How Much Are Used Iphones
how much are used iphones depends mainly on the model, storage size, battery health, condition, and whether the phone is unlocked. In general, older used iPhones can sell for under $100, while newer models in good condition can still cost several hundred dollars, sometimes more if they have large storage and strong battery health.
How much are used iPhones?
There is no single price for a used iPhone, because the market changes based on model year and condition. A practical way to think about it is this: the newer the model, the higher the resale price, and the better the condition, the less likely you are to see a big discount.
For buyers, used iPhones usually fall into three broad price bands:
- Budget range: older models or heavily used phones, often around $50 to $200
- Midrange: popular recent generations in decent condition, often around $200 to $500
- Higher range: newer models, larger storage, and excellent condition, often $500 and up
Those are only rough ranges. A used iPhone 13 in excellent condition can cost much more than a worn iPhone 13 with a weak battery, a cracked screen, or repair history. Marketplaces, carrier listings, and refurbished sellers can also show very different prices for the same model.
What changes the price of a used iPhone?
The price of a used iPhone is shaped by a handful of factors that buyers and sellers both care about. If you understand these, it becomes much easier to tell whether a listing is fair.
Model and release year
Newer models usually hold value better because they support more recent iOS versions, have better cameras, and remain in demand longer. An iPhone 15 will almost always cost more used than an iPhone 12 with similar storage and condition.
Storage capacity
Larger storage usually adds value. A 256GB iPhone generally sells for more than a 128GB version of the same model, and 512GB devices can command an even bigger premium. The difference is often meaningful for people who store a lot of photos, videos, and apps.
Battery health
Battery health matters a lot in the used market. A phone with strong battery health is more attractive because it should last longer between charges. If the battery is worn, buyers often factor in the cost of replacement, which lowers what they are willing to pay.
Cosmetic condition
Scratches, dents, chipped frames, and screen wear can reduce value, even if the phone still works well. A clean device with only light signs of use usually sells faster and for more money than one with obvious damage.
Unlocked versus carrier-locked
Unlocked iPhones usually cost more because they can work on more networks. Carrier-locked phones may be cheaper, but they limit your options unless you already use that carrier.
Repair history
Phones with third-party repairs, replaced screens, or water damage history may be priced lower. Even when a repair is functional, buyers often see it as added risk, especially if parts were not original or the repair quality is unclear.
Accessories and warranty
Original boxes, cables, and a remaining warranty or seller guarantee can increase value a little. These extras do not change the price as much as model or condition, but they can make a listing more appealing.
Used iPhone price by model
The table below shows broad used-market ranges to help you compare models. Exact prices can vary by storage, condition, carrier status, and selling platform.
| iPhone model family | Typical used price range | What usually affects the price most |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone SE models | About $50 to $250 | Generation, storage, battery condition |
| iPhone 11 series | About $100 to $250 | Condition, battery health, unlocked status |
| iPhone 12 series | About $150 to $350 | Storage size, screen condition, carrier lock |
| iPhone 13 series | About $250 to $500 | Battery health, storage, cosmetic wear |
| iPhone 14 series | About $350 to $650 | Model variant, storage, warranty status |
| iPhone 15 series | About $500 to $800+ | Condition, storage, demand, seller type |
These are not fixed prices. A Pro model usually sells for more than the standard version, and a Max model can cost more than both. Large storage and excellent condition can also push a phone toward the top of its range.
Used iPhone price by condition
Condition often changes the price as much as the model itself. Two phones with the same name can differ by a large amount if one is nearly pristine and the other has obvious wear.
| Condition | What it usually means | Typical price effect |
|---|---|---|
| Like new | Minimal wear, strong battery, fully functional | Highest used price |
| Very good | Light scratches or small signs of use | Slight discount from top price |
| Good | Noticeable wear, but no major damage | Moderate discount |
| Fair | Scratches, battery wear, possible small issues | Large discount |
| Poor | Cracks, weak battery, damage, or repair concerns | Lowest price, sometimes for parts or repair |
If you are buying, do not focus only on the model name. A “cheap” phone can become expensive once you factor in screen repair, battery replacement, or a carrier unlock issue.
Unlocked iPhones versus carrier-locked iPhones
Unlocked phones are usually more valuable because they can be used with different carriers. That flexibility matters if you travel, switch networks often, or want to resell the phone later.
- Unlocked iPhone: usually costs more, easier to resell, and works with more carriers
- Carrier-locked iPhone: often cheaper, but limited to one carrier until unlocked
If a listing does not clearly say whether the phone is unlocked, ask before buying. A phone that is tied to a carrier can be a good deal only if you already plan to use that same network and know the lock status is legitimate.
Used versus refurbished iPhone
Many shoppers compare used and refurbished phones because they can look similar at first glance, but they are not the same thing.
- Used iPhone: sold as previously owned, often by an individual or marketplace seller
- Refurbished iPhone: inspected, tested, and sometimes repaired or cleaned up by a seller or refurbisher
A used phone may be cheaper, but a refurbished phone often includes a return policy, limited warranty, or quality checks. If you want the lowest upfront price, used can make sense. If you want less risk, refurbished may be the better value even if it costs more.
In many cases, refurbished is the safer middle ground, especially if the price difference between used and refurbished is small.
How to tell if a used iPhone is a fair price
To judge whether a listing is fair, compare it against similar phones, not just the same model number.
- Match the exact model. iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13 Pro, and iPhone 13 Pro Max do not have the same resale value.
- Check storage size. 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB versions can differ noticeably in price.
- Review the condition. Look for scratches, dents, screen issues, or missing features like Face ID or true tone.
- Ask about battery health. A lower battery percentage should lower the price.
- Confirm unlock status. Unlocked phones are worth more and are easier to use on any compatible carrier.
- Ask about repairs. Replacement screens, batteries, and water damage history all matter.
- Compare with multiple listings. Check more than one marketplace or seller before deciding.
If a listing is far below the usual market range, there is often a reason. That reason may be harmless, but it may also mean hidden damage, missing parts, activation lock, or a stolen device.
What to check before buying a used iPhone
A used iPhone can be a smart purchase, but only if it is fully usable. Before paying, make sure these basics are covered.
- Activation Lock: The phone should not still be tied to someone else’s Apple ID.
- IMEI status: Check that the device is not reported lost, stolen, or blacklisted.
- Battery health: Look for a battery that still holds a decent charge.
- Display quality: Make sure the screen is responsive and free from major defects.
- Buttons and cameras: Test the power button, volume buttons, speakers, microphones, and cameras.
- Network compatibility: Confirm it works with your carrier and supports the bands you need.
- Water or repair history: Ask directly and judge the seller’s answer carefully.
If possible, meet in a place where you can inspect the phone in person and power it on before money changes hands.
Where people commonly buy used iPhones
Different buying channels come with different tradeoffs. The best option depends on whether you care more about price, safety, or convenience.
Marketplace and peer-to-peer sellers
These often have the lowest prices, but they also carry the most risk. You may get a bargain, but you need to verify the phone carefully and be prepared for little or no after-sale support.
Carrier stores and trade-in programs
Carrier-backed options can be more expensive, but they may offer better device checks and easier financing or activation. They are often more convenient if you are already tied to one carrier.
Refurbished phone sellers
Refurbished sellers usually charge more than individual sellers, but they often provide testing, returns, and warranties. For many buyers, that extra protection is worth the higher price.
Online auction and resale sites
These can be useful for finding rare models or lower prices, but product descriptions may vary in quality. Read the listing carefully and pay attention to return policies.
When a used iPhone is a better value than a new one
A used iPhone can be the better buy when you want to save money without giving up too much performance. This is especially true for recent models that still support current software and have strong camera and battery performance.
A used phone is often a good value if:
- the model is still recent enough for regular software support
- the battery health is strong or the price reflects battery wear
- the phone is unlocked and fully functional
- the price gap versus a new model is significant
- you do not need the latest camera or processor
If the used price is only slightly below a refurbished or new phone, the savings may not be worth the risk. In that case, paying a little more for a cleaner return policy or warranty can make more sense.
Signs you may be overpaying
It is easy to overpay if you focus only on model name and ignore the details. Watch for these warning signs:
- The price is close to a new or refurbished device, but without a warranty
- The seller does not disclose battery health
- The phone is locked to a carrier you do not use
- There are visible cracks, dents, or screen issues with no price discount
- The listing does not clearly state storage size
- The seller cannot confirm activation lock has been removed
Any one of these issues does not automatically make the phone a bad buy. But if several show up together, the deal may not be as good as it first looks.
Bottom line
If you are asking how much are used iphones, the short answer is that prices vary widely, from well under $100 for older or damaged models to several hundred dollars for recent iPhones in excellent condition. The biggest factors are model, storage, battery health, unlock status, and overall condition. The best way to shop is to compare similar listings, check the phone carefully, and decide whether used, refurbished, or new offers the best value for your budget.
Frequently Asked Questions About how much are used iphones
How much are used iPhones worth?
Used iPhone value depends on the exact model, storage, condition, and battery health. Older models may be worth under $100, while newer models in excellent condition can sell for several hundred dollars.
What affects the price of a used iPhone?
The biggest factors are model year, storage size, battery health, cosmetic condition, unlock status, and repair history. Seller type and warranty coverage can also affect the price.
Is it cheaper to buy a used or refurbished iPhone?
Used is usually cheaper upfront. Refurbished often costs more, but it may include testing, returns, and a warranty, which can make it the better value for some buyers.
How can I tell if a used iPhone is a fair price?
Compare it with similar listings for the same model, storage, and condition. If the price is much higher than comparable phones, or much lower without a clear reason, take a closer look at the device details.
Do unlocked iPhones cost more used?
Yes, unlocked iPhones usually cost more because they work with more carriers and are easier to resell. Carrier-locked phones can be cheaper, but they are less flexible.
Should I buy a used iPhone with low battery health?
Only if the price clearly reflects the battery wear. Low battery health can mean shorter daily use and a possible battery replacement soon, so factor that into your decision.
Is a used iPhone still a good buy in 2026?
Yes, if the model is recent enough for current software support and the phone is in good condition. Used iPhones can still be strong values when the savings are meaningful and the device has been properly checked.
