Buying an older iPhone? Here’s how to not get ripped off

When it comes to buying a new iPhone, the latest models are naturally the most attractive. But in reality, for most people, buying an iPhone 17 is going to seem excessive. If you’re considering buying an iPhone in 2026 but don’t want the latest flagship, looking at older models may be a good option.

Of course, you need to be selective about which model you choose, because not every old iPhone is worth buying. Read on as we break down the best choices for those considering buying an older iPhone in 2026.

Why you shouldn’t outgrow the iPhone 14 Pro

Every iPhone is built to last. When new, they have excellent processors and cameras. But with time, the signs of aging begin to appear. Suddenly, the chip inside the iPhone can no longer handle current apps smoothly, and newer versions of iOS become more resource-intensive.

This is why you should be careful when choosing an older iPhone. If you choose wisely, you will always get a great device at a lower cost. But if you go too far, the experience can be frustrating.

Starting in 2026, anything older than the iPhone 14 Pro is likely to show its age, starting with performance. For example, the iPhone 11 and 12 are both capable of running iOS 26, but performance is far from ideal even for light tasks. At the same time, these iPhones are nearing the end of their software update cycle, at which point they will no longer be able to run the latest apps and features.

Filipe Esposito / Foundry

Thanks to its A16 chip and 6GB of RAM, the 14 Pro can still run iOS 26 smoothly. It doesn’t support some modern features like Apple Intelligence, but you can use an iPhone 14 Pro without any significant slowdown.

There are other aspects that make the iPhone 14 Pro look modern even though it was released in fall 2022. It has a ProMotion display with Dynamic Island, just like the latest iPhones. It also offers emergency SOS via satellite, an always-on display, multiple cameras of decent quality by today’s standards and an Action mode for ultra-smooth videos. Plus, if you buy an iPhone 14 Pro today, you’ll likely get at least three more years of software support.

Finding a brand new iPhone 14 Pro can be difficult since Apple no longer officially sells it, but you can still find new or refurbished units in stock in stores.

iPhone 14 Pro deals

If you want a new, cheaper iPhone: consider the iPhone 16e

For buyers who want a brand new iPhone without spending a lot of money, the iPhone 16e is probably the best choice, and it’s worth considering over older iPhone models for several reasons.

Unlike older iPhones, the iPhone 16e is powered by an A18 chip, the same chip found in the rest of the iPhone 16 lineup. This is still a very powerful chip that can run any modern app or game without difficulty. And since it has 8GB of RAM, it works with all Apple Intelligence features, such as writing tools and Genmoji.

This also means that the iPhone 16e will last much longer than any of the older iPhones we’re considering. Expect about five more years of software updates. This is perfect for those who don’t plan on spending more money on a new phone anytime soon.

There are other factors that make the iPhone 16e a wise choice. These include its USB-C port, giving you support for a universal cable and a wider ecosystem of accessories. If you buy an iPhone older than an iPhone 15, you’ll get the older Lightning connector.

The iPhone 16e’s battery also lasts longer than most older iPhones.

David Price / Foundry

However, there are some trade-offs you should be aware of. While the iPhone 16e has modern hardware, it’s also missing some key features that Apple likely left out to keep the price low. If you opt for the iPhone 16e, you won’t get things like MagSafe, an ultra-wide lens on the back, or a ProMotion display with Dynamic Island.

Despite its compromises, the iPhone 16e remains an attractive option for those looking for a modern iPhone experience at a more affordable price. It starts at $599 for the 128GB version, but you can find it for lower prices in other stores.

Keep in mind that Apple is rumored to introduce an updated iPhone 17e with a faster chip and Dynamic Island in spring 2026, so it might be worth waiting a little longer.

iPhone 16e deals

The hidden value of refurbished iPhones

As we mentioned earlier, if you want to save money to upgrade your iPhone, you should also consider buying a refurbished phone. This is an option that many people overlook, but it can really help you save money.

If you’re not familiar with refurbished phones, they are essentially used devices that may have some parts replaced, like the screen or battery.

For example, Apple has its own refurbished store (in the US and UK), where you can buy older iPhones for a much lower price, and they all look new. The 128GB iPhone 14 Pro, which we mentioned earlier, is available for $589 in the Apple Refurbished Store. Or you can get an iPhone 15 Pro for just $679 – if Apple has stock, which it doesn’t currently.

Apple clearly states that refurbished iPhones come with all manuals and accessories, a new battery and outer shell, and a new sealed white box. This is the kind of assurance you should look for and why you shouldn’t be afraid to buy refurbished devices from trusted sellers.

If you need more features than an iPhone 16e offers, a refurbished Pro-level iPhone may be a smarter choice than Apple’s base model. Check out our guide to the best places to buy a refurbished iPhone for more detailed advice on this.

Filipe Esposito / Foundry

Which should you choose?

Ultimately, which budget iPhone should you choose given all the options available today? We have some suggestions.

If you’re looking for the best value on a phone that will last for years, the iPhone 16e is definitely the best choice. It doesn’t look as premium and lacks some features, but you’ll get one of the latest and greatest chips on the market, which means your iOS experience will be super smooth.

If you need Pro features like ProRAW and multiple cameras, it’s worth checking out the refurbished Pro models. A refurbished iPhone 15 Pro is probably the best balance between price, features, and longevity, as it supports most iOS 26 features and costs much less than an iPhone 17 Pro.

And again, if you really want to save without losing too much, the refurbished iPhone 14 Pro is your best option. The key is not to buy the cheapest iPhone you can find, but one that will still feel fast, modern, and supported years from now.

iPhone 15 Pro deals

$899.99