Best Phones to Resell: 5 Powerful Picks That Hold Value in 2025
Focus Keyword: Best phones to resell
Meta Description: Looking for the best phones to resell in 2025? Discover 5 powerful picks that retain value after a year, perfect for maximizing your resale profits.
Table of Contents
Why Resale Value Matters
Whether you’re a tech-savvy individual or run a resale operation, choosing the best phones to resell ensures you make the most of your investment. Many top-tier smartphones retain significant value, especially those from brands like Apple and Samsung.
Why resale value matters:
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High resale value = lower upgrade costs.
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Ideal for flipping devices or trading in.
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Beneficial for businesses offering refurbished phones, like Nanotech Mobile.
According to Statista, Apple iPhones retain more value than any other brand globally—making them ideal for resale.
How We Chose the Best Phones to Resell
We evaluated the best phones to resell based on:
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Resale demand: Active buyer interest after one year.
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Brand trust and updates: Devices with long-term software support.
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Durability and appearance: Phones that age gracefully.
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Market resale data: Platforms like Swappa, eBay, and BackMarket provided reliable pricing history.
Top 5 Best Phones to Resell in 2025
1. iPhone 15 Pro Max
Why it’s a top resale performer:
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Premium titanium frame resists scratches and dents.
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iOS support for 5+ years.
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Ultra-popular globally.
Retention Rate: ~78% after one year
Resale Price Range: $900–$1,000 CAD
📦 Tip: Keep the original box and charger to increase your resale price on platforms like Swappa.
2. Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
Why it’s worth reselling:
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Stunning AMOLED display and versatile camera.
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Built-in S Pen adds uniqueness.
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Well-supported by Samsung’s One UI updates.
Retention Rate: ~70%
Resale Tip: Unlocking the device can improve value by 10–15%.
Check out the resale trends on BackMarket’s Galaxy listings.
3. Google Pixel 8 Pro
What makes it special for resale:
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Award-winning AI-enhanced photography.
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Pure Android experience with 7-year update promise.
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Greener option with sustainable materials.
Retention Rate: ~68%
Buyers Love: Its clean interface and rapid security updates.
Compare with Google’s trade-in calculator to see how much it’s worth.
4. OnePlus 12
Why it holds its own:
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Competitive specs at a reasonable price.
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Excellent battery and super-fast charging.
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Attractive to budget-conscious users in 2025.
Retention Rate: ~64%
Bonus Tip: Listing it on eBay can often fetch international buyers willing to pay more.
5. iPhone 14
Why it still performs well in resale:
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iPhone buyers still actively search for 1–2 generation old models.
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Easy to repair and refurbish.
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Software support continues until at least 2028.
Retention Rate: ~72%
This phone is great for resale businesses and trade-ins. Learn how to properly prep it for resale with our data erasure and refurbishing guide.
Tips to Maximize Your Phone’s Resale Value
Want the best ROI from the best phones to resell? Follow these expert tips:
✅ Keep your phone in a case and use a screen protector
✅ Avoid unauthorized repairs — use certified technicians
✅ Factory reset and wipe data securely before selling
✅ Bundle with charger and accessories
✅ Keep the battery health high by avoiding overcharging
Want professional help wiping your phone safely? Our secure data erasure service guarantees your information stays safe.
Where to Resell for the Best Return
Here’s where to list your phones for maximum profit:
| Platform | Best For | Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Swappa | Tech-savvy private buyers | Low |
| eBay | International reach | Medium |
| BackMarket | Refurbished resellers | Moderate |
| Facebook Marketplace | Local buyers | None |
| Nanotech Mobile Trade-In | Hassle-free resale | Free estimates |
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best phones to resell is about more than brand—it’s about value retention, demand, and smart handling. By understanding which phones maintain their worth, you can save money and even build a profitable side hustle or business.
🔁 Whether you want to sell your device or buy certified pre-owned models, Nanotech Mobile is here to help you every step of the way.
Explore more helpful content on our blog or contact us for a trade-in quote today!