Buy used iPhones | Which iPhone to buy used 2024?

Sustainability and smart financial decisions are playing an increasingly central role in our everyday lives, and buying a used iPhone gives you the opportunity to combine the two. Used iPhones not only offer the opportunity to purchase high-quality technology at a fraction of the new price, but also help protect the environment. But which iPhone is right for you? The selection of available models is large, and each has its own strengths. In this guide you'll learn everything you need to know, from the benefits of buying used to the best models for different needs to practical tips on what to look out for when buying.

With the ever-growing demand for refurbished products, the market for used iPhones is also becoming more and more diverse. Thanks to the high quality and durability of Apple devices, you can count on strong performance and regular software updates even with older models. No matter whether you are looking for a model with an excellent camera, an impressive design or a particularly long battery life - there is a suitable iPhone for every need. Find out in this article how you can find the best used iPhone for you while doing your part to protect the environment.

The general benefits of buying used iPhones

Buying used iPhones offers a number of advantages. On the one hand, you save money, as used devices are often significantly cheaper than new devices. At the same time, used iPhones are subject to less depreciation, making them an economically sensible choice. In addition, you benefit from sophisticated technologies that have already been extensively tested and optimized in previous models.

Sustainability aspect and environmental friendliness

Buying a used iPhone is not only good for your wallet, but also for the environment. A study by Fraunhofer Austria from 2023 shows that the new production of a smartphone - for example the iPhone 11 - causes 56.9 kg CO2e, while remanufacturing only requires 2.8 kg CO2e. This corresponds to an impressive reduction of 78%.

In addition, the study shows that water consumption when remanufacturing an iPhone 11 is reduced from 12,075 liters to just 1,695 liters. The amount of electronic waste is also reduced significantly: from 239 grams for a new device to just 70 grams for a refurbished iPhone. By buying a used iPhone, you are actively contributing to environmental protection and helping to conserve valuable resources.

Long-term software updates and longevity of iPhones

Apple is known for providing its devices with software updates for many years. Older iPhones also receive regular updates that bring new functions and security improvements. This is a key reason why iPhones are particularly durable and why it is worth buying older models used.

Quality and performance when buying a used Apple iPhone

You may be wondering whether a used iPhone can offer the same quality and performance as a new device. The answer is a resounding yes. At Janado, every device goes through strict quality control before it is released for sale. This is how we guarantee that every used iPhone we offer is in excellent condition.

Overview of all iPhone models

iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus (2016)

• Major innovations: Introduction of the dual camera (only 7 Plus), water and dust protection (IP67), no more headphone jack.

• Processor: A10 Fusion chip.

• Compatibility: Not compatible with iOS 18.

iPhone 8 and iPhone 8 Plus (2017)

• Key innovations: Glass back for wireless charging, True Tone display.

• Processor: A11 Bionic chip.

• Compatibility: Not compatible with iOS 18.

iPhone X (2017)

• Key innovations: Introduction of a completely new design with edge-to-edge OLED display, Face ID, no home button.

• Processor: A11 Bionic chip.

• Compatibility: Not compatible with iOS 18.

iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max (2018)

• Key innovations: Improved dual camera, faster A12 Bionic chip, storage option up to 512 GB.

• Processor: A12 Bionic chip.

• Compatibility: Compatible with iOS 18.

iPhone XR (2018)

• Key innovations: LCD Liquid Retina display, single camera with advanced portrait mode. Budget version of the iPhone XS.

• Processor: A12 Bionic chip.

• Compatibility: Compatible with iOS 18.

iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro and iPhone 11 Pro Max (2019)

• Key innovations: Introduction of the ultra wide-angle camera (11 Pro and Pro Max), improved night vision function.

• Processor: A13 Bionic chip.

• Compatibility: Compatible with iOS 18.

iPhone SE (2nd Generation) (2020)

• Key innovations: Compact design in the style of the iPhone 8, powerful A13 Bionic chip.

• Processor: A13 Bionic chip.

• Compatibility: Compatible with iOS 18.

iPhone 12 Series – Mini, 12, 12 Pro and 12 Pro Max (2020)

• Key innovations: Introduction of 5G, OLED displays in all models, LiDAR scanner in the Pro models.

• Processor: A14 Bionic chip.

• Compatibility: Compatible with iOS 18.

iPhone 13 Series – Mini, 13, 13 Pro and 13 Pro Max (2021)

• Key innovations: Smaller notch, ProMotion displays with 120Hz (Pro models only), improved camera systems.

• Processor: A15 Bionic chip.

• Compatibility: Compatible with iOS 18.

iPhone 14 Series – 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro and 14 Pro Max (2022)

• Key innovations: Introduction of “Dynamic Island” (Pro models only), always-on display, emergency call via satellite.

• Processor: A15 Bionic chip (14 and 14 Plus), A16 Bionic chip (14 Pro and 14 Pro Max).

• Compatibility: Compatible with iOS 18.

iPhone 15 Series – 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max (2023)

• Key innovations: USB-C port, further improved camera systems with 48 MP main camera (Pro models), new titanium design for Pro models.

• Processor: A16 Bionic chip (15 and 15 Plus), A17 Pro chip (15 Pro and 15 Pro Max).

• Compatibility: Compatible with iOS 18.

The best iPhones for different needs

• For photography and videography: The iPhone 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max and the latest iPhone 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max are the best options for passionate photographers and videographers. These models offer advanced camera systems with ultra-wide-angle, wide-angle and telephoto cameras. The iPhone 15 Pro models set new standards with an improved telephoto camera and the ability to capture high-resolution images in low light conditions.

• For design lovers: The iPhone 14 Pro and 14 Pro Max offer the new “Dynamic Island”, an innovative design feature that seamlessly integrates the camera and sensors into the display. The iPhone 15 Pro models expand this concept with an even narrower frame and new titanium elements that further refine the design.

• For the best value: The iPhone 13 offers an excellent combination of price and performance. With the A15 Bionic chip and a strong camera, it's a future-proof choice. The iPhone SE (2nd generation) and the iPhone 12 Pro models also offer a lot of performance at an attractive price.

• For the best battery life: If you value long battery life, the iPhone 13 Pro Max, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro Max as well as the iPhone 15 Plus and iPhone 15 Pro Max the best options. These models are equipped with larger batteries that last all day even with intensive use.

• For a small budget: The iPhone SE (3rd generation) offers remarkable performance despite its affordable price. With the A15 Bionic chip, it is able to handle demanding tasks while remaining affordable.

What you should pay attention to when buying a used iPhone

When buying a used iPhone, it is important to pay attention to the condition of the battery. At Janado we guarantee a minimum battery condition of 80%, and this value is often even higher. If the battery still doesn't meet your expectations, you can make use of our 30-day return period and send the device back free of charge.

Also, check the device's technical specifications to make sure it has enough storage for your needs and is compatible with the latest iOS.

Buy used Apple iPhones – refurbished at Janado

At Janado we offer a transparent grading system that accurately describes the condition of each iPhone. Whether you're looking for a budget iPhone or a high-end model, we have something to suit every budget. We also offer you a 30-day, risk-free trial period in which you can test the device extensively. If it doesn't meet your expectations, you can simply return it.

By buying a used iPhone from Janado, you are not only helping to reduce electronic waste, but you are also making a valuable contribution to environmental protection.