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Whether you’re looking for a compact option, a powerhouse for demanding tasks, or a large-screen device for maximum viewing, there’s a refurbished iPhone to fit your needs.
Refurbished iPhones aren’t just cheaper — they’re also smarter buys in 2025. Here’s why:
In short, buying refurbished in 2025 means you get a top-performing iPhone, save hundreds of dollars, and still enjoy years of software updates and security.
Feature | iPhone SE (3rd Gen) |
Release Year | 2022 |
Display | 4.7-inch Retina HD |
Processor | A15 Bionic |
iOS Support | iOS 26 (Fully Supported) |
Rear Camera | 12MP Wide |
Front Camera | 7MP |
Authentication | Touch ID (Home Button) |
Battery Life | Up to 15 hours video playback |
5G Support | Yes |
Price in 2025 (Certified Used / Refurbished) | $140+ |
While the iPhone SE 2nd Gen shares the same 4.7-inch design, it’s stuck on older hardware (A13 Bionic) and has more limited future iOS support. In addition, stock is dwindling and prices are not meaningfully lower than the SE 3rd Gen. For long-term value, the SE 3rd Gen is the smarter buy.
Feature | iPhone 12 Pro |
Release Year | 2020 |
Display | 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED |
Processor | A14 Bionic |
iOS Support | iOS 26 (Fully Supported) |
Rear Cameras | Triple 12MP (Ultra-Wide, Wide, Telephoto) + LiDAR |
Front Camera | 12MP TrueDepth (Face ID) |
Authentication | Face ID |
Battery Life | Up to 17 hours video playback |
5G Support | Yes |
Price in 2025 (Certified Used / Refurbished) | $190+ |
The iPhone 11 Pro is still a solid phone, but it does not support 5G. Considering the price difference is only about $20, the iPhone 12 Pro is the much better investment for 2025.
The iPhone 13 Pro is an amazing device with the faster A15 chip and improved cameras, but it starts at $300+. If budget isn’t an issue, it’s worth considering, but for most buyers, the iPhone 12 Pro provides nearly everything at a much lower price.
Feature | iPhone 12 Pro Max |
Release Year | 2020 |
Display | 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR OLED |
Processor | A14 Bionic |
iOS Support | iOS 26 (Fully Supported) |
Rear Cameras | Triple 12MP (Ultra-Wide, Wide, Telephoto) + LiDAR |
Front Camera | 12MP TrueDepth (Face ID) |
Authentication | Face ID |
Battery Life | Up to 20 hours video playback |
5G Support | Yes |
Price in 2025 (Certified Used / Refurbished) | $250+ |
The 11 Pro Max lacks 5G support and, with only a ~$30 difference, it makes little sense to choose it over the 12 Pro Max.
The 13 Pro Max is even more powerful with the A15 chip and ProMotion 120Hz display, but it starts at $350+. That $100 price gap makes it less appealing for most buyers, unless you specifically want the latest features. For most, the 12 Pro Max delivers more than enough.
One of the biggest reasons to choose the iPhone SE (3rd Gen), iPhone 12 Pro, or iPhone 12 Pro Max in 2025 is their full support for iOS 26. Unlike older models capped at outdated versions, these devices will continue receiving Apple’s latest features, security updates, and app compatibility for years to come.
In short, buying one of these iPhones in 2025 means peace of mind — your device will stay relevant, secure, and fully functional well into the future.
In 2025, the best refurbished iPhone for you depends on your budget and priorities.
For those who want the lowest price and compact size, the iPhone SE (3rd Gen) at $140+ is the clear winner, offering 5G and years of iOS updates.
If you need a pro-level camera system and premium design, the iPhone 12 Pro at $190+ balances advanced features with affordability.
If you want the biggest screen and longest battery life, the iPhone 12 Pro Max at $250+ is the best large-screen option without breaking the bank.
All three models are fully supported on iOS 26, making them secure and reliable for years to come. Depending on your needs, any of these picks is a far better value than sticking with older devices.
The iPhone SE (3rd Gen) at around $140+ is the cheapest iPhone still worth buying in 2025. It has the A15 chip, 5G support, and runs iOS 26.
Not recommended. These older models are capped at outdated iOS versions and no longer receive security updates. That makes them risky for long-term use.
No. The iPhone 11 Pro doesn’t support 5G, and the price difference is only about $20. The iPhone 12 Pro is the better long-term choice.
Yes, if you’re willing to spend around $300+. The iPhone 13 Pro has an A15 chip and ProMotion 120Hz display. But for most buyers, the iPhone 12 Pro provides excellent value at $190+.
Yes. The iPhone 12 Pro Max supports 5G, has a larger 6.7-inch display, and benefits from longer iOS support. Since it costs only ~$30 more, it’s the smarter buy.
Only if budget allows. The iPhone 13 Pro Max is newer and has more advanced features, but at $350+, the price gap is significant. The iPhone 12 Pro Max still offers great performance for $250+.
The easiest way is through UpTrade, where you can compare real-time prices on Certified Used and Refurbished iPhones from trusted sellers like Apple, BestBuy, and Amazon.
For the best value pick, we recommend Certified Used / Refurbished iPhone SE 3rd Gen ($140+). If there is some room in your budget, you should consider the iPhone 12 Pro ($190+). If you are a big screen user, pick iPhone 12 Pro Max ($250+)
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