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Which iPhone should you buy?
No need to be an expert. Answer four questions, then read the two or three guides that match your answers.
The method
Four questions before you buy
The same order we follow in every buying guide.
01
What size?
A compact phone for one-handed use, or a bigger screen for video and reading.
02
What budget?
Set a ceiling first, then compare new and refurbished at that price.
03
How long?
Count the years of iOS updates the model is likely to get from now.
04
Which details?
Camera, battery, Face ID or Touch ID, USB-C or Lightning: keep the two that matter to you.
Small iPhones
Compact, still worth it?
iPhone SE, 12 mini and 13 mini: what they do well in 2026, and where they fall short.
Refurbished
Pay less, check more
Grades, warranties and battery health: how to buy a refurbished iPhone without surprises.
iPhone SE or iPhone 16e: what you really gain.
The 16e replaced the SE in February 2025. Here is what changes day to day, beyond the spec sheet.
iPhone SE (3rd gen)
March 2022
“The last Home button”
Compact
- Screen 4.7-inch LCD
- Chip A15 Bionic
- Unlock Touch ID
- Rear camera 12MP
- Port Lightning
$429
launch price (64GB)
iPhone 16e
February 2025
“The modern entry iPhone”
Newer
- Screen 6.1-inch OLED
- Chip A18
- Unlock Face ID
- Rear camera 48MP Fusion
- Port USB-C
$599
launch price (128GB)
Good to know
Your iPhone questions
Is the iPhone SE still sold?
No. Apple discontinued the iPhone SE (3rd generation) in February 2025, when the iPhone 16e took its place. You can still find it refurbished or second-hand.
Is there still a mini iPhone?
The iPhone 13 mini, with a 5.4-inch screen and 141 g, was the last mini. It was discontinued in September 2023, so today it is a refurbished or used purchase.
Is a refurbished iPhone a good idea?
It can be, as long as the seller gives a clear grade, a warranty and the battery health. Our refurbished guides explain what to check before you pay.
How long will my iPhone get iOS updates?
Apple does not publish an end date, but recent iPhones have received major iOS updates for several years. Our how-to guides track support model by model.
Face ID or Touch ID?
The iPhone SE was the last iPhone with a Home button and Touch ID. The iPhone 13 mini and the iPhone 16e unlock with Face ID.
How can I suggest a guide?
Write to us from the contact page: we read every message and add guides on the models readers ask about most.