Choosing among the best iPhone models here comes down to what you value most: a newer chip, a fluid display, a big screen, or a phone that fits easily in one hand. I put the iPhone 16 first for its newer A18 processor, USB-C, and unlocked carrier support. The iPhone 14 Pro is a stronger fit for buyers who want a 120 Hz display and a more flexible camera system, while the iPhone 13 offers a simpler, more balanced route into a modern OLED iPhone.
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These are renewed phones, so condition, included accessories, and warranty terms matter alongside the model’s original features. There are also meaningful limitations: one listing is Verizon-locked, the iPhone 16’s listed display is 60 Hz, and the compact iPhone 12 mini comes with a minimum battery capacity guarantee of 80%. I rank the options by how well their features serve distinct buyer needs, then account for the practical tradeoffs attached to each listing.
Key Takeaways
- The unlocked iPhone 16 is the strongest all-around pick here if you want the newest model, an A18 chip, USB-C, and 5G.
- The iPhone 14 Pro delivers a sharper-feeling 120 Hz display and a three-camera rear system in a smaller body than the 14 Pro Max.
- The iPhone 13 keeps the essentials—OLED, dual cameras, Face ID, and carrier flexibility—without Pro-series display or camera extras.
- The 14 Pro Max is the large-screen choice, but this particular renewed listing is locked to Verizon and lists no water resistance.
- The iPhone 12 mini is the compact pick, though its 80% minimum battery capacity and older hardware make it less suitable for heavy daily use.
| Apple iPhone 16, 128GB, Black, Unlocked (Renewed) |  | Best Overall | Model year: 2024 | Storage: 128 GB | Processor: Apple A18 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Apple iPhone 14 Pro, 128GB, Deep Purple, Unlocked (Renewed) |  | Best for a Premium Display and Camera | Storage: 128 GB | Processor: Apple A16 Bionic | Display: 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Apple iPhone 13, 128GB, Midnight, Unlocked (Renewed) |  | Best Value in Features | Storage: 128 GB | Display: 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED, 2532 × 1170 | Refresh rate: 60 Hz | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Apple iPhone 14 Pro Max, 128GB, Space Black, Verizon Locked (Renewed) |  | Best for a Large Pro Display | Model year: 2022 | Storage: 128 GB | Carrier: Verizon locked | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Apple iPhone 12 Mini, 128GB, Green (Unlocked, Renewed) |  | Best Compact iPhone | Storage: 128 GB | Color: Green | Network: Unlocked; compatible GSM and CDMA carriers | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| iPhone model | Storage | Display | Processor | Connectivity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apple iPhone 16 | 128 GB | 6.1-inch OLED, 2556 × 1179, 60 Hz | Apple A18 | 5G, unlocked for all carriers |
| Apple iPhone 14 Pro | 128 GB | 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED | Apple A16 Bionic | 5G, unlocked for all carriers |
| Apple iPhone 13 | 128 GB | 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED, 2532 × 1170 | — | — |
| Apple iPhone 14 Pro Max | 128 GB | 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR with Always-On and ProMotion | A16 Bionic | 5G |
| Apple iPhone 12 Mini | 128 GB | — | — | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Apple iPhone 16, 128GB, Black, Unlocked (Renewed)
The iPhone 16 is the most rounded choice in this group for someone who wants a newer iPhone without moving to a Pro-sized device. Its A18 chip, 8 GB of RAM, 5G, and USB-C make it the most current-feeling package among these five listings. Compared with the iPhone 13, it brings a newer processor and a 48 MP rear camera; compared with the 14 Pro, it trades the 120 Hz display and triple-camera arrangement for newer-generation hardware and a simpler feature mix.
Its 6.1-inch OLED screen has high resolution, but the supplied specification lists a 60 Hz refresh rate. That is a less fluid scrolling experience than the iPhone 14 Pro’s 120 Hz ProMotion panel, so buyers who notice screen motion may prefer the older Pro. The iPhone 16’s 22-hour average battery-life figure and USB-C connector make it a practical everyday device, especially for anyone standardizing cables around newer electronics.
This listing is unlocked for all carriers and includes a 90-day warranty, which makes it a more flexible purchase than the Verizon-locked 14 Pro Max. The tradeoffs are the renewed condition, the stated absence of water resistance, and an eSIM-only SIM specification. I would choose it as the best overall iPhone in this particular lineup, while checking that eSIM works with your carrier before ordering.
Pros:- A18 processor and 8 GB RAM are the newest hardware combination in this roundup.
- Unlocked 5G support works across carriers.
- USB-C and wireless charging offer flexible charging options.
- 48 MP rear camera with 4K video capture.
Cons:- The listed 60 Hz display is less fluid than the 14 Pro models’ 120 Hz screens.
- The listing states that the phone is not water resistant.
- Renewed condition and a 90-day warranty require buyers to check the listing terms carefully.
Best for: Buyers who want the newest model in this comparison, unlocked carrier support, USB-C, and a capable everyday camera.
Not ideal for: People who prioritize 120 Hz scrolling, need a physical SIM slot, or want a listing that specifies water resistance.
- Model year:2024
- Storage:128 GB
- Processor:Apple A18
- Display:6.1-inch OLED, 2556 × 1179, 60 Hz
- Rear camera:48 MP
- Connectivity:5G, unlocked for all carriers
- Connector:USB Type-C
- Warranty:90 days
Our verdict“I recommend the unlocked iPhone 16 as the most balanced pick for buyers who value newer hardware and everyday flexibility over a ProMotion display.”
Apple iPhone 14 Pro, 128GB, Deep Purple, Unlocked (Renewed)
The iPhone 14 Pro is the specialist pick for buyers who care more about the screen and camera flexibility than having the newest model in this list. Its 120 Hz ProMotion display refreshes more smoothly than the iPhone 16’s listed 60 Hz panel, and its three-camera rear system gives it a more versatile setup than the dual-camera iPhone 13. The 48 MP main camera is a notable step up in resolution from that older standard model.
At 6.1 inches, the 14 Pro is easier to handle than the 6.7-inch 14 Pro Max while retaining Always-On display and the Dynamic Island. It also stands apart from the iPhone 16 by offering an unlocked listing with both eSIM and a single physical SIM slot, according to the supplied details. This makes it a compelling choice for people who want a compact premium device with carrier flexibility.
The age and renewed condition are the counterweight. The iPhone 16 is a newer model with an A18 chip and USB-C, while the 14 Pro uses the A16 Bionic and has Lightning. The listing includes a 90-day Amazon Renewed warranty, but renewed condition may vary. I would choose the 14 Pro over the 16 when display smoothness and the camera system matter most, and choose the 16 for newer hardware and USB-C.
Pros:- 120 Hz ProMotion gives scrolling and motion a smoother feel than the iPhone 16’s listed panel.
- Three rear cameras provide a more versatile system than the iPhone 13’s dual cameras.
- Unlocked for all carriers, with 5G and dual-SIM support.
- Water resistant according to the supplied specifications.
Cons:- Its A16 chip and Lightning connector are older than the iPhone 16’s A18 and USB-C.
- Renewed condition may vary.
- Only one physical SIM slot is listed.
Best for: Buyers who want a 6.1-inch phone with a 120 Hz display, a 48 MP triple rear camera system, and an unlocked listing.
Not ideal for: People seeking the newest hardware, USB-C, or the longest possible runway from a newer model.
- Storage:128 GB
- Processor:Apple A16 Bionic
- Display:6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED
- Refresh rate:120 Hz ProMotion
- Rear camera:48 MP, three cameras
- Connectivity:5G, unlocked for all carriers
- Weight:206 g
- Warranty:90-day Amazon Renewed warranty
Our verdict“I’d pick the unlocked iPhone 14 Pro when a fluid 120 Hz display and its triple-camera system matter more than newer-generation hardware.”
Apple iPhone 13, 128GB, Midnight, Unlocked (Renewed)
The iPhone 13 is the sensible middle ground for someone who wants an unlocked iPhone with a strong core feature set and does not need Pro features. Its 6.1-inch OLED display, Face ID, and dual 12 MP cameras cover everyday use, while 4K recording offers room for detailed video. Against the iPhone 12 mini, it gives buyers a larger screen; against the iPhone 14 Pro, it gives up the 120 Hz panel and 48 MP main camera but keeps a more straightforward camera setup.
Its appeal is in the balance: the iPhone 13 is not the newest model here, but the supplied listing is unlocked and offers 128 GB of storage. A 60 Hz display is less fluid than the 14 Pro’s screen, and the Lightning connector is older than the iPhone 16’s USB-C. Still, buyers who mainly browse, message, stream, take photos, and record video can get a capable OLED iPhone without needing the Pro lineup’s premium display features.
The renewed caveats deserve attention. The seller describes the device as professionally inspected, tested, and cleaned, but it is not Apple-certified, cosmetic condition is not guaranteed to be pristine, and it may arrive in a generic box. I rank it behind the 16 and 14 Pro because it lacks their distinctive hardware advantages, yet ahead of the 14 Pro Max and mini for its combination of unlocked flexibility and conventional everyday usability.
Pros:- Unlocked for carrier flexibility.
- OLED display supports Dolby Vision HDR.
- Dual rear cameras and 4K video recording handle common photo and video needs.
- 128 GB storage provides room for apps, photos, and downloads.
Cons:- 60 Hz display lacks the fluidity of the 14 Pro models.
- Renewed device is not Apple-certified, and cosmetic appearance can vary.
- Uses a Lightning connector rather than USB-C.
Best for: Buyers who want an unlocked, 6.1-inch OLED iPhone with 4K video and standard dual-camera versatility.
Not ideal for: People who want 120 Hz scrolling, a 48 MP main camera, USB-C, or a compact one-handed phone.
- Storage:128 GB
- Display:6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED, 2532 × 1170
- Refresh rate:60 Hz
- Rear cameras:12 MP wide and 12 MP ultra-wide
- Front camera:12 MP
- Video:4K at up to 60 fps
- Connector:Lightning
- Condition:Renewed; professionally inspected, tested, and cleaned
Our verdict“I recommend the iPhone 13 for buyers who want the core iPhone experience in an unlocked OLED model and can live without Pro features.”
Apple iPhone 14 Pro Max, 128GB, Space Black, Verizon Locked (Renewed)
The iPhone 14 Pro Max suits buyers who want the biggest screen in this lineup and prefer a large viewing area for video, reading, and multitasking. Its 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR panel combines Always-On and ProMotion, so it offers both more screen space and a smoother refresh experience than the iPhone 16 or iPhone 13. Its 48 MP main camera and 4K Dolby Vision video also keep it firmly in the Pro category.
Compared with the 6.1-inch iPhone 14 Pro, this Max model is the better fit for people who regularly want a large display, but the smaller Pro keeps similar headline features in a more manageable size. The tradeoff is especially concrete in this listing: it is locked to Verizon. The iPhone 16 and iPhone 13 are listed as unlocked, so they are easier choices for anyone who may switch carriers or use a different provider.
This is also a 2022 renewed model, and the supplied specifications say it is not water resistant. That makes the listing less versatile than the unlocked iPhone 14 Pro, which is listed as water resistant. I would choose the Pro Max only if its large screen is a priority and Verizon compatibility is confirmed; otherwise the iPhone 14 Pro gives a more flexible premium experience, and the iPhone 16 is the stronger general-purpose purchase.
Pros:- Largest display in this roundup at 6.7 inches.
- Always-On and ProMotion deliver premium screen features.
- 48 MP main camera and 4K Dolby Vision video.
- A16 Bionic chip and 5G connectivity.
Cons:- Locked to Verizon, limiting carrier flexibility.
- The listing states that it is not water resistant.
- Renewed condition and 128 GB storage may not suit every buyer.
Best for: Verizon customers who want a large 6.7-inch display, ProMotion, and a 48 MP main camera.
Not ideal for: Buyers who need an unlocked phone, prefer a compact device, or require stated water resistance.
- Model year:2022
- Storage:128 GB
- Carrier:Verizon locked
- Display:6.7-inch Super Retina XDR with Always-On and ProMotion
- Main camera:48 MP
- Processor:A16 Bionic
- Connectivity:5G
- Water resistance:Not water resistant, per listing
Our verdict“I’d choose this 14 Pro Max for a big-screen Verizon setup, but the unlocked 14 Pro is the more flexible Pro option.”
Apple iPhone 12 Mini, 128GB, Green (Unlocked, Renewed)
The iPhone 12 mini has a distinct job in this roundup: it is for people who want a phone that takes up less space in a pocket or hand. The other four choices have 6.1-inch or 6.7-inch displays, while the mini form factor is built around a smaller body. The supplied listing does not include screen or processor specifications, so I would not select it for a particular display or performance advantage over the iPhone 13 or newer iPhone 16.
Its unlocked status supports use with compatible GSM and CDMA carriers, which compares favorably with the Verizon-locked 14 Pro Max. The listing also states that the battery has been tested and will retain at least 80% capacity. That gives a useful baseline for a renewed compact device, though it means buyers should expect less battery headroom than a new battery would provide. The iPhone 13 is the safer pick for people who want a larger screen and a supplied 18-hour average battery-life figure.
Accessories are minimal: a generic MFi-certified charging cable is included, but headphones and a SIM card are not. Buyers should confirm carrier compatibility before ordering and think carefully about how long they spend away from a charger. I place the mini fifth because its compact size is a meaningful benefit for a narrower audience, while the other models have more complete supplied specifications and broader everyday appeal.
Pros:- Compact mini form factor for people who prefer a smaller phone.
- Unlocked for compatible GSM and CDMA carriers.
- Battery health is stated to be at least 80% capacity.
- Includes a generic MFi-certified charging cable.
Cons:- The battery guarantee allows capacity as low as 80%.
- Headphones and SIM card are not included.
- Carrier compatibility should be confirmed, and the supplied listing has limited technical detail.
Best for: People who place a small, easy-to-carry iPhone ahead of screen size and long battery endurance.
Not ideal for: Heavy users, buyers who want a large screen, or anyone who needs clearly stated newer-generation camera and processor specifications.
- Storage:128 GB
- Color:Green
- Network:Unlocked; compatible GSM and CDMA carriers
- Condition:Renewed
- Minimum battery capacity:80%
- Included accessory:Generic MFi-certified charging cable
- Not included:Headphones and SIM card
Our verdict“I’d choose the iPhone 12 mini only when compact size is the deciding factor and its battery and carrier terms work for your routine.”
How We Picked
I ranked these five phones by how clearly each one meets a different buyer need within a lineup of renewed iPhones. The leading questions were practical: Is the phone unlocked? How old is the model? What does its display and camera offer beyond the basics? Does its size suit someone who prefers a large screen or a compact device? I gave the iPhone 16 the top spot because it pairs the newest generation in this comparison with an A18 chip, USB-C, and unlocked 5G support.
I also considered what buyers give up when choosing an older or more specialized model. The iPhone 14 Pro models add 120 Hz ProMotion displays and a 48 MP main camera, but they are 2022 devices and the Max listing is Verizon-locked. The iPhone 13 has fewer premium extras but remains unlocked and covers the core smartphone needs well. The 12 mini earns a place for its small form factor, though its listing’s battery floor is a real limitation for long days.
Since every option is renewed, I treated the listing details as part of the buying decision. Renewed condition can vary, so warranty coverage, carrier lock, battery information, and included items deserve attention. I do not rank by price or customer feedback; the order reflects features, fit, and stated tradeoffs only. Where specifications are not supplied—especially for the iPhone 12 mini—I avoid filling gaps with assumptions.
| iPhone model | Processor |
|---|---|
| Apple iPhone 16 | Apple A18 |
| Apple iPhone 14 Pro | Apple A16 Bionic |
| Apple iPhone 13 | — |
| Apple iPhone 14 Pro Max | A16 Bionic |
| Apple iPhone 12 Mini | — |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Best IPhone Models
I’d narrow this group by deciding which compromise you can live with: older hardware, a less fluid display, a carrier lock, or a smaller battery reserve. Then confirm that the renewed listing fits your carrier and expectations for condition.Choose between newer hardware and Pro display features
The iPhone 16 has the newest processor in this comparison and is the only listed model with USB-C. The iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max, however, both have 120 Hz ProMotion screens, while the iPhone 16 specification supplied here lists 60 Hz. If your priority is a newer generation and a common modern connector, I’d lean toward the 16. If smooth scrolling and the Pro camera setup matter more, the 14 Pro may fit better despite its older A16 chip.
Check the carrier lock before choosing
Carrier status is one of the clearest differences among these listings. The iPhone 14 Pro Max is Verizon-locked; the iPhone 16, iPhone 14 Pro, and iPhone 13 are listed as unlocked. The 12 mini says it supports compatible GSM and CDMA carriers, but compatibility still needs checking with your provider. Confirm that the exact model can be activated on your plan before buying, especially if you travel, switch providers, or need a work SIM.
Match the phone size to how you use it
The 6.7-inch 14 Pro Max is the natural choice for a large viewing area. The iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 13, and iPhone 16 all use 6.1-inch displays, offering a more conventional balance of viewing space and handling. The 12 mini is the compact outlier; it makes sense when pocketability and one-handed handling outweigh screen space. I’d avoid choosing by screen diagonal alone: the Pro Max’s carrier lock and the mini’s battery floor affect daily fit just as much.
Consider camera needs rather than megapixels alone
The 14 Pro models combine a 48 MP main camera with three rear cameras, according to the listings, while the iPhone 16 has a 48 MP rear camera and the iPhone 13 has two 12 MP cameras. These descriptions suggest different levels of camera flexibility, but megapixel counts alone do not tell the whole story of image quality. For ordinary photos and 4K clips, the iPhone 13 may be enough. Choose a Pro model when its wider camera system and accompanying Pro features are worth accepting older hardware.
Treat renewed condition and battery details as part of the spec
Renewed does not mean every listing promises the same appearance or coverage. The iPhone 13 may arrive in a generic box and is not Apple-certified, the two 14 Pro listings identify renewed status, and the iPhone 16 specifies a 90-day warranty. For the 12 mini, the stated 80% minimum battery capacity is particularly relevant because battery endurance matters more when the device is already a compact model. Review the individual condition, warranty, and battery terms before relying on assumptions from another listing.
Check storage and connectors before ordering
All five options are listed with 128 GB, so this comparison does not offer a storage upgrade path. Consider how many videos, offline downloads, and large games you keep on the phone; frequent creators may need to offload files or use cloud storage. Connector choice also changes the day-to-day setup: the iPhone 16 uses USB-C, while the iPhone 13 specification lists Lightning. Confirm included accessories too: the 12 mini comes with a generic MFi-certified cable but excludes headphones and a SIM card.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which iPhone is the best overall choice in this comparison?
I rank the unlocked iPhone 16 first because it is the newest model here and combines an A18 chip, USB-C, 5G, 128 GB storage, and an unlocked listing. It is not best for every buyer: the iPhone 14 Pro has a smoother 120 Hz display, so that model may suit someone who puts display motion and its triple-camera system first.
Should I choose the iPhone 14 Pro or iPhone 16?
Choose the iPhone 14 Pro if its 120 Hz ProMotion screen and three-camera rear setup matter more than having newer hardware. Choose the iPhone 16 if you want the A18 processor, USB-C, and the newer model year. The iPhone 16 specification lists a 60 Hz display, which is its clearest disadvantage against the Pro screen.
Is the iPhone 14 Pro Max suitable for any carrier?
No. This particular iPhone 14 Pro Max listing is identified as Verizon-locked, unlike the unlocked iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 13, and iPhone 16 listings. I would verify activation eligibility with Verizon before ordering and avoid this listing if you need carrier flexibility or plan to switch providers.
Is the renewed iPhone 12 mini a good choice for everyday use?
It can work well for someone who values a compact phone above screen size and battery headroom. The listing guarantees at least 80% battery capacity, but it does not provide the same level of technical detail as the other entries. The iPhone 13 is a better general-purpose choice for buyers who want a larger OLED screen and stated battery-life information.
What should I check before buying one of these renewed iPhones?
Check the exact carrier status, condition description, warranty period, battery terms, and included accessories for the specific listing. Confirm eSIM or physical SIM support with your carrier, especially for the iPhone 16’s eSIM specification and the Verizon-locked 14 Pro Max. Also verify the connector you need and review the seller’s return and warranty terms, since renewed condition can vary between listings.
Conclusion
For most buyers, I recommend the unlocked iPhone 16: it is the newest model here, adds USB-C, and pairs its A18 processor with a 48 MP camera. If your first priority is screen smoothness and camera versatility, choose the iPhone 14 Pro; it keeps a manageable 6.1-inch size while adding 120 Hz ProMotion and three rear cameras. Pick the iPhone 13 if you want an unlocked OLED iPhone for everyday essentials and do not need Pro features.
The iPhone 14 Pro Max is for Verizon customers who specifically want a large 6.7-inch display, while the iPhone 12 mini fits someone who values compact size above screen space and battery reserve. Before placing an order, match the carrier and renewed-condition terms to your needs. Those checks will determine whether a model’s advantages translate into a good fit for your day-to-day use.
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