Samsung Galaxy Fold loses value faster than Galaxy S Ultra

Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold phones lose their value faster than Galaxy S Ultra models after around two years. Although Fold phones are more expensive when new, their resale prices can become lower than those of Galaxy S Ultra phones over time.

According to UPM, a used smartphone data service provider, the average buyback price of the Galaxy Z Fold 6 (256GB) was 548,640 won in September. In comparison, the Galaxy S24 Ultra (256GB), launched in the same year, had an average buyback price of 568,116 won.

The Galaxy Z Fold 6 was launched at 2,229,700 won, while the Galaxy S24 Ultra cost 1,698,400 won. However, the Fold 6 retained only 24.6% of its original price, compared with 33.5% for the S24 Ultra.

The difference was even greater for older models. The Galaxy Z Fold 5 had an average buyback price of 314,692 won, while the Galaxy S23 Ultra was valued at 401,732 won. However, newer Fold models still have higher resale prices. The Galaxy Z Fold 7 had an average buyback price of 926,295 won, compared with 747,489 won for the Galaxy S25 Ultra.

The main reason is the folding screen and hinge. These parts can wear out over time, and repairs can be expensive. As a result, used-phone dealers offer lower prices to reduce the risk of repair costs.

Newer Fold models also come with improvements in design, weight, screens and hinges, making older models less attractive to buyers. An industry official said that the condition of the screen and hinge plays an important role in deciding a foldable phone’s resale price.

The trend shows that Galaxy Fold phones may offer advanced features, but Galaxy S Ultra models can retain their value better over time.