iPhone 12 vs iPhone 13 vs iPhone 14: which refurbished model to choose in 2026?
Choosing between a refurbished iPhone 12, iPhone 13 and iPhone 14? Start with prices for the same storage capacity and cosmetic condition. All three have a 6.1-inch OLED display, 5G, MagSafe and a Lightning connector. The useful differences depend on the price gap and the features you will use.
The differences that matter when buying
| Model | Chip | Consider it when |
|---|---|---|
| Refurbished iPhone 12 | A14 Bionic | You want a lower purchase price while keeping an OLED display, 5G and MagSafe. |
| Refurbished iPhone 13 | A15 Bionic | You want a balance of price, performance and photography, including sensor-shift stabilization. |
| Refurbished iPhone 14 | A15 Bionic with a 5-core GPU | The price gap over the 13 is small, or you want Action mode for video. |
iPhone 12: consider it when the budget comes first
The iPhone 12 combines an OLED display, Face ID, dual 12 MP cameras and 5G. If it costs substantially less than a comparable 13, it can be the more economical choice. Still check the battery standard and warranty before buying.
iPhone 13: our starting point for comparison
The 13 adds the A15 Bionic chip and sensor-shift optical image stabilization on the main camera. We would use it as the starting point for everyday use, then compare the actual price of moving to the 14.
iPhone 14: worthwhile when you use its differences
The 14 keeps the 6.1-inch size and Lightning connector. Its A15 chip has a 5-core GPU, and it adds features including Action mode for video. If these differences do not affect your use and the premium is substantial, a comparable 13 may be a better use of your budget.
Compare condition, storage and battery health too
A 128 GB phone is not directly comparable to a 256 GB phone. Good, Very Good and Like New mainly describe cosmetic condition. A refurbished phone’s actual battery runtime also depends on its battery health and how you use it.
Top notch refurbished iPhones are tested and unlocked. Their batteries have at least 85% maximum capacity unless the offer states otherwise. A 12-month warranty covers eligible functional defects. Read our condition, battery and warranty guide.
Frequently asked questions
Do all three models use USB-C?
No. The standard iPhone 12, 13 and 14 use Lightning. If USB-C matters to you, compare the iPhone 15 generation and later models in our collection.
Will a newer generation always have better battery runtime?
The model number alone does not answer that. When buying refurbished, also compare the device’s maximum battery capacity and condition.
What if the model I want is sold out?
Check the models and variants currently listed, then compare price, storage and cosmetic grade before changing generations.
Browse available refurbished iPhones or read our guide to choosing a refurbished iPhone in Canada.