Buying an older iPhone? Here’s how to avoid getting ripped off

When we talk about buying a new iPhone, the latest models are naturally the most appealing. But in reality, for most people, buying an iPhone 17 is going to look like overkill. If you’re thinking about buying an iPhone in 2026 but don’t want the latest flagship, looking at older models may be a good option.

Of course, you should be selective about which model you choose, as not every older iPhone is worth buying. Read on as we detail the best choices for those planning to buy an older iPhone in 2026.

Why you shouldn’t go older than the iPhone 14 Pro

Every iPhone is built to last. When they’re brand new, they have great processors and cameras. But over time, signs of aging start to show. Suddenly, the chip inside the iPhone can no longer handle today’s apps smoothly, and new versions of iOS become more resource-intensive.

That’s why you need to be careful when choosing an older iPhone. If you choose wisely, you’ll still get a great device for less. But if you go too far, the experience can end up being frustrating.

As of 2026, anything older than the iPhone 14 Pro is liable to show its age, starting with the 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’ll no longer be able to run the latest apps and features.

Thanks to its A16 chip and 6GB of RAM, the 14 Pro can still run iOS 26 smoothly. It lacks support for some modern features such as Apple Intelligence, but you can happily use an iPhone 14 Pro without any significant slowdowns.

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 features emergency SOS via satellite, an always-on display, multiple cameras at a decent quality by today’s standards, and Action Mode for super smooth videos. Plus, if you buy an iPhone 14 Pro today, you’ll likely get at least three further years of software support.

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

iPhone 14 Pro deals

If you want a cheaper new 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 multiple 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. It’s still a very powerful chip that can run any modern app or game without struggle. And because 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 around five further years of software updates. It’s 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 strong choice. These include its USB-C port, giving you support for a universal cable and a broader ecosystem of accessories. If you buy any iPhone older than an iPhone 15, you’ll get the old Lightning connector.

The battery of the iPhone 16e also lasts longer than those of 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 also lacks some key features that Apple likely left out to keep the price low. If you go with 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 is still an interesting 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 at 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 may be worth waiting a bit longer.

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The hidden value of refurbished iPhones

As we mentioned earlier, if you want to save some 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 unfamiliar with refurbished phones, they’re essentially used devices that may have had some parts replaced, such as the display or battery.

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

Apple makes it clear that refurbished iPhones are shipped with all manuals and accessories, a new battery and outer shell, and a new sealed white box. Those are the sorts of assurance you should be looking 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 on advice on this subject.

Filipe Esposito / Foundry

Which one should you choose?

When it comes down to it, which budget iPhone should you choose given all the options available today? We have a few suggestions.

If you’re looking for the best value for money 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 such as ProRAW and multiple cameras, it’s worth checking out 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 money without losing too much, the refurbished iPhone 14 Pro is your best option. The key isn’t buying the cheapest iPhone you can find, but the one that will still feel fast, modern, and supported years from now.

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