The Pros and Cons of Buying an Older iPhone Model (2024 Guide)

Should you buy a brand-new iPhone or save money with an older model? While the latest iPhones offer cutting-edge features, older models can still deliver excellent performance at a fraction of the price.

In this guide, we’ll break down the advantages and disadvantages of buying an older iPhone, helping you decide if it’s the right choice for your needs and budget.

1. What Counts as an "Older" iPhone?

We consider iPhones 2+ generations old as "older" models. Examples in 2024:

• iPhone 13 series (2021)

• iPhone 12 series (2020)

• iPhone 11 series (2019)

• iPhone SE (2020/2022)

2. Pros of Buying an Older iPhone

✅ Significant Cost Savings

Older iPhones can be 30-60% cheaper than the latest models.
📌 Example:

• iPhone 15 (2023): RM4,599

• iPhone 13 (2021): ~RM2,500 (refurbished)

✅ Still Great Performance

Even older iPhones with A13/A14/A15 chips handle daily tasks smoothly (social media, streaming, light gaming).

✅ Proven Reliability

Older models have fewer software bugs since they’ve been refined over years of updates.

✅ Longer Software Support

Apple supports iPhones for 5-6 years. Example:

• iPhone XR (2018) got iOS 17 (2023).

• iPhone 13 (2021) will likely get updates until 2026-2027.

✅ Better Deals on Refurbished Models

Certified refurbished older iPhones come with warranties and like-new condition at low prices.

3. Cons of Buying an Older iPhone

❌ Miss Out on New Features

• No Dynamic Island (iPhone 14 Pro & newer).

• No USB-C (only iPhone 15+).

• Weaker cameras & battery life vs. newer models.

❌ Shorter Future Software Support

While older iPhones still get updates, they’ll lose support sooner than newer models.

❌ Battery Health May Be Worn Out

Used older iPhones often have 80-85% battery health, requiring a replacement (RM200-400).

❌ Less Future-Proof

• Older chips (A13/A14) may struggle with demanding apps/games in 2-3 years.

• No 5G on iPhone 11 and earlier.

4. Who Should Buy an Older iPhone?

✔ Best For:

• Budget buyers (want iOS without the high cost).

• Light users (social media, calls, browsing).

• Secondary/backup phone users.

• Eco-conscious shoppers (reusing reduces e-waste).

✖ Avoid If:

• You need best camera/video quality.

• You play graphic-intensive games.

• You want longest possible software support.

5. Best Older iPhone Models in 2024

6. Where to Buy Older iPhones Safely?

• Apple Refurbished Store (best warranty).

• Trusted resellers (iRenew, CompAsia).

• Facebook Marketplace/Carousell (meet in person, test first).

Final Verdict: Is an Older iPhone Worth It?

✅ Yes if you want to save money and don’t need cutting-edge features.
❌ No if you want long-term performance & latest tech.

Looking for a reliable older iPhone?
Browse certified refurbished models at iRenew →