Introduction
In 2025, buying a brand-new iPhone isn’t the only way to get a powerful, reliable device. Certified Used and Refurbished iPhones have become a smart alternative for budget-conscious shoppers who want great performance without spending top dollar. With support for iOS 26 extending the life of many recent models, refurbished iPhones offer a balance of affordability, security, and longevity that makes them a better deal than ever.
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.
Why Buy a Refurbished iPhone in 2025?
Refurbished iPhones aren’t just cheaper — they’re also smarter buys in 2025. Here’s why:
- Lower Cost with Same Performance – Certified Refurbished iPhones deliver the same core features and software support as new devices, but at a fraction of the price. Up to 70% less than the original retail price.
- Extended iOS Support – Apple’s latest iOS 26 ensures that models as old as the iPhone 11 and iPhone 12 series remain fully updated and secure.
- Reliable Quality – Certified devices are inspected, tested, and restored by trusted sellers to meet high standards, so you avoid the risks of unverified secondhand purchases.
- Environmentally Friendly – Choosing refurbished reduces e-waste and supports sustainability by extending the life of existing devices.
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.
Best Refurbished iPhones by Category
Budget Pick — iPhone SE (3rd Gen) — $140+
Full Specs Table
| 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+ |
Key Features
- Same compact size as the iPhone 8, perfect for those who prefer smaller phones.
- Powered by the A15 Bionic chip, the same processor in the iPhone 13 series.
- Full support for iOS 26, ensuring updates for years ahead.
- Affordable entry point into Apple’s ecosystem with 5G support.
Why not iPhone SE (2nd Gen)?
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 about the same as the SE 3rd Gen. As a newer model, the iPhone SE 3rd Gen will get an extra year of support than the 2nd Gen. THerefore, for long-term value, the SE 3rd Gen is the smarter buy.
Pro User Pick — iPhone 12 Pro — $180+
Full Specs Table
| 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) | $180+ |
Key Features
- Gorgeous 6.1-inch OLED display with HDR and excellent brightness.
- Triple-lens camera system with LiDAR for pro-level photography and AR.
- Supports 5G for faster speeds and long-term network compatibility.
- Excellent balance of performance, features, and affordability.
Why not iPhone 11 Pro?
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.
How about iPhone 13 Pro?
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.
Big Screen Pick — iPhone 12 Pro Max — $230+
Full Specs Table
| 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) | $230+ |
Key Features
- Huge 6.7-inch OLED display — ideal for media, gaming, and multitasking.
- Longest-lasting battery among 2020 iPhones with up to 20 hours video playback.
- Triple-lens camera system + LiDAR, giving it excellent photo and video performance.
- Fully supported on iOS 26 with years of updates ahead.
Why not iPhone 11 Pro Max?
The 11 Pro Max lacks 5G support and is only ~$20 cheaper than the 12 Pro Max. It makes little sense to choose it over the 12 Pro Max.
How about iPhone 13 Pro Max?
The 13 Pro Max is even more powerful with the A15 chip and ProMotion 120Hz display, but it starts at $330+. 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.
iOS Support in 2025
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.
- Security Updates – Stay protected from the newest vulnerabilities with ongoing patches.
- New Features – iOS 26 introduces smarter AI features, improved widgets, and enhanced system performance, which these iPhones can fully take advantage of.
- App Compatibility – As developers optimize for iOS 26 and beyond, having a supported iPhone ensures your favorite apps keep working smoothly.
- Long-Term Value – With several more years of updates guaranteed, these models won’t become obsolete anytime soon.
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.
Conclusion — Which Refurbished iPhone Should You Buy in 2025?
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 $180+ balances advanced features with affordability.
If you want the biggest screen and longest battery life, the iPhone 12 Pro Max at $230+ 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.
FAQ: Choosing a Refurbished iPhone in 2025
1. What’s the cheapest refurbished iPhone worth buying in 2025?
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.
2. Is it safe to buy an older iPhone like the iPhone X or iPhone 8?
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.
3. Should I buy the iPhone 11 Pro instead of the iPhone 12 Pro?
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.
4. Is the iPhone 13 Pro worth the extra cost over the iPhone 12 Pro?
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 $180+.
5. Is the iPhone 12 Pro Max better than the iPhone 11 Pro Max?
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 ~$20 more, it’s the smarter buy.
6. Should I upgrade to the iPhone 13 Pro Max instead of the 12 Pro Max?
Only if budget allows. The iPhone 13 Pro Max is newer and has more advanced features, but at $330+, the price gap is significant. The iPhone 12 Pro Max still offers great performance for $230+.
7. Where can I find the best deals on refurbished iPhones?
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.
8. What iPhone is best to buy refurbished?
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 ($180+). If you are a big screen user, pick iPhone 12 Pro Max ($230+)
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