The iPhone 17 Pro Max takes the top spot as the best Apple iPhone overall, thanks to its large display, flagship cameras, and the longest software runway of any model here. Close behind, the iPhone 16 delivers modern performance and Dynamic Island design at a mid-tier price, while the iPhone 13 remains the standout budget pick for buyers who want reliable Apple quality without paying for the latest chip. The main tradeoff in this lineup is age versus longevity: newer models like the 17e and 16e cost more but will receive iOS updates for years longer, while older renewed models like the iPhone 12 and SE save money now but expire sooner. Storage is another deciding factor, since 64GB base models fill up fast for photo-heavy users. Keep reading for the full breakdown of all 13 models and which one fits your needs.
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Key Takeaways
The iPhone 17 Pro Max earned the top spot because it is the only model in this lineup that combines flagship cameras, a large display, and maximum years of remaining iOS support.Budget picks cluster around two strategies: pay slightly more for a newer budget model (16e, 17e) for longer software life, or pay less for an older flagship (13, 15 Pro) for better hardware now.The 12 Mini and SE models are the only true one-handed compact options, but both carry the shortest remaining update windows in the roundup.Storage tier matters more than model year for some buyers: the 512GB iPhone 15 and 15 Pro outlast 128GB flagships for anyone who shoots lots of video.Carrier-locked entries like the Verizon iPhone 14 only make sense for existing Verizon customers, which is why the unlocked iPhone 14 ranks ahead of it despite identical hardware.
Our Top Best Apple IPhones Picks
Apple iPhone 15 Pro, 512GB, Blue Titanium, Unlocked (Renewed)Best OverallStorage: 512 GBDisplay: 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED, 120 Hz ProMotionProcessor: Apple A17 ProVIEW LATEST PRICESee Our Full BreakdownApple iPhone 17e, 256GB, Soft Pink, Unlocked (Renewed)Best Newer-Generation ValueStorage: 256GBDisplay: 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED, 2532 × 1170 pixelsProcessor: Apple A19, 6-core CPU, 16-core Neural EngineVIEW LATEST PRICESee Our Full BreakdownApple iPhone 16, 128GB, Black, Unlocked (Renewed)Best Balanced Mainstream PickStorage: 128 GBDisplay: 6.1-inch OLED, 2556 × 1179 pixels, 60 HzProcessor: Apple A18, 3.2 GHzVIEW LATEST PRICESee Our Full BreakdownApple iPhone 14, 128GB, Blue (Unlocked, Renewed)Best Budget-Friendly Modern iPhoneStorage: 128GBDisplay: 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLEDCondition: RenewedVIEW LATEST PRICESee Our Full BreakdownApple iPhone 13, 128GB, Midnight, Unlocked (Renewed)Best Ultra-Budget Starter iPhoneStorage: 128 GBDisplay: 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED, 2532 × 1170 pixels, 60 HzRear Cameras: 12MP wide + 12MP ultra-wideVIEW LATEST PRICESee Our Full BreakdownApple iPhone 17 Pro Max, 256GB, Deep Blue, eSIM, Unlocked (Renewed)Best Premium Flagship (Renewed Deal)Model: iPhone 17 Pro MaxCondition: RenewedStorage: 256 GBVIEW LATEST PRICESee Our Full BreakdownApple iPhone 14, 128GB, Midnight, Verizon (Renewed)Best for Verizon Budget UpgradersModel: iPhone 14Condition: RenewedStorage: 128 GBVIEW LATEST PRICESee Our Full BreakdownApple iPhone 15, 512GB, Black, Unlocked (Renewed)Best Value All-RounderModel: iPhone 15Condition: RenewedStorage: 512 GBVIEW LATEST PRICESee Our Full BreakdownApple iPhone 12 Mini, 64GB, White – Unlocked (Renewed)Best Compact PickModel: iPhone 12 MiniCondition: RenewedStorage: 64 GBVIEW LATEST PRICESee Our Full BreakdownApple iPhone SE 2nd Generation, 64GB, Black – Unlocked (Renewed)Best Starter iPhoneModel: iPhone SE (2nd Generation)Condition: RenewedStorage: 64 GBVIEW LATEST PRICESee Our Full BreakdownApple iPhone 16e, 128GB, Black, Unlocked (Renewed)Best Modern Features on a BudgetDisplay: 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED, 2532 x 1170, 460 ppiProcessor: Apple A18, 6-core CPU, 8GB RAMStorage: 128GBVIEW LATEST PRICESee Our Full BreakdownApple iPhone 12, 64GB, Black, Unlocked (Renewed)Best Rock-Bottom OLED ValueDisplay: 6.1-inch OLEDProcessor: Apple A14 BionicStorage: 64GBVIEW LATEST PRICESee Our Full BreakdownApple iPhone SE 3rd Gen, 64GB, Midnight – Unlocked (Renewed)Best Compact PickDisplay: 4.7-inch Retina HD LCDProcessor: Apple A15 Bionic, 1.82 GHzStorage: 64GBVIEW LATEST PRICESee Our Full Breakdown
More Details on Our Top Picks
Apple iPhone 15 Pro, 512GB, Blue Titanium, Unlocked (Renewed)
This option stands out as the strongest all-around choice in the lineup because it pairs ProMotion 120Hz with the A17 Pro chip — a combination none of the other picks here offer. Compared with the iPhone 16, it trades a slightly newer processor for a triple-camera system with a dedicated telephoto lens, plus a titanium frame that keeps the weight down despite the massive 512GB of storage. The USB-C port and 29-hour video playback rating make it better suited to heavy media creators than the iPhone 13, which is still stuck on Lightning. The tradeoffs are real: the listing notes it is not water resistant, and as a renewed unit it carries only a 90-day warranty rather than Apple’s standard coverage.
Best for: Photographers, mobile gamers, and power users who want flagship performance and huge storage without paying new-flagship money
Not ideal for: Buyers who want full manufacturer warranty coverage or guaranteed water resistance for poolside and outdoor use
Storage:512 GBDisplay:6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED, 120 Hz ProMotionProcessor:Apple A17 ProRear Camera:48MP main, ultra-wide, and telephoto systemConnectivity:5G, USB-C, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFCVideo Playback:Up to 29 hoursWarranty:90-day Amazon Renewed warranty
“Buy this if you want flagship-tier cameras, display, and speed in one package and can accept renewed-condition caveats.”
Apple iPhone 17e, 256GB, Soft Pink, Unlocked (Renewed)
This model makes the most sense for buyers who want the newest silicon at a mid-tier price point. The A19 chip and iOS 26 mean it will receive software updates longer than the iPhone 15 Pro or iPhone 16 in this roundup — a quiet advantage that matters more than raw specs after two or three years of ownership. The 48MP camera with optical-quality 2× telephoto closes most of the gap to the iPhone 15 Pro for everyday shots, though it lacks a true telephoto lens for distant subjects. Battery life is a highlight at up to 26 hours of playback, beating the iPhone 16’s 22-hour rating. The catch is connectivity: dual eSIM only with no physical SIM slot and no mmWave 5G, which will frustrate travelers who swap local SIM cards abroad.
Best for: Buyers prioritizing long-term software support and modern charging standards without paying Pro prices
Not ideal for: Frequent international travelers or anyone who relies on physical SIM cards from their carrier
Storage:256GBDisplay:6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED, 2532 × 1170 pixelsProcessor:Apple A19, 6-core CPU, 16-core Neural EngineRear Camera:48MP Fusion Main with 2× optical-quality telephotoSIM:Dual eSIM onlyCharging:Qi2 and MagSafe wirelessVideo Playback:Up to 26 hours
“Choose this if you value future-proof performance and battery life over camera versatility and SIM flexibility.”
Apple iPhone 16, 128GB, Black, Unlocked (Renewed)
The iPhone 16 occupies the sensible middle ground between the older iPhone 14 and the pricier 15 Pro. Its A18 chip delivers current-generation speed, and the jump to a 48MP camera with 4K capture puts it well ahead of the iPhone 14’s 12MP setup for photo quality. Compared with the iPhone 17e, you give up some battery life (22 vs. 26 hours of playback) and longer update support, but you gain the familiar rounded design and a large 3491 mAh battery that comfortably outlasts the iPhone 13. USB-C charging aligns it with modern accessories, unlike the Lightning-only iPhone 13 and 14. The 60Hz display is the main compromise — next to the 15 Pro’s ProMotion panel, scrolling feels less fluid — and the listing flags it as not water resistant.
Best for: Everyday users upgrading from an iPhone 12 or 13 who want a modern chip, USB-C, and strong cameras at a mainstream price
Not ideal for: Display enthusiasts who will notice the 60Hz refresh rate after using a 120Hz panel
Storage:128 GBDisplay:6.1-inch OLED, 2556 × 1179 pixels, 60 HzProcessor:Apple A18, 3.2 GHzRear Camera:48MP with 4K video captureBattery:3491 mAh, up to 22 hours video playbackConnector:USB Type-CCarrier:Unlocked, eSIM
“This is the smart default for most buyers — current performance and cameras without Pro-level cost.”
Apple iPhone 14, 128GB, Blue (Unlocked, Renewed)
For shoppers who want a recent-design iPhone at the lowest sensible price, this option beats older picks like the iPhone 12 while staying cheaper than the iPhone 16. You get the same 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED panel as the iPhone 13, plus Action mode for stabilized handheld video — a genuinely useful feature for anyone recording kids, pets, or travel clips that the iPhone 13 lacks. Compared with the iPhone 16, though, the camera system and processor are a generation behind, and the Lightning port means carrying an older cable. It is better suited to casual users who text, browse, and snap occasional photos than to anyone editing video or gaming hard, where the A15 chip shows its age sooner.
Best for: Budget-conscious buyers who want Face ID, OLED quality, and a modern design without paying for the newest chip
Not ideal for: Mobile gamers and heavy video editors who need newer processing power than the A15 provides
Storage:128GBDisplay:6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLEDCondition:RenewedNetwork:UnlockedVideo:Action mode stabilizationColor:Blue
“A solid low-cost entry into modern iPhones for casual users who don’t need cutting-edge cameras or ports.”
Apple iPhone 13, 128GB, Midnight, Unlocked (Renewed)
This pick makes the most sense as a first iPhone or a dependable backup device, sitting at the value end of this lineup. The 6.1-inch OLED with Dolby Vision HDR still looks sharper and more vibrant than the LCD panels on the budget iPhone SE models elsewhere in this roundup, and the dual 12MP cameras record 4K at 60fps — more than enough for social media and family videos. Compared with the iPhone 14 above it, you lose Action mode and a year of chip headroom; compared with the iPhone 16, you lose USB-C entirely. The single Nano SIM and 60Hz display are further signs of its age, and the arm’s-length cosmetic grading standard means small scratches may be visible up close. As a low-cost daily driver for basics, however, it holds up well.
Best for: First-time iPhone owners, students, and anyone needing an affordable, capable daily device for calls, messaging, and social apps
Not ideal for: Buyers planning to keep the phone for four or more years, since the A15’s update window is shorter than newer models
Storage:128 GBDisplay:6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED, 2532 × 1170 pixels, 60 HzRear Cameras:12MP wide + 12MP ultra-wideVideo:4K at up to 60 fps; 1080p at up to 240 fpsConnector:LightningBattery:3240 mAhCondition:Renewed, unlocked
“The cheapest way into a big-screen OLED iPhone that still handles everyday tasks competently.”
Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max, 256GB, Deep Blue, eSIM, Unlocked (Renewed)
For buyers who want the absolute ceiling of Apple’s lineup without paying new-flagship money, this renewed iPhone 17 Pro Max is the obvious anchor pick. The triple 48MP camera system with 40x digital zoom and the Always-On Display put it a clear generation ahead of the iPhone 15 elsewhere in this roundup, and 256GB of storage means photographers and heavy app users won’t hit the wall that 64GB models like the iPhone 12 Mini impose. Compared with the iPhone 15 Pro listing, this newer model buys you more RAM, a fresher processor, and a longer useful life before iOS updates end. The tradeoff is real, though: this renewed unit lacks water resistance, and the guaranteed 80% battery floor is just a floor — some units will arrive with noticeably degraded endurance.
Best for: Enthusiasts and mobile photographers who want flagship camera hardware and top-tier performance at a renewed price
Not ideal for: Anyone who needs water resistance for poolside or outdoor work use — this renewed unit is not sealed against water
Model:iPhone 17 Pro MaxCondition:RenewedStorage:256 GBNetwork:Unlocked; GSM and CDMASIM:eSIM; Dual SIMProcessor:A-Series, 3.7 GHzRear Camera:48 MP sensor; three rear camerasBattery:Lithium-ion; minimum 80% capacity
“This is the pick for buyers who want maximum iPhone capability per dollar and can accept renewed-condition compromises like no water resistance.”
Apple iPhone 14, 128GB, Midnight, Verizon (Renewed)
This renewed iPhone 14 makes sense for one specific buyer: the Verizon customer who wants a modern-feeling phone cheaply and doesn’t want to think about carriers. The 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED still looks excellent next to the iPhone 15’s panel, and features like Action mode and 4K Cinematic video give it camera tricks the older iPhone 12 Mini in this roundup simply can’t match. The catch is the carrier lock-in — unlike the unlocked iPhone 14 Blue elsewhere in this roundup, this Verizon-specific model limits your options if you ever switch networks. It also sticks with the Lightning connector, so anyone standardizing on USB-C cables will need to keep an older cable around.
Best for: Verizon subscribers who want a dependable modern iPhone with strong video features at a low renewed price
Not ideal for: Frequent carrier switchers or international travelers — the Verizon-specific version limits flexibility compared with unlocked options
Model:iPhone 14Condition:RenewedStorage:128 GBCarrier:VerizonDisplay:6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLEDProcessor:A15 Bionic with 5-core GPUCameras:12MP ultra-wide and 12MP wideConnector:Lightning
“A smart budget upgrade for committed Verizon users who prioritize screen and video quality over carrier freedom.”
Apple iPhone 15, 512GB, Black, Unlocked (Renewed)
If one phone in this batch balances price, longevity, and everyday capability best, it’s the renewed iPhone 15. The jump to a 48MP main camera and USB-C puts it meaningfully ahead of the Verizon iPhone 14 above — same 6.1-inch OLED size, but sharper photos and a modern connector that matches your laptop and iPad. With 512GB of storage, it even out-spaces the iPhone 17 Pro Max pick, which matters for anyone shooting lots of 4K video. It’s fully unlocked with eSIM and satellite Emergency SOS, and the 90-day Amazon Renewed warranty adds a safety net. The compromises: the 60Hz display feels less fluid than Pro-tier screens, and like the other renewed units here, water resistance is off the table.
Best for: Practical upgraders who want a modern camera, USB-C, and huge storage without flagship pricing
Not ideal for: Display enthusiasts — the 60Hz refresh rate feels noticeably less smooth than 120Hz Pro models
Model:iPhone 15Condition:RenewedStorage:512 GBCarrier:Unlocked for all carriersDisplay:6.1-inch OLED, 2556 × 1179 pixels, 60 HzProcessor:Apple A16 Bionic, 3.46 GHzRear Camera:48 MPVideo Playback:Up to 26 hoursWarranty:90-day Amazon Renewed Warranty
“The smartest all-around buy here for buyers who want modern features and massive storage at a mid-tier renewed price.”
Apple iPhone 12 Mini, 64GB, White – Unlocked (Renewed)
Small phones are nearly extinct, which is exactly why the renewed iPhone 12 Mini earns its spot. For buyers who find the 6.1-inch iPhone 14 and iPhone 15 in this roundup too big for one-handed use, the Mini is the only genuinely pocketable option left, and being unlocked for GSM and CDMA carriers gives it more flexibility than the Verizon-locked iPhone 14. The tradeoffs are predictable: 64GB of storage fills fast once you install a few apps and shoot video, the older chip will age out of iOS updates sooner, and battery life is the weakest of any phone listed here — even at the guaranteed 80% minimum. This pick makes the most sense as a compact secondary phone or a minimal-use daily driver.
Best for: One-handed typists and fans of genuinely pocketable phones who keep their app and photo libraries lean
Not ideal for: Heavy app users, photographers, or commuters who need all-day battery — 64GB and a small cell won’t keep up
Model:iPhone 12 MiniCondition:RenewedStorage:64 GBColor:WhiteCarrier Lock:UnlockedNetwork Compatibility:GSM and CDMAMinimum Battery Capacity:80%
“A niche but justified pick for small-phone loyalists who prioritize pocketability over capacity and battery life.”
Apple iPhone SE 2nd Generation, 64GB, Black – Unlocked (Renewed)
For a first smartphone, a backup line, or a kid’s first iPhone, the renewed iPhone SE 2nd Generation is the easiest entry point in this roundup. It runs iOS with the same familiar interface as the iPhone 15, works with every major GSM and CDMA carrier thanks to being unlocked, and the full diagnostic test with a guaranteed 80% minimum battery gives first-time renewed buyers some peace of mind. Compared with the iPhone 12 Mini, it’s the better choice for anyone who prefers the classic Home button and Touch ID over Face ID swipes and gestures. But make no mistake: 64GB is tight, the dated design lacks modern camera and display tech, and software update runway is short — this is a starter phone, not a long-term investment like the iPhone 15 pick.
Best for: First-time smartphone owners, kids, or anyone wanting a cheap unlocked backup line with familiar Home button controls
Not ideal for: Anyone planning to keep their phone for years — dated hardware and short update support make it a short-term device
Model:iPhone SE (2nd Generation)Condition:RenewedStorage:64 GBColor:BlackCarrier Compatibility:Unlocked, GSM and CDMAMinimum Battery Capacity:80%Included Accessories:Generic MFi-certified charging cable
“The cheapest sensible way into the Apple ecosystem — ideal as a starter or backup phone, not as a keeper.”
Apple iPhone 16e, 128GB, Black, Unlocked (Renewed)
The iPhone 16e is the rare renewed option that still feels current. Its Apple A18 chip and 8GB of RAM mean it handles Apple Intelligence and years of iOS updates that older picks like the iPhone 12 simply cannot match. The 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display reaches 1200 nits peak brightness, and the 48MP rear camera produces noticeably sharper shots than the 12MP sensor on the iPhone 12 or SE 3rd Gen.
The tradeoffs are real: there is no MagSafe support, no mmWave 5G, and the eSIM-only setup frustrates travelers who swap physical SIM cards abroad. Still, compared with the renewed iPhone 16, this pick gives up the extra camera lens and MagSafe while keeping nearly identical core performance, making it the smarter spend for buyers who prioritize internals over extras.
Best for: Budget-conscious buyers who want current-generation performance, Apple Intelligence support, and years of software updates without paying flagship prices
Not ideal for: Frequent international travelers or MagSafe accessory owners — the eSIM-only design and lack of magnetic charging limit flexibility
Display:6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED, 2532 x 1170, 460 ppiProcessor:Apple A18, 6-core CPU, 8GB RAMStorage:128GBRear camera:48MP, f/1.6Battery:4005 mAh with wireless charging (7.5W)Connectivity:Sub-6 GHz 5G, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3, USB-CSIM:Dual eSIM; no physical SIM cardCondition:Renewed, unlocked
“This is the pick for anyone who wants near-flagship speed and a modern camera at a mid-tier price, provided they can live without MagSafe and a physical SIM slot.”
Apple iPhone 12, 64GB, Black, Unlocked (Renewed)
For shoppers chasing the cheapest way into a modern-feeling iPhone, the renewed iPhone 12 still delivers the essentials: a 6.1-inch OLED display, 5G, Face ID, and a clean flat-edge design that has aged gracefully. Compared with the iPhone 16e in this lineup, the gap is generational — the A14 Bionic and 64GB of storage will feel tight within a couple of years — but the day-to-day experience for calls, streaming, and browsing remains solid.
The 80% minimum battery guarantee gives buyers a concrete floor on condition, which the iPhone 12 Mini shares but smaller renewed listings often lack. What you give up is meaningful: no water resistance rating on renewed units, and 64GB fills fast once you shoot video. This option makes the most sense as a first iPhone, backup phone, or short-term stopgap, not a multi-year daily driver.
Best for: First-time iPhone buyers, students, or anyone needing a capable unlocked backup phone at the lowest possible entry point
Not ideal for: Heavy app users and photo takers — 64GB of storage and an aging A14 chip will feel limiting within a couple of years
Display:6.1-inch OLEDProcessor:Apple A14 BionicStorage:64GBCamera:12MP front and rearConnectivity:5GBiometric security:Face IDBattery health:Guaranteed minimum 80% capacityCondition:Renewed, unlocked, charging cable included
“Buy it as the cheapest path to a big-screen OLED iPhone with 5G, but treat it as a stopgap rather than a long-term phone.”
Apple iPhone SE 3rd Gen, 64GB, Midnight – Unlocked (Renewed)
In a lineup dominated by 6.1-inch and larger screens, the renewed iPhone SE 3rd Gen is the only true one-handed option besides the iPhone 12 Mini, and it beats that rival decisively on internals. The A15 Bionic chip outpaces the iPhone 12’s A14, and IP67 water resistance is something the renewed iPhone 12 cannot claim. Touch ID in the home button is a genuine plus for glove-wearers and anyone who prefers fingerprint unlocking.
The compromises concentrate in two areas: the 4.7-inch Retina HD LCD looks dated next to the OLED panels on every other model here, and the 2018 mAh battery demands a midday top-up for heavy users. Compared with the iPhone 16e, this model trades screen quality and battery life for pocketability — a trade only small-phone loyalists should make.
Best for: Small-phone loyalists, seniors, or one-handed users who want Touch ID, 5G, and a pocketable frame with respectable performance
Not ideal for: Heavy media consumers and all-day power users — the small battery and dated LCD screen make it a poor daily driver for streaming or gaming
Display:4.7-inch Retina HD LCDProcessor:Apple A15 Bionic, 1.82 GHzStorage:64GBRear camera:12MP Wide, 4K video up to 60 fpsBiometric security:Touch ID (fingerprint)Water resistance:IP67Battery:2018 mAh, up to 15 hours video playbackCondition:Renewed (refurbished), unlocked
“The SE 3rd Gen is the pick for one-handed comfort and Touch ID over screen and battery — everyone else should stretch to the iPhone 16e.”
How We Picked
I ranked these iPhones around three buyer-relevant criteria: remaining software support, performance relative to price, and day-to-day usability including display, cameras, battery, and storage capacity. Because most models in this roundup are renewed, I also weighed carrier lock status and storage tier heavily — an unlocked phone with usable storage simply serves more buyers than a locked or cramped alternative. A newer budget model and an older flagship can cost similar amounts, so I compared them on which one delivers a better experience over the next three to four years, not just on launch-year specs.
The ranking logic favors models with the longest useful life first, then filters by fit: the 17 Pro Max and 16 lead because they fit the widest range of buyers, while specialized picks (the 12 Mini for compact fans, the SE for first-time iPhone users) sit lower not because they are worse phones but because they serve narrower audiences. Every entry includes real drawbacks — aging chips, small batteries, thin storage — so the order reflects honest tradeoffs rather than a simple newest-to-oldest list.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Apple IPhones
Choosing between these 13 iPhones comes down to a handful of factors that matter far more than model names suggest. Below are the considerations I would weigh before clicking buy, along with the mistakes that catch renewed-iPhone buyers off guard.
Software Support Is the Hidden Cost of Cheap
Apple supports iPhones with iOS updates for roughly six to seven years from launch, which means a discounted iPhone 12 has a much shorter remaining lifespan than a similarly priced iPhone 16e. Buyers often compare price tags alone and end up with a phone that stops receiving security updates within two years. If you keep phones long-term, paying more for a 2024 or newer model almost always stretches your money further. The SE 2nd Generation is the clearest example: it is cheap and capable, but it sits closest to the end of its support window. My rule of thumb is to buy the newest generation your budget allows, and only drop older when the savings are large.
Storage: 64GB Fills Faster Than You Think
Several entries here ship with 64GB, and that capacity becomes a daily frustration once modern iOS, photos, and a few apps pile up. Video recording in particular consumes gigabytes within minutes, and once storage runs out, the phone throttles photos, updates, and app installs. For light users — calls, messaging, streaming — 64GB can work, but anyone who takes photos regularly should treat 128GB as the practical floor. The 512GB iPhone 15 and 15 Pro entries flip this equation: their generous storage may outlast their chips, making them smart picks for media hoarders. Storage cannot be upgraded later on any iPhone, so decide before buying.
Renewed Versus New: What to Check
Every model in this roundup is renewed, and quality varies more between units than between models. Battery health is the biggest variable — a renewed phone with a worn battery behaves like a worse phone regardless of its chip, so look for listings that specify minimum battery capacity or a replacement battery. Also confirm the return window before purchasing, because cosmetic grades mean different things from different sellers. Carrier-locked renewed phones, like the Verizon iPhone 14 here, are cheaper for a reason: they only work on that network until unlocked, which may require account requirements you cannot meet. Unlocked listings cost slightly more and remove that risk entirely.
Screen Size and One-Handed Use
Display size splits this lineup into three camps: compact (12 Mini, SE models), standard (13, 14, 15, 16, 16e, 17e), and large (15 Pro, 17 Pro Max). Larger screens make reading, gaming, and photography editing better, but they demand two-handed use and stretch pockets. The 12 Mini is the last truly small full-featured iPhone, which is exactly why compact-phone fans still seek it out despite its age and smaller battery. If you have never owned a large phone, jumping straight to a Pro Max is a risk — try holding one first. Screen technology matters too: the Pro models’ higher refresh rate displays make scrolling noticeably smoother than the standard 60Hz panels.
Camera Needs: Match the Model to How You Shoot
Camera capability in this lineup roughly tracks model year and tier, with Pro models adding telephoto lenses and better stabilization that casual shooters never touch. If your photos are mostly shared to social media, the iPhone 13 or 14 cameras are still more than adequate and save real money. Where the Pro models justify themselves is zoom, low light, and video work — the 17 Pro Max in particular handles action video and distant subjects that budget models simply cannot. Be honest about your habits: paying flagship money for cameras you will not use is the most common overspend in this category. The mid-tier 15 and 16 hit the sweet point for most people.
eSIM-Only Models and Carrier Compatibility
Newer US iPhones, including the eSIM-only 17 Pro Max, dropped the physical SIM slot entirely, which affects travelers who rely on swap-in local SIM cards abroad. If you frequently travel internationally, an older model with a physical SIM tray — anything from the 14 generation and earlier — offers flexibility the newer phones cannot match. eSIM itself works fine domestically with all major US carriers, so this is a niche concern rather than a dealbreaker for most buyers. Also verify that any renewed phone supports the 5G bands your carrier uses, since iPhone 12-era models support fewer bands than current ones. A quick carrier compatibility check takes a minute and prevents an expensive mistake.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a renewed iPhone worth buying instead of a new one?
A renewed iPhone can be a smart buy if the savings are meaningful and the seller stands behind the product with a solid return policy. The main risk is battery health, since batteries degrade with use and Apple does not replace them for free — a renewed phone at 80% battery capacity will need a paid replacement sooner. Cosmetic wear matters less because most people put a case on immediately. I would treat renewed as the best route for mid-range models like the iPhone 13 through 15, where the discount is largest, and be more cautious on very old models like the 12 or SE 2nd Gen, where the savings buy less remaining lifespan. Always confirm the phone is unlocked and check the return window before ordering.
Should I buy an older flagship like the iPhone 15 Pro or a newer budget model like the 16e?
This is the central question in this roundup, and the answer depends on what you value. The older flagship gives you better cameras, a premium build, and a high-refresh display — hardware the budget models never include — but with a shorter remaining software runway. The newer budget model flips that: plainer hardware, but a newer chip and more years of iOS updates ahead. If you replace your phone every two to three years, the 15 Pro is the better experience per dollar. If you keep phones five-plus years, the 16e or 17e will stay secure and functional long after the 15 Pro retires. Heavy photographers should lean Pro; longevity-first buyers should lean new.
How long will the iPhone 12 and SE models still get updates?
The iPhone 12 launched in 2020 and the SE 2nd Generation in 2020 as well, which places both in the later stages of Apple’s typical six-to-seven-year support cycle. They currently run recent iOS versions, but each annual release brings them closer to the cutoff, and some features are already withheld on older chips. Practically, that means both models are safe for another year or two of full updates, with security patches extending somewhat beyond that. For a child’s first phone, a backup device, or a short-term purchase, that is perfectly fine given their low cost. For a primary phone you plan to keep for years, I would step up to at least the iPhone 13 or a 16e.
Does 64GB of storage actually matter in 2026?
Yes, and more than most buyers expect. Modern iOS alone occupies well over 10GB, and photo libraries, messaging attachments, and a handful of large apps can consume the rest within months. Once an iPhone nears capacity, it starts blocking updates, offloading apps, and refusing to record video — problems that degrade the experience even though the hardware is fine. You can lean on iCloud storage to offload photos, but that adds a recurring subscription cost that quietly erodes the money you saved. My advice is to treat 128GB as the minimum unless the phone will be used strictly for calls, messages, and streaming, in which case 64GB is workable.
What does carrier-locked mean, and should I avoid the Verizon iPhone 14?
A carrier-locked phone only activates on the carrier it was originally sold through, in this case Verizon, until that carrier releases the lock — which usually requires the original account to be in good standing and the device fully paid off. With renewed phones, you cannot always verify the original account status, so a locked unit can become a gamble. If you are already a Verizon customer and plan to stay, the locked iPhone 14 is a legitimate way to save money on otherwise identical hardware. If you use another carrier, travel with local SIMs, or want flexibility to switch later, the unlocked iPhone 14 in this lineup costs a bit more and removes all of that friction. Unlocked is the safer default for most buyers.
Conclusion
For the best overall choice, the iPhone 17 Pro Max leads this lineup with flagship cameras, a big display, and the longest software life of anything here — buy it if you want one phone that covers every need for years. The best value pick is the iPhone 13, which still delivers a modern-feeling experience at a fraction of flagship cost, with the iPhone 16 close behind for buyers who can stretch for a newer chip and Dynamic Island. For the best premium experience short of the top spot, the iPhone 15 Pro with 512GB pairs pro-grade hardware with enormous storage for media-heavy users. The best pick for beginners is the iPhone SE 3rd Generation — its familiar button layout and low cost make it an easy first iPhone, while the 16e suits beginners who want a modern design with more years of updates. For specific needs: the iPhone 12 Mini is the clear choice for one-handed compact use, the iPhone 15 with 512GB fits photo and video hoarders on a mid-tier budget, and the Verizon-locked iPhone 14 only makes sense for committed Verizon customers. Whatever you choose, buy the newest generation your budget allows, treat 128GB as the storage floor, and confirm any renewed unit is unlocked with a return policy — those three checks protect you more than any model name can.