The best places to buy refurbished iPhones in 2026 are Apple Certified Refurbished, Amazon Renewed, Back Market, Best Buy, Gazelle, plug, Mac of All Trades, and RefurbMe. We evaluated all eight on inspection rigor, warranty length, and real pricing tracked over several months. Our top recommendation for most buyers is Back Market or plug: both offer 1-year warranties, strict battery standards, and prices 40-55% below retail. If you want manufacturer-level quality and peace of mind, Apple Certified Refurbished is the safest choice. If you want to compare every seller in one place and find the lowest price for a specific model, use RefurbMe.
As of May 2026, refurbished iPhone 16 units start at $529 from Gazelle and $599 from Back Market. Apple sells refurbished iPhone 16 models from $619. The iPhone 15 starts at $386 on Back Market. For a complete history of every iPhone model, see our iPhone release dates & generations page. With the refurbished electronics market projected to exceed $140 billion by 2028, competition keeps driving prices lower. Here is how each seller stacks up.
Not sure which model to buy? See our guide to the best refurbished iPhones for ranked recommendations by budget, or browse refurbished iPhones under $100 if you are on a tight budget.
The best places to buy refurbished iPhones at a glance
| Refurbisher | Testing | Warranty | Typical savings | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apple Certified Refurbished | Full Apple testing, new battery and outer shell | 1 year (extendable with AppleCare+) | 12-22% off | Buyers who want near-new quality |
| Amazon Renewed | Certified like-new; Premium tier with 80%+ battery | 90 days standard; 1 year for Premium | 25-45% off | Prime members, wide model selection |
| Back Market | Vetted sellers, battery replaced if below 80% | 1-year limited warranty | 40-60% off older models | Deepest discounts, large catalog |
| Best Buy | Geek Squad certified functional testing | 15-day return (60 days for members) | 20-35% off | In-store pickup and inspection |
| Gazelle | 30-point inspection | 30-day warranty | 25-45% off | Unlocked phones, no contracts |
| plug | Multi-point inspection, 90%+ battery guarantee | 1-year warranty, lifetime tech support | 30-55% off | Budget buyers, unlocked models |
| Mac of All Trades | Multi-point inspection, cosmetic grading | 30-day warranty | 25-45% off | US buyers wanting contract-free devices |
| RefurbMe | Aggregates all sellers above | Minimum 30 days (most offer 1 year) | Finds the lowest price | Comparing prices across all sellers |
1. Apple Certified Refurbished
Apple sets the standard for refurbished quality. Every iPhone sold through its Certified Refurbished program undergoes the same testing and certification process as a factory-new device. You get a phone that is functionally identical to new, with a brand-new battery and outer shell included. The tradeoff: Apple's refurbished prices are the highest among all sellers, typically 12-22% below retail.
As of February 2026, Apple sells refurbished iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max units directly through its online store. A refurbished iPhone 16 (128 GB) starts at $619 versus $799 new. The iPhone 15 and iPhone 14 Pro Max remain in the refurbished store at $619 and $759, respectively.
Testing process
Apple refurbishes its iPhones in-house. The company tests, certifies, and repairs each device before repackaging it in branded Apple packaging with a brand-new battery and outer shell. This is manufacturer refurbished at its best.
Warranty & shipping
Apple includes a one-year limited warranty with every refurbished iPhone, and you can extend coverage by purchasing AppleCare+. All refurbished products come with free next-day shipping and a 14-day return policy.
Our verdict
Apple Certified Refurbished is the best choice if quality is your top priority. No other seller gives you a brand-new battery, brand-new outer shell, and a one-year warranty at the same time. The tradeoff is price: you pay a premium for that assurance. Best for buyers who want near-new quality and are willing to pay 12-22% below retail rather than 40-55%.
Products & pricing
2. Amazon Renewed
Amazon Renewed pairs convenience with savings. With hundreds of millions of active customers, its refurbished program offers one of the largest selections of iPhones at any price point. Prices run 25-45% below retail: expect to find an iPhone 16 (256 GB) around $649, an iPhone 15 in the $380-500 range, and an iPhone 14 for $280-380, depending on storage and condition.
The Renewed Premium tier has expanded in 2026, now covering iPhone 16 models with a full one-year warranty through Asurion. This tier requires at least 80% battery health and ships in Apple-certified packaging.
Testing process
Amazon certifies its renewed (refurbished) iPhones to work and look like new. Devices arrive in generic packaging, typically including the accessories you would expect with a new model. Any exceptions are listed on the product page.
Warranty & shipping
Standard Renewed products carry a 90-day replacement or refund guarantee under the Amazon Renewed Guarantee. Renewed Premium products get stronger coverage: a 30-day Amazon return window plus an 11-month warranty serviced by Asurion, giving you a full year of protection. Most items are eligible for Prime shipping.
Our verdict
Amazon Renewed is the strongest pick for Prime members who want a wide selection without giving up buyer protection. The Renewed Premium tier, now covering iPhone 16 models with a one-year Asurion warranty, has significantly raised the bar. Standard Renewed is fine for budget shoppers comfortable with a 90-day window. Avoid sellers with low ratings even on Amazon: check the seller score before buying.
Products & pricing
3. Back Market
Back Market consistently offers the lowest prices on refurbished iPhones. The platform connects buyers with vetted refurbishers and enforces strict quality controls that set it apart from open marketplaces like eBay or Swappa. An iPhone 15 (128 GB) drops to $350-430 here in "Fair" to "Excellent" condition, and older models like the iPhone 13 go for under $260. Back Market also runs a price-match guarantee within 30 days of purchase.
Testing process
Sellers on Back Market must pass a rigorous selection process and meet ongoing quality requirements. The platform tracks seller performance in real time. iPhone batteries are replaced if capacity falls below 80% or exceeds 500 charge cycles.
Warranty & shipping
All Back Market products include a 30-day return period and a 1-year limited warranty provided by the seller. Back Market also offers express delivery and the option to pay in installments.
Our verdict
Back Market is our top recommendation for buyers who want the lowest price without sacrificing warranty protection. The 1-year warranty, battery replacement policy (below 80%), and rigorous seller vetting make it the best value in the market. As of May 2026, a refurbished iPhone 15 starts at $386 and an iPhone 16 at $599 here. Best for deal-focused buyers who are comfortable buying online from a vetted marketplace.
Products & pricing
4. Best Buy
Best Buy brings something most online-only sellers cannot: physical stores. You can inspect a refurbished iPhone in person before buying, and return it to any location if something is wrong. Their Geek Squad Certified program handles the refurbishment process. As of early 2026, Best Buy lists refurbished iPhone 16 Pro Max units in "Excellent" condition starting around $760-830 depending on storage.
Testing process
Geek Squad Certified refurbished iPhones go through functional testing and cosmetic grading. Each device is verified to meet Best Buy's quality standards before being listed for sale. Condition grades range from Excellent to Fair, with clear descriptions of what to expect.
Warranty & shipping
Best Buy offers a 15-day return policy on refurbished devices (60 days for My Best Buy Plus and Total members). For extended coverage, you can add Geek Squad Protection, which covers hardware failures and accidental damage for a monthly or annual fee. Most refurbished iPhones ship free, and in-store pickup is available at hundreds of locations.
Our verdict
Best Buy is the right choice if you want to hold the phone before buying. The ability to walk into a store, inspect the device, and return it locally is a genuine advantage over online-only sellers. The 15-day return window is short for online buyers, but the in-person experience and brand trust make it worthwhile for those who live near a store. Pricing sits in the middle of the market: not the cheapest, but reassuringly transparent.
Products & pricing
Best Buy's refurbished iPhone inventory varies by location and availability. Check their website or visit a store near you for current stock.
5. Gazelle
Gazelle, founded in 2006, is one of the longest-running certified pre-owned phone sellers in the US. The company built its name on a straightforward buying experience: no contracts, no commitments, and a clear return policy. In 2026, Gazelle stocks models from the iPhone XS through the iPhone 16 Pro Max, all unlocked.
Testing process
Every Gazelle-certified device passes a 30-point inspection program. This testing process covers hardware functionality, cosmetic condition, and battery health, giving buyers confidence in the device they receive.
Warranty & shipping
Gazelle includes a 30-day warranty with a simple return policy. If you are not satisfied, return the device within 30 days of delivery for a full refund. All orders ship free.
Our verdict
Gazelle is a reliable choice for buyers who want an unlocked iPhone without navigating a marketplace. The 20-year track record, straightforward grading, and free shipping are genuine strengths. The 30-day warranty is the weakest point: if long-term coverage matters to you, Back Market or plug offer a full year at comparable prices. As of May 2026, Gazelle has iPhone 16 units starting at $529, which is the lowest price we found for that model.
Products & pricing
6. plug
plug (formerly plugtech) sells refurbished iPhones at steep discounts with a focus on unlocked, carrier-free devices. The company has grown steadily since 2024, pricing phones 30-55% below retail. All iPhones ship with a guaranteed battery health of 90% or higher, which is stricter than what most competitors promise.
Testing process
plug runs a multi-point inspection on every device, covering display, buttons, cameras, speakers, and connectivity. Each iPhone ships with a guaranteed battery health of 90% or higher.
Warranty & shipping
plug includes a 1-year warranty and lifetime tech support with every purchase. You also get a 30-day money-back guarantee if the device does not meet your expectations. Shipping is free on all orders.
Our verdict
plug is our top pick for budget buyers who still want solid warranty protection. The 90% battery health guarantee is the strictest in this comparison, the 1-year warranty matches Back Market, and lifetime tech support adds genuine long-term value. Pricing runs 30-55% below retail. The main limitation: plug focuses on the US market and a narrower model range than Back Market or Amazon Renewed.
Products & pricing
7. Mac of All Trades
Mac of All Trades specializes in refurbished Apple devices, including iPhones, MacBooks, iPads, and iMacs. Based in the US, the company has been selling refurbished Apple products for over 15 years. Their iPhone inventory skews toward unlocked models with no carrier contracts, making them a solid option for buyers who want flexibility.
Testing process
Every device goes through a multi-point inspection covering functionality, cosmetics, and battery performance. Mac of All Trades assigns each iPhone a condition grade so buyers know exactly what to expect before purchasing.
Warranty & shipping
Mac of All Trades includes a 30-day warranty and a 30-day return policy. Optional extended warranty plans (1-5 years) are available through CPS at an additional cost. Shipping is free on most orders within the US.
Our verdict
Mac of All Trades is a solid option for US buyers who want a straightforward, no-carrier-lock purchase from a specialist retailer with over 15 years in the Apple refurbished market. The 30-day warranty is on the shorter end, but the optional extended plans through CPS provide a path to longer coverage. Best for buyers who prefer dealing with a dedicated Apple reseller rather than a broad marketplace.
Products & pricing
8. RefurbMe
Visiting each retailer and comparing prices one by one takes time. RefurbMe eliminates that step. We are a price comparison site for refurbished Apple products, aggregating deals from certified sellers so you can find the best price for any iPhone model in seconds.
Testing process
We have compared the reconditioning process of every merchant we work with. You can compare testing processes at a glance to see how each seller stacks up.
Warranty & shipping
Refurbishers listed on RefurbMe provide a minimum 30-day warranty, and most offer one year of coverage. Compare warranties across all refurbishers. In terms of shipping, all listed merchants offer free shipping.
Products & pricing
You can also set up stock alerts and price alerts. We will notify you by email when the iPhone you want comes back in stock or drops in price.
What to check before buying a refurbished iPhone
No matter where you buy, verify these five things before completing your purchase:
Battery health. Aim for 85% capacity or higher. Apple Certified Refurbished replaces every battery with a new one. Back Market replaces batteries below 80%. plug guarantees 90% or higher. Other sellers vary, so check the listing.
IMEI status. Confirm the IMEI is not blacklisted or reported stolen. Use Apple's Check Coverage page or a free IMEI checker before purchasing.
Activation Lock. Make sure Find My iPhone is disabled. A locked device is unusable. Reputable sellers clear this before shipping, but always verify.
Condition grade. Understand the grading scale. "Like New" or "Excellent" means minimal cosmetic wear. "Good" or "Fair" means visible scratches or scuffs. Choose the grade that matches your tolerance for imperfections. Learn more about refurbished grades A, B, and C and the differences between used, refurbished, and new devices.
Warranty and return policy. A 30-day minimum is standard. Apple, Back Market, and plug offer one year. Amazon Renewed Premium gives you a full year through Asurion. If the seller offers less than 30 days, consider shopping elsewhere.
Check software support before buying older models
Before buying an older model, verify how long Apple supports that iPhone. As of 2026, iOS 19 drops support for the iPhone XS and iPhone XR. A great price on an iPhone that no longer receives iOS updates is not a great deal.
How much does a refurbished iPhone cost in 2026?
Prices depend on model, storage, condition, and seller. Here are typical ranges as of May 2026:
| Model | New price (Apple) | Apple Refurbished | Back Market | Gazelle | Savings range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| iPhone 16 Pro | $999 | ~$759 | $650-780 | $650-700 | 13-35% |
| iPhone 16 | $799 | ~$619 | $599-650 | from $529 | 19-34% |
| iPhone 15 Pro | $999 (at launch) | ~$619-759 | $480-600 | $450-550 | 24-55% |
| iPhone 15 | $729 (at launch) | ~$619 | from $386 | from $387 | 15-53% |
| iPhone 14 | $599 (at launch) | $529 (14 Plus) | $260-340 | $250-320 | 12-57% |
| iPhone 13 | $499 (at launch) | Typically sold out | $200-260 | $220-290 | 40-60% |
Prices shift weekly. The fastest way to find the current lowest price for any iPhone model is to compare all sellers on RefurbMe.
Set a price alert
If the model you want is not at your target price yet, create a price alert and we will email you when it drops.
Which refurbished iPhone should you buy in 2026?
Choosing the right model depends on your budget and what features matter to you. Here are our expert picks for each use case:
Best value overall: The iPhone 15 hits the sweet spot. It supports iOS 19, has USB-C, the Dynamic Island, and a 48 MP main camera. Refurbished prices start at $386 from Back Market and $387 from Gazelle as of May 2026. Compare iPhone 15 prices on RefurbMe.
Best for power users: The iPhone 16 Pro brings Apple Intelligence features, the A18 Pro chip, and a 5x telephoto camera. Refurbished units start at $650 on Back Market. Compare iPhone 16 Pro prices.
Best budget pick: The iPhone 14 still runs iOS 19, has a solid dual-camera system, and drops below $300 refurbished. Compare iPhone 14 prices.
Cheapest option that still gets updates: The iPhone 13 starts around $200 refurbished and remains eligible for iOS 19. Compare iPhone 13 prices.
Best entry-level deal: Refurbished iPhones under $100 do exist. See our full guide to cheap refurbished iPhones under $100 for current deals on older models.
How we chose these sellers
We evaluated refurbished iPhone sellers on four criteria:
- Testing and certification process. Does the seller inspect, test, and certify every device? We favor sellers with documented, multi-point inspection programs and battery health guarantees.
- Warranty length. A 30-day minimum is the floor. We prioritize sellers offering one year of coverage.
- Pricing and value. We tracked real prices across sellers for the same models over several months. Savings percentages in this guide are based on comparing refurbished prices against Apple's current or launch-time retail prices.
- Track record and reputation. We considered return rates, customer reviews, and how long each seller has operated. All eight sellers in this guide have been active for at least two years and maintain return rates below industry average.
We did not include peer-to-peer marketplaces like Swappa or eBay in our main rankings. While these platforms can offer lower prices, they lack the standardized testing and warranty protections that dedicated refurbishers provide. If you are comfortable vetting sellers yourself, Swappa is worth checking for competitive pricing on unlocked iPhones.
RefurbMe aggregates pricing from the sellers above. We disclose this relationship transparently: we earn a commission when you buy through our links, but our rankings are based on the criteria above, not commission rates.
Looking for other refurbished Apple products?
We have reviewed the best places to buy other refurbished Apple devices too:
Considering a trade-in instead? Read our guide on Apple Trade-In vs. buying refurbished to see which option saves you more. And if you are curious about the bigger picture, see how buying refurbished supports the circular economy.
FAQ
Conclusion
Eight sellers, eight different approaches to refurbished iPhones. Here is our expert summary:
- Best quality: Apple Certified Refurbished. New battery, new shell, one-year warranty. Pay 12-22% below retail.
- Best price with strong warranty: Back Market or plug. Both offer 1-year coverage and 40-55% off. Back Market has the widest model selection; plug has the strictest battery standard (90% guaranteed).
- Best for Prime members: Amazon Renewed, especially the Premium tier with its one-year Asurion warranty.
- Best for in-store buying: Best Buy, where you can inspect and return locally.
- Best unlocked specialists: Gazelle and Mac of All Trades, both US-focused with no carrier contracts. Gazelle offers the lowest price we found on the iPhone 16 ($529).
- Best for comparing everything: RefurbMe aggregates all of the above so you can find the cheapest price across all sellers in seconds.
The fastest way to find the best price is to compare all sellers on RefurbMe. Pick your model, set your budget, and let the comparison do the work.
Last updated: May 22, 2026 · First published: Jan 23, 2025