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Buy now if your current phone is broken, unreliable, no longer receives needed security updates, or cannot handle an essential task—and you have found a compatible replacement at an acceptable total cost. Wait if your phone remains dependable and you can set a specific trigger, such as a confirmed sale, an officially announced release, or a target price. Waiting by itself does not guarantee a discount, better stock, or lower financing costs.
The decision depends on your country, budget, carrier, current device, and the actual offers available today. Global forecasts describe pressure on prices and supply, but they cannot tell you what a particular local shop will charge next month.
What the latest market evidence actually says
Several 2026 reports point to a more expensive and less predictable smartphone market, but they measure different things. Their figures should not be combined into one precise prediction for your next purchase.
| Publisher and date | Finding | How to use it |
|---|---|---|
| Counterpoint Research, September 11, 2026 | Projects a 14.3% decline in the global smartphone market in 2026, calling it the steepest annual contraction on record. It says memory shortages are putting significant pressure on phones below $200, with meaningful pressure extending through the $200–$600 range. Phones above $600 are described as more resilient because of financing, trade-ins, ecosystem attachment and supplier access. | This is a global model-level forecast, not a promise about a specific model, retailer or country. |
| Counterpoint Research, October 8, 2026 | In a global survey, 63% of people planning to buy a phone within six months noticed price increases. Half planned to shop during a festive sale or holiday season, and 56% of Gen Z respondents said they wait for sales or special deals. The release cites a forecast of a 20% average worldwide increase for existing models by the end of 2026 and up to 30% year over year for new launches. | These are survey results and forecasts. They indicate concern and possible price pressure, not a guaranteed local price change. |
| Omdia, May 27, 2026 | US shipments fell 3% year over year to 33.4 million units in Q1 2026. By price tier, the $800-plus segment fell 1%, sub-$300 grew 8%, $300–$599 fell 19%, and $600–$799 fell 6%. Omdia said carriers were using financing, promotions and plan-linked offers as manufacturer prices rose. | This is US, quarter-specific shipment and channel context. Shipments do not equal the price you will be offered. |
| Assurant, June 16, 2026 | Mobile trade-in programs returned $1.63 billion to consumers in Q1 2026, up 31% year over year. The average traded-in device was 3.81 years old; the iPhone 13 was the most traded-in Apple model and the Galaxy S23 Ultra led among Android devices. | The figures support checking trade-in and pre-owned routes, but do not predict your device’s quote. |
| Gartner, February 26, 2026 | Forecasts an 8.4% fall in global smartphone shipments and a 13% price increase in 2026 versus 2025, attributing pressure to memory costs. Gartner says buyers may keep phones longer or choose refurbished and second-hand devices. | This is a separate forecast with different assumptions from Counterpoint’s later estimates; treat it as one scenario, not a consensus number. |
Counterpoint Research Director Tarun Pathak summarized the cost pressure this way: “Rising memory costs are pushing smartphone prices higher, leaving OEMs with limited room to absorb the impact.” That explains why a wait-and-see strategy has an opportunity cost, particularly in lower and mid-priced segments where memory costs represent a larger share of the bill of materials.
#1 Best Overall
- YOUR CONTENT, SUPER SMOOTH: The ultra-clear 6.7" FHD+ Super AMOLED display of Galaxy A17 5G helps bring your content to life, whether you're scrolling through recipes or video chatting with loved ones.¹
- LIVE FAST. CHARGE FASTER: Focus more on the moment and less on your battery percentage with Galaxy A17 5G. Super Fast Charging powers up your battery so you can get back to life sooner.²
- MEMORIES MADE PICTURE PERFECT: Capture every angle in stunning clarity, from wide family photos to close-ups of friends, with the triple-lens camera on Galaxy A17 5G.
- NEED MORE STORAGE? WE HAVE YOU COVERED: With an improved 2TB of expandable storage, Galaxy A17 5G makes it easy to keep cherished photos, videos and important files readily accessible whenever you need them.³
- BUILT TO LAST: With an improved IP54 rating, Galaxy A17 5G is even more durable than before.⁴ It’s built to resist splashes and dust and comes with a stronger yet slimmer Gorilla Glass Victus front and Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer back.
At the same time, Omdia Senior Analyst Eric Chen said, “The US smartphone market did not experience a broad demand shock in Q1 2026.” A market that is not collapsing in demand can still have selective promotions, uneven inventory and higher list prices. Neither condition gives you a reliable universal buying date.
When buying now is the safer decision
Your current phone is failing
Replace the phone now if it shuts down unexpectedly, has a swollen or dangerous battery, cannot hold a practical charge, suffers from failing storage, or has damage that compromises calls, emergency access or authentication. A repair can be sensible when it is safe and materially cheaper, but do not rely on a failing device for months merely in pursuit of a theoretical sale.
Software support has become an essential requirement
If the manufacturer no longer supplies security updates for your model, or an app required for banking, work, two-factor authentication or health care no longer runs, the risk of waiting is not just inconvenience. Check the manufacturer’s published support policy for your exact regional variant; support periods differ by model and market.
Rank #2
- Blazing-fast Qualcomm performance. Get the speed you need for great entertainment with a Snapdragon 680 processor and 4GB**** of RAM.
- Fluid display + immersive stereo sound. Bring your entertainment to life with an ultrawide 6.5" 90Hz* HD+ display plus stereo speakers, Dolby Atmos, and Hi-Res Audio**.
- 50MP*** Quad Pixel camera. Capture sharper, more vibrant photos day or night with 4x the light sensitivity.
- 64GB**** built-in storage. Get plenty of room for photos, movies, songs, and apps—and add up to 1TB more with a microSD card*****.
- Unbelievable battery life. Work and play nonstop with a long-lasting 5000mAh battery.*****
You have a time-critical need
Buy before a move, trip, new job, school term or network shutdown if a dependable camera, eSIM, 5G band, accessibility feature or authentication method is essential. Delivery delays and stockouts can be more expensive than a modest price difference when you need a working phone on a fixed date.
The complete cost is already acceptable
A good purchase is one you can afford without relying on an uncertain future trade-in value or promotional credit. Compare the final amount, warranty and return policy—not only the headline price. If a currently available unlocked or refurbished phone meets your requirements and the total is within budget, securing it can remove availability risk.
When waiting can make sense
Your phone remains reliable and supported
Waiting is reasonable when calls, data, battery life, camera and required apps all work, security updates continue, and you have enough storage and network compatibility for the period you intend to wait. Set a review date so “wait” does not become an indefinite habit.
Rank #3
- Please note, this device does not support E-SIM; This 4G model is compatible with all GSM networks worldwide outside of the U.S. In the US, ONLY compatible with T-Mobile and their MVNO's (Metro and Standup). It will NOT work with other CDMA carriers, and it is also not compatible with their MVNO (Visible, Xfinity Mobile, US Mobile, Cricket Wireless, etc).
- Compatibility with certain third-party devices and accessibility accessories, including some hearing aids, may vary depending on manufacturer support, Bluetooth protocols, software compatibility, and regional firmware limitations. For additional hearing aid compatibility information, please refer to Samsung’s official support documentation.
- Camera: 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 2 MP, f/2.4, (macro). Battery: 5000 mAh, non-removable | A power adapter is NOT included.
You can name the event that ends the wait
Choose one trigger: a retailer’s confirmed sale window, an officially announced launch date, a verified target price, or a specific trade-in value. A trigger should include a deadline and a fallback model. “I will wait until prices fall” is not a useful plan because the market evidence does not establish a dependable future discount.
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Waiting may expose you to a higher price, a discontinued configuration, longer delivery, or a less favorable financing offer. Accept that risk only if the current phone can safely last and the possible benefit matters more than immediate certainty.
Compare the full cost, not the advertised monthly figure
Write down the total you would pay over the period you expect to keep the device. For a financed purchase, add every installment, required plan cost, activation fee, taxes and any payment due at checkout, then subtract only credits you are certain to receive under the stated conditions.
Rank #4
- Please note, this device does not support E-SIM; This 4G model is compatible with all GSM networks worldwide outside of the U.S. In the US, ONLY compatible with T-Mobile and their MVNO's (Metro and Standup). It will NOT work with Verizon, Spectrum, AT&T, Total Wireless, other CDMA carriers, it is also not compatible with their MVNO (Visible, Xfinity Mobile, US Mobile, Cricket Wireless, etc).
- Compatibility with certain third-party devices and accessibility accessories, including some hearing aids, may vary depending on manufacturer support, Bluetooth protocols, software compatibility, and regional firmware limitations. For additional hearing aid compatibility information, please refer to Samsung’s official support documentation.
- 4G LTE Bands: B1/B3/B5/B7/B8/B20/B28/B38/B40/B41
- Display: Super AMOLED, 90Hz, 800 nits (HBM) | 6.7 inches, 110.2 cm2 (~86.0% screen-to-body ratio) | 1080 x 2340 pixels, 19.5:9 ratio (~385 ppi density)
- Camera: 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 2 MP, f/2.4, (macro)
| Purchase route | Costs to include | Checks before committing |
|---|---|---|
| Unlocked new phone | Device price, tax, shipping, accessories and any separate service plan. | Supported network bands, eSIM or SIM type, warranty region, return deadline and update policy. |
| Carrier financing or promotion | Every installment for the full term, required plan charges, activation or upgrade fees, taxes, insurance and the amount paid before credits. | Whether the bill credit requires staying for the entire term, an eligible trade-in, a particular plan, account status or a new line; what happens if you leave early or the device is lost. |
| Trade-in | New-device cost minus the final, inspected trade-in value, plus shipping or payoff costs. | Eligibility, cosmetic and functional grading, data-erasure responsibility, inspection changes, payout timing and whether the value is instant or spread across bills. |
| Used or refurbished | Purchase price, tax, shipping, battery replacement you may need and possible repair costs. | Condition grade, battery-health disclosure, unlocked status, network compatibility, return period, warranty, parts provenance and remaining software support. |
A monthly amount can look low because a carrier spreads the cost across several years. Compare the same ownership period for every option. A bill credit is not cash in hand if you must keep an expensive plan or remain with the carrier until the final month.
How price and availability uncertainty affects different phones
Lower-priced phones face more direct component pressure
Counterpoint says memory shortages are especially significant below $200 and still meaningful from $200 to $600. If you need a budget phone, a modest price increase can erase the savings from waiting. Check current stock and the delivered price rather than assuming a future entry-level model will be cheaper.
Premium phones may have more ways to spread the cost
Counterpoint describes phones above $600 as more resilient because financing, trade-ins, ecosystem attachment and supplier access can support demand. That does not mean premium prices will fall or that a carrier offer is automatically cheaper; it means you may have more payment and trade-in structures to compare.
Best Value
- GSM Unlocked: Enjoy seamless connectivity with your preferred GSM carrier. Compatible with T-Mobile, Metro PCS, AT&T, Cricket, Mint Mobile and other GSM networks. SIM card not included. For network compatibility, please check with your carrier. Note: Not compatible with CDMA networks like Verizon (Visible, Spectrum Mobile, US Mobile, Total Wireless, Straight Talk Wireless)
- Boundless Views: Enjoy immersive viewing on the spacious 6.5” HD+ display. Whether you're watching videos, browsing, or gaming, every detail comes through with stunning clarity.
- Smooth Performance, All Day: Powered by an efficient octa-core processor, the G35 ensures smooth performance for your everyday tasks. Enjoy faster app launches, seamless multitasking, and reliable speed.
- Snap, Share, Repeat: The G35 features a dual rear camera setup for sharp, detailed shots, and a front-facing camera that’s perfect for selfies and video calls. Capture every moment with ease and clarity.
- Effortless Access: Keep your phone secure with A.I. Face ID technology. Instantly unlock your G35 with just a glance. It's fast, easy, and secure.
Local availability can diverge from global forecasts
Global market contraction, survey sentiment and US shipment data cannot establish inventory in your city. A model can be discounted in one country while scarce in another because of taxes, currency movements, import rules, storage configuration, carrier certification or launch timing. Check the exact regional model number and delivery promise.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.A practical decision process
- List your non-negotiables. Record required operating system, screen size, camera or accessibility features, storage, dual-SIM or eSIM support, network bands, water resistance and minimum update support.
- Test whether the current phone can last. Check battery health, charging safety, crash frequency, storage space, security-update date and whether essential apps work. Remove “wait” from consideration if any failure creates a safety, work or financial risk.
- Set a maximum total cost. Include the complete financing term, plan charges, taxes, accessories, expected repair and the value of a trade-in only after inspection.
- Collect at least three live quotes. Compare unlocked, carrier, trade-in and refurbished options for the same storage and regional compatibility. Record the date, stock status, return window and warranty.
- Calculate the cost of waiting. Estimate another battery replacement, temporary repair, lost trade-in value, missed work, travel risk or higher price. Do not assign a discount that no source or offer confirms.
- Choose a trigger and deadline. If waiting, write the exact sale, launch, target price or trade-in condition that will make you buy, plus the date you will reassess.
- Recheck before payment. Confirm the final cart total, model number, network compatibility, financing term, credit rules, delivery date, return policy and support period. Save the offer terms.
Buying now: final checks
- Verify that the phone is unlocked or certified for your network and supports the bands used in your area.
- Confirm whether the warranty is valid in your country and whether returns cover opened devices.
- For a carrier deal, read the full plan and credit schedule; ask what happens after an early cancellation, upgrade or missed payment.
- For a trade-in, photograph the device, back up and erase it, remove account locks, and keep the shipping receipt until inspection is complete.
- For refurbished or used stock, test the battery, cameras, microphones, biometrics, charging port, display, water indicators and all radios during the return period.
- Check the manufacturer’s support page for the exact model and region rather than relying on a seller’s generic listing.
Waiting safely: a checklist
- Keep a backup method for two-factor authentication and essential contacts.
- Maintain a case and battery-safe charging routine so the current phone remains reliable.
- Monitor the exact model and configuration, not just a product family, because storage and color variants can have different stock.
- Review prices on your chosen date and compare the complete cost with the fallback phone.
- Buy early if the device develops a safety issue, loses required software support, or the confirmed offer reaches your target.
How the main choices play out
Example: an unreliable three-year-old phone
If battery shutdowns are interrupting work and a repair quote is close to the cost of a supported replacement, buying now is rational even if a sale might appear later. Reliability and access to authentication have a measurable value that a speculative discount cannot offset.
Example: a supported phone with a flexible owner
If the phone works well and you can wait three months, choose a target price and an official release or sale date. Keep a fallback model and budget; if the target never appears, you still have a defined decision instead of an open-ended wait.
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Example: a tight budget
Compare a current midrange phone, a reputable refurbished device with a warranty and a carrier offer after adding the required plan. A lower sticker price is not a saving if the device has poor battery health, no return route or too little software support.
Assurant EVP Biju Nair describes the broader behavior behind these choices: “As smartphone prices continue to rise, consumers are looking for smarter ways to manage upgrade costs – and trade-ins, especially when paired with protection, are playing a bigger role.” Treat protection as another cost to evaluate, not an automatic benefit.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
