Which iPhone to Buy? The 2026 Value-for-Money Check

remarket Team · Published on 13.07.2026 · 6 min read

Welches iPhone kaufen? Der Preis-Leistungs-Check 2026

Contents The value-for-money recommendation: iPhone 14 and iPhone 15 For bargain hunters: iPhone 12 and iPhone 13 For demanding users: iPhone 16 and the Pro models How much storage do you need?What to look for when buying Conclusion

Apple sells iPhones across many generations, and refurbished, practically every model from recent years is available. That is an opportunity: if you don't absolutely need the latest model, you get an enormous amount of technology for significantly less money. Here is our overview of which iPhone is worth it for whom in 2026.

The value-for-money recommendation: iPhone 14 and iPhone 15

Generations 14 and 15 are currently the sweet spot: modern enough for many more years of iOS updates, with very good cameras and strong everyday performance, yet already significantly cheaper than the current models. The iPhone 15 additionally brings USB-C, the Dynamic Island and a 48-megapixel main camera. If you have the choice, take the 15; if you want maximum savings, you can't go wrong with the 14.

For bargain hunters: iPhone 12 and iPhone 13

The iPhone 13 is rightly considered one of the most balanced iPhones ever: a bright screen, very good battery life and a camera that still convinces today. Refurbished, it is often available for a fraction of its former retail price. The iPhone 12 is even cheaper and still perfectly adequate for everyday users, though here it pays to check the battery health, which we state for every device. More on this in our article Is the iPhone 13 still worth it?

For demanding users: iPhone 16 and the Pro models

The iPhone 16 with the A18 chip and Camera Control is the choice if you want to use the device for five years or longer and value the latest features. The Pro models are worth it above all for photo and video enthusiasts: telephoto lens, ProMotion display with 120 Hz and a titanium body. Refurbished, even Pro models are noticeably cheaper; our comparison iPhone 15 vs. iPhone 16 helps with the decision.

How much storage do you need?

128 GB is enough for most people: photos, apps, music streaming. If you film a lot or install large games, take 256 GB. Only professionals who edit 4K video locally or keep huge media libraries offline need more.

What to look for when buying

Battery health: from 85 percent you are in the green zone; the value is listed on every one of our devices.
Condition grade: from Like New to Acceptable, depending on your budget and how much you care about looks.
Warranty: 1 year on every refurbished iPhone, plus a 14-day right of return.

Conclusion

In 2026 the rule is: iPhone 15 for the best overall package, iPhone 13 for the smallest budget with a clear conscience, iPhone 16 or a Pro model for anyone planning long-term or wanting the best camera. You'll find all models tested and with a warranty in our iPhone range.

Frequently asked questions

Which iPhone offers the best value for money in 2026?

The iPhone 15: modern features with USB-C and a 48-MP camera, many years of updates ahead of it and, refurbished, significantly cheaper than the current generation. The iPhone 14 follows closely behind.

How long will a used iPhone still get updates?

Apple typically supports iPhones with iOS updates for five to seven years after release. An iPhone 14 or 15 therefore still has several years ahead of it.

Is 128 GB of storage enough?

For most people, yes. If you film a lot, install large apps or store media libraries offline, go for 256 GB.

Is a refurbished iPhone Pro worth it?

Yes, Pro models in particular drop sharply in price after one to two years while still offering a top camera and a 120 Hz display. Refurbished, the premium over the regular model is often small.