Apple’s grip on the global smartphone market remains undeniable. In the high-end segment, the iPhone continues to command a significant lead in market share. While Samsung’s flagships are increasingly popular, Apple maintains its position at the top. Notably, Apple’s advantage isn't just visible in sales figures—it is even more apparent in the resale value of its devices.

Market reports from 2025 paint a clear picture: Apple controls the lion’s share of the global premium smartphone market. Approximately 60% of phones priced above $400 are iPhones. In the ultra-premium segment (over $1,000), that figure climbs to nearly 80%.

If market share reflects consumption, resale value reveals a device's staying power. As of late December 2025, the average used iPhone traded for approximately $485, whereas a used Samsung device averaged just $130. This means Apple devices retain nearly four times the value of their Samsung counterparts—a gap that continues to widen year over year.

Part of this disparity stems from Samsung’s strategy. The company frequently offers aggressive discounts and maintains a vast portfolio spanning multiple price points, including budget models. This inevitably drags down the average value of Samsung devices on the secondary market. However, even within the premium segment, the depreciation gap remains stark.

In South Korea, for instance, the 256GB iPhone 17 Pro saw its price drop by just 8.8% months after launch. In contrast, Samsung’s high-end flagship from the same period recorded a 35.6% decline. In other words, Samsung’s premium phones are depreciating nearly four times faster than the iPhone.

Despite this, Samsung remains a vital player as the world’s largest Android manufacturer. Its flagships are consistently praised for their hardware, display technology, cameras, and overall experience. Yet, for many consumers, the rapid depreciation of these devices remains a critical factor when deciding where to put their money.