However, the impact of product launches is generally much more significant than seasonal fluctuations.

How often do recycling prices change?

sellmobilephones.com refreshes prices from our recycler partners throughout the day. Recycler prices can and do change daily — always compare at the point you're ready to sell rather than relying on a quote you obtained weeks ago.