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2026 Price Trends by Model: 60–90 Day Sell Plan for iPhone 18, S26 & Pixel 11

Colorful cutout of iPhone with dollar sign and iPhone 16 on screen

Key Takeaways

  • 2026 is the year of narrow sell windows—rising component costs push new phone prices up while creating short resale peaks for your current device.

  • Galaxy S26 owners: act now. Late February is your sweet spot; expect 20–30% drops post-launch.

  • iPhone 18 timing is late summer to early fall—sell your iPhone 17 before the keynote and preorders begin.

  • Pixel 11 sellers should move mid-summer—Pixels depreciate 30–40% faster after launch, so don’t wait.

  • Midrange phones stay stable—models like Pixel 10a and iPhone 17e hold value longer thanks to reused chips and lower cost pressure.

Why 2026 Looks Different (and How That Helps You)

If you’ve been watching price trends by model this year, you can feel it: 2026 is not a normal year. Prices are moving. Launch dates are stacking. And resale values are swinging—fast.

Two forces are steering 2026 smartphone price trends: cost pressure and launch timing. Together, they shape resale in ways that reward smart sellers.

Component costs are climbing. RAM and advanced chips cost more this year. Brands are signaling price hikes in 2026, especially on flagships. That’s pushing buyers to shop smarter and owners to sell earlier, before new launches cut used prices.

AI will set tiers. Expect feature gating and “Pro/Ultra” add-ons as makers hold back some AI perks for pricier phones. That keeps top models high but pressures older ones to drop faster.

US promo surges matter. Launch events here often light up trade-in promos and carrier credits. Values can pop during those windows, then cool fast.

Ignore Europe-only noise. US demand for AI and cameras remains strong into the first half of 2026. So don’t expect a sudden floor drop here tied to Europe reports.

“The result? A year with rising sticker prices on new flagships, steadier midrange options, and sharper resale dips right after each big launch. That’s why timing your trade-in is everything.”

Model-by-Model Heatmap: What to Expect and When to Sell

Let’s break down iPhone 18, Galaxy S26, and Pixel 11 price trends by model—and the best time to move your current device.

If you own a Galaxy S25 or S24, the clock is ticking.

What’s moving prices: RAM costs are biting Samsung’s Galaxy S line first in 2026. With S26 buzz building for a late February window, base prices could lift off last year’s S25 $799 entry and $1,299 Ultra if Samsung passes costs through rather than absorbs them. Some watchers expect a 10–20% bump unless it’s offset elsewhere.

Why it hits resale: Historically, Galaxy predecessors tend to drop fast right after the new model hits. Owners who list or lock quotes pre-reveal capture more demand from buyers who want last year’s model for less.

Your 60–90 day sell window: Aim for the pre-announcement window through launch week. That means January through late February is prime time, with launch promos often boosting trade-in payouts in the US.

Expected dip: Many sellers see a drop in the 20–30% range post-launch as the spotlight leaves the S25 and moves to S26. Moving early helps avoid that slide—especially if RAM-linked hikes make more shoppers hunt for 2025 models at better prices.

Quick take:

  • Best time to sell Galaxy S25/S24: Right now through launch week.
  • Watch for: US carrier and OEM trade-in promos tied to the S26 event.
  • Why hurry: Component costs and a tight launch window can flip demand overnight.

Apple’s fall cycle is steady, but 2026 adds chip cost pressure.

What’s moving prices: Pro models are expected to run pricier 2nm chips, which can push up costs on top of the iPhone 17 price structure. Apple could juggle the lineup to keep an entry model steady, but Pro/Ultra could climb to support the silicon.

Retention patterns: Apple’s top trims, like Pro Max or Ultra, tend to hold 60–70% value six months after launch. That’s the power of the ecosystem and steady demand. If you’re holding an iPhone 17, the best time to sell is before iPhone 18 hype peaks—during the summer event lead-up—so buyers still pay a premium for “almost new.”

Your 60–90 day sell window: Target Q3 2026—late summer into early fall—right before Apple’s keynote. This is the classic US sweet spot for getting top resale on current-gen iPhones.

Why it hits resale: Once Apple unveils Apple Intelligence updates and camera bumps for iPhone 18, buyers pivot. Prices on iPhone 17 series can soften fast once preorders open and trade-in promos refocus on the new shiny.

Quick take:

  • Best time to sell iPhone 2026: Late summer into early fall (Q3).
  • Watch for: Event invites, keynote date rumors, and pre-order week promos.
  • Why hurry: 2nm chip costs raise buzz and may lift new sticker prices—good for your resale if you move before the reveal.

Pixels love AI headlines. But resale? It slides faster than rivals.

What’s moving prices: Pixel 11 will lean into AI again, with feature tiering by model (expect a Pro XL near or above $999 to justify premium specs). Much of the value push is software-led, which is why older Pixels can feel “left behind” sooner even if the hardware is still fresh.

Depreciation pattern: Pixels often drop faster—think 30–40% yearly—so waiting until after launch hurts. The smarter move is to sell Pixel 10 or 9a before Google shows off its next-gen Tensor and AI suite.

Your 60–90 day sell window: Aim for mid-2026, before the late-summer/early-fall reveal window. Moving in July or early August can net you more before the spotlight shifts to new AI features.

Quick take:

  • Best time to sell Pixel 2026: Mid-summer, pre-announcement.
  • Watch for: Early AI teasers, Tensor G5/G6 chatter, and carrier bundles warming up.
  • Why hurry: Pixel resale slides faster after launch than iPhone or Galaxy.

Midrange “Value Anchors” in 2026: Calm Seas, Solid Holds

Midrange phones are the quiet heroes this year. Why? They use older chips and fewer bleeding-edge parts. That helps prices stay stable even while flagships rise.

Pixel 10a value trends: Likely to hold at $499 by using the Tensor G4 lineage (like Pixel 9a). That keeps it attractive and steady in resale.

iPhone 17e price stability: Expect Apple to reuse the A19 and skip big camera jumps to keep the entry model approachable. That steadies resale and draws buyers who don’t chase Pro prices.

A midrange exception: OnePlus 15R looks set to rise to $699 (from $599) thanks to Snapdragon 8 Gen 5. Not all “mid” stays mid.

Resale sweet spot: These models tend to hold 50–60% value longer. If you’re selling a 2025 midranger like Pixel 9a or iPhone 16e, the best time is right after big flagship announcements—when deal-hunters flood the used market.

What this means for US sellers: Flagship hikes push some buyers to year-old models, lifting demand for “last year’s flagship” and strong midrange phones. But after launch day? Used flagship prices dip fast as excitement flips to preorders. Midrange models stay your safe harbor if you’re not upgrading soon.

Why Do Sell Windows Matter So Much This Year?

Here’s the pattern we see again and again in 2026:

Before a launch, buyers want last year’s phones at a better price. Demand is hot. Quotes rise.

During launch week, US carrier and OEM promos kick in. Trade-ins get boosts. Values spike.

After launch, attention moves. Used prices soften 10–30% as inventory fills and promos refocus on new devices.

“So if you time it right, you ride the tide up. Wait too long, and you chase it down.”

Your 60–90 Day GizmoGrind Playbook

This is your simple, step-by-step plan to catch the best quotes and quick payouts in the US.

1) Start the clock by model

  • Galaxy S26 launch date window: Now through late February is peak time. If you own S25 or S24, this is your sell window.
  • Pixel 11 window: Aim mid-summer before teasers land heavy. Move Pixel 10 and 9a early.
  • iPhone 18 window: Target late summer to early fall for iPhone 17 series. Sell as hype builds, not after preorders open.

2) Track quotes weekly
Watch for event invites and teaser drops. A small rumor can spark a short lift in quotes. When you see a strong number, lock it. In 2026, even a 5–10% swing is real money.

3) Prep your device to grade higher
Clean the screen. Remove your case and wipe the edges. Small scuffs can drop a grade. Backup, sign out, and reset. Unpair iCloud/Google/Samsung accounts. Then factory reset. Check for water damage. GizmoGrind cannot accept water-damaged, iCloud-locked, blacklisted, or lost/stolen devices. Keep it clean and unlocked to pass intake fast.

4) Time your lock with US promos
Watch carrier and OEM promos tied to launch week. Trade-in bonuses can pop 20–50% around events, then cool. Lock when the curve is high.

5) Ship fast, get paid fast
Print your label, pack it safe, and send it right away. Delays risk missing your quote window if markets shift.

Deep Dive: The Forces Behind Each Brand’s Curve

Here’s a closer look at what’s shaping price trends by model—and why timing works.

Samsung Galaxy: RAM Costs Rewrite the Script

Rising RAM costs hit Samsung’s high-volume S series early this year. With S26 expected in late February, pricing is in play. If Samsung passes costs on, base models could lift 10–20% from the S25’s $799 base and $1,299 Ultra—unless design cuts or bundles offset it. That uncertainty makes pre-launch weeks golden for S25 sellers.

What to watch: If Samsung holds base prices steady, expect more aggressive trade-in offers at launch to keep buyers in the ecosystem. If prices rise, demand may swing harder to last year’s models—good for your S25 resale if you move before the reveal.

Apple iPhone: 2nm Chips and Strong Pro/Ultra Holds

Pro models could carry higher costs thanks to 2nm silicon. Apple might juggle the lineup to keep an approachable entry, but Pro/Ultra are likely where the power (and price) lives. That dynamic supports strong last-gen resale in late summer—until the keynote turns the page.

Value reality: iPhone Pro Max and Ultra-type models often retain 60–70% value at the six-month mark. If you want top dollar for an iPhone 17, sell into the pre-event hype, not after preorders start.

Google Pixel: AI Tiers and the Faster Slide

Expect Google to layer AI features by model and lean into software perks to justify Pixel 11 premiums (think Pro XL near or above $999). That steering makes older Pixels feel older, faster—even if the hardware still punches.

The move: Sell Pixel 10/9a by mid-summer. Pixels can lose 30–40% in a year. Don’t wait for Google’s full AI demo and Tensor story to make last year’s phone look dated.

Broader Market Ripples You Can Use

Component cost ripple: Flagship hikes steer more buyers to last-year flagships and strong midrange phones. That can lift demand for used 2025 models for a short spell—especially around launch chatter.

AI and feature gating: When brands hold back select AI tools for the newest models, older phones feel cut off sooner. Expect depreciation to speed up as we near Q4 2026—so sell ahead of that crunch.

Trade-in boosts: US carriers and manufacturers often juice trade-ins around S26 and iPhone 18 launches. Those bursts can add 20–50% to value for a short window.

US-specific outlook: Don’t let Europe-specific dips spook you. US demand, especially for AI and cameras, stays healthy through H1 2026.

“Okay, But What If Prices Don’t Go Up As Much As Feared?”

Great question. Some cost pressure could be offset by design wins, packaging tweaks, or memory/storage changes. And if a brand decides to hold a base price flat, they may trim margins or push services to make up the gap. That’s why we track—and why we strike early.

Bottom line: Monitor official pricing reveals, but don’t wait for a press release if your model is inside its sell window. Pre-launch demand is your friend.

GizmoGrind’s Simple Checklist to Maximize Phone Resale Value 2026

  • Get your timing right. Use the model sell windows above. Galaxy now, Pixel mid-summer, iPhone late summer.
  • Lock when you like your quote. Event weeks move fast. If it’s a strong number, grab it.
  • Be condition-smart. Clean it, snap clear photos, and note any tiny dings upfront. Honesty beats downgrades.
  • Protect your privacy. Back up. Sign out of all accounts. Factory reset.
  • Know what we accept. We cannot take iCloud-locked, blacklisted, lost/stolen, or water-damaged devices. Keep it clean and unlocked for a smooth trade-in.

A Quick “Price Trends by Model” Cheat Sheet for 2026

  • Galaxy S26 price trends: RAM costs and a late-Feb reveal make now the best time to sell S25/S24. Expect quick drops after launch as attention shifts.
  • iPhone 18 price trends: 2nm chips may nudge Pro and Ultra pricing. Sell iPhone 17 series late summer into early fall, before preorders.
  • Pixel 11 price trends: AI tiers rule. Sell Pixel 10/9a in mid-summer—Pixels depreciate faster after launch.
  • Midrange anchors: Pixel 10a and iPhone 17e likely stay steady. Consider selling right after flagship announcements when deal-hunters arrive.

A Short Story to Bring It Home

Meet Jay. He’s got a Galaxy S25. It’s late February. Buzz is loud. Jay checks quotes Monday. Nice. He checks again on Thursday during launch week promos. Even nicer.

He locks his GizmoGrind quote, unpairs accounts, wipes the phone, and ships. Next week, S26 preorders start, and S25 prices dip. But Jay’s payout? Already done.

That’s the 2026 game. Quick windows. Smart timing. Clean exits.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best time to sell iPhone in 2026?
Late summer into early fall (Q3), right before the iPhone 18 keynote. Pro/Ultra hold value well, but prices soften after preorders open.

When should I trade in my Galaxy S25?
Now, with the Galaxy S26 window in late February. Pre-announcement and launch week promos often deliver the strongest quotes.

Will 2026 phones really cost more?
Many signs point to yes—RAM and advanced chip costs are up. Some brands may hold base prices, but others may lift 10–20% or restructure storage to compensate.

Why do Pixels depreciate faster?
Google’s strong software pace and AI feature tiering can make last year’s models feel older sooner, speeding resale declines after launch.

Do midrange phones hold value in 2026?
Often, yes. Pixel 10a and iPhone 17e should stay steady thanks to reused chips and fewer costly parts. They can keep 50–60% longer than some flagships.

Any US market risks I should know?
Europe-based dips don’t map 1:1 here. US demand for AI and cameras looks firm through H1 2026. That supports solid resale if you time it well.

Your Move

This is the year to play the calendar. Prices for new flagships are likely to climb. Resale values will swing around launches. If you act inside your model’s 60–90 day window, you keep control.

  • Galaxy owners: It’s go time—late February is your lane.
  • Pixel owners: Mid-summer is your sweet spot.
  • iPhone owners: Late summer into early fall is prime.

When you’re ready, GizmoGrind is built to make it easy: fast quotes, simple steps, and secure payouts. We help you hit the high point—then move on to what’s next.

Sources Cited in This Guide

Final Word

Price trends by model in 2026 reward speed and timing. Catch the wave before the reveal. Lock the quote while demand hums. Then let GizmoGrind handle the rest.

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