10 Best Used iPhones in 2026

You want the iPhone experience without the new-car price tag. Buying used means you trade a fresh box for a few years of remaining updates, a battery that’s already seen some cycles, and a finish that might have a micro-scratch or two. The trick is knowing which generation gives you the most for your money and how to spot a properly refurbished unit.

The used iPhone market is crowded with listings from $100 to over $400, covering everything from the iPhone SE (2020) to the iPhone 15. Some are nearly indistinguishable from new. Others are a gamble. We’ve sorted through the most popular renewed models to find the best used iPhones for every budget and use case — from a cheap backup phone to a primary device that still feels current.

TL;DR: The Apple iPhone 13 128GB (Midnight) is the one most people should buy: the perfect mix of performance, storage, and price. The iPhone 14 128GB (Midnight) is the pick if you want an extra year of software support and slightly better cameras. The iPhone 15 128GB (Black) is the premium choice with USB-C and a 48MP camera. For tight budgets, the iPhone 11 64GB (Black) still holds up, and the iPhone SE 2nd Gen is the cheapest entry point.

#	Product	Storage	Color	Best for	Price
1	Apple iPhone 13 128GB Midnight	128GB	Midnight	Best overall value	$270.00
2	Apple iPhone 14 128GB Midnight	128GB	Midnight	Extra software longevity	$305.06
3	Apple iPhone 14 128GB Purple	128GB	Purple	Color preference, same core	$295.00
4	Apple iPhone 15 128GB Black	128GB	Black	Best features (USB-C, 48MP)	$423.99
5	Apple iPhone 13 128GB Blue	128GB	Blue	Same as #1, different color	$275.89
6	Apple iPhone 16e 128GB Black	128GB	Black	Latest tech without Pro price	$388.00
7	Apple iPhone 12 64GB Black	64GB	Black	Good deal if 64GB is enough	$185.00
8	Apple iPhone 12 64GB Blue	64GB	Blue	Same as #7, different color	$188.00
9	Apple iPhone 11 64GB Black	64GB	Black	Budget pick with great camera	$172.95
10	Apple iPhone SE 2nd Gen 64GB Black	64GB	Black	Cheapest entry to iOS	$100.00

Prices shown are what we found at time of writing. They change regularly.

How we picked the best used iPhones

• Battery health threshold. A renewed phone with degraded battery is a bad deal. We favored units guaranteed to have at least 80% battery capacity (most on this list are). Anything lower and you’ll be charging twice a day.
• Storage vs. price sweet spot. 64GB fills up fast in 2026 — especially with apps, photos, and system files. 128GB is the practical minimum for most people. We prioritized models where the jump to 128GB doesn’t break the budget.
• Generation cutoff. iPhones generally get 5–6 years of iOS updates. The iPhone 11 (2019) will likely stop at iOS 20 or 21. The iPhone 13 (2021) has at least two more years. We considered how long each phone will stay relevant.
• Carrier compatibility. All picks here are unlocked, working on GSM and CDMA networks (AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, et cetera). Some lack physical SIM slots (iPhone 16e), which matters if you need to swap carriers abroad.
• Cosmetic grading. Look for “minimal cosmetic damage not noticeable at arm’s length” descriptions. The best renewed units look new when held normally.
• Return policy and warranty. Most Amazon renewed phones come with a 90-day replacement or refund window. That’s enough time to check battery health, cellular connectivity, and camera function.

1. Apple iPhone 13 128GB Midnight: Best Overall

The iPhone 13 is the Goldilocks of the used iPhone lineup. It launched in 2021, but its A15 Bionic chip still feels snappy in 2026 — it handles demanding games, video editing, and multitasking without slowdown. The 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display is bright enough for HDR content, and the dual camera system (12MP wide and ultra-wide) takes photos that compete with phones twice the price.

What makes the Midnight 128GB version our top pick is the storage. At 128GB, you can install all your apps, store a decent photo library, and still have room for a few offline movies. The 64GB models in this roundup are cheaper, but you’ll feel the pinch within months unless you stream everything.

The design is familiar — flat edges, Ceramic Shield glass, aerospace-grade aluminum — and the IP68 water resistance is still intact on well-maintained units. Battery life is solid for a phone this age: expect a full day of moderate use if the battery health is above 90%. If it’s at 80%, you’ll need a mid-afternoon top-up.

Pros:

• A15 chip still outperforms many newer mid-range phones
• 128GB is the ideal storage tier for most users
• Excellent camera performance in good light
• IP68 water resistance
• Bright, accurate OLED display

Cons:

• Lightning port (not USB-C)
• No telephoto lens
• Battery health varies depending on the unit

Best for: Anyone who wants a reliable, fully capable iPhone without spending over $400.

Check current price on Amazon →

2. Apple iPhone 14 128GB Midnight: One Year Newer

The iPhone 14 is largely the iPhone 13 with a fresh coat of paint and a few key upgrades. They share the same A15 Bionic chip (the 14 uses the 5-core GPU variant), the same 12MP camera system, and the same 6.1-inch display. So why pay more? The iPhone 14 gets an extra year of iOS updates — it launched in 2022, meaning it will likely be supported through iOS 22 or 2029, versus iOS 21 for the 13.

It also brings Action mode for smooth video, slightly improved low-light photos, and the ability to use Emergency SOS via satellite (useful if you hike in areas with no cell coverage). The Midnight color is a deep black that hides fingerprints better than glossy finishes.

The 128GB base is the right capacity. This unit is guaranteed to have at least 80% battery health, and many Amazon-renewed examples arrive with 85–90%. The trade-off is price: you’re paying about $35 more than the iPhone 13 for essentially the same core experience, but that extra year of software support does matter if you plan to keep this phone for three or four years.

Pros:

• Longer software support than iPhone 13
• Action mode for steady video
• Emergency SOS via satellite
• Solid 128GB storage
• Carrier unlocked with wide compatibility

Cons:

• Same design and performance as iPhone 13
• Still uses Lightning
• Camera upgrades are marginal

Best for: People who want the longest possible update window and don’t mind paying a small premium for it.

Check current price on Amazon →

3. Apple iPhone 14 128GB Purple: Same Phone, Different Color

This is the iPhone 14 in Purple — a soft lavender that pops in good light. Everything said about the Midnight iPhone 14 applies here: same A15 chip, same camera, same 128GB storage, same software update promise. The Purple color is exclusive to the iPhone 14 lineup (the 13 didn’t have it), so if you want something that stands out from the sea of black and silver, this is your pick.

The price is actually slightly lower than the Midnight variant in our dataset ($295 vs $305), likely reflecting different seller inventory. That makes it an even better deal if you like the color. The only potential downside is that resale value might be slightly lower if unusual colors are less desirable on the secondary market, but that’s a minor concern for a phone you plan to use for years.

Pros:

• Unique Purple color not available on iPhone 13
• Same excellent core as other iPhone 14s
• Slightly lower price than Midnight variant
• Full carrier compatibility

Cons:

• Color may not appeal to everyone
• Resale value possibly lower
• Identical performance to iPhone 13

Best for: Buyers who want an iPhone 14 in a distinctive color and can save a few dollars.

Check current price on Amazon →

4. Apple iPhone 15 128GB Black: The Premium Choice

If you want the closest you can get to a new iPhone without paying new prices, the iPhone 15 is the answer. This is the first generation to adopt USB-C, so you no longer need a separate Lightning cable. The 48MP main camera is a significant upgrade over the 12MP sensors on the 13 and 14 — you get super-high-resolution photos (24MP and 48MP) and a 2x optical zoom that effectively gives you a telephoto option. The A16 Bionic chip is a step up from the A15, though in daily use the difference is subtle.

The design is almost identical to the 14, but the color-infused glass back gives it a more premium feel. Dynamic Island replaces the notch, which makes notifications and live activities feel more integrated. You also get Crash Detection and Roadside Assistance via satellite.

At $423.99 for a renewed 128GB unit, this is the most expensive phone in our roundup. But compared to a new iPhone 15 at $699, you’re saving over $275. The catch: renewed units may show minor cosmetic wear, and battery health can vary. Given the price, this is best for someone who wants the latest features and is willing to pay for them.

Pros:

• USB-C port for universal charging
• 48MP camera with 2x optical zoom
• Dynamic Island for notifications
• A16 Bionic chip (slightly faster than A15)
• Longer software support (through iOS 23+)

Cons:

• Highest price in the roundup
• Battery health may be lower than newer models
• Only 128GB base (no 256GB option in this listing)

Best for: Tech enthusiasts who want USB-C and the best camera performance in a used iPhone.

Check current price on Amazon →

5. Apple iPhone 13 128GB Blue: Same Great Phone, Bluer

The iPhone 13 in Blue is essentially the same device as the Midnight version, just a different color. The blue is more vivid — a bright, true blue that stands out. Performance, storage, camera, and battery life are identical.

The price is $275.89, about $6 more than the Midnight. That’s negligible, so if you prefer the blue, go for it without hesitation. The key difference in the listing is that the seller may be different; some third-party renewed sellers have slightly different grading criteria. Look for “minimal cosmetic damage” language. Both appear to be from reputable sources on Amazon.

If the Midnight is sold out or priced higher, the Blue is a perfect alternative. You get the same excellent A15 chip, 128GB storage, and 5G connectivity.

Pros:

• Bright Blue color is eye-catching
• All the strengths of the iPhone 13
• 128GB storage
• Same price range as Midnight

Cons:

• Color preference is subjective
• Seller may vary grading

Best for: Shoppers who like the blue finish and want the same top-tier value as the Midnight model.

Check current price on Amazon →

6. Apple iPhone 16e 128GB Black: Modern Tech, No MagSafe

The iPhone 16e is Apple’s budget current-gen model, launched in 2025. It comes with the A18 chip, 8GB of RAM, and a 48MP rear camera — the same main sensor as the iPhone 15. It also has a 4005mAh battery, which should easily last a full day. At $388 renewed, it’s a compelling option that sits between the iPhone 15 and iPhone 14 in price.

But there are important trade-offs. The iPhone 16e lacks MagSafe completely — no magnetic alignment for wireless charging, no accessory ecosystem. Charging is limited to 7.5W wireless (slow) or USB-C. It also has no physical SIM slot, relying entirely on dual eSIM. That’s fine in the US, but if you travel abroad frequently and buy local SIM cards, you’ll be stuck with eSIM compatibility.

The display is the same 6.1-inch OLED as the iPhone 14, with typical brightness of 800 nits. No ProMotion, no always-on. The camera is good but lacks a dedicated ultra-wide lens — you only get the 48MP wide. Software support will be excellent, likely through 2030 or later.

Pros:

• Latest A18 chip, very fast
• 48MP camera with good low-light performance
• USB-C port
• Longest software support of any used iPhone
• Large 4005mAh battery

Cons:

• No MagSafe (no magnetic accessories, slow wireless charging)
• No physical SIM slot (eSIM only)
• Single rear camera (no ultrawide)
• No millimeter-wave 5G

Best for: Users who want the newest processor and don’t care about MagSafe or dual cameras.

Check current price on Amazon →

7. Apple iPhone 12 64GB Black: Solid Starter at a Low Price

The iPhone 12 introduced the flat-edge design that defines the modern iPhone look. Its A14 chip is still capable for everyday tasks — social media, email, streaming, light gaming — but you’ll notice some slowdown in heavy games or 4K video editing. The 64GB storage is tight: after the system takes about 15GB, you have roughly 45GB for apps, photos, music, and everything else. That’s borderline for many users in 2026.

If you’re a light user who streams music and doesn’t take tons of photos, 64GB can work. The iPhone 12 also brought 5G (sub-6GHz), MagSafe, and a solid 12MP dual camera system. The Black color is sleek and professional.

At $185, this is one of the cheapest ways to get an all-screen iPhone with Face ID and a modern design. The downside: battery health at 80% means you’ll be charging by early evening. And you’re losing a year of software support compared to the iPhone 13.

Pros:

• Very affordable for a modern-looking iPhone
• Introduced MagSafe and 5G
• Good camera for the price
• Unlocked for all carriers

Cons:

• 64GB storage fills up fast
• A14 chip is showing its age
• Battery at 80% capacity is mediocre
• Fewer remaining iOS updates

Best for: Budget-conscious buyers who use their phone lightly and can manage 64GB.

Check current price on Amazon →

8. Apple iPhone 12 64GB Blue: Same Phone, Blue Paint

This is the same iPhone 12 in Blue — identical specs, price $3 higher. The blue is lighter than the iPhone 13’s blue, a bit more pastel. If you like the color, it’s a fine choice. The same caveats apply: 64GB storage, aging A14 chip, 80% minimum battery.

The listing is from a different seller, so quality may vary slightly. Both are marked as renewed and carrier unlocked. If you’re cross-shopping these, pick based on color and current price.

Pros:

• Low cost for an iPhone with OLED and 5G
• Attractive blue color
• MagSafe compatible

Cons:

• Same limitations as #7
• Storage constraints
• Battery health floor

Best for: Buyers who want the iPhone 12 in blue and agree to the 64GB trade-off.

Check current price on Amazon →

9. Apple iPhone 11 64GB Black: The Best Budget iPhone

The iPhone 11 is older — launched in 2019 — but it remains one of the best value used iPhones you can buy. The A13 chip still handles most tasks without major stuttering, and the camera is surprisingly competent: 12MP wide and ultra-wide lenses that take pictures comparable to the iPhone 12 in good light. You also get the classic curved-edge design, which some people prefer for its more comfortable grip.

The 6.1-inch Liquid Retina LCD display is not OLED, so blacks are not as deep and contrast is lower. But for the price, it’s a good screen. You lose MagSafe (the iPhone 11 only supports standard Qi wireless charging at up to 7.5W) and 5G. Battery health on renewed units is typically 80–85%, which gives you about a day of moderate use.

At $172.95, this is a strong option for a teenager, a senior, or anyone who just needs a reliable smartphone for calls, messages, and basic apps. The biggest risk: iOS updates will end soon (likely iOS 20 in 2026 or 2027), after which you’ll stop getting security patches. But in 2026, it will still run most apps.

Pros:

• Low price for a capable iPhone
• Dual camera with ultra-wide
• Comfortable, lighter design
• Good battery life for its age
• Carrier unlocked

Cons:

• LCD screen (not OLED)
• No 5G
• iOS support ending soon
• 64GB storage only

Best for: Absolute budget pick, backup phone, or first smartphone for a child.

Check current price on Amazon →

10. Apple iPhone SE 2nd Gen 64GB Black: The Cheapest Entry

The iPhone SE (2nd generation) is the smallest iPhone you can get with a home button and Touch ID. It’s basically an iPhone 8 body with an A13 Bionic chip from the iPhone 11. The 4.7-inch LCD screen is tiny by modern standards, but some people love the compact size and physical fingerprint sensor.

The single 12MP camera is acceptable for well-lit shots but lacks night mode and ultra-wide. The battery is the weakest in this roundup: even with an 80% capacity, you’ll be charging by late afternoon with moderate use. Storage at 64GB is also tight.

At $100, it’s the cheapest way to get into the iPhone ecosystem. This is not a daily driver for most people in 2026, but it works well as a secondary phone for work, a minimalist device, or for someone who primarily uses a tablet at home. You get the same CPU as the iPhone 11, so basic app performance is fine.

Pros:

• Lowest price by far
• Touch ID home button
• Very compact and light
• A13 chip is still capable for basic tasks
• Carrier unlocked

Cons:

• Tiny screen
• Small battery, poor endurance
• Single camera, no night mode
• Outdated design (thick bezels)
• 64GB storage only

Best for: Absolute rock-bottom budget, or someone who needs a small phone with a home button.

Check current price on Amazon →

Buyer’s guide: how to choose used iPhones

Buying a renewed iPhone means navigating generations, storage tiers, battery health, and cosmetic grading. Here are the factors that matter most.

Generation and software support

Apple typically supports iPhones with iOS updates for five to six years after release. At the time of writing in 2026, the iPhone 11 (2019) will likely stop receiving new iOS versions within a year. The iPhone 13 (2021) should get updates through at least 2027, and the iPhone 15 (2023) through 2029. If you plan to keep your phone for more than two years, choose a newer generation to keep getting security patches and app compatibility.

The A14 chip in the iPhone 12 and later is still fast enough for most tasks, but demanding apps (especially games and video editors) will feel smoother on A15 and newer. The A16 in the iPhone 15 and A18 in the iPhone 16e offer headroom for the next few years.

Battery health is the hidden variable

A renewed iPhone with 80% battery health will last significantly less than one with 90% or higher. A degraded battery means more frequent charging and slower peak performance (iPhones throttle performance when battery health drops below 80%, though Apple doesn’t do that automatically for newer models unless the battery is extremely worn). Look for listings that guarantee a minimum of 80% capacity, and if possible, ask the seller for the actual percentage. Some Amazon renewed units come with 85% or higher, which is much better.

Storage: 64GB vs 128GB vs 256GB

In 2026, 64GB is the absolute minimum. System files and core apps take about 15GB, leaving around 45GB for your data. If you take photos, download a few games, or use offline music, you’ll run out quickly. 128GB is the sweet spot for most users — enough space for regular use without constantly managing storage. 256GB is overkill for most people but necessary if you record 4K video regularly. The phones in this roundup cap at 128GB (except the iPhone 15, which also comes in 128GB here; higher capacities exist but are rarer in the renewed market).

Cosmetic condition and grading

Renewed iPhones vary from “like new” to “good” with minor dents or scratches. The descriptions often say “no visible imperfections when held at arm’s length” — that’s the standard for Amazon Renewed. You should expect some micro scratches on the screen or small scuffs on the aluminum frame. If pristine condition matters to you, pay a bit more for a unit from a seller with a higher grading standard.

Carrier compatibility and SIM

All phones in our roundup are unlocked and work with GSM and CDMA carriers (AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, Cricket, et cetera). But note that the iPhone 16e and later models sold in the US have no physical SIM slot — they use dual eSIM only. This is fine if you never swap SIMs, but it’s a problem if you travel internationally and buy local physical SIMs. Check that your carrier supports eSIM (most major US carriers do). The iPhone 14 and earlier still have a physical SIM tray (US models).

MagSafe and accessories

MagSafe, introduced on the iPhone 12, allows magnetic mounting for cases, wallets, chargers, and car mounts. It also enables faster 15W wireless charging (vs 7.5W standard Qi). The iPhone 16e lacks MagSafe entirely, so you lose that ecosystem. If you use MagSafe accessories, stick with iPhone 12 through 15.

Frequently asked questions

Are renewed iPhones worth buying?

Yes, if you buy from a reputable seller with a 90-day return policy. Renewed iPhones from Amazon’s program are inspected, cleaned, and tested. They cost significantly less than new but include the same core hardware. Battery health is guaranteed at 80% minimum, and you save anywhere from $100 to $400.

How long will a used iPhone last?

An iPhone that’s been properly refurbished can last three to five more years with normal use, assuming the battery is replaced when it degrades. Software support depends on the generation: iPhone 13 will get updates until around 2027, iPhone 14 until 2028, and iPhone 15 until 2029. After that, apps may stop supporting older iOS versions.

Do used iPhones come with a charger?

Most renewed iPhones do not include headphones or a SIM card. They typically come with a generic (MFi certified) charging cable, but no power brick. You’ll need to supply your own USB power adapter (and possibly a USB-C to Lightning cable for older models).

Which used iPhone has the best battery life?

The iPhone 15 has the largest battery in this roundup (with 26 hours video playback rating). The iPhone 16e has a 4005mAh battery that should also last a full day. Among older models, the iPhone 13 and 14 offer similar all-day endurance if the battery health is above 85%.

Can I use a used iPhone on Verizon?

Yes, all the phones in our roundup are unlocked and compatible with Verizon (CDMA/ LTE/5G). The iPhone 16e lacks mmWave 5G but uses sub-6GHz 5G, which is what Verizon’s nationwide network uses. Check with your carrier to ensure IMEI compatibility before buying.

What’s the difference between a renewed iPhone and a used iPhone from a third party?

A renewed iPhone from Amazon is tested, cleaned, and graded by Amazon or its suppliers. It comes with a 90-day replacement/refund warranty. A used iPhone from a private seller may not have been tested, may have significant cosmetic damage or a dead battery, and offers no return period. Renewed is usually safer.

Should I buy a used iPhone 11 in 2026?

Only if your budget is very tight (under $175) and you accept that iOS updates will end soon. The iPhone 11 is still functional for basic tasks, but it lacks 5G, has an LCD display, and will soon become a security risk without updates. For a bit more, an iPhone 12 or 13 is a much better long-term investment.

Final verdict

The iPhone 13 128GB is the clear winner for most people. It hits the sweet spot of price, performance, storage, and remaining software support. If you can stretch your budget slightly, the iPhone 14 gives you an extra year of updates and slightly improved video stabilization. For those who want the absolute latest features and are willing to pay around $425, the iPhone 15 with USB-C and a 48MP camera is a great premium pick. On the budget end, the iPhone 11 still holds up for basic use, and the iPhone SE is the cheapest way to get an iPhone.

If you are still on the fence, think about how long you plan to keep the phone. For a two-year phone, an iPhone 13 is ideal. For three to four years, step up to the iPhone 14 or 15. And if you just need a temporary backup or a phone for a family member, the iPhone 11 or SE will do the job without breaking the bank.

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