Yes, if you buy a certified used iPhone 13 with a healthy battery at a sensible price. It is fast, has a good camera and runs current iOS. It lacks USB-C, Apple Intelligence and a 120Hz screen.
Launched in September 2021, the iPhone 13 is now several years old but remains one of the most popular iPhones to buy used. The question is whether its age shows.
What still holds up
- The A15 Bionic chip is still fast for messaging, social media, maps, streaming and most games.
- The dual 12MP camera, sensor-shift stabilisation, Night mode and Cinematic mode still take excellent photos.
- OLED Super Retina XDR display, Face ID, 5G, MagSafe and IP68 water resistance.
- It has received every major iOS release since launch.
What you give up
| Feature | iPhone 13 | Newer iPhones |
|---|---|---|
| Port | Lightning | USB-C from iPhone 15 |
| Display | 60Hz with a notch | Dynamic Island from iPhone 14 Pro / 15; 120Hz on Pro models |
| Apple Intelligence | Not supported | iPhone 15 Pro and later |
| Action Button / Camera Control | No | Action Button from 15 Pro; Camera Control from 16 |
| Battery | Aged unless replaced | Fresh on new phones |
Check the battery first
The biggest risk with an iPhone 13 is the battery. After several years, many have lost a noticeable share of capacity. Open Settings › Battery › Battery Health & Charging; at around 80% or less, factor in the cost of a replacement.
Who should buy it
- First-time iPhone owners and teenagers.
- Anyone who wants a reliable second phone.
- Buyers who want the lowest price and don't need AI features.
- Skip it if you want a 120Hz screen, USB-C or the latest AI features — look at iPhone 13 Pro or iPhone 15 instead.
Frequently asked questions
Will iPhone 13 get iOS updates in 2027?
Apple has not confirmed it, but iPhone 13 has received every major release since launch. See our iPhone 13 Pro update guide for the likely timeline.
Is iPhone 13 good for gaming?
Yes for most popular games. Very demanding titles run best on newer chips.
Sources
Find Next Phone is an independent retailer. Apple, iPhone and iOS are trademarks of Apple Inc. Illustrations are our own and are not Apple product images.