Other Thoughts on buying a few generations back refurbished

[MacCheetah3]

I am curious about opinions on buying a few generations back. More specifically, does it seem like a similar, worse, or better value?

For example, the 256GB iPhone 14 Pro is $1099 USD. Currently, Apple also has available a 256GB iPhone 11 Pro for $649 USD — even though refurbished, it’s practically new. That’s ~41% cost difference.

iPhone - Compare Models

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ADD:

Predicated on having the latest and greatest is a nicety not a necessity.

 

[KaliYoni]

I am curious about opinions on buying a few generations back. More specifically, does it seem like a similar, worse, or better value?

For example, the 256GB iPhone 14 Pro is $1099 USD. Currently, Apple also has available a 256GB iPhone 11 Pro for $649 USD — even though refurbished, it’s practically new. That’s ~41% cost difference.

iPhone - Compare Models

Compare features and technical specifications for iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone SE, and many more.

www.apple.com

I don’t think there is a single answer to that question. Among other things, how the phone will be used (talking only? mostly texting? photos? video? etc.) and the availability of the fastest 5G networks in the phone’s “home” area are important criteria.

 

[Andeddu]

I’d stick with the 14 Pro as you will get a superior phone with at least 3 years of extra support for only $450 extra. That sounds like quite a lot but if you plan on keeping it long term it’s definitely the most cost effective choice.

 

[Bigwaff]

I'm a big fan of purchasing older model refurb or used iPhones, especially if you don't use or need the newer hardware or software features. I mean, honestly, how many people are going to shoot a 4K movie using their iPhone? Or need to send a satellite SOS message? There is want and there is need. About six months ago, I "upgraded" from an iPhone 8 to iPhone SE 2020.. I like the Home button. Cost me $150 I think? Does everything I need... but you might need something more.

 

[mpavilion]

I’m still using a (refurbed) 8+!

 

[ctjack]

Just bought 2 days ago Iphone 11 for $200 brand new.
Observations: it is blazing fast on IOS 15.6.1 and I don't see any difference between 14PM which is 6 times more expensive.
This is by far the best value. My SE2020 had the same internals but it was very slow - figure it is because only 5 gb of memory left and memory in general likes to be 40-50% free to perform on full speed.
Iphone 11 is 128gb and i have 100gb free as of now.

 

[rambo47]

For those that do not need or want the latest wiz-bang features it's a good practice, as long as you are confident with the seller. Battery health is paramount.

I personally cannot stand even the slightest screen blemish, even if it's unnoticeable and at the very edge of the screen. Just knowing it's there drives me right up a tree! A scuff or blemish on the side or back of the phone is not an issue for me. I always have a case on my mobile so a minor ding that doesn't affect performance is ok with me. But sweet mother of pearl, a swirl or scuff on the screen is a deal breaker!

 

[eyoungren]

I am curious about opinions on buying a few generations back. More specifically, does it seem like a similar, worse, or better value?

For example, the 256GB iPhone 14 Pro is $1099 USD. Currently, Apple also has available a 256GB iPhone 11 Pro for $649 USD — even though refurbished, it’s practically new. That’s ~41% cost difference.

iPhone - Compare Models

Compare features and technical specifications for iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone SE, and many more.

www.apple.com

Buying a couple models back is my current strategy. I get everything that I want at less cost. 2021 was the first year I implemented this (new to me) plan.

In February 2021 I purchased from my carrier T-Mobile a brand new iPhone 11 Pro Max. The iPhone 12PM was already on sale and the 13PM was still seven months away.

I always buy the maximum capacity that Apple offers for a particular model. For the 11PM, that mean the 512GB model. The difference in monthly payments on my plan versus the 12PM 1TB (which would have been what I would have gotten) was significant (to me).

I primarily use my phone as a phone, with some texting, email and light web use. For everything else I have computers, large screens and other devices that are purpose built and better to use for those sorts of things. The camera is not important to me.

Finally, I'm not a fan of being a network rollout guinea pig. So, with the state of 5G in 2021 being what it was (and in many cases still is), getting an LTE only phone was just fine with me. I'm okay with 200+mbps speeds since I am not doing anything with my phone that requires anything faster.

So, older flagship tech with max capacity at a reduced price purchased brand new from my carrier is just fine with me.

 

[mpavilion]

For those that do not need or want the latest wiz-bang features it's a good practice, as long as you are confident with the seller. Battery health is paramount.

I personally cannot stand even the slightest screen blemish, even if it's unnoticeable and at the very edge of the screen. Just knowing it's there drives me right up a tree! A scuff or blemish on the side or back of the phone is not an issue for me. I always have a case on my mobile so a minor ding that doesn't affect performance is ok with me. But sweet mother of pearl, a swirl or scuff on the screen is a deal breaker!

I believe the OP is asking about buying a refurbished phone from Apple… you can trust the seller, and the phone should be indistinguishable from a new one!

 

[257Loner]

I bought a refurbished MacBook Pro, and it's been working like a dream so far (minus the battery bulging). I'd say if they have an older model you want at a refurbished price, that's a win-win.

 

[MacCheetah3]

I don’t think there is a single answer to that question. Among other things, how the phone will be used (talking only? mostly texting? photos? video? etc.) and the availability of the fastest 5G networks in the phone’s “home” area are important criteria.

For me, mostly the typical stuff (e.g., casual photography/videography, email, occasional nav). The most demanding on the hardware is Scanner Pro, which I use to archive or share documents. My average screen time fluctuates from <1 to ~2.5 hours.

My iPhone X is still capable. As I added to my original post “having the latest and greatest is a nicety not a necessity."

(Most of my consumption is on my iPad/Mac, which is why I grabbed the latest iPad Pro deal).

I'm not a fan of being a network rollout guinea pig. So, with the state of 5G in 2021 being what it was (and in many cases still is), getting an LTE only phone was just fine with me. I'm okay with 200+mbps speeds since I am not doing anything with my phone that requires anything faster.

In most areas, LTE/4G doesn’t even stack up to its advertised par, in my experience.

For those that do not need or want the latest wiz-bang features it's a good practice, as long as you are confident with the seller. Battery health is paramount.

I personally cannot stand even the slightest screen blemish, even if it's unnoticeable and at the very edge of the screen. Just knowing it's there drives me right up a tree! A scuff or blemish on the side or back of the phone is not an issue for me. I always have a case on my mobile so a minor ding that doesn't affect performance is ok with me. But sweet mother of pearl, a swirl or scuff on the screen is a deal breaker!

As @mpavilion pointed out, the purchase would be from the online Apple Store:

I’d stick with the 14 Pro as you will get a superior phone with at least 3 years of extra support for only $450 extra. That sounds like quite a lot but if you plan on keeping it long term it’s definitely the most cost effective choice.

Buying a couple models back is my current strategy. I get everything that I want at less cost. 2021 was the first year I implemented this (new to me) plan.

And that’s really what the question is about. Can I afford the extra cost? Yes. Would I like the newer/better features/capabilities? Of course. But is it worth paying “top dollar?” — again, yes, this is subjective.

With that said, thank you everyone for the insight and opinions thus far.

 

[blkjedi954]

Buying a couple models back is my current strategy. I get everything that I want at less cost. 2021 was the first year I implemented this (new to me) plan.

In February 2021 I purchased from my carrier T-Mobile a brand new iPhone 11 Pro Max. The iPhone 12PM was already on sale and the 13PM was still seven months away.

I always buy the maximum capacity that Apple offers for a particular model. For the 11PM, that mean the 512GB model. The difference in monthly payments on my plan versus the 12PM 1TB (which would have been what I would have gotten) was significant (to me).

I primarily use my phone as a phone, with some texting, email and light web use. For everything else I have computers, large screens and other devices that are purpose built and better to use for those sorts of things. The camera is not important to me.

Finally, I'm not a fan of being a network rollout guinea pig. So, with the state of 5G in 2021 being what it was (and in many cases still is), getting an LTE only phone was just fine with me. I'm okay with 200+mbps speeds since I am not doing anything with my phone that requires anything faster.

So, older flagship tech with max capacity at a reduced price purchased brand new from my carrier is just fine with me.

I implement the same strategy. Model that’s a couple of generations older, and max capacity for said model. Since iphone 11 there is nothing that can’t be done on this hardware. Even in their recent keynotes Apple still references the iPhone 11 as the benchmark that the other companies are still trying to catch up to in real world performance.

 

[tbuzleski]

I am curious about opinions on buying a few generations back. More specifically, does it seem like a similar, worse, or better value?

For example, the 256GB iPhone 14 Pro is $1099 USD. Currently, Apple also has available a 256GB iPhone 11 Pro for $649 USD — even though refurbished, it’s practically new. That’s ~41% cost difference.

iPhone - Compare Models

Compare features and technical specifications for iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone SE, and many more.

www.apple.com

ADD:

Predicated on having the latest and greatest is a nicety not a necessity.

I use a 13 pro for my personal phone and an 11 pro max for my work phone. Everyday use there is not much difference. However the cameras are noticeably different in low light photography. While I don’t use that often I value that functionality. If I was forced somehow to use the 11 though I would be just fine. And don’t even get me started on the 5G marketing fluff.

 

[KaliYoni]

And that’s really what the question is about. Can I afford the extra cost? Yes. Would I like the newer/better features/capabilities? Of course. But is it worth paying “top dollar?” — again, yes, this is subjective.

I make my living in financial markets, so here is how I frame questions like yours: do I have a better use for the money I would otherwise spend on (higher spec iPhone, stock in company X, new clothing, etc)?

 

[TechnoMonk]

Do you need 5G?

 

[ian87w]

I am curious about opinions on buying a few generations back. More specifically, does it seem like a similar, worse, or better value?

For example, the 256GB iPhone 14 Pro is $1099 USD. Currently, Apple also has available a 256GB iPhone 11 Pro for $649 USD — even though refurbished, it’s practically new. That’s ~41% cost difference.

iPhone - Compare Models

Compare features and technical specifications for iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone SE, and many more.

www.apple.com

ADD:

Predicated on having the latest and greatest is a nicety not a necessity.

I just traded my 7+ for a 256GB 11 Pro, and imo it's one of the rare best iPhone ever made. The size and weight is near perfect with top notch build quality. Camera system is complete flagship set (ultra-wide and 2x telephoto + night mode). Battery life is great considering the phone's size. It's probably the iPhone that I would keep forever since Apple is no longer interested in this (for me) perfect size.

The only drawbacks are the intel modem and it's not 5G.

If budget is important for you, I would take the 11 Pro. It's imo one of the best iPhone Apple has ever made, and will be the rarest as it's the only 5.8" iPhone with triple camera setup. But if you don't need telephoto, the regular iPhone 13 might be something to consider for just $50 more brand new. It has newer and more efficient SoC, 5G and Qualcomm modem, and lighter aluminum build.

 

[webkit]

For example, the 256GB iPhone 14 Pro is $1099 USD. Currently, Apple also has available a 256GB iPhone 11 Pro for $649 USD — even though refurbished, it’s practically new. That’s ~41% cost difference.

That is a 41% cost difference but also keep in mind that the iPhone 14 Pro will be worth more down the road e.g., the 14 Pro may be worth $250 or so more than the 11 Pro in three years which makes up for some (although not all) of the higher initial cost. Of course, if you plan to keep either phone until it is basically worthless then resale value is less relevant.

 

[mpavilion]

I do wish the refurbished phones were cheaper than they are, considering their age... but that's Apple for ya

 

[ACE_350]

Just bought a iPhone XS off Swappa, it was a factory sealed Apple care replacement phone (the ones that come in the white boxes).

Phone is still fast and fluid, camera is still good, the only downside is the battery life but it's fine for my usage. I got it for $275. I think it was a great deal.

 

[GMShadow]

Buying an iPhone 11 at the Apple refurb price right now is unwise, I feel. If it was used from a third party perhaps, but $649 is a lot for a nearly four year old design and hardware.

 

[webkit]

I do wish the refurbished phones were cheaper than they are, considering their age... but that's Apple for ya

A new 64GB iPhone 11 Pro was $999 new in 2019. What would you consider a fair price for a refurbished (new outer shell, new battery, same-as-new 1 year warranty, etc.) 64GB 11 Pro today?

 

[Adelphos33]

Your signature indicates you have an iPhone X. You are proposing to buy the next generation of phone, only three years old, at $649.

If you need a new phone, and don't want to pay for a 14 Pro, I would think a new iPhone 14 ($899) or iPhone 13 ($799) or refurbished model of either phone would be better buys, especially if you are going to keep the phone over the next few years. iPhone 13 may be an especially good buy as it has the same chip as the iPhone 14 (though less RAM)

 

[mpavilion]

A new 64GB iPhone 11 Pro was $999 new in 2019. What would you consider a fair price for a refurbished (new outer shell, new battery, same-as-new 1 year warranty, etc.) 64GB 11 Pro today?

Well, putting aside that I consider $999 to be overpriced to begin with (😆), I don't think $559 (the current listed price) is necessarily too bad. The problem is that it's currently Out of Stock in that configuration; and if you're looking for a sub-$600 refurbished phone at the moment, the best you can do is 12 Mini ($569). The next option up, if you'd like a bigger screen and better battery life, is $649... and I don't consider that to be a particular value, if your reason for considering a refurb is to be budget-conscious (as opposed to getting the best possible phone at a discount, or whatever).

Perhaps the other options will cycle back into stock – including the (non-Pro) 11 and 12, which are currently greyed out altogether – but if I had to buy a new phone today, with purely budget in mind, I would likely settle for an SE; as even the cheapest refurb cannot beat it in price.

 

[mpavilion]

(For a point of comparison – when I bought my refurbished 8+ (64 GB), in June 2020, it was $379… that felt like a great deal, considering it was $799 when it launched 2 1/2 years earlier. There are certainly no similarly priced options in the refurb store at the moment!)

 

[Ffemt]

Buying an iPhone 11 at the Apple refurb price right now is unwise, I feel. If it was used from a third party perhaps, but $649 is a lot for a nearly four year old design and hardware.

Problem is that the only other source of near decent older phones is Swappa. However their standards seem to be slipping. Mint used to mean just that - now it includes battery life of 85%(??) and I've even seen a seller claiming a mint phone with only "minor" scuffs/scratches on the screen??? And of course Apple knows that and sets their prices accordingly - so in order to even get to par with an Apple refurb you probably have another $100 for a new battery.