You don't need to spend over $1,000 to get a great iPhone.

In 2026, there are plenty of excellent iPhones available for under $500, especially if you're open to buying refurbished. Whether you're upgrading from an older device, shopping for your first iPhone, or looking for a reliable phone without stretching your budget, there are several models that still offer fast performance, excellent cameras, and years of software support.

In this guide, we'll walk you through the best iPhones under $500, explain which ones to avoid, and help you find the best value for your money.

Tip: Refurbished iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro models can sometimes be found below the $500 mark, making them some of the best value purchases if you shop around.

Many people assume "refurbished" means "old" or "damaged," but that's often not the case.

A quality refurbished iPhone can provide nearly the same experience as buying new while saving hundreds of dollars.

Some advantages include:

• Lower price
• Better value for money
• Less electronic waste
• Access to higher-end models within your budget

For example, instead of buying a brand-new entry-level iPhone, you may be able to afford a refurbished iPhone 15 or even an iPhone 15 Pro for around the same price.

The iPhone 13 continues to be one of the easiest recommendations in 2026.

Even though it's a few generations old, it still feels modern thanks to its fast processor, excellent cameras, bright OLED display, and dependable battery life.

Why we recommend It:

• Excellent everyday performance
• Great battery life
• Bright Super Retina XDR display
• Dual-camera system
• Strong resale value
• Several years of software updates remaining
• Students
• Everyday users
• Social media
• Photography

If you're simply looking for a dependable iPhone that will last several more years, the iPhone 13 remains one of the best values on the market.

If you can find a refurbished iPhone 14 within your budget, it's an excellent step up from the iPhone 13.

It brings:

• Improved cameras
• Better image processing
• Emergency SOS via satellite (where available)
• Crash Detection
• Longer expected software support

The improvements aren't dramatic, but they're noticeable enough to make the iPhone 14 a great long term purchase.

If your budget stretches close to $500, keep an eye out for refurbished iPhone 15 deals.

The iPhone 15 introduced:

• USB-C charging
• Dynamic Island
• 48MP main camera
• A16 Bionic chip
• Improved battery life

Many buyers and reviewers consider it one of the strongest values in the refurbished market because it still feels like a modern flagship.

Not everyone wants a large smartphone.

If you prefer something compact that easily fits into your pocket, the iPhone 13 mini is still the best small iPhone Apple has ever made.

Despite its size, it includes:

• OLED display
• Face ID
• Excellent cameras
• Fast performance
• 5G support

The only trade-off is battery life, which is naturally shorter than larger models.

If you're trying to spend as little as possible, the iPhone SE (3rd generation) is still worth considering.

You'll get:

• A15 Bionic chip
• Touch ID
• Compact design
• Long software support

However, compared to newer iPhones, it feels dated with its smaller LCD display and older design.

A low price doesn't always mean a good deal.

In 2026, we'd generally avoid buying these models unless they're extremely inexpensive:

• iPhone XR
• iPhone XS
• iPhone XS Max
• iPhone X
• iPhone 8 and 8 Plus
• iPhone 7 series

These phones have limited remaining software support or receive only security updates, making them a less practical long-term investment.

This is one of the most common questions buyers ask.

Here's a simple comparison:

Before purchasing any used or refurbished iPhone, make sure to check:

Battery Health

Aim for 85% or higher if possible. A healthier battery generally means better day-to-day performance.

Storage

Choose 128GB if you plan to keep the phone for several years. It offers more flexibility for apps, photos, and videos.

Carrier Status

An unlocked iPhone gives you the freedom to switch carriers whenever you want.

Physical Condition

Minor cosmetic wear is usually fine, but avoid devices with cracked screens, swollen batteries, or signs of water damage.

Buying an iPhone on a budget doesn't mean compromising on quality.

For most people, the iPhone 13 remains the best all-around choice under $500, offering a great balance of performance, cameras, battery life, and years of software support. If you can find a refurbished iPhone 14 or iPhone 15 within your budget, they offer even better long-term value thanks to newer hardware and features.

Tip: If you're ready to upgrade, explore the latest new and refurbished iPhones at Hayaland Store. And if you're replacing your current device, consider trading it in through Hayaland BuyBack to help reduce the cost of your next iPhone.