What is the best refurbished iPhone to buy?

The best refurbished iPhone for most people in 2026 is the iPhone 13. It’s the sweet spot because it is still modern enough for everyday performance, camera quality, 5G, and battery life, while usually costing much less than newer refurbished models.

If you can spend more, consider a refurbished iPhone 14 for extra longevity. If you want the cheapest good option, look at the iPhone 11 Pro only if the battery health is strong and the price is meaningfully lower.

Best place to start: Apple Certified Refurbished if you value warranty and condition most; reputable refurbishers like Back Market, Best Buy, or Plug can be worth comparing if the savings are bigger. Always check battery health, return window, warranty length, carrier lock status, and storage before buying.