Buying a used iPhone is a great way to save money while still enjoying Apple’s ecosystem. But not all second-hand deals are worth it. Some phones may have hidden defects, poor battery life, or even be locked. To help you make a smart purchase, here’s a checklist of what to check before buying a used iPhone.
A minimum of 128GB storage is recommended. iPhones don’t have expandable storage, so ensure you have enough space for apps, photos, and updates.
Make sure the iPhone supports iOS 17 or newer for security updates and app compatibility. Avoid older models that might stop receiving updates soon.
Go to Settings > Battery > Battery Health & Charging and check the Maximum Capacity percentage. A healthy battery should be at 80% or higher for decent battery life. If it's lower, the phone may need a battery replacement soon.
For iPhones with Face ID (iPhone X and newer) or Touch ID (iPhone SE, 7, 8), ensure these unlock features work properly. If Face ID isn’t setting up, the phone may have internal damage.
Go to Settings > General > About and see if the iPhone is linked to an iCloud account. If it asks for someone else’s Apple ID, do not buy it—it could be stolen.
Dial *#06# to get the IMEI number and check it on sites like IMEI.info to ensure the phone isn’t blacklisted. Also, confirm whether it’s unlocked or restricted to a specific carrier.
✅ Check for cracks, scratches, or dead pixels.
✅ Test True Tone in Settings > Display & Brightness (if available).
✅ If True Tone is missing, the screen may have been replaced with a non-genuine part.
iPhones are known for their cameras, so ensure they’re working properly. Open the Camera app and test:
✅ Main camera (at least 12MP)
✅ Ultra-wide & telephoto lenses (if available)
✅ Portrait mode & Night mode
✅ Video recording (check for blurry or shaky footage)
✅ Play a song at full volume to check for distortion.
✅ Make a call or use Voice Memos to ensure the microphone works well.
✅ Test the Lightning or USB-C charging port by plugging in a charger.
✅ Inspect the power and volume buttons for responsiveness.
✅ If the phone has a physical Home button (iPhone 8 or SE), ensure it clicks properly.
If you’re buying an iPhone 12 or newer, ensure 5G works with your network. Some models, especially international versions, may have limited band support.
While not essential, getting the original box, charger, and receipt adds to the phone’s authenticity and resale value.
Buying a used iPhone can be a great deal if you take the time to inspect it properly. Always check battery health, iCloud status, and hardware functionality before making a purchase. If possible, buy from a trusted seller who offers a warranty or return policy.
What’s your go-to tip when buying a second-hand iPhone? Let us know in the comments!
