The best iPhones in 2024 have been tested, reviewed and ranked. The top-of-the-line options include the iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max. However, a refurbished iPhone SE (2022) is also considered a budget-friendly option with modern parts at an affordable price.
Choosing the Right iPhone
Essential Checks When Buying a Refurbished iPhone
When purchasing a refurbished iPhone, it is crucial to verify several aspects to ensure you get the best value for your money. These checks include:
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Functioning buttons: The buttons should work without requiring excessive pressure.
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Fingerprint scanner functionality: Ensure that the fingerprint scanner works correctly.
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Unlocked status: Verify that the phone is unlocked to your preferred network provider.
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Certified repairs: Check if any repairs were done by certified parts or the manufacturer.
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IMEI number verification: Look up the IMEI number against a database of stolen devices to ensure it has not been stolen.
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Warranty offered by the retailer: Check the warranty provided by the retailer on refurbished phones.
Avoiding Older iPhone Models
It is recommended to avoid buying iPhone models older than the iPhone 13 due to limited software support. Specifically, an iPhone 13 mini with an old battery should be avoided as it has a relatively short battery life and requires more frequent charging.
The iPhone SE: A Budget-Friendly Option
The iPhone SE is the best-value new iPhone, offering the best-value experience without buying refurbished. It has a Touch ID home button and chunky bezels, making it a throwback to the classic pre-2017 design. The third-generation iPhone SE was released in 2022, still providing 5G and the A15 Bionic chip used in the 2021 iPhone 13.
The iPhone 16 Series: Top-of-the-Line Options
The best iPhones you can buy in 2024 are the iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max. Each model offers unique features and price points:
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iPhone 16: The base model with a 6.1in OLED screen, A18 chip, dual camera, and Face ID.
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iPhone 16 Plus: A bigger version of the iPhone 16 with a 6.7in screen and long battery life.
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iPhone 16 Pro: The best camera option with optical zoom and a more powerful A18 Pro chip.
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iPhone 16 Pro Max: The largest and most expensive model with excellent battery life and all features from the iPhone 16 Pro.
Best Value Option
The iPhone SE (2022) is the best value option, offering modern parts at an affordable price. However, it lacks Face ID, Apple Intelligence, and a high-quality camera.
Refurbished iPhones
When buying a refurbished iPhone, make sure to check for:
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Functional buttons without needing too much pressure
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A working fingerprint scanner
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Unlocked status to your preferred network provider
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Repairs done by certified parts or the manufacturer
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A clean IMEI number (not stolen)
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Warranty offered by the retailer
