Everyone loves a new iPhone, but nobody likes the price tag attached to it. Luckily, you can save money on your next iPhone by purchasing it used or refurbished. These devices are less expensive, better for the environment, and are typically tested to ensure they function properly.
We’ve researched the best places for you to buy a used Apple iPhone. Generally, the best places to get a used iPhone in great condition or with replaced parts are from Apple itself or massive retailers like Amazon or Best Buy. That said, smaller dealers like Trademore can sometimes offer better prices. Finally, if you want a device that is already tied to a specific network, your carrier might be a great option.
Read on to find out where to get the best deal on your next used iPhone.
Used iPhones from Apple
Where’s a better place to grab a used iPhone than straight from the source? All of Apple’s used devices are refurbished and come with the Apple Certified Refurbished Promise that essentially rebuilds the phone. That means all devices receive genuine Apple replacement parts, a new battery, and a new outer shell. They also come in a new box with the accessories and cables that normally come with a new phone.
The biggest drawbacks to purchasing directly from Apple are that the devices are still expensive and there is a limited selection. All the work that Apple puts into refurbishing the phones essentially makes them brand new, but that also makes them more pricey than options from other retailers.
Used iPhones from Amazon
Amazon is one of the largest online retailers in the world and offers an extensive refurbished electronics selection. You can generally find a great deal on a refurbished iPhone from almost any series on Amazon.
However, there are some pitfalls you should keep in mind. If you decide to shop from Amazon, make sure to get an Amazon Renewed device or shop from a seller with many high reviews. Amazon Renewed products are extensively tested and repaired by Amazon to ensure they work and are backed by a guarantee. Sellers with high reviews are generally more trustworthy to buy from. Remember that Amazon is an online marketplace and many sales are fulfilled by third parties. Not all of these sellers are reputable. If a deal you're interested in seems too good to be true, it might just be.
You can find some of the best used iPhones on the market available from Amazon. These include budget-friendly models such as the iPhone SE and newer models like the iPhone 13. Or check out the iPhone 12 below:
Apple iPhone 12
64GB, Unlocked, Amazon Renewed
The iPhone 12 is one of the best choices for a used smartphone. While it is an older device, it still packs a powerful punch with the A14 Bionic processor and takes excellent pictures with its 12MP dual-camera array. This was also the first Apple device to have 5G capability, so it can take advantage of lightning-fast data speeds.
Used iPhones from Best Buy
Best Buy is another massive retailer with a solid used iPhone selection. One of the biggest benefits of Best Buy is that you can shop online or in one of its many physical stores. Plus, they also guarantee the phone is functional and ship it with a new charging cable.
You can sometimes find a pretty good deal on a used iPhone from Best Buy. However, your options are usually more limited than what Amazon offers. Also, make sure to keep an eye out if the product is refurbished or pre-owned. Refurbished iPhones were restored to a like-new state. Pre-owned iPhones are in working condition, but may not have had any parts replaced.
Used iPhones from Trademore
Trademore is one of the newer used phone dealers on the scene. It offers a solid selection of smartphones, smartwatches, and tablets, but specializes in Apple products. That means you can easily find a new iPhone, Apple Watch, or iPad.
All the devices it sells are “Trademore Certified,” meaning they went through a 30-point functional and cosmetic inspection to ensure they worked properly. Trademore generally has a smaller selection than the larger retailers, but it often offers better prices.
Used iPhones from your cell phone carrier
Most used iPhones are sold unlocked and can be paired with any network. However, if you know what network you want to use, you can sometimes buy an affordable refurbished iPhone directly from your carrier. All three of the major carriers –AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon–offer used iPhones. The big benefit to buying from a carrier is that you can generally get these devices on a monthly installment plan as opposed to paying full price.
Of course, you’ll also need a phone plan to go with your new iPhone if you buy it from a carrier. Check out the most popular unlimited plans from the big carriers:
|
#1
|
T-Mobile
Essentials Saver
$50.00/mo
with Auto-Pay - Taxes & Fees NOT included
|
|
#2
|
T-Mobile
Experience More
$85.00/mo
with Auto-Pay + Taxes and fees
|
|
#3
|
Verizon
Unlimited Plus
$70.00/mo
+ Taxes & Fees. Price includes AutoPay & Paperless discount.
+ $40 Upfront
|
|
#4
|
Verizon
Unlimited Ultimate
$85.00/mo
+ Taxes & Fees. Price includes AutoPay & Paperless discount.
+ $40 Upfront
|
|
#5
|
T-Mobile
Experience Beyond
$100.00/mo
with Auto-Pay + Taxes and fees
|
WhistleOut Tip: Save big on a new phone via iPhone deals!
A used phone isn’t your only option to get a cheap iPhone. Taking advantage of current iPhone deals from your phone carrier can save you hundreds (sometimes thousands!) on brand-new models.
Used iPhone vs. refurbished iPhone
You may think that the terms “used” and “refurbished” are interchangeable, but that’s not quite true.
- Used iPhones are pre-owned phones that are generally tested and cleaned to ensure they work properly. However, the parts on used devices are not usually replaced unless the phone is non-functional.
- Refurbished iPhones have been repaired to like-new condition. Usually, that means parts like the screen and battery have been replaced and the phone is cleaned. Oftentimes you can’t even tell that a refurbished phone has been owned before.
When purchasing from a reputable seller, you can have confidence the device will work whether buying a used or refurbished device. That said, it’s important to know the difference between the two descriptors so you aren’t disappointed by your purchase.
Best used iPhones
Generally, the newer the iPhone the better it will be. The latest iPhone series is usually the most expensive, even when used. You don't have to purchase an iPhone 16 to have a great device. Previous generations like the iPhone 15 and 14 offer excellent features at an affordable price point.
If you can find a used iPhone 15 or iPhone 14 , those models are some of your best options for purchasing a device that will last for many years. As some of the newest models, Apple will continue to release updates for them even as they release new phones. They are, however, also still expensive.
At this point, it’s best to avoid old iPhones like the iPhone 8 or previous models. Apple is beginning to phase out updates for some of these older devices. That means you miss out on the newest iOS features and might be vulnerable to security issues. iOS 18 currently only works with the iPhone XR and newer devices.
Other cheap iPhones
There are other ways to get a cheap iPhone. The Apple iPhone SE is a great option for someone who wants a new device but doesn’t need the bells and whistles of regular iPhones. The iPhone SE (3rd Generation) uses the same A15 Bionic processor as the iPhone 13 series and has impressive camera capabilities. Yet, as the budget model, it costs much less than the iPhone 13 and 14.
iPhone SE (2022) 64GB
| Description | |
|---|---|
| Screen Size | 4.7" |
| Available On | 29 Plans from 4 carriers |
| Available From |
|
| Priced From | $5 per month + $196 upfront |
| View Full Details |
2022 version of the iPhone SE features 5G connectivity, a powerful A15 Bionic chip, 4.7" Retina HD Multi-Touch display, 12MP rear camera, 4K video recording and home button with Touch ID
The best places to buy a used iPhone: FAQs
Max McCaskill
Sr. Staff Writer
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