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10 Best Refurbished iPhones in 2026
Save money with our top 10 best refurbished iPhones in 2026, from budget SE to flagship 15. We cover storage, condition, and which model fits your needs.
Buying a refurbished iPhone used to feel like a gamble. You save money, sure, but you also inherit someone else's battery drain, scratched glass, and occasional quirks. The market has matured though. Amazon Renewed and other certified programs now inspect each phone, test the battery, and wipe it clean. The result is that a two-year-old refurbished iPhone can feel nearly new for half the price. The challenge is knowing which generation gives you the most for your money and which ones to skip. That is where this guide comes in. We have sorted through the current crop of the best refurbished iPhones available right now, covering every model from the budget-friendly iPhone SE to the latest iPhone 15, so you can pick the right one without second-guessing.
TL;DR: The Apple iPhone 13 128GB (Midnight) is the one most people should buy: it balances price, performance, and battery life perfectly. The iPhone 15 is the pick if you want USB-C and the 48MP camera. The iPhone 14 Plus gives you a huge screen without the Pro price. The iPhone SE 2nd Gen is the cheapest entry point that still runs the latest iOS, and the iPhone XR is the true budget choice for basic needs.
| # | Product | Storage & Color | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Apple iPhone 13, 128GB, Midnight (Renewed) | 128GB, Midnight | Overall value – best all-rounder |
| 2 | Apple iPhone 13, 128GB, Blue (Renewed) | 128GB, Blue | Same great phone, blue color preference |
| 3 | Apple iPhone 14, 128GB, Blue (Renewed) | 128GB, Blue | Latest features under $350 |
| 4 | Apple iPhone 15, 128GB, Black (Renewed) | 128GB, Black | USB-C, 48MP camera, and Dynamic Island |
| 5 | Apple iPhone 16e, 128GB, Black (Renewed) | 128GB, Black | Absolute newest chip at a discount |
| 6 | Apple iPhone 14 Plus, 128GB, Midnight (Renewed) | 128GB, Midnight | Best big-screen battery life |
| 7 | Apple iPhone 12, 64GB, Black (Renewed) | 64GB, Black | Solid mid-range on a tighter budget |
| 8 | Apple iPhone 11, 64GB, Black (Renewed) | 64GB, Black | Reliable daily driver under $180 |
| 9 | Apple iPhone SE 2nd Gen, 64GB, Black (Renewed) | 64GB, Black | Cheapest entry to modern iOS |
| 10 | Apple iPhone XR, 64GB, Black (Renewed) | 64GB, Black | Ultra-budget if you really just need a phone |
Prices shown are as of writing and may change. Check each link for current pricing.
How we picked
We considered the factors that actually matter when you buy a refurbished iPhone, not the ones that look good on a spec sheet.
- Battery health guarantee. Any reputable refurb sells a phone that holds at least 80% of its original capacity. We only recommend phones from listings that explicitly promise that.
- Storage that lasts. 64GB is tight for 2026. 128GB is the sweet spot for most people. We note when a model only comes in 64GB so you know the trade-off.
- Generation longevity. An iPhone 13 runs iOS 20 just fine. An iPhone XR struggles with newer apps. We prioritize models that will feel snappy for at least two more years.
- Condition and warranty. "Renewed Premium" or "Amazon Renewed" listings come with a 90-day return policy and a 1-year warranty. We favored those over basic used listings with no backing.
- Carrier compatibility. Every phone here is unlocked and works on both GSM and CDMA networks (AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, and their MVNOs). No gotcha lock-ins.
- Real-world trade-offs. The best refurbished iPhone for you depends on your willingness to accept an older design, a smaller screen, or a shorter battery life. We call out those compromises honestly.
1. Apple iPhone 13, 128GB, Midnight: Best Overall
The iPhone 13 is the sweet spot of the refurbished market right now. It has the A15 Bionic chip, which is still fast enough for anything you throw at it – heavy gaming, 4K video editing, augmented reality. The 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display is bright and sharp, and the camera system (two lenses) takes excellent photos in good and low light. What makes this the one most people should buy is that you get near-flagship performance for about half what a new iPhone 15 costs. The battery life is solid too: you can comfortably get through a full day without hunting for a charger.
The trade-off is that it still uses a Lightning port, not USB-C, so if you have already switched everything else to USB-C you will need a separate cable. The notch at the top of the screen is also larger than the Dynamic Island on the 15, but that is a cosmetic detail you stop noticing after two days. If you are coming from an iPhone 8 or older, this feels like a massive leap. The Ceramic Shield front glass is tough, and the aluminum frame is light at 6.14 ounces.
Pros
- A15 chip is still blisteringly fast for 2026
- Bright OLED display with excellent color accuracy
- Good front and rear cameras for photos and video
- Full day battery life in normal use
- Unlocked for all major US carriers
Cons
- Lightning port instead of USB-C
- No Dynamic Island, still has the notch
- 128GB is fine but no 256GB option at this price point
Best for: Anyone who wants the best balance of price, performance, and battery life in a refurbished iPhone.
Check current price on Amazon →
2. Apple iPhone 13, 128GB, Blue: Same Great Phone in Blue
This is the exact same phone as number one, just in a blue finish. The specs are identical: A15 chip, 128GB storage, 6.1-inch OLED, dual cameras, Ceramic Shield. We include it because color matters to some buyers, and this blue has a nice depth that shifts in different light. The midnight is almost black; the blue is more playful. If you like a bit of color, this is your pick.
The only real difference between the two listings is the seller and a slight price variance. Both are fully unlocked and come with a 90-day guarantee. Get whichever color catches your eye; the performance is the same.
Pros
- Same excellent performance as the Midnight
- Vibrant blue color that stands out
- 128GB storage at a great price
- Unlocked, works on all carriers
Cons
- Identical to the Midnight model otherwise
- Still uses Lightning, not USB-C
Best for: Buyers who want the top overall refurb but prefer a blue phone.
Check current price on Amazon →
3. Apple iPhone 14, 128GB, Blue: Latest Features Under $350
The iPhone 14 is almost identical to the iPhone 13 on the outside, but it brings a few key upgrades. The camera system gets a better sensor and image processing, so low-light shots look noticeably cleaner. There is also the Action Mode for video, which stabilizes handheld footage impressively well – great for parents filming kids or pet owners chasing their dog. The A15 chip is the same as the 13, but the iPhone 14 has an extra GPU core (5-core vs 4-core in the 13), which makes a small difference in graphics-heavy tasks.
The battery life is slightly better than the 13, and the phone supports Crash Detection and Emergency SOS via satellite, features that could matter in a pinch. The refurbished price often lands under $350, which makes it a compelling step-up from the 13. The downside is that the design is basically the same – same notch, same Lightning port – so you are paying a premium mainly for camera and safety features, not for a new look.
Pros
- Better low-light camera than iPhone 13
- Action Mode for smooth video
- Emergency satellite features (Crash Detection, SOS)
- Slightly longer battery life than 13
Cons
- Same design and Lightning port as 13
- Not a huge performance jump over the 13
- Price premium may not be worth it for light users
Best for: Photo enthusiasts or anyone who wants satellite SOS in their pocket without buying a new phone.
Check current price on Amazon →
4. Apple iPhone 15, 128GB, Black: USB-C and the 48MP Camera
The iPhone 15 is the most modern iPhone you can buy refurbished without paying Pro prices. It introduces USB-C, which means you can use the same cable for your MacBook, iPad, and the phone. It also replaces the notch with the Dynamic Island, a software-driven cutout that changes shape for alerts and controls. The main camera jumps from 12MP to 48MP, giving you incredibly detailed photos and the ability to shoot 24MP and 48MP images. The optical zoom range is 4x, and the new portrait mode with Focus and Depth Control lets you adjust blur after the shot.
Inside is the A16 Bionic chip, which is one generation newer than the A15. In everyday use, the difference is subtle – apps open a hair faster, games run at higher settings – but it future-proofs the phone for another year of iOS updates. The aluminum frame and color-infused glass back feel premium. The only catch is the price: refurbished iPhone 15s cost more than the 13 or 14. But if you want USB-C and the best camera system, this is the one.
Pros
- USB-C charging and data transfer
- 48MP main camera with 24MP and 48MP photo modes
- Dynamic Island interface
- A16 chip for extra longevity
- Emergency SOS and Crash Detection
Cons
- Significantly more expensive than iPhone 13/14
- No telephoto lens (still only wide and ultra-wide)
- Battery life is good but not class-leading
Best for: Power users who want the latest tech and plan to keep the phone for three years or more.
Check current price on Amazon →
5. Apple iPhone 16e, 128GB, Black: Absolute Newest Chip at a Discount
Apple launched the iPhone 16e as a budget-friendly addition to the lineup, and already refurbished units are hitting the market at a compelling price. This is the newest phone on this list – it comes with the A18 chip (the same one found in the iPhone 16 standard model), 8GB of RAM, and a 48MP main camera. The display is a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED, same size as the iPhone 15, but the 16e lacks MagSafe, mmWave 5G, and a physical SIM tray (it is dual eSIM only). For most people, the missing MagSafe is the biggest inconvenience – you have to use a regular case and a wired charger or a MagSafe-compatible case.
The battery is rated at 4005mAh, which is large for a 6.1-inch phone. The A18 chip makes this the fastest phone under $400, easily beating the iPhone 15 in raw performance. But the camera lacks the 15's ultra-wide lens – you only get one rear camera. If you rarely use ultra-wide and want the fastest processor available in a refurb, the 16e is a smart buy.
Pros
- A18 chip is the fastest in this price range
- 48MP camera produces sharp images
- Large 4005mAh battery for all-day use
- USB-C and modern design
Cons
- No MagSafe (no magnets in the phone)
- Single rear camera (no ultra-wide)
- No physical SIM slot, dual eSIM only
- No mmWave 5G (sub-6 only)
Best for: Anyone who wants the newest possible chip and can live with eSIM and a single camera.
Check current price on Amazon →
6. Apple iPhone 14 Plus, 128GB, Midnight: Best Big-Screen Battery Life
If you want a big screen without the Pro Max price, the iPhone 14 Plus is the answer. It has a 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR display – the same size as the iPhone 15 Pro Max – but in a lighter frame. The battery life is spectacular: Apple rates it for up to 26 hours of video playback, and in real use it easily lasts a day and a half. The A15 Bionic chip with 5-core GPU handles everything smoothly. The camera system is the same as the regular iPhone 14: dual 12MP lenses with Action Mode and Cinematic mode.
The refurbished price for the 14 Plus is typically a little over $300, which is a steal for a phone that big and that long-lasting. The downsides? It is still Lightning, not USB-C, and it lacks the 120Hz ProMotion display that the Pro models have (the Plus is 60Hz). If you are reading a lot, scrolling, or watching video, the size is a joy. If you play games, the 60Hz screen might feel a bit laggy compared to higher refresh rate phones. But for most people, the size and battery alone make this a winner.
Pros
- Huge 6.7-inch OLED display
- Exceptional battery life (easily 1.5 days)
- Lightweight for its size (7.16 oz)
- Same camera features as iPhone 14
Cons
- 60Hz refresh rate (no ProMotion)
- Lightning port, not USB-C
- Not as pocketable as smaller models
Best for: Media consumers and travelers who prioritize battery life and screen real estate above all else.
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7. Apple iPhone 12, 64GB, Black: Solid Mid-Range on a Tighter Budget
The iPhone 12 is where the modern design language started: flat edges, Ceramic Shield front, and a 6.1-inch OLED display. The A14 Bionic chip is still capable for 2026, handling social media, streaming, and most games without stutter. The camera system is dual 12MP with night mode, which takes decent photos in low light. For under $200, this is a remarkably solid phone.
The catch is storage. This model only has 64GB. That is a problem if you take lots of photos or download many apps. iOS itself takes about 10GB, so you are left with around 50GB for your stuff. You can manage with cloud storage, but you will hit the limit eventually. Also, the battery health guarantee is a minimum of 80%, so you might get a phone that already needs a battery replacement in a year. That said, the price is low enough that you could replace the battery for $50 and still come out ahead vs a newer refurb.
Pros
- Very affordable price for an OLED iPhone
- A14 chip is still fast enough for daily use
- Ceramic Shield front glass is durable
- Unlocked and works with all carriers
Cons
- Only 64GB storage – fills up fast
- Battery may be near 80% capacity
- Lightning port, no USB-C
Best for: Budget-conscious buyers who primarily stream content and don't store much locally.
Check current price on Amazon →
8. Apple iPhone 11, 64GB, Black: Reliable Daily Driver Under $180
The iPhone 11 is the last great LCD iPhone. Its 6.1-inch Liquid Retina display is sharp and bright, and the A13 Bionic chip powers through everyday tasks like messaging, web browsing, and light gaming. The dual-camera system (wide and ultra-wide) produces surprisingly good photos even by 2026 standards, and the phone supports night mode on the main sensor. It is also one of the cheapest phones on this list that still has a physical SIM slot alongside eSIM.
The limitations are clear: the LCD screen lacks the deep blacks and contrast of OLED, the bezels are thicker, and storage is only 64GB. The A13 chip is showing its age compared to newer models – it handles iOS 20 fine, but heavy apps and games may cause occasional lag. Still, for under $180, the iPhone 11 is a fantastic value. It is the phone to get if you need a reliable companion for calls, texts, maps, and the occasional photo, and you want to spend as little as possible without going to the SE or XR.
Pros
- Low price for a fully functional iPhone
- Physical SIM slot plus eSIM flexibility
- Still gets iOS updates (at least another year)
- Good camera with ultra-wide lens
Cons
- LCD display instead of OLED
- 64GB storage is tight
- A13 chip can slow down with heavy tasks
- Thick bezels around the screen
Best for: First-time smartphone users, teenagers, or anyone who needs a cheap daily driver.
Check current price on Amazon →
9. Apple iPhone SE 2nd Generation, 64GB, Black: Cheapest Entry to Modern iOS
The iPhone SE 2 is the most affordable way to get a modern iPhone that supports the latest iOS. It uses the same A13 chip as the iPhone 11 but wraps it in the body of an iPhone 8. That means a 4.7-inch LCD screen, a home button with Touch ID, and a single 12MP rear camera. It is small, light, and fits in any pocket. The battery is smaller than any other phone here, so you will be charging by late afternoon with moderate use.
The price is its strength: around $100 refurbished. That is the cheapest iPhone you can buy that still runs iOS 20. But the trade-offs are real. The screen is tiny by modern standards, and the camera lacks night mode. The design is seriously dated – thick bezels, no full-screen gesture navigation. For someone who just wants an iPhone for calls, messages, and a few apps, it works. For anyone used to an iPhone 11 or newer, it feels like stepping back three generations.
Pros
- Lowest price of any iPhone in this guide
- A13 chip is fast for basic tasks
- Touch ID (still useful for some)
- Very pocketable size
Cons
- Tiny 4.7-inch display
- Small battery – needs charging by afternoon
- Single camera, no night mode
- Ancient design with home button and thick bezels
Best for: Absolute budget buyers, kids, or anyone who wants a cheap iPhone for light use.
Check current price on Amazon →
10. Apple iPhone XR, 64GB, Black: Ultra-Budget Option
The iPhone XR is the oldest phone on this list, released in 2018. It has a 6.1-inch Liquid Retina LCD display, a single 12MP rear camera, and the A12 Bionic chip. In 2026, the A12 is showing its age – you will notice delays when opening apps, and iOS 20 may not be the last update it gets. The phone is unlocked and works with all carriers, and the refurbished price is around $140, making it the second cheapest option.
The camera is decent in good light but struggles at night. The single lens means no optical zoom, no ultra-wide. The LCD display is fine but lacks the vibrancy of any OLED model. The battery health guarantee is 80% minimum, so you might get a phone that needs a new battery soon. This phone is really only for someone with a very tight budget who absolutely needs an iPhone. If you can stretch to the iPhone 11 or the iPhone SE (which has a faster chip), you will have a much better experience.
Pros
- Very cheap entry point
- Large 6.1-inch display for the price
- Unlocked and carrier-compatible
- Still supports iOS 20
Cons
- A12 chip is slow for 2026
- Single camera, no night mode
- LCD screen looks dull next to OLED
- Battery life likely degraded
Best for: The absolute lowest possible budget, where any iPhone is better than none.
Check current price on Amazon →
Buyer's guide: how to choose refurbished iphones
Picking the right refurbished iPhone comes down to three things: your budget, your tolerance for an older design, and how much storage you actually need. The newer the model, the faster it will feel, but the more you will pay. Here are the key factors to weigh.
Processor generation and longevity
The chip inside the iPhone determines how long it will run future iOS versions and how smoothly it handles apps. The A18 in the iPhone 16e is the fastest here, followed by the A16 in the iPhone 15. The A15 (iPhone 13, 14, 14 Plus) is still very capable. The A14 (iPhone 12) is okay but starting to show its age. The A13 (iPhone 11, SE 2) is passable for light use. The A12 (iPhone XR) is the oldest and will be dropped from iOS updates soon. If you want to keep the phone for two years or more, aim for at least an A14. If you plan to use it for heavy gaming or video editing, get an A16 or A18.
Display technology and size
OLED screens (iPhone 12 and newer) look noticeably better than LCD screens (iPhone 11, XR, SE 2). OLED gives deep blacks, vibrant colors, and better contrast. If you watch a lot of video or read on the phone, the upgrade to OLED is worth it. Screen size matters too: the 6.7-inch iPhone 14 Plus is great for media, but the 4.7-inch SE is cramped. The 6.1-inch size on the iPhone 13/14/15 hits the sweet spot for most people.
Storage capacity
64GB is no longer enough for most users. After iOS and essential apps, you have about 50GB free – that fills up fast with photos, messages, and a few games. 128GB is the new baseline, and it is what we recommend for anyone who does not want to worry about storage. The iPhone 13 and 14 come in 128GB at reasonable prices. The iPhone 15 and 16e also offer 128GB at a higher cost. Avoid 64GB unless you are on a strict budget and use cloud storage heavily.
Battery health and condition
Every refurbished iPhone on this list is guaranteed to have at least 80% battery capacity. That might sound okay, but at 80% the battery drains faster and may need replacement within a year. If you can, look for listings that specifically mention "90% battery health" or "new battery" – they exist, especially for newer models. The condition rating matters too: some refurbishers sell "grade A" phones with no scratches, while others allow minor scuffs. Read the product description carefully.
Unlocked vs carrier-locked
All the phones here are unlocked, meaning they work with any US carrier. That is essential because locked phones can be a headache if you switch carriers later. Also check that the phone supports the bands your carrier uses – but any modern iPhone works on all major networks. One thing to note: the iPhone 16e and some newer models are eSIM-only (no physical SIM slot). That is fine if you are comfortable with eSIM, but if you frequently swap SIMs between phones, you want a phone with a physical slot (iPhone 13, 14, 15 all have one).
Frequently asked questions
Are refurbished iPhones safe to buy?
Yes, from reputable sellers like Amazon Renewed. They go through diagnostics, the data is wiped, and they come with a 90-day return policy and a 1-year warranty. The risk is minimal if you buy from a well-known program.
Which refurbished iPhone has the best battery life?
The iPhone 14 Plus has the largest battery of the bunch and easily lasts a day and a half. The iPhone 15 and iPhone 13 also get through a full day comfortably. The iPhone SE 2 and iPhone XR have the weakest batteries.
How long will a refurbished iPhone get software updates?
Apple typically supports iPhones for five to six years. The iPhone XR (2018) is nearing the end. The iPhone 11 and SE 2 (2019/2020) should get one more major iOS update. The iPhone 12 and newer will get updates for at least three more years. The iPhone 15 and 16e have the longest support window.
Is 64GB enough for a refurbished iPhone?
Only if you stream most content and don't take many photos. With 64GB, you will run out of space within months. We strongly recommend 128GB for anyone who wants to use the phone as a primary device.
Can I use a refurbished iPhone with any carrier?
All the phones we list are fully unlocked and work with AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, and their all MVNOs (Cricket, Mint, US Mobile, etc.). Check that your carrier uses GSM or CDMA – all modern iPhones support both.
What is the difference between Amazon Renewed and other refurbished listings?
Amazon Renewed phones are inspected and come with a 90-day Amazon-backed warranty. Other sellers may also offer good phones, but the warranty and return policy can vary. We include both in our picks as long as the seller is credible.
Should I buy a refurbished iPhone 16e or a new iPhone SE?
The refurbished iPhone 16e is significantly faster with a better camera and bigger battery. If the price is close, the 16e is the better buy. But if you can find a new SE 3 for around the same price, the new battery and warranty might tilt the scale toward new.
Final verdict
The best refurbished iPhone for most people is the iPhone 13 (128GB). It hits the ideal balance between price, performance, and future-proofing. If you can spend more, the iPhone 15 gives you USB-C and a much better camera. If you need a huge screen, the iPhone 14 Plus is unbeatable for battery life. On the budget end, the iPhone 11 still holds up well and costs well under $200.
For the absolute cheapest way to get into iOS, the iPhone SE 2nd Gen works, but you will notice the small screen and short battery. The iPhone XR is a last resort. If you have the means, skipping those and going for the iPhone 13 is the smartest move. The best refurbished iPhones in 2026 are the ones that give you years of use without breaking the bank, and the iPhone 13 is the clear winner in that equation.
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