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2ndphoneclub

Compare generations

iPhone 15 vs iPhone 16: is the newer one worth it used?

Short answer

Get the iPhone 16 if you want Apple Intelligence, the Camera Control button and a slightly longer battery life. Get the iPhone 15 if price comes first: same screen size, a 48MP main camera and USB-C. Sell it back after a year and the 16 costs you about $105 more.

With us, the iPhone 15 starts at $280 and the iPhone 16 at $400.

iPhone 15from $280 · 246 in stock
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At a glance

iPhone 15 iPhone 16
Apple Intelligence No Yes
Chip A16 Bionic A18
Battery (video) up to 20 hrs up to 22 hrs
Buttons Mute switch Action button + Camera Control
Screen 6.1 in 6.1 in
Main camera 48MP, 2× zoom 48MP, 2× zoom
Charging port USB-C USB-C
Our price from $280 $400

Which one is right for you?

Pick the iPhone 15 if…

  • you want the lowest price
  • you don't need Apple Intelligence
  • you mostly call, text, browse and take photos

Pick the iPhone 16 if…

  • you want Apple Intelligence
  • you'll keep it for a few years
  • you'd use the camera button

What it really costs you

It's yours

You own the phone outright. There's no contract and nothing to hand back.

Sell it back when you want

After 1 year, 2 years or never. We'll always make you an offer.

Unlike a lease

With a lease or upgrade plan you return the phone and never own it.

128 GB · Excellent iPhone 15 iPhone 16
You pay today $375 $525
We buy it back after 1 year (estimate) − $165 − $210
Net cost, 1 year $210 ≈ $18/mo $315 ≈ $26/mo
We buy it back after 2 years (estimate) − $150 − $165
Net cost, 2 years $225 ≈ $9/mo $360 ≈ $15/mo

Sell it back after a year and the iPhone 16 costs you $105 more than the iPhone 15.

Sell it back after two years and the iPhone 16 costs you $135 more than the iPhone 15.

Estimate based on what we pay today for the same phone one or two years older, in Good condition. Your actual offer depends on its condition when you send it in. Prices update every night.

Is the iPhone 16 worth the extra?

The biggest difference is Apple Intelligence: the iPhone 16 has it and the iPhone 15 doesn't. If that matters to you, get the 16. If not, the two feel very similar day to day, and the 15 is the better deal. Sell it back after a year and the 16 costs you about $105 more.

Battery health on phones we have now

iPhone 15
52%
iPhone 16
75%

Share of phones in stock with battery health of 90% or higher.

Which grade should you get?

Price from iPhone 15 iPhone 16
ExcellentLooks close to new $375 $505
GoodLight marks you only see in direct light $310 $460
FairVisible wear, everything works $305 $440
ValueOne named issue, shown on the listing (for example No Face ID) $280 $400

Every phone is tested, unlocked and has its battery health listed before you buy. How we grade

Common questions

Does the iPhone 15 get Apple Intelligence?

No. Apple Intelligence needs an iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 16 or newer.

Do both use USB-C?

Yes. Both charge with USB-C.

What battery health will I get?

It's shown on every listing before you buy, as a measured band like 90%+.

Can I sell it back to you later?

Yes. Whenever you want, we'll make you an offer. You can also trade in your current phone when you buy: you get an offer on the product page and we send a free shipping label.

Is it unlocked, and is there a warranty?

Every phone is unlocked, comes with a 12-month warranty and can be returned within 30 days.

Keep reading

Shop refurbished phones · How to buy refurbished · FAQ
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