Choosing among the best iPhone models in this lineup comes down to what you value most: a newer generation, Pro camera tools, a large screen, or a small body. I’d start with the iPhone 16 for its A18 chip, USB-C, and longer stated battery life; the iPhone 14 Pro makes a stronger case for a 120 Hz display and a three-camera system; and the iPhone 13 is the more straightforward pick if you want an unlocked, familiar-sized iPhone without Pro features.
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These are all renewed listings, so condition and included accessories can vary. The carrier details matter too: one model is Verizon locked, while the others are listed as unlocked, subject to compatibility. I rank them by the balance of generation, useful features, flexibility, and tradeoffs for a buyer choosing among these exact options. The older iPhone 12 mini is here for its rare compact size, while the 14 Pro Max suits buyers who want a broad display and can accept a carrier restriction.
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Key Takeaways
- The unlocked iPhone 16 is the newest model here, with an A18 chip, USB-C, 48 MP camera, and a stated 22-hour average battery life.
- The iPhone 14 Pro offers a 120 Hz ProMotion display and a 48 MP triple-camera system in a smaller body than the 14 Pro Max.
- The iPhone 13 gives you an unlocked 6.1-inch OLED model with dual cameras, but its 60 Hz screen and older 12 MP camera system are less advanced.
- The iPhone 12 mini is the only compact choice in this group, though its age and listing-specific battery condition make it a more specialized buy.
- The 14 Pro Max listing is locked to Verizon and states that it is not water resistant, so check both details before choosing its large screen.
| 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 ProMotion and Camera Flexibility | Model: iPhone 14 Pro | Storage: 128 GB | Processor: Apple A16 Bionic | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Apple iPhone 13, 128GB, Midnight, Unlocked (Renewed) |  | Best Straightforward Unlocked Pick | Storage: 128 GB | Display: 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED, 2532 × 1170 pixels, 60 Hz | Rear cameras: 12 MP wide and 12 MP ultra-wide | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Apple iPhone 14 Pro Max, 128GB, Space Black, Verizon Locked (Renewed) |  | Best Large Pro Display | Model year: 2022 | Storage: 128 GB | Display: 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR with Always-On and ProMotion | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Apple iPhone 12 Mini, 128GB, Green (Unlocked, Renewed) |  | Best Compact Choice | Model: iPhone 12 mini | Storage: 128 GB | Color: Green | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| iPhone model | Storage | Display | Processor |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apple iPhone 16 | 128 GB | 6.1-inch OLED, 2556 × 1179 pixels, 60 Hz | Apple A18 |
| Apple iPhone 14 Pro | 128 GB | 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED, 120 Hz | Apple A16 Bionic |
| Apple iPhone 13 | 128 GB | 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED, 2532 × 1170 pixels, 60 Hz | — |
| Apple iPhone 14 Pro Max | 128 GB | 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR with Always-On and ProMotion | A16 Bionic |
| Apple iPhone 12 Mini | 128 GB | — | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Apple iPhone 16, 128GB, Black, Unlocked (Renewed)
The iPhone 16 is my overall pick because it is the newest phone in this group and pairs a current-generation A18 chip with practical updates: USB-C, unlocked carrier support, and a stated 22-hour average battery life. Those details make it the most broadly useful recommendation here for someone who wants a relatively recent iPhone without stepping into an older Pro model. Its 48 MP rear camera and 4K video support also give it a stronger camera starting point than the 12 MP dual-camera system listed for the iPhone 13.
Its biggest compromise is the 60 Hz display. The 14 Pro and 14 Pro Max offer 120 Hz ProMotion, which can make scrolling and motion look smoother, and both include Always-On display features. The 16 is also a renewed unit, and this listing says it is not water resistant, so buyers should not assume the durability of another iPhone 16 configuration. I’d choose it for generation and connector convenience, but a display-first buyer may prefer the 14 Pro.
Compared with the 14 Pro, the iPhone 16 trades the triple rear camera system and high refresh rate for a newer model year and A18 chip. Compared with the iPhone 13, it offers a newer platform, USB-C instead of Lightning, and a higher-resolution main camera. The listing specifies eSIM, so buyers should confirm their carrier can activate eSIM service before ordering. Because its renewed condition can vary, I’d review the seller’s condition details and warranty terms before deciding.
Pros:- Newest model in this lineup, with the A18 chip
- Unlocked listing with 5G and eSIM
- 48 MP rear camera and 4K video capture
- USB-C connector and stated 22-hour average battery life
Cons:- 60 Hz display lacks the smoother motion of the 14 Pro models
- Renewed condition and listing-stated lack of water resistance
Best for: A buyer who wants the newest generation in this comparison, an unlocked listing, USB-C, and a stated long battery-life figure.
Not ideal for: Someone who prioritizes a 120 Hz display, wants a physical SIM slot, or requires water resistance.
- Model year:2024
- Storage:128 GB
- Processor:Apple A18
- Display:6.1-inch OLED, 2556 × 1179 pixels, 60 Hz
- Rear camera:48 MP
- Carrier and SIM:Unlocked for all carriers; eSIM
- Connector:USB Type-C
- Battery life:22-hour average, as listed
- Warranty:90 days
Our verdict“I recommend the iPhone 16 as the most balanced choice here for buyers who value a newer model, USB-C, and unlocked carrier support more than ProMotion.”
Apple iPhone 14 Pro, 128GB, Deep Purple, Unlocked (Renewed)
The iPhone 14 Pro is the display-and-camera specialist in this group. Its 6.1-inch OLED screen has Always-On and 120 Hz ProMotion, while the 48 MP triple rear camera system gives it more photographic flexibility than the iPhone 13’s two 12 MP cameras. Since this listing is unlocked, it also avoids the carrier constraint attached to the 14 Pro Max. For a buyer who wants Pro features without a large phone body, this is the most focused alternative to the newer iPhone 16.
The tradeoff is age. This is a 2022 model, and the newer iPhone 16 has an A18 chip, USB-C, and a longer stated average battery life. The supplied listing describes the 14 Pro as renewed, with condition that may vary, and gives a 90-day Amazon Renewed warranty. Its 128 GB capacity is shared by all five listings, so none offers an advantage for buyers who keep a large library of videos or apps.
I’d put the 14 Pro ahead of the iPhone 13 for people who notice display smoothness or want three rear cameras, and ahead of the 14 Pro Max for shoppers who want those Pro features without its Verizon lock and 6.7-inch size. The iPhone 16 is the better choice if a newer model and USB-C matter more than ProMotion. This is a narrower recommendation than the overall pick, but a persuasive one for buyers who value the Pro screen and camera arrangement.
Pros:- 6.1-inch OLED with Always-On and 120 Hz ProMotion
- 48 MP triple rear camera system
- Unlocked for use with all carriers
- 90-day Amazon Renewed warranty is specified
Cons:- Older 2022 generation than the iPhone 16
- Renewed condition may vary
- Single physical SIM slot
Best for: A buyer who wants an unlocked, manageable-size iPhone with a 120 Hz display and a three-camera rear system.
Not ideal for: Someone who wants the newest model, USB-C, a stated longer battery-life figure, or a new rather than renewed device.
- Model:iPhone 14 Pro
- Storage:128 GB
- Processor:Apple A16 Bionic
- Display:6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED, 120 Hz
- Rear camera:48 MP, three cameras
- Carrier:Unlocked for all carriers
- Battery capacity:3200 mAh, as listed
- Water resistance:Water resistant, as listed
- Warranty:90-day Amazon Renewed warranty
Our verdict“Choose the iPhone 14 Pro if its smoother screen and triple-camera setup matter more to you than the iPhone 16’s newer generation and USB-C connector.”
Apple iPhone 13, 128GB, Midnight, Unlocked (Renewed)
The iPhone 13 is the uncomplicated choice for someone who wants a familiar 6.1-inch iPhone and carrier flexibility without paying for the Pro-specific features represented by the 14 Pro. Its Super Retina XDR OLED screen, Face ID, and dual 12 MP cameras cover the core experience, and the listing says it records 4K video at up to 60 frames per second. For a buyer who mainly wants an everyday phone for communication, streaming, and routine photos, those capabilities may be enough.
Its most visible compromise against the 14 Pro is the 60 Hz display and simpler camera array. The 14 Pro adds ProMotion, Always-On, and a 48 MP three-camera system; the iPhone 16 brings a newer A18 chip, USB-C, and a 48 MP main camera. The iPhone 13 remains a sensible middle ground only if those newer features are not worth prioritizing. It uses Lightning, and its listing describes a single Nano-SIM rather than the newer eSIM setup specified for the iPhone 16.
This renewed listing says the phone has been inspected, tested, and cleaned, but it is not Apple certified and may arrive in a generic box. That makes its condition and presentation less predictable than a new device, and the supplied details do not provide a battery-health threshold. Compared with the compact 12 mini, the iPhone 13 is the roomier option; compared with the 14 Pro Max, it is easier to carry and is listed as unlocked. I’d choose it for a familiar, unlocked baseline, not for the latest camera or screen technology.
Pros:- Unlocked for carrier flexibility
- 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display
- Dual rear cameras and 4K video recording
- Listing says it was professionally inspected, tested, and cleaned
Cons:- 60 Hz display and older 12 MP camera system
- Lightning connector rather than USB-C
- Renewed and not Apple certified; may arrive in a generic box
Best for: A buyer who wants a standard-size, unlocked iPhone with an OLED screen, Face ID, and dual cameras.
Not ideal for: Someone who wants ProMotion, a 48 MP camera, USB-C, or clearly specified battery health.
- Storage:128 GB
- Display:6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED, 2532 × 1170 pixels, 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
- SIM:Single Nano-SIM
- Battery life:18-hour average, as listed
- Condition:Renewed; inspected, tested, and cleaned
Our verdict“The iPhone 13 is a practical unlocked choice if core iPhone features matter more to you than the Pro upgrades of the 14 Pro or the newer hardware of the iPhone 16.”
Apple iPhone 14 Pro Max, 128GB, Space Black, Verizon Locked (Renewed)
The iPhone 14 Pro Max is the big-screen Pro option: its 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR display combines Always-On with ProMotion, and the 48 MP main camera is paired with 4K Dolby Vision video. The A16 Bionic chip and 5G connectivity give it a strong feature set relative to the iPhone 13, while its larger screen can suit reading, video, and users who simply prefer more room. In screen size and Pro display features, it is the clear choice over the 6.1-inch 14 Pro.
That size comes with a major restriction for a general recommendation: this particular listing is locked to Verizon. A buyer using another carrier should not assume it can be activated there. The listing also says it is not water resistant, unlike the 14 Pro listing, and its renewed condition adds uncertainty. The smaller unlocked 14 Pro keeps the 120 Hz screen and triple-camera approach while being easier to carry and less constrained by carrier choice.
The 14 Pro Max earns a place for people whose first preference is a large screen and who already meet its Verizon requirement. It is a less flexible purchase than the unlocked iPhone 16, 14 Pro, or iPhone 13. The iPhone 16 also offers a newer generation and USB-C, though it has a smaller 60 Hz screen. I’d compare those compromises directly: pick this Max for display area and ProMotion, but do not overlook the carrier lock and stated water-resistance limitation.
Pros:- Large 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR display
- Always-On display and ProMotion
- 48 MP main camera and 4K Dolby Vision video
- A16 Bionic chip and 5G
Cons:- Locked to Verizon
- Listing states it is not water resistant
- Renewed condition may vary
Best for: A Verizon customer who prefers a large 6.7-inch screen with ProMotion and Pro camera features.
Not ideal for: Anyone who needs an unlocked phone, uses a different carrier, or wants the listing to specify water resistance.
- Model year:2022
- Storage:128 GB
- Display:6.7-inch Super Retina XDR with Always-On and ProMotion
- Main camera:48 MP
- Processor:A16 Bionic
- Carrier lock:Verizon
- Cellular:5G
- Video:4K Dolby Vision
- Water resistance:Not water resistant, as listed
Our verdict“I’d choose the 14 Pro Max only when its large ProMotion screen is the priority and Verizon compatibility is already confirmed.”
Apple iPhone 12 Mini, 128GB, Green (Unlocked, Renewed)
The iPhone 12 mini serves a distinct buyer: someone who wants a notably small phone and values pocketability over screen space. None of the other models here matches its compact format. Its unlocked listing supports compatible GSM and CDMA carriers, and the seller states that the battery has been tested and will retain at least 80% capacity. That threshold is useful context for a renewed phone, even though it does not promise the same endurance as the stated figures for the iPhone 13 or 16.
This is the oldest and most specialized option in the comparison. The iPhone 13 gives you a larger 6.1-inch display and dual cameras in a more conventional body, while the iPhone 16 adds a newer chip, USB-C, and a 48 MP rear camera. The 12 mini’s appeal is physical size, not a lead in generation or listed camera specifications. The product details do not provide its display, processor, camera, or water-resistance specifications, so I would avoid buying it based on assumptions about those features.
Carrier compatibility deserves attention: the phone is listed as unlocked, but the seller still advises checking support with the intended carrier. It comes with a generic MFi-certified charging cable, while headphones and a SIM card are not included. This makes the 12 mini a focused recommendation for buyers who specifically find current large phones uncomfortable. If compactness is only a mild preference, the iPhone 13 offers a more spacious screen, and the iPhone 16 is the stronger pick for a newer platform.
Pros:- Compact size distinct from the other models in this lineup
- Unlocked for compatible GSM and CDMA carriers
- Seller guarantees at least 80% battery capacity
- Includes a generic MFi-certified charging cable
Cons:- Older model than every other phone in this comparison
- Carrier compatibility should be checked before purchase
- Headphones and SIM card are not included
Best for: A buyer who wants a compact iPhone body and is willing to accept an older renewed model.
Not ideal for: Someone who prioritizes a large screen, newer hardware, a specified camera setup, or more than the stated minimum battery capacity.
- Model:iPhone 12 mini
- Storage:128 GB
- Color:Green
- Carrier:Unlocked; verify compatibility with your carrier
- Condition:Renewed
- Minimum battery capacity:80%, as stated by seller
- Included accessory:Generic MFi-certified charging cable
- Not included:Headphones and SIM card
Our verdict“The iPhone 12 mini is the right niche pick if small size is your main requirement and you accept the tradeoffs of an older renewed phone.”
How We Picked
I compared these five listings as choices for someone shopping for an iPhone, rather than treating each as a standalone feature list. My ranking gives weight to the model’s generation, everyday usability, carrier flexibility, screen and camera capabilities, and how clearly the listing describes its condition and limitations. The iPhone 16 ranks first because it is the newest model here and combines the A18 chip, USB-C, an unlocked listing, and a stated 22-hour average battery life. Its 60 Hz screen and renewed status keep it from being an automatic fit for every buyer.
The iPhone 14 Pro ranks second because its 120 Hz ProMotion screen and triple-camera system are substantial advantages over the standard iPhone 13 and 16 listings for buyers who care about display smoothness and camera flexibility. The 14 Pro Max has similar Pro credentials and a larger screen, but its Verizon lock and stated lack of water resistance reduce its usefulness as a general recommendation. The iPhone 13 ranks well for its unlocked status and balanced 6.1-inch form, while the mini’s tiny footprint is compelling mainly to buyers who specifically want a smaller phone.
I use the supplied listing details and do not assume that renewed devices have identical cosmetic condition, battery health, accessories, or support history. Where a listing gives a warranty or battery threshold, I call that out; where it does not, I avoid filling in the gap. This approach favors products whose tradeoffs are visible and helps match each phone to a distinct buyer. I do not treat any single camera resolution or battery figure as a guarantee of real-world results.
| 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 these five models by deciding which compromise you are most willing to make: older hardware for a smaller form, standard features for simplicity, or a larger Pro phone with a carrier restriction.Start with generation and connector
The iPhone 16 is the newest model listed and the only one here with USB-C, which may make it easier to share charging gear with newer tablets and laptops. It also has the A18 chip. The 14 Pro models still offer advantages in display smoothness, but they are 2022 phones. The iPhone 13 and 12 mini are older still. If you plan to keep a phone for several years, generation may matter more to you than a Pro label, though the supplied details do not state future software support timelines.
Choose screen size and motion
The two sizes are easy to distinguish: the 14 Pro Max has a 6.7-inch display, the 14 Pro and standard 13/16 are around 6.1 inches, and the 12 mini is the compact outlier. The Pro models specify 120 Hz ProMotion and Always-On, features that the standard iPhone 16’s 60 Hz listing does not include. A smoother display can make scrolling and motion feel more fluid, but it does not make the phone newer. Choose the Max for screen area, the 14 Pro for ProMotion in a smaller body, or the 12 mini if carrying comfort comes first.
Match camera needs to the model
The 14 Pro models stand apart with a 48 MP main camera and triple-camera system details on the 14 Pro listing; the Max listing specifically describes its 48 MP main camera and 4K Dolby Vision video. The iPhone 16 also lists a 48 MP rear camera and 4K capture, while the iPhone 13 has dual 12 MP rear cameras. The iPhone 12 mini listing does not give camera specifications, so compare it only if its compact size outweighs having clear camera details in the listing. Resolution alone does not describe every aspect of image quality, but these distinctions show which models offer more camera flexibility on paper.
Check carrier and SIM compatibility
Carrier status is a purchase-critical difference. The 14 Pro Max is Verizon locked; the iPhone 16, 14 Pro, iPhone 13, and 12 mini are described as unlocked, though the mini listing calls out compatible GSM and CDMA carriers and recommends checking compatibility. The iPhone 16 listing specifies eSIM, while the iPhone 13 specifies a single Nano-SIM and the 14 Pro a single physical SIM slot. Confirm that your carrier supports the phone’s lock status and SIM method before choosing, especially if you travel or switch providers.
Treat renewed condition as part of the decision
Every phone here is renewed, but the details differ. The 12 mini listing gives a minimum battery capacity of 80%; the iPhone 13 says it is professionally inspected, tested, and cleaned, while noting that it is not Apple certified and may arrive in a generic box. The 14 Pro specifies a 90-day Amazon Renewed warranty, and the iPhone 16 lists a 90-day warranty. For other condition details, use the current listing and seller terms rather than assuming all renewed devices have the same battery, appearance, or included accessories.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which iPhone in this comparison is the best overall choice?
I recommend the iPhone 16 for most buyers because it is the newest model listed and combines an A18 chip, USB-C, unlocked carrier support, and a 48 MP rear camera. Its 60 Hz display is less smooth than the 14 Pro’s 120 Hz screen, so display-focused buyers may prefer that older Pro model.
Which model has the smoothest display?
The iPhone 14 Pro and 14 Pro Max list 120 Hz ProMotion, while the iPhone 13 and iPhone 16 list 60 Hz displays. The Max has the larger 6.7-inch screen; the 14 Pro offers the same ProMotion advantage in a 6.1-inch form. Choose between them based on whether you want more screen area or a smaller phone.
Which of these phones is the best fit for a Verizon customer?
The 14 Pro Max listing is Verizon locked, so it may suit a buyer already using Verizon, provided the carrier confirms activation eligibility. The other four listings are described as unlocked, but compatibility still depends on carrier support and, for the iPhone 16, eSIM activation. Check the listing and your carrier before ordering.
Is the iPhone 12 mini still worth choosing?
The iPhone 12 mini makes sense when compact size is your main priority. Its seller specifies at least 80% battery capacity and unlocked compatibility with supported carriers, but it is older than every other phone here and the supplied listing does not provide camera or processor details. If you can carry a larger phone, the iPhone 13 or 16 gives you a more current option.
What should I check before buying one of these renewed iPhones?
Confirm the phone’s carrier lock, SIM type, battery details, included accessories, warranty, and condition terms. These listings vary: the 14 Pro Max is Verizon locked, the iPhone 16 specifies eSIM, the 12 mini gives a battery-capacity threshold, and the iPhone 13 may arrive in a generic box. Renewed condition can differ, so check the specific listing details for the unit you plan to buy.
Conclusion
For most shoppers, I’d choose the iPhone 16 for its newer generation, USB-C, unlocked listing, and stated battery-life figure. If display smoothness and camera flexibility matter more, the iPhone 14 Pro is the stronger match. Choose the iPhone 13 for a familiar unlocked iPhone with core features, the 14 Pro Max if you are on Verizon and want its large Pro screen, or the 12 mini when compact size is your defining need. In every case, review the renewed condition and carrier details before deciding.
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