Top 5 Affordable Pre-Owned iPhones to Buy in 2026

1. iPhone 15 Pro Max

Once a luxury dream in 2025, the iPhone 15 Pro Max has become the ultimate near-premium deal by early 2026. Priced between $1,200 and $1,300, it offers a seamless experience with its ultra-light and durable titanium frame, addressing the bulkiness of its predecessor, the 14 Pro Max.

As the first iPhone to feature a 5x optical zoom camera (tetraprism), it delivers impressive long-range photography, a rarity in the Pro lineup. Notably, the USB-C charging standard has become mandatory in 2026, allowing you to use a single cable for all your devices, from MacBook and iPad to your phone, eliminating the hassle of the outdated Lightning cable.

2. iPhone 15

While the iPhone 16 remains pricey, the standard iPhone 15 (previous model) emerges as a reliable choice at an incredibly affordable price, ranging from $700 to $850. Its appeal lies in its design uniformity: featuring the modern Dynamic Island and USB-C charging port.

Carrying this device in 2026, its appearance rivals even the newly released iPhone 17. Powered by the A16 Bionic chip, it effortlessly handles tasks from scrolling TikTok and editing CapCut videos to playing popular games like League of Legends or EA Sports FC Mobile. Opting for the iPhone 15 now ensures peace of mind and long-term compatibility for at least 3-4 years.

3. iPhone 14 Pro

For those who dislike the oversized Max models but crave a smoother experience than the 60Hz displays on standard iPhones, the iPhone 14 Pro is the perfect match within the $850 to $1,000 range. Despite its age, the triple-camera “pearl” setup and 120Hz ProMotion display remain unmatched, even by the standard iPhone 16.

Its fluid scrolling, Always-on Display, and 48MP main camera maintain its premium “Pro” appeal. However, users should carefully check the battery condition, as the 14 Pro has a smaller battery capacity compared to its Plus and Max counterparts.

4. iPhone 12 Pro Max

With a budget of just over $650, the iPhone 12 Pro Max stands out as the top choice for a 6.7-inch entertainment device in 2026. Marking a design shift to a sleek, squared-off frame still in use today, it remains aesthetically timeless.

While lacking a high refresh rate, its OLED Super Retina XDR display delivers exceptional visuals with vibrant colors and excellent brightness. Full 5G support ensures it stays competitive in network connectivity. Opt for models with high-quality replacement batteries for extended daily use.

5. iPhone 13

Replacing older models like the iPhone 11 and XR, the iPhone 13 has become the go-to smartphone in 2026, with prices starting as low as $450 to $600.

Without flashy features, the iPhone 13 wins over practical users with its exceptional reliability: long-lasting battery, cool operation, and a comfortable grip. The A15 Bionic chip, though not new, handles daily tasks smoothly and will receive software updates from Apple for years to come. It’s an ideal choice for students, gig workers, or as a secondary device for navigation, calls, and communication without worrying about frequent breakdowns.