Buying the best second hand iPhone in 2026 can be confusing. Apple releases new models every year. Prices move fast. And it’s not always clear which older iPhones will still feel “modern” in daily use.
The good news: second hand (properly refurbished) iPhones are often the smartest way to upgrade. You get better cameras, better screens, and better build quality than most brand-new budget phones. And you’re keeping perfectly good tech in use for longer — which is a win for your wallet and the planet.
In this guide, we’ll break down the best second-hand iPhones to buy in 2026, who each model suits, and what to check before you commit. The Big Phone Store refurbishes and tests iPhones every day, so we’ll keep this practical and shopper-friendly.
Quick answer: which second-hand iPhone should you buy in 2026?
If you want the simplest shortlist:
- Best all-rounder: iPhone 14 Pro
- Best “future-proof” value: iPhone 15
- Best price-to-performance: iPhone 13
- Best big-screen battery beast: iPhone 13 Pro Max
- Best compact budget pick: iPhone SE (2022)
Why 2026 buyers should care about iOS support
In 2026, software support matters more than ever. Banking apps, payments, and even WhatsApp-style apps can stop supporting older iOS versions over time. Apple’s latest iPhone software is iOS 26 (current builds include iOS 26.2.1).
Apple’s official compatibility list for iOS 26 starts at iPhone 11 and newer (and includes iPhone 12 and iPhone 13 ranges).
That’s why you’ll notice one big change vs older “best used iPhone” lists:
We don’t recommend iPhone XR / XS as a main pick for 2026 if you want the newest iOS. iOS 26 drops support for those A12 models.
1. iPhone 15 – Best for future-proofing (and USB-C convenience)
If you want a used iPhone that feels current for longer, the iPhone 15 is a strong shout. The biggest day-to-day win is USB-C. One cable for your phone, iPad, laptop, and loads of accessories.
Why it’s great in 2026
USB-C charging (less cable faff)
Strong battery life (Apple rates up to 20 hours video playback)
A modern, “newer generation” feel without paying brand-new prices
Best for: people upgrading from older Lightning iPhones who want fewer compromises.
2. iPhone 14 Pro – Best all-rounder for most people
For many shoppers, iPhone 14 Pro is the sweet spot. You get a premium screen, great cameras, and a very “flagship” feel.
Why it’s great in 2026
Excellent battery rating (up to 23 hours video playback)
Pro-level camera flexibility
Premium build and a top-end display experience
Best for: anyone who wants a “treat yourself” iPhone without jumping to the newest models.
3. iPhone 13 – Best value second-hand iPhone
Want a phone that’s still fast, still reliable, and usually noticeably cheaper than Pro models? iPhone 13 is the value hero.
Why it’s great in 2026
A15 performance still feels snappy
Strong battery rating (up to 19 hours video playback)
Great camera for everyday shots
Best for: most people who want the best mix of price + performance.
4. iPhone 13 Pro Max – Best for battery life and big-screen fans
If you watch loads of video, scroll a lot, or just prefer a bigger screen, the iPhone 13 Pro Max is a brilliant second-hand buy in 2026.
Why it’s great in 2026
Big display for media and messages
Typically excellent real-world endurance
“Pro” camera options, plus a premium feel
Best for: heavy users who hate charging mid-day.
5. iPhone SE (2022) – Best cheap iPhone that still feels quick
If you want the lowest price without buying something sluggish, iPhone SE (2022) is the sensible pick. It’s compact and powerful for the money.
Why it’s great in 2026
A15 chip performance in a smaller body
5G support
Apple rates up to 15 hours video playback
Best for: smaller hands, lighter users, or anyone who wants a simple iPhone for less.
| Model | Best for | Why it’s a top 2026 pick | Choose it if you… |
|---|---|---|---|
| iPhone 15 | Future-proof value | USB-C convenience + modern feel | want one cable for everything |
| iPhone 14 Pro | Best all-rounder | Premium display + pro camera feel | want “flagship” without flagship cost |
| iPhone 13 | Best value | Fast, reliable, usually cheaper | want the safest budget-friendly pick |
| iPhone 13 Pro Max | Battery + big screen | Great endurance + premium experience | hate charging in the day |
| iPhone SE (2022) | Cheapest “fast” iPhone | A15 power in a compact body | want small, simple, affordable |
Why buy refurbished from The Big Phone Store?
At The Big Phone Store, we ensure that every refurbished iPhone undergoes comprehensive testing to guarantee that it performs like new. Whether you’re purchasing an iPhone 17 or an iPhone SE, every device meets our stringent quality standards.
Plus, all our iPhones come with up to 100% battery health (minimum 85%- higher than our competitors), with Like New models offering 90% or higher.
What We Offer:
- 12-month warranty with every phone
- 30-day money-back guarantee for peace of mind
- Upgrade to a brand-new battery at checkout, for as little as £9.99
Final thoughts
In 2026, the best second hand iPhone is the one that matches how you actually use your phone. If you want the smoothest all-round experience, go iPhone 14 Pro. If you want modern convenience and long-term value, go iPhone 15. If budget is the priority, iPhone 13 (or SE 2022) keeps things simple without feeling slow.
Browse our collection of the best second-hand iPhones today and discover the perfect model for you!
Want it Even Cheaper?
At The Big Phone Store, we’re committed to giving you the best value for money, which is why we offer money off when you trade-in your old device.
It doesn’t have to be perfect either — we’ll take working or non-working devices, so even a cracked-screen handset can still help bring the price down.
You can get a guaranteed quote in minutes, then put that value straight towards money off your next device. It’s a simple way to save more, clear out your drawer, and upgrade for less with The Big Phone Store.
