Estimating the long-term value of Xiaomi’s new budget hit

The Redmi 15 has made a strong impression with its powerful specs and low price, but one question remains for many buyers — how well will it hold its value over time? Budget phones typically see sharper depreciation than flagships, yet Xiaomi’s latest device may surprise with how much it retains after a year or two of use.

The Redmi 15 arrives with several long-lasting features that help its case in resale. Its large 6.9-inch 144Hz display, 7000 mAh battery, and 5G support make it relevant for at least the next few upgrade cycles. Buyers in the used market tend to prioritise screen quality, battery life, and connectivity, and the Redmi 15 ticks all three boxes confidently.

In the short term, the phone is expected to hold up well. Within the first year, the Redmi 15 could retain around 60–70% of its original value if kept in excellent condition. The higher RAM and storage models — such as the 8GB + 256GB variant — usually perform better in resale, as they age more gracefully and remain attractive to second-hand buyers.

After two years, resale value typically dips to around 40–50% of the launch price. This drop reflects both software update limitations and the arrival of newer Redmi models that overshadow older ones. Xiaomi’s update policy for this range usually includes two major Android upgrades and four years of security patches, which helps sustain value for a while.

Beyond the two-year mark, however, depreciation accelerates. After three years, resale value might fall to 20–30%, similar to most budget phones. At that stage, hardware aging, outdated software, and declining battery capacity start to influence buyer interest more significantly.

Several factors will influence how well your Redmi 15 performs in the resale market. Physical condition is key — keeping the screen scratch-free, maintaining the original charger and box, and avoiding heavy wear will all increase resale potential. Phones that are unlocked, updated, and free from service issues tend to sell faster and for more.

Market timing also matters. Selling the Redmi 15 before its direct successor launches generally yields a higher return. Once Xiaomi announces the Redmi 16 or 17, used prices for the 15 will likely see a quick dip as demand shifts to newer models.

Compared to similarly priced phones, the Redmi 15 should hold value slightly better than ultra-budget rivals, thanks to its high-end display and large battery. However, it won’t perform as strongly as Xiaomi’s flagship lines or premium brands like Samsung’s Galaxy S series or Apple’s iPhones, which traditionally dominate resale rankings.

Overall, the Redmi 15 offers solid short-term value retention for a budget device. It’s expected to stay desirable for at least two years, especially among buyers looking for a large-screen, long-lasting 5G phone at a lower cost. In the long run, while depreciation is inevitable, the Redmi 15’s specifications and durability give it better-than-average staying power in its price range.