2024 Used Smartphone Sales and Purchase Rankings: A Comprehensive Breakdown

Overview of 2024 Used Smartphone Market Rankings

Belong Co., Ltd., based in Minato, Tokyo, has released its ranking report for used smartphones for the fiscal year 2024, covering the period from April 1, 2024, to March 31, 2025. This report, issued by their resale service, "Nico Suma", highlights both sales and purchase numbers, identifying key trends and preferences among consumers.

Key Findings from the 2024 Sales Rankings

In the annual sales ranking of used smartphones, the iPhone SE (2nd Generation) continues its reign from the previous year, taking the first spot. Impressively, it outpaced the iPhone 12 (64GB) by a margin of approximately 2.5 times in terms of sales volume. This reflects a significant consumer preference for devices still equipped with a home button and fingerprint authentication, albeit there’s also a noticeable rise in the ranks of newer models lacking this feature, such as the iPhone 12 and iPhone 13.

The price dynamics played a crucial role here; both the iPhone 12 and iPhone 13 have seen their average sale prices drop by nearly 10,000 yen from the previous year, making them more appealing financial options.

Included as the only Android smartphone in the top purchases, the AQUOS sense3 captured the tenth rank. Its popularity surged markedly in 2025, with transaction numbers skyrocketing by about 17 times since 2023, driven chiefly by its affordable price and features like waterproofing and mobile wallet capabilities.

Insights into the Purchases Rankings

Turning to the purchase rankings, the iPhone 8 (64GB) retained its top position again this year. There has been a significant increase in the trading numbers of iPhones released after the iPhone 11, which tied for the first place in total transactions along with the iPhone 12.

Moreover, the iPhone 13 (128GB) and the iPhone SE (3rd Generation) (64GB) each saw their transaction numbers escalate by over five times compared to the previous year. Conversely, previous contenders like the iPhone 7 and iPhone XR have fallen off the list, indicating a shift towards newer models in consumer preferences.

Android Smartphone Dynamics

In the aftermath of a shifting landscape, the sales ranking report for Android smartphones displays substantial changes. The AQUOS sense model from last year is now absent from the list, making way for the newer AQUOS sense3 and AQUOS sense4 models, indicating a generational shift in consumer taste. Popularity is evident not only in the AQUOS series but also among entry-level Xperia models.

Noteworthy is the introduction of Google’s refurbished certified products, launching in November 2024. This move evidently boosted the Google Pixel 6a from the 115th to the 4th position in the ranking, showcasing a significant interest in reliability and quality.

Purchasing Statistics for Androids

In terms of purchase rankings specific to Android devices, the Google Pixel 6a emerged victorious at the top, illustrating a strong preference for the Google Pixel and OPPO series, along with the AQUOS range. Additionally, in May 2024, Nico Suma commenced headphone purchases, where AirPods Pro saw particularly high transaction numbers that even surpassed those for the leading Android smartphones.

Conclusion and Future Outlook

As Nico Suma moves into the 2025 fiscal year, they aim to continually adapt to consumer needs, enhancing both sales and purchase offerings. Thus, the focus remains firmly on providing high-quality used smartphones and ensuring customer satisfaction through flexible service options.

Final Rankings Overview

2024 Used Smartphone Sales Ranking:
1. iPhone SE (2nd Gen) (64GB)
2. iPhone 12 (64GB)
3. iPhone SE (3rd Gen) (64GB)
…
10. AQUOS sense3 (64GB)

2024 Smartphone Purchase Ranking:
1. iPhone 8 (64GB)
2. iPhone SE (2nd Gen) (64GB)
3. iPhone 13 (128GB)
…
10. iPhone SE (2nd Gen) (128GB)

You can find more insights into this report via Nico Suma’s official blog. For entertaining content, check out the Nico Suma Theater YouTube channel featuring a fictional family navigating daily wins and challenges.

In addition, Belong also offers services under their corporate platform 'Belong One,' ensuring high-quality mobile devices are available for both individuals and businesses.