# iPhone 16: The Optimal Model for Future Trade-In Value
With the impending release of the iPhone 16, many Apple fans are already anticipating the next significant release—the speculated ultra-slim iPhone 17 Air. If you’re one of those thinking of upgrading your iPhone each year, you may be curious about which iPhone 16 model will maintain its value most effectively for a trade-in next year. This article examines the depreciation patterns of past iPhone models and provides insights into which iPhone 16 variant could be the best investment if you intend to exchange it for the iPhone 17 Air.
## How Quickly Do iPhones Lose Value?
A recent report by Compare and Recycle, a UK-based mobile phone recycling comparison platform, indicates that iPhones generally lose over 25% of their retail value as soon as they are taken out of the box, and can depreciate up to 62% within the first year. The rate of depreciation has grown in recent years, with the iPhone 13 shedding 40.09% of its value in the first year, the iPhone 14 declining by 47.80%, and the iPhone 15 experiencing an impressive 55.57% decrease.
This pattern indicates that the iPhone 16 models might lose at least 60% of their value in their inaugural year. However, not all iPhone models depreciate uniformly. Historically, the Pro variants have maintained their value better than the standard options. For instance, the 128GB and 256GB iPhone 15 Pro models dropped around 50% in value after one year, while the 1TB iPhone 15 Pro models diminished by about 60%.
## Which iPhone 16 Model Should You Purchase?
If we assume the iPhone 16 follows a comparable depreciation trajectory, the Pro models are anticipated to provide the best trade-in value next year. Here’s an overview of what to expect:
– **256GB iPhone 16 Pro ($1,099):** Projected to reduce in value to approximately $550.
– **256GB iPhone 16 Pro Max ($1,199):** Anticipated to decrease in value to about $600.
– **256GB iPhone 16 ($899):** Expected to decline in value to around $423.
If you’re contemplating trading in your iPhone 16 for the iPhone 17 Air next year, the 256GB iPhone 16 Pro appears to be the most favorable choice. It delivers a premium experience and is likely to retain a greater portion of its value, providing a more economical option in the long term. Nevertheless, the 256GB iPhone 16 could also present an attractive alternative if you seek a balance between price and trade-in value.
## One Additional Point
It’s crucial to acknowledge that these forecasts are grounded in historical data and market tendencies, which may not necessarily apply to the iPhone 16. Moreover, the trade-in value can fluctuate based on the phone’s condition and market demand at the time of trade-in. If Apple introduces the ultra-slim iPhone 17 Air next year, it could greatly affect the resale value of the iPhone 16 models.
For individuals who prefer purchasing their iPhones outright instead of through carrier agreements, this analysis should assist you in making a more educated choice. However, if you are receptive to carrier deals, you might uncover even better trade-in opportunities that could mitigate the expense of upgrading to the iPhone 17 Air.
In conclusion, if you’re planning to transition to the iPhone 17 Air next year, the 256GB iPhone 16 Pro likely represents your best option for optimizing trade-in value. However, if the iPhone 17 Air does not come to fruition, the iPhone 16 Pro should continue to serve you commendably for several years, making it a reliable investment regardless.
