How to Choose a Refurbished iPhone With Years of Support

Buying a refurbished iPhone is a smart way to save money, but only if you pick one that will still receive iOS updates for years to come. This guide walks you through the exact model numbers, purchase dates, and seller checks that ensure your refurbished phone stays secure and compatible with new apps well into the future.

What You’ll Need

Your budget (decide before you start browsing)
Access to Apple’s website or a reliable refurbisher’s site
The iPhone model numbers listed below (save this page or screenshot it)
A way to check the device’s serial number (if buying in person, ask the seller to share it)

Step-by-Step

Learn Apple’s current support cutoff. Apple typically provides iOS updates for about 5–7 years after a model’s initial release. As of 2025, the iPhone 11 (released 2019) is the oldest model still supported, and the iPhone 12 (2020) and newer will receive updates for several more years. Always check Apple’s current iOS compatibility list before buying.
Choose a model released within the last 3–4 years. For the longest support, pick an iPhone 13 (2021) or newer. The iPhone 14 (2022) and iPhone 15 (2023) are even safer bets. Avoid iPhone X, XS, and 11 if you want more than two years of updates.
Verify the exact model number. Every iPhone has a model number (e.g., A2638 for iPhone 13). Look it up on Apple’s support page to confirm the year and region. This prevents accidentally buying an older model that looks similar.
Check the battery health. A refurbished iPhone should have at least 80% battery health. Ask the seller for the battery health percentage (Settings → Battery → Battery Health). If it’s below 80%, the phone may need a battery replacement soon, which adds cost.
Confirm the refurbishment standard. Apple-certified refurbished units come with a new battery, new outer shell, and a one-year warranty. Third-party refurbishers vary widely—ask if they replace the battery and what warranty they offer.
Check the activation lock status. Before paying, ask the seller to show that the phone is not linked to an Apple ID (Settings → General → Reset → Erase All Content and Settings). A phone with an active Activation Lock is useless.
Verify the serial number on Apple’s coverage check page. Go to checkcoverage.apple.com and enter the serial number. This shows the original purchase date and whether any AppleCare is still active. If the phone is still under warranty, that’s a bonus.
Test the essentials in person (if possible). Check the screen for dead pixels, test the cameras, speakers, microphone, and Face ID. For online purchases, buy from a seller with a return policy so you can test after delivery.
Compare prices with new models. A refurbished iPhone 13 should cost at least 20–30% less than a new iPhone 15. If the price is close, buying new gives you a full warranty and a fresh battery.

Common Mistakes

Buying a model that’s already at the end of its support window. The iPhone 8 and X are cheap, but they won’t get iOS 18 or later—you’ll be stuck with security vulnerabilities.
Ignoring the battery health. A phone with 75% battery health will need a $50–$90 replacement soon, eating into your savings.
Assuming all refurbishers are equal. Some just wipe the phone and call it “refurbished.” Always ask about battery replacement and warranty.
Not checking the model number. A seller might list an iPhone 12 as an “iPhone 12 Pro”—the model number reveals the truth.
Buying from a seller with no return policy. You need the ability to test the phone for a few days.

Tips

Buy Apple-certified refurbished from Apple’s official store if you want the safest experience. They offer a full one-year warranty and new battery.
Look for the latest iOS version. A refurbished iPhone should run the latest iOS (e.g., iOS 17 or 18). If it’s stuck on an older version, it may be an older model that can’t update.
Consider the iPhone 14 or 15 even if you’re on a budget. The extra cost is worth it for 2–3 more years of support.
Check if the phone is SIM-free/unlocked. This ensures you can use it with any carrier, increasing resale value later.
Ask for the original purchase receipt. It proves the phone isn’t stolen and helps with warranty claims.

Troubleshooting

What if the serial number doesn’t show on Apple’s coverage page? The phone may be stolen or the serial number may be tampered with. Do not buy it.

What if the seller refuses to share the serial number? Walk away. A legitimate seller will provide it.

What if the phone has an Activation Lock? Ask the seller to remove it. If they can’t, the phone is likely stolen or still linked to the previous owner’s Apple ID. Do not buy.

What if the battery health is below 80%? You can still buy it if the price is low enough to cover a battery replacement, but factor that cost into your decision.

What if the phone doesn’t update to the latest iOS? This means it’s an older model that’s no longer supported. Return it if possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does Apple support iPhones? Apple typically provides iOS updates for about 5–7 years from the original release date. For example, the iPhone 11 (2019) is still supported in 2025, but the iPhone X (2017) is not.

Is an Apple-certified refurbished iPhone better than a third-party one? Yes, because Apple replaces the battery and outer shell, and provides a one-year warranty. Third-party refurbishers may not do either.

Can I check if a refurbished iPhone is still under warranty? Yes, enter the serial number at checkcoverage.apple.com to see the original purchase date and any remaining AppleCare coverage.

What is the oldest iPhone I should buy in 2025? The iPhone 12 (2020) is the minimum for a few more years of updates, but the iPhone 13 (2021) is a safer choice for longer support.

Do refurbished iPhones come with a charger? Apple-certified refurbished units include a charging cable, but not necessarily a power adapter. Third-party sellers vary—ask before buying.

Can I use a refurbished iPhone with any carrier? If it’s unlocked, yes. Check the model number or ask the seller to confirm it’s not carrier-locked.

General steps for current mainstream versions; menus can differ by device and version. See the disclaimer or report an error.

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