One important thing to know upfront: Apple Intelligence is not available on all recent iPhones. On the iPhone side, you’ll need at least an iPhone 15 Pro or Pro Max (powered by the A17 Pro chip), or any iPhone 16 model. Older devices, including the standard iPhone 15, are left out entirely. The feature also requires up to 7 GB of storage space – around 5.75 GB on iOS 18.3 – so you’ll want to make sure you have room to spare. Apple still officially labeled Apple Intelligence as “in beta” as of iOS 18.3 in January 2025, though it is enabled by default on supported devices.

It’s worth noting that not everything has gone smoothly. Bloomberg reported that Apple’s next-generation Siri – one of the most anticipated parts of Apple Intelligence – was too error-prone to release on schedule, forcing Apple to delay it. So while there are genuinely useful features already available, the full vision of a smarter, more context-aware Siri is still a work in progress. Despite that, Apple Intelligence is expected to be a major driver of iPhone upgrades, with projected iPhone sales of 247 million units in 2025 and 257 million in 2026. Let’s dive into what’s actually available now and whether the upgrade is worth it for you!

Your Guide to the Future of Apple’s AI Tools: Everything You Need to Know

Apple Intelligence, the company’s proprietary AI technology, has been one of the most talked-about developments in the smartphone world since its rollout began with iOS 18.1. While it launched alongside the iPhone 16 lineup, it’s also compatible with a broader range of devices – including the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max (thanks to their A17 Pro chips), the fifth-generation iPad Air and Pro, and a selection of Mac computers. In other words, you don’t need the latest and most expensive Apple hardware to take advantage of it, and you can find several compatible refurbished models right here at Gazelle.

Under the hood, Apple Intelligence uses a roughly 3-billion-parameter on-device model, keeping many tasks local to your device for speed and privacy. For more complex requests, it taps into Apple’s Private Cloud Compute, a server-based system designed with privacy in mind. One practical thing to be aware of: Apple Intelligence requires up to 7 GB of storage space – approximately 5 GB on macOS and 5.75 GB on iOS – so it’s worth checking your available storage before enabling it.

As of early 2025, Apple still officially considered Apple Intelligence to be in beta, though it became enabled by default with iOS 18.3, macOS 15.3, and iPadOS 18.3. The rollout hasn’t been without its hiccups – Bloomberg reported that Apple’s next-generation Siri rebuild was too error-prone to release on schedule, forcing the company to delay what was expected to be one of its headline AI features. That’s a notable setback, given that Apple poured roughly $30 billion into R&D in 2024, much of it directed toward AI development.

Despite the bumps, market analysts remain bullish on Apple Intelligence as a long-term driver of iPhone upgrades, with iPhone sales projected to reach 247 million units in 2025 and climb to 257 million in 2026. It’s a reminder that even an imperfect AI rollout can reshape the upgrade cycle – and if you’ve been on the fence about switching to a compatible device, there’s never been a better time to explore your options.

What is Apple Intelligence?

Put simply, Apple Intelligence aims to make smart devices even smarter and more helpful by streamlining the user experience through machine learning algorithms that improve device performance and efficiency. Combining an on-device AI model (approximately 3 billion parameters) with a supplementary server-based model through Apple’s Private Cloud Compute system, Apple Intelligence features a host of handy tools designed to make your life more convenient.

Once you opt into using Apple’s AI models, they’ll operate on your compatible devices for free – there’s no subscription service or additional payments necessary. With the help of these AI tools, you’ll be able to write messages, generate AI images, create custom emojis, and much more. Keep in mind that Apple Intelligence requires up to 7 GB of storage space (around 5.75 GB on iOS 18.3), so it’s worth making sure you have room on your device before enabling it.

On iPhone, Apple Intelligence is supported only on iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max, as well as all iPhone 16 models, due to the A17 Pro chip requirement. As of early 2025, Apple still considered Apple Intelligence to be in beta, though it is enabled by default starting with iOS 18.3, macOS 15.3, and iPadOS 18.3.

The technology also includes an updated version of Siri, though it’s worth noting that Bloomberg reported Apple’s more advanced next-generation Siri build was too error-prone to release on schedule, leading to delays in some of the more ambitious conversational features. Apple invested heavily in getting this right – its R&D budget reached $30 billion in 2024, with Apple Intelligence being a key focus of that spending.

Key Features and Functionality

There’s a lengthy laundry list of impressive features included with Apple Intelligence, and each unique user will find value in various aspects of the technology. One of the most broadly useful applications will likely be the model’s robust writing tools.

Rewrite and Proofread Writing Tools

Apple’s Rewrite and Proofread writing tools are quite similar to the widely popular Grammarly platform. These tools help users hone the voice and tone of their writing. Need to write a concise, professional business email? Or do you want to write a fun, casual message to friends? Rewrite and Proofread can help! You can also use these new writing tools to create summaries of longer texts, breaking them down by key topics into tables or lists.

ChatGPT Integration

One of the most talked-about aspects of this new tech is how Apple has seamlessly integrated ChatGPT functionality. Through Apple’s partnership with OpenAI – the creator of ChatGPT – Apple Intelligence users can send complex requests to ChatGPT without opening any additional apps or swapping from tool to tool.

ChatGPT will help Apple devices with the aforementioned writing tools (for example, it will provide users with suggested replies within the Messages app), but the integration goes much deeper than that. OpenAI tools will help Siri handle more complicated information requests, and they’re also integrated into Apple’s AI image generation functionality.

It’s important to note that Apple will ask users’ permission whenever it needs to access ChatGPT, ensuring that ChatGPT only functions when you want it to. You don’t even need a ChatGPT account to use its features within Apple Intelligence. That said, existing ChatGPT subscribers can integrate their accounts with Apple’s AI tools to access paid features, including full access to its data analysis tools, higher messaging limits, image generation tech, and more.

Image Playground

Apple Intelligence also includes Image Playground, Apple’s built-in AI image generation tool. All you need to do is enter key phrases or descriptions and Image Playground will generate images based on them, which you can further customize by choosing the style of image you want. For instance, you can choose to create anything from a lifelike sketch to a cartoonish animation.

For iPad users, Image Playground is compatible with Apple Pencil and doesn’t even require opening a separate app like it does on an iPhone. Instead, you can transform your Apple Pencil sketches into full-blown AI images through the existing Image Wand function. It’s super-fun to play with, so don’t be surprised if you sink more time into Image Playground than you might expect!

Genmoji

Apple users can now create their own original AI-generated “Genmoji” images – fully custom emoji that go far beyond the standard library built into iOS.

Simply choose a person pictured in any photo on your device and Genmoji will create an emoji that looks like them. Thanks to the text-to-image functionality in Apple Intelligence, you can also type in a prompt – such as “a smiley face wearing a beret” – and Genmoji will generate an image based on your description.

You can add your Genmoji to text messages, assign Genmoji to contacts, use them as Tapback reactions, or integrate them as stickers in supported third-party applications.

Apple Photos Improvements

Apple Intelligence also adds meaningful new functionality to Apple’s Photos app, including the company’s “custom memory movies” feature. Tell your device a story or theme, and it will automatically select suitable photos and videos from your library, organizing them into a custom memory movie with a narrative arc that suits your chosen storyline.

That’s not the only improvement to Apple Photos, however. Users can now search their photo and video libraries using natural language keywords or descriptions, and Apple Intelligence can also help them locate specific moments within video clips. It’s an incredibly convenient feature that can save you a significant amount of time when hunting down that one photo you can never seem to find.

Siri Improvements – and Some Notable Setbacks

Apple’s virtual assistant has been around since 2011, but Apple Intelligence was intended to bring sweeping updates to Siri. One of the most immediately noticeable improvements is the overhauled user interface, which makes Siri feel more seamlessly woven into the iOS experience than ever before. Customizing your iPhone’s home screen alongside these Siri changes can make the overall experience feel even more personalized.

Siri also gained significantly better language processing capabilities, meaning it understands and responds to a much wider variety of prompts and conversational inputs. These improvements allow Siri to use “personal context” – drawing on your activity within iOS – to tailor its responses in a more relevant, human-feeling way.

However, it’s worth being transparent about a significant stumbling block: Bloomberg reported that Apple’s next-generation Siri build – the more deeply intelligent, on-screen-aware version that was prominently featured in Apple Intelligence marketing – was found to be too error-prone to release on schedule. As a result, Apple has had to delay that more advanced iteration of Siri, and as of early 2026, it has not yet fully arrived. This has been one of the more high-profile criticisms of Apple Intelligence as a package, as the most impressive Siri demos remain partially unrealized in practice.

The good news is that the foundational Siri improvements – better language understanding, the glowing border UI indicator that shows when Siri is actively listening, and tighter integration with on-device context – are live and functional. Apple is expected to continue rolling out the more advanced Siri capabilities through future software updates.

Email and Phone Call Transcriptions and Summaries

Apple Intelligence makes its mark on even the most routine functions of a smartphone: making calls and accessing emails. You can now manage calls on your iPhone in powerful new ways, including the ability to record and transcribe your phone calls and access AI-generated summaries once you hang up. Privacy is handled thoughtfully – if either person activates the recording feature, a prerecorded message will play informing all parties that the call is being recorded.

Email summarization is another genuinely handy tool for anyone dealing with a flooded inbox. You’ll also find a feature in the Mail app called Priority Messages, which automatically identifies important emails and surfaces them prominently, helping ensure that you never miss a time-sensitive or critical message amid the noise.

How Apple Intelligence Works

Apple Intelligence operates on two different models: an on-device model and a server-based model known as Private Cloud Compute. As the name implies, the on-device version is integrated directly into the device itself, allowing your iPhone, iPad, or Mac to use AI technology without accessing the cloud.

On-Device Model

The on-device model powers the majority of Apple Intelligence requests, using an approximately 3 billion parameter model built directly into supported hardware. This version is preferred primarily because of its superior privacy protection, keeping sensitive information on your device rather than sending it to the cloud. For example, Apple uses the on-device model for tasks like searching for a podcast episode or pulling up the details of your next flight.

It’s worth noting that Apple Intelligence has fairly specific hardware requirements. On iPhone, it’s only supported on the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max – due to their A17 Pro chip – as well as all iPhone 16 models. You’ll also need to set aside up to 7 GB of storage space, roughly 5.75 GB on iOS 18.3 and around 5 GB on macOS 15.3.

Server Foundation Model (Private Cloud Compute)

When a request exceeds what the on-device model can handle, Apple Intelligence automatically routes it to Apple’s server-based model through a system Apple calls “Private Cloud Compute.” This cloud layer can handle significantly more complex requests that require additional processing power beyond what’s available on the device itself.

Despite being cloud-based, Apple has built meaningful privacy protections into this system. Your data is anonymized before being sent to the cloud, and Apple states it will only use your data for the specific request you make – not for broader data collection or training purposes. The “Private Cloud Compute” branding reflects Apple’s stated commitment to maintaining privacy even when processing happens off-device.

It’s worth keeping expectations measured, however. As of early 2025, Apple still considered Apple Intelligence to be in beta, even as it was enabled by default with iOS 18.3, iPadOS 18.3, and macOS 15.3. Bloomberg also reported that Apple’s more ambitious next-generation Siri rebuild was delayed after internal builds were found to be too error-prone to release – a reminder that despite Apple’s significant investment, including a $30 billion R&D budget in 2024, some of the most anticipated AI features are still a work in progress.

User Control and Opt-Out Options

Apple Intelligence is supported on iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max, as well as all iPhone 16 models, thanks to the A17 Pro chip requirement. Rather than being forced on users, Apple Intelligence must be manually enabled before you can access its features – so there are no surprises, and no one is required to use it. You can also change your mind and opt out of Apple Intelligence at any time.

It’s worth noting that Apple Intelligence does require up to 7 GB of storage space (approximately 5.75 GB on iOS 18.3), so it’s something to factor in if your device is running low. As of early 2025, Apple still considered the suite of features to be in beta, though it enabled them by default on supported devices running iOS 18.3, macOS 15.3, and iPadOS 18.3.

One area where Apple has faced scrutiny is with its next-generation Siri upgrades. Bloomberg reported that the more advanced Siri rebuild was too error-prone to release on schedule, leading Apple to delay those capabilities. This serves as a reminder that while Apple Intelligence is broadly available, not every promised feature has rolled out as originally planned – another reason it’s useful that users retain full control over whether they engage with these tools at all.

Device Compatibility and Availability

While Apple Intelligence is available across a wide range of Apple devices, it isn’t compatible with all of them. That’s because the AI features require a significant amount of memory and processing power, meaning older devices with insufficient RAM or older chips won’t make the cut. On iPhone, Apple Intelligence requires an A17 Pro chip or later, and on iPad and Mac, you’ll need an M-series chip.

Here’s a complete list of the devices compatible with Apple Intelligence:

Phones

• iPhone 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max
• iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, and 16 Pro Max

Tablets

• iPad Air (5th generation or later)
• iPad Pro (5th generation or later)

Computers and Chip Requirements

• iMac (M1 or later)
• Mac Studio (M1 Max/Ultra or later)
• Mac Pro (M2 Ultra)
• Mac mini (M1 or later)
• MacBook Pro (M1 or later)
• MacBook Air (M1 or later)

It’s also worth noting that Apple Intelligence requires up to 7 GB of storage space — roughly 5 GB on macOS and around 5.75 GB on iOS — so make sure you have enough room on your device before enabling it. On the iPhone side, the feature is notably absent from the standard iPhone 15 and 15 Plus, as those models use the A16 Bionic chip rather than the A17 Pro, which didn’t make the cut for Apple Intelligence support.

The Future of Apple Intelligence

Apple Intelligence has already begun reshaping how we think about AI integration in consumer devices – and the road ahead looks even more ambitious. Apple’s artificial intelligence efforts have the potential to transform traditional retail and marketing strategies, with personalized AI recommendations potentially replacing conventional advertising methods over time. The implications extend beyond Apple’s bottom line, with the broader retail landscape potentially seeing a fundamental shift toward AI-driven personalization.

As of early 2025, Apple officially enabled Apple Intelligence by default starting with iOS 18.3, macOS 15.3, and iPadOS 18.3 – though the feature set was still considered beta at that stage. Under the hood, Apple Intelligence runs a roughly 3 billion parameter on-device model, paired with a larger server-side model through Apple’s Private Cloud Compute system for more demanding tasks. It requires up to 7 GB of storage space, so users will want to make sure they have room to spare before enabling it.

Not every device can take advantage of these features, however. On iPhone, Apple Intelligence is limited to the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max – due to the A17 Pro chip requirement – as well as all iPhone 16 models. This hardware gate has made Apple Intelligence one of the biggest drivers of the current iPhone upgrade cycle, with iPhone sales projected to hit 247 million units in 2025 and climb further to 257 million in 2026.

That said, Apple’s AI journey hasn’t been without setbacks. Bloomberg reported that the next-generation Siri rebuild – expected to be a major leap forward in conversational AI – was found to be too error-prone to release on schedule, forcing Apple to push back its timeline. It’s a reminder that even with an R&D budget of $30 billion in 2024, building reliable, production-ready AI is no small feat.

Still, it’s hard not to be excited about where Apple Intelligence is headed. Apple appears to be laying a careful but deliberate foundation, and the features already available hint at how deeply AI could be woven into the Apple ecosystem in the years to come. The company is clearly just getting started – and the next few iterations of this technology could be genuinely transformative. If you’re considering whether to repair or replace your current iPhone to access these features, now may be a great time to evaluate your options.

Find your compatible device today with Gazelle!

You don’t need to break the bank to get in on the Apple Intelligence revolution. Here at Gazelle, we already offer many top-quality refurbished devices that are compatible with Apple Intelligence.

For instance, you can find a lightly used iPhone 15 Pro or 15 Pro Max in our inventory – both of which meet the A17 Pro chip requirement needed to run Apple Intelligence. We also carry iPhone 16 models as well as compatible iPad Air and iPad Pro models, all available today! Find your next device from Gazelle without paying top dollar, thanks to our 55-point inspection process and free 30-day return policy.

The post Is Apple Intelligence Worth the Upgrade? Scott Strandberg appeared first on Gazelle The Horn.

Is The iPhone 13 Worth It? Review Criteria

Whether the iPhone 13 is the right choice will depend on your budget and priorities. Released back in September 2021, it has aged considerably – but it can still be found at reduced prices and may suit certain buyers. The key criteria to consider are:

• Design and weight: The iPhone 13 features a durable build with a Ceramic Shield front and IP68 water resistance (up to 6 meters for 30 minutes), giving it solid longevity for its age.
• Hardware: Powered by Apple’s A15 Bionic chip with a 6-core CPU, 4-core GPU, and 4GB RAM, with storage options ranging from 128GB to 512GB. While no longer cutting-edge, it handles everyday tasks and streaming without issue.
• Display: The 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display runs at 1170×2532 pixels and approximately 460 PPI. One notable limitation is its 60Hz refresh rate, which feels dated compared to newer models offering 120Hz ProMotion displays.
• Camera: Features a dual rear camera system with a 12MP wide (f/1.6) and 12MP ultrawide (f/2.4). The wide lens gathers 47% more light than the iPhone 12, thanks to larger 1.7μm pixels. It’s a capable system, though it lacks the versatility of more recent iPhone lineups.
• Battery life: Tom’s Guide recorded over 10 hours and 33 minutes of battery life – roughly 2 hours better than the iPhone 12 – and it supports 50% fast charging in 30 minutes with a 20W adapter.

Design

The iPhone 13 doesn’t significantly change the standard design philosophy of Apple’s devices. It keeps the sleek, rectangular shape with the iconic Apple notch. Despite the similarity to its predecessor’s design, the notch is notably smaller, and the phone introduced a diagonal dual camera arrangement on the rear. Beneath the surface, the Apple iPhone 13 has a durable construction of crack-resistant glass and aluminum. The phone carries an impressive IP68 rating under IEC standard 60529, offering water resistance at a depth of 6 meters for up to 30 minutes.

Hardware

CPU

The iPhone 13’s A15 Bionic chip is still a capable fit for work, mobile gaming, and streaming. It features a 6-core CPU that can handle multiple demanding applications at once. While it’s not as powerful as more recent releases, it remains capable for most everyday tasks you might use it for.

GPU

The 4-core GPU in the iPhone 13 offers solid graphics performance for gaming and streaming. The GPU supports complex rendering tasks and is optimized for most apps, augmented reality experiences, and other demanding uses.

RAM

With 4GB of RAM, the iPhone 13 provides sufficient memory to handle everyday tasks and more intensive applications. This ensures smooth multitasking and quick response times, even when running multiple apps simultaneously.

Storage

The iPhone 13 comes in three storage options: 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB. While this is a good range of options, you’ll need to be careful which you choose. The iPhone 13 doesn’t support expandable storage via microSD, so you’ll want to choose a model with enough storage for your long-term needs.

Battery Life

Battery life is one of the iPhone 13’s standout features. The device houses a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that offers impressive longevity. In real-world testing by Tom’s Guide, the iPhone 13 delivered over 10 hours and 33 minutes of battery life — roughly 2 hours better than its predecessor, the iPhone 12.

The device supports 20W fast charging, reaching approximately 50% in 30 minutes, and also supports wireless charging for added convenience. However, battery life can vary depending on individual use, screen brightness, and network configuration.

Camera Quality

The iPhone 13 features a dual rear camera system with a 12MP wide (f/1.6) and a 12MP ultra-wide (f/2.4) camera with a 120-degree field of view. This combination works well for everything from standard shots to sweeping landscape photos. Notably, the wide camera gathers 47% more light than the iPhone 12 thanks to its larger 1.7μm pixels, making a meaningful difference in everyday and low-light shooting.

Key features include:

• Sensor shift optical image stabilization: Reduces blur in photos and videos.
• Night mode: Greatly improves low-light photography.
• Photographic Styles: Customizable photo styles that apply to new photos without affecting skin tones.
• Cinematic mode: Enables rack focus-style depth-of-field shifts in video, recorded in Dolby Vision.
• Video recording with Dolby Vision: Enhances HDR video quality across all video modes.
• Time-lapse video with stabilization: Ensures steady time-lapse shots.
• Slo-mo video support: Slow-motion video at 1080p up to 120 fps.
• 4K video recording: Supports 4K at up to 60 fps for high-resolution videos.
• Depth control portrait lighting: Provides adjustable lighting effects for portraits.

The front TrueDepth camera offers 12MP resolution, supporting Portrait mode, depth control, and Portrait Lighting with six effects. Video recording capabilities include 4K at 60 fps, 1080p HD video, and continuous autofocus. While the iPhone 13 is now a few generations old as of 2026, its camera system still holds up well for most everyday photography needs, particularly given its strong low-light performance and Cinematic mode capabilities.

Pros and Cons of iPhone 13

The iPhone 13 offers a range of impressive features, but it also has some drawbacks:

Pros:

• Bright and vibrant 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display at 460 PPI
• Excellent dual camera system featuring a 12MP wide (f/1.6) and 12MP ultrawide (f/2.4) lens, with 47% more light capture than the iPhone 12, plus optical image stabilization, sensor shift, night mode, and HDR video recording
• Control the iPhone 13 with only your voice
• Compatibility with excellent integrations and accessories such as Apple Pay, Apple TV, AirPlay, and more
• Powerful A15 Bionic chip with a 6-core CPU, 4-core GPU, and 4GB RAM for smooth performance across apps, media, and gaming
• Strong battery life – over 10 hours of real-world use, roughly 2 hours better than the iPhone 12 – with fast charging (50% in 30 minutes with a 20W adapter) and wireless charging support
• Supports Apple Pay and Apple Cash for easy transactions
• Water and dust resistant with an IP68 rating (up to 6 meters for 30 minutes)
• Improved FaceTime with SharePlay for shared viewing experiences
• Smart TV video mirroring via AirPlay

Cons:

• Locked at a 60Hz display refresh rate – no 120Hz ProMotion, unlike the Pro models
• Charging speeds still lag behind many Android competitors despite fast charge support
• No optical zoom on the standard model, only digital zoom
• Cinematic video mode capped at 1080p
• No support for physical SIM cards in some regions
• As of 2026, the iPhone 13 is several generations old and no longer receives the latest iOS feature updates available to newer models

Final Verdict: Is the iPhone 13 Worth It?

The iPhone 13 isn’t the most powerful phone or the cheapest, but time has made it a solid budget-friendly option. Its A15 Bionic chip, impressive dual-camera system, and battery life that outperforms its predecessor by over two hours make it easy to forget it launched back in 2021. In all, it’s a surprisingly competitive model even in 2026.

If you do choose to go for an iPhone 13, you should choose a reputable seller like Gazelle. A certified refurbished iPhone 13 from Gazelle costs as little as $325, a fraction of what you’d pay for a new iPhone — making it one of the better value picks in the refurbished market right now.

Get a Refurbished iPhone 13 With Gazelle

Opting for a refurbished iPhone 13 from Gazelle is a wise choice, blending quality, savings, and sustainability. Here’s why purchasing a Gazelle refurbished iPhone 13 stands out.

Certified Refurbished Apple iPhone 13 from Gazelle

When you buy a refurbished iPhone 13 from Gazelle, you can be confident in its quality and functionality. Gazelle’s certified refurbished phones use official parts and undergo a 30-point inspection. While there may be some minor scratches, you can expect a phone in great working condition. Learn how an iPhone gets refurbished to understand what goes into the process.

Same Phone, Low Price

A refurbished iPhone 13 from Gazelle offers significant cost savings compared to buying new. Enjoy the powerful A15 Bionic chip with its 6-core CPU and 4-core GPU, a dual 12MP camera system with Night mode and a wide lens that gathers 47% more light than the iPhone 12, and the stunning 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display—all at a reduced price. You also get impressive real-world battery life, with over 10 hours of use on a single charge, plus IP68 water resistance up to 6 meters for 30 minutes. Enjoy the iPhone 13’s superior performance without the premium price tag.

Get a Great Phone and Help the Environment

By purchasing a pre-owned device, you help reduce electronic waste in landfills. This is a major source of groundwater contamination, so buying a refurbished phone can go a long way to protecting your local environment. Lowering demand for new devices reduces industrial pollution as well.

By choosing a refurbished iPhone 13 from Gazelle, you enjoy a great phone while helping the environment at the same time. Make the smart, responsible choice; choose a refurbished iPhone from Gazelle.

The post iPhone 13 Review: Specs and Features Claire Calvet appeared first on Gazelle The Horn.

Either way, the question is whether or not the Apple iPhone 13 Pro is enough of an upgrade that buying the newer model makes sense. While the 13 Pro does bring significant improvements in terms of graphics performance and photo quality, are they worth the price of upgrading? Read on to find out.

The iPhone 12 Pro launched on October 23, 2020, while the iPhone 13 Pro followed on September 24, 2021. Though both phones are now a few generations old, they remain capable devices – and the differences between them are worth understanding if you’re deciding which to buy or trade in.

The iPhone 13 Pro starts at $999 for 128GB, with 256GB at $1,099 and 512GB at $1,299. One of the more subtle but appreciated design changes is the notch, which Apple made 20% smaller on the 13 Pro compared to the 12 Pro. The 13 Pro also pushes peak brightness to 1,200 nits, a notable jump from the 12 Pro’s 800 nits, making it significantly easier to use outdoors in direct sunlight.

On the performance side, the A15 Bionic chip in the 13 Pro handles 15.8 trillion operations per second through its Neural Engine, compared to 11 trillion on the A14 Bionic in the 12 Pro – a 40%+ increase. Real-world benchmark results back this up, with the 13 Pro scoring 4,718 in Geekbench 5 multi-core tests versus the 12 Pro’s 3,669, roughly a 30% improvement.

Camera upgrades are another strong reason to consider the move. The ultra-wide camera aperture widened from f/2.4 on the 12 Pro to f/1.8 on the 13 Pro, delivering approximately 92% better low-light performance on that lens alone. Battery life also improved, with Apple claiming around 1.5 hours more daily use from the 13 Pro.

If you’re in the market for a refurbished used iPhone, Gazelle’s Apple marketplace has you covered.

Apple iPhone 12 Pro vs Apple iPhone 13 Pro Overview

It’s important to use clear, measurable criteria when comparing phone models to decide which is best. We’ve established four key criteria to compare the characteristics, quality, and performance of both phones. These are design, hardware, display, and camera.

• Design and Weight: The design of a smartphone can be a significant factor in your choice. While the iPhone 12 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro are close to physically identical, there are subtle differences that might impact your preference – including a 20% smaller notch on the 13 Pro.
• Hardware: Hardware plays a pivotal role in your smartphone experience. Hardware covers areas like battery power, storage, and the CPU and GPU. While the Apple iPhone 13 Pro offers a modest CPU improvement, it delivers a significant leap in GPU power and Neural Engine performance that improves performance in visually and computationally demanding tasks.
• Display: The display is a critical component of any smartphone. Both models feature 6.1-inch OLED panels, but the 13 Pro introduces an adaptive refresh rate and a jump from 800 nits to 1,200 nits peak brightness that significantly improves display quality.
• Camera: The camera system is a major selling point for Apple users, and it’s one area where Apple remains consistently ahead of the competition. While the Apple iPhone 12 Pro has solid camera quality with a telephoto lens and 3x optical zoom, the Apple iPhone 13 Pro introduced long-awaited features like macro photography, Cinematic Mode, and a 92% improvement in low-light photography.

Naturally, the iPhone 13 Pro is at least a bit better than the iPhone 12 Pro in virtually every way. There’s no question of which phone is better, but it does have to be shown whether the iPhone 13 Pro is enough of an upgrade to justify the buy.

Overall, the iPhone 13 Pro is an iterative upgrade on the iPhone 12 Pro, rather than a revolution. In terms of design and core processing power, it’s mostly the same as the already-capable iPhone 12 Pro. But it offers meaningful improvements in storage, battery life, display brightness, and especially camera quality.

Improved low-light capabilities, custom photographic styles, adaptive refresh rates, and new features like Cinematic Mode and macro photography help make the case for the Apple iPhone 13 Pro.

Whether or not it makes sense to make the upgrade will require taking a deeper look at the two phones, though.

Specification / iPhone 12 Pro / iPhone 13 Pro

Dimensions (mm) / 146.7 x 71.5 x 7.4 / 146.7 x 71.5 x 7.65

Weight (grams) / 189 / 204

Processor / A14 Bionic / A15 Bionic

RAM / 6GB / 6GB

Storage Options / 128GB, 256GB, 512GB / 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB

Main Camera / Triple 12MP / Triple 12MP

Ultra-Wide Camera / f/2.4 aperture / f/1.8 aperture

Front Camera / 12MP / 12MP

Peak Brightness / 800 nits / 1,200 nits

Battery Life / Up to 11 hours of streamed video / Up to 20 hours of streamed video

Design

In terms of design, the iPhone 13 Pro mostly retains the look and feel of its predecessor. It’s slightly larger to accommodate a larger battery, as well as a smoother camera bump. One noticeable refinement is the notch, which Apple slimmed down by 20% compared to the iPhone 12 Pro.

Overall, the appearance of the Apple iPhone 13 Pro is slightly sleeker and more seamless in comparison to the 12 Pro, but they’re both equally functional in your hand. Both models have ceramic shield glass, stainless steel construction, and a range of finishes available.

In all, the only real disadvantage of the 13 Pro is that the larger battery makes it slightly heavier than the 12 Pro. However, the added battery life more than makes up for it.

Hardware

When it comes to hardware, the iPhone 13 Pro builds upon the foundation set by its predecessor, the iPhone 12 Pro, with several key improvements. While it’s mostly an iterative step forward, there are a few significant areas where the 13 Pro pulls ahead.

Here’s a closer look at how the iPhone 13 Pro’s hardware stacks up to its predecessor:

RAM

RAM is one area where the Apple iPhone 13 Pro fails to improve on the 12 Pro, as both have 6GB of RAM. While this is adequate for everyday tasks, it’s not a differentiator between the two models. However, the 13 Pro scores points elsewhere with sizeable upgrades in internal storage and chip performance.

Internal Storage

Both the 12 and 13 Pro come in a variety of configurations starting at 128GB of storage for all your photos, videos, apps, music, and other content. However, the 13 Pro has a higher maximum limit than the 12 Pro.

The Apple iPhone 12 Pro maxes out at 512GB, which is a respectable amount of storage. However, it’s not difficult to fill that capacity over time. The Apple iPhone 13 Pro offers nearly twice the storage ceiling, with a 1TB option available – a first for the Pro line at that time. If you’re wondering how much phone storage you actually need, it depends on your usage habits.

CPU

While the iPhone 12 Pro uses the A14 Bionic chip, the 13 Pro uses the A15 Bionic chip. In Geekbench 5 multi-core testing, the 13 Pro scored approximately 4,718 compared to the 12 Pro’s 3,669 – roughly a 30% improvement. That said, the CPU gains in isolation are the more modest part of the A15’s performance story.

For most everyday processor-intensive tasks, the difference may not be immediately apparent, but it contributes to a snappier and more future-proof experience overall.

GPU

Where the A15 Bionic chip makes a more dramatic statement is in GPU performance. It offers up to 30% better GPU performance than the A14, which translates into smoother and better-looking results in gaming, streaming, and other visually demanding tasks.

Neural Engine

One often-overlooked upgrade is the A15’s Neural Engine, which processes 15.8 trillion operations per second – more than a 40% increase over the A14’s 11 trillion operations per second. This directly powers features like Cinematic Mode, enhanced computational photography, and on-device machine learning tasks, making the 13 Pro noticeably smarter in how it handles complex software features.

Battery Life

The standout improvement of the Apple iPhone 13 Pro’s hardware is its impressive battery capacity. While the iPhone 12 Pro offers up to 11 hours of video streaming on a single charge, the iPhone 13 Pro nearly doubles that figure.

The iPhone 13 Pro delivers up to 20 hours of video streaming, and Apple noted it provides approximately 1.5 hours more real-world daily battery life compared to the 12 Pro – a meaningful difference for anyone who relies heavily on their phone throughout the day.

Despite not being a dramatic redesign, the Apple iPhone 13 Pro has many quality-of-life improvements that make it a better and more enjoyable phone to use day to day.

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Display

While the Apple iPhone 13 Pro shares the same 6.1-inch OLED form factor as the 12 Pro, it incorporates several meaningful display upgrades. The most notable is ProMotion, which introduces a variable refresh rate that dynamically adjusts the screen between 10Hz and 120Hz depending on what’s on screen.

This results in smoother scrolling and enhanced touch responsiveness, particularly noticeable when navigating through apps, using video playback, or playing games – a clear step up from the 12 Pro’s fixed 60Hz refresh rate.

Beyond refresh rate, the 13 Pro also jumps from 800 nits to 1,200 nits of peak brightness, making it significantly easier to view in direct sunlight and improving overall visual quality for HDR content.

Camera Quality: Macro Photography, Cinematic Mode, and More

The camera system is one of the most important elements of any smartphone, and industry-leading camera performance is a large part of what users turn to Apple for. At the baseline, there are many broad similarities between the Apple iPhone 12 and 13 Pro models.

Both have triple 12-megapixel camera systems, including a telephoto lens that supports 3x optical zoom. However, the 13 Pro comes with one major hardware improvement: the ultra-wide lens aperture widens from f/2.4 to f/1.8, allowing the camera to capture significantly more light. Apple confirmed this translates into a 92% improvement in low-light photography – a substantial real-world difference.

But where the iPhone 12 Pro and 13 Pro truly separate themselves is in software features and camera capabilities. Cinematic Mode is one of the 13 Pro’s landmark additions, using dynamic depth-of-field effects to automatically shift focus between subjects in video – producing results that previously required professional equipment.

Macro photography is another standout addition, dramatically improving the detail and quality of extreme close-up shots using the ultra-wide camera. Smart HDR 4 also makes its debut on the 13 Pro, intelligently optimizing exposure and detail for every face in a group photo.

In all, camera performance is the standout area where the iPhone 13 Pro most clearly outshines the iPhone 12 Pro – and remains one of the strongest reasons to consider the upgrade even years after both phones launched.

Pros and Cons of Upgrading to the Apple iPhone 13 Pro vs iPhone 12 Pro

There are a variety of reasons to upgrade to the Apple iPhone 13 Pro instead of the 12 Pro, or even to switch your 12 for the 13.

Here’s a quick rundown of the key points for and against upgrading to the iPhone 13 Pro:

Pros:

• Up to 1.5 hours more daily battery life than the iPhone 12 Pro
• ProMotion 120Hz display with up to 1,200 nits peak brightness (up from 800 nits)
• A15 Bionic chip processes over 15.8 trillion neural operations per second – a 40%+ jump over the A14
• ~30% multi-core performance improvement in benchmark testing
• Ultra-wide camera upgraded from f/2.4 to f/1.8, delivering ~92% better low-light performance
• Consistently great photo quality across all lighting conditions
• Smart HDR 4 with subject tracking for multiple individuals in a single photo
• Cinematic Mode for professional-looking video
• Photographic Styles for personalized, on-the-fly photo filtering
• 20% smaller notch than the iPhone 12 Pro

Cons:

• Relatively slow charging speeds compared to Android competitors
• No USB-C port – still uses Lightning (this wasn’t resolved until the iPhone 15 series in 2023)
• Slightly heavier than the iPhone 12 Pro
• Higher starting price at $999 for 128GB — see our guide to the best Apple iPhone model to buy if you’re weighing your options

Final Verdict: Is the iPhone 13 Pro Enough of an Upgrade?

Both iPhones are great choices, but the iPhone 13 Pro has many large and small advantages. At the end of the day, the deciding factor in choosing the right phone is going to be the price.

A used iPhone 12 Pro with 512 GB of storage in good condition goes for just under $500. Looking at a used iPhone 13 Pro with 1 TB of storage, you’ll be paying over $660. That’s not a world of difference, but it’s still a difference that needs to be justified.

However, the improvements seem to justify the upgrade in most cases. The iPhone 13 Pro’s adaptive refresh rate and roughly 30% greater multi-core performance will translate into a better, smoother experience for casual use and video streaming. The A15 Bionic’s Neural Engine also handles over 40% more operations per second than the A14 Bionic found in the 12 Pro. Likewise, everyone will appreciate the 1.5 extra hours of daily battery life that Apple says the iPhone 13 Pro offers over its predecessor.

If you’re someone who values photo and video quality, the 13 Pro’s upgraded camera system makes it no contest. The ultra-wide camera alone saw its aperture widen from f/2.4 to f/1.8, which Apple says translates to a 92% improvement in low-light photography.

The 13 Pro also brings a noticeably better display experience, with peak brightness jumping from 800 nits on the 12 Pro to 1,200 nits — a meaningful difference in outdoor visibility. Even smaller touches, like the 20% smaller notch, add up to a noticeably more refined device overall.

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The post Apple iPhone 12 Pro vs 13 Pro: Is the Upgrade Worth It? Scott Strandberg appeared first on Gazelle The Horn.

So, if you don’t back up your iPhone regularly, how do you do it? And can you back up all the data, or do you have to choose specific backup settings?

Which backup method is best? iCloud vs. Mac (or PC) vs. other options

While you’ve probably heard about iCloud backups more often than not, there are actually several other ways to back up your iPhone or iPad. On top of iCloud backups, you can use computer backups via Mac or PC to safeguard your data.

Automatic iCloud backups are often the most convenient because they’re the closest you can get to a “set it and forget it” option. Every Apple user starts with 5 GB of free iCloud storage, though that fills up quickly depending on how much data you have. Paid iCloud+ plans offer significantly more room, with tiers available at 50 GB, 200 GB, 2 TB, 6 TB, or 12 TB – so there’s a plan to fit most needs.

It’s worth noting that iCloud backups are only retained for 180 days after you disable or stop using iCloud Backup, so if you switch methods, don’t assume your old backup will stick around indefinitely. If you’re switching devices, Apple does give you a 21-day window to restore a temporary backup before it’s permanently deleted.

Mac and PC backups can be a strong alternative, offering potentially faster backup speeds and no storage cap tied to a subscription plan – your available space is only limited by your local drive. This makes local backups a great complement to iCloud, especially for users with large amounts of data. A typical iCloud backup can range anywhere from 1 GB to over 100 GB depending on what’s stored on your device.

Despite all these options, a 2024 survey by Handy Recovery Advisor found that only 36% of iOS users back up their data regularly. Across all users, just 33% back up consistently, 27% do it a few times a year, and nearly 20% do it rarely – a good reminder that having an easy backup method matters more than ever. If you’re also weighing whether it’s time for a new device, check out our guide to the best iPhone models to buy in 2024.

Access iCloud Settings

Using iCloud on your device is fairly straightforward. Go to your device’s Settings app to access your iCloud backup settings. From there, tap on your name at the top of the screen. Then, tap iCloud to access your iCloud settings.

Once you’re in the iCloud settings, you can do a few things. First, you can review your available storage and current data usage – keep in mind that Apple gives every iCloud user 5 GB of free storage to start. If you need more, paid iCloud+ plans are available in tiers of 50 GB, 200 GB, 2 TB, 6 TB, or 12 TB.

You can also toggle iCloud features on and off from this screen, including iCloud Photos, iCloud Drive, and iCloud Backup. A typical iCloud backup can range anywhere from 1 GB to over 100 GB depending on how much data is stored on your device, so it’s worth keeping an eye on your storage usage. One easy way to free up space is to delete photos on your iPhone that you no longer need.

A few other things worth knowing about iCloud backups:

• If you disable or stop using iCloud Backup, your backups remain available for 180 days before they are permanently deleted.
• When switching to a new device, Apple gives you 21 days to restore from a temporary backup before it’s deleted.
• Since iOS 9, iCloud backups include user data from apps, but not the apps themselves – those are re-downloaded separately.

Despite how useful iCloud Backup is, many users aren’t taking full advantage of it. According to a Handy Recovery Advisor survey from late 2024, only 36% of iOS users back up their data regularly, and overall just 33% of all users back up consistently. Another 27% do it only a few times a year, and nearly 20% do it rarely or never. Regularly reviewing your iCloud backup settings is a simple habit that can save you from significant data loss down the road — including making it much easier to recover a deleted voicemail on your iPhone.

What does iCloud back up?

Depending on how you back up your iPhone, your iCloud plan can store dozens of different backup file types. Apple currently supports iCloud backups and sharing for several key files, including:

• Voice Memos
• Map Favorites
• iCloud Photos and Videos
• Home and Health Data
• Backup Files and Documents
• News, Stocks, and Weather Settings
• Safari Bookmarks and Open Tabs
• Contacts, Notes, Reminders, and Calendars
• Messages
• Passwords and Payment Methods
• App Data (since iOS 9, user data is backed up but not the apps themselves)
• Other Third-Party Backup Folder Types
• Other Local Backup Data

Beyond the encrypted backup data you can store via iCloud, you can also use iCloud Find My features to locate lost devices or share your location among household members or friends. You can also share your backed-up iPhone data, folders, and documents through iCloud Drive, and share photos and videos through iCloud Photos.

It’s worth noting that a typical iCloud backup can range anywhere from 1 GB to over 100 GB, depending on how much data is stored on your device. Every iCloud account starts with 5 GB of free storage, which fills up quickly for most users. If you need more space, paid iCloud+ plans are available at 50 GB, 200 GB, 2 TB, 6 TB, or 12 TB tiers.

One important detail to keep in mind: iCloud backups remain available for 180 days after you disable or stop using iCloud Backup. If you’re switching to a new device, Apple gives you 21 days to restore a temporary backup before it’s permanently deleted.

Despite how valuable these backups are, a surprising number of people skip them altogether. According to a Handy Recovery Advisor survey launched in October 2024, only 36% of iOS users back up their data regularly. Across all platforms, only 33% of users back up regularly, 27% do so a few times a year, and nearly 20% rarely back up at all — leaving a significant portion of users at risk of permanent data loss.

Can you buy more iCloud storage with iCloud+?

Depending on your current iCloud plan, you can upgrade your storage and access higher tiers via iCloud+. Every iCloud account starts with 5 GB of free storage, but if you want to protect more of your precious data – including iCloud photos, contacts, health and activity data, and local app data – you’ll likely need to upgrade.

Paid iCloud+ plans are available in the following tiers: 50 GB, 200 GB, 2 TB, 6 TB, and 12 TB. When you’re ready to upgrade, you can do it through various Apple devices or on a Windows PC. We’ll take you through each method.

Buy more iCloud storage on your iPhone or iPad

On an iPhone or iPad, open the Settings app and tap your name or Apple ID at the top. Then tap iCloud, followed by Manage Account Storage or Manage Storage, depending on your device and iOS version. You can also scroll down and tap Upgrade to iCloud+.

From there, choose an iCloud+ plan that suits your needs and follow the on-screen instructions to complete your upgrade.

Buy more iCloud storage on your Mac

Start by clicking the Apple icon in the top-left corner of your screen. From the dropdown menu, select System Settings (on macOS Ventura and later).

Next, click your name or Apple ID at the top of the sidebar, then click iCloud, followed by Manage. Alternatively, you may see an option to select Upgrade to iCloud+ directly.

On the following screen, select Change Storage Plan or Buy More Storage. You’ll be presented with the available iCloud+ storage tiers. Choose the one that best fits your needs and follow the prompts.

You’ll be asked to enter your Apple ID password to confirm the purchase.

Buy more iCloud storage on a Windows PC

On a Windows PC, open the iCloud for Windows application. If you don’t already have it installed, download it from the Microsoft Store before proceeding.

Once inside the app, locate and click the Storage option, then select Change Storage Plan. Choose the storage tier that best suits your needs and click Next.

Finally, enter your Apple ID and password, then click Buy to complete your purchase.

Connect your iPhone to the computer

If you’d like to connect your iPhone directly to a desktop PC or Mac for an iTunes backup or iPhone backup, you’ll first need to verify that you’re running the appropriate operating system. For Mac, you should be running macOS Ventura or later for the best compatibility. For PC, it should be Windows 10 or newer.

You’ll want to connect your iPhone via the charging cable that came with your device. Plug it into your iPhone and an available USB port on your computer. Keep in mind that newer iPhones use a USB-C cable, while older models use a Lightning cable – you may need an adapter if your computer doesn’t have a compatible port.

Once connected, open Finder on Mac (iTunes is no longer used on modern macOS versions) or iTunes on Windows to manage your backup. Your device may also prompt you to enter your passcode and ask whether or not you trust the new computer you just plugged in. Select Trust to proceed.

It’s worth noting that a typical iPhone backup can range from 1 GB to over 100 GB depending on how much data is stored on your device, so make sure you have enough free space on your computer before backing up locally.

Figure out your iCloud backup size

Initially, your device comes with 5GB of free iCloud storage included. However, if you upgraded to iCloud+, you’ll have more storage available. Paid iCloud+ plans offer 50 GB, 200 GB, 2 TB, 6 TB, or 12 TB of storage depending on the tier you choose. You can quickly check how much available storage you have left on your device from the Settings menu.

Find iCloud size on iPad or iPhone

On an iPhone or iPad, go to the Settings menu. Select your name and then tap iCloud. At this point, you should see a bar graph that depicts how much storage you’ve used across several categories.

Find iCloud backup size on Mac

On macOS 13 (Ventura) or later, click on the Apple Menu icon, click System Settings, select your name, and click iCloud on the right.

On macOS 12 (Monterey) or earlier, click on the Apple Menu icon, choose System Preferences, and then click iCloud. The storage bar will show you how much space you have available compared to how much has been used up.

Find iCloud backup size on Windows

On a Windows PC, open your iCloud for Windows application. You’ll immediately see a bar graph that shows how much storage you’re currently using. You can click on the Storage option to see a more detailed breakdown of how much space you’ve used.

Apple’s most commonly used categories include family data and backed-up iPhone information. Keep in mind that a typical iCloud backup can range anywhere from 1 GB to over 100 GB depending on how much data is stored on your device.

• Backups: These include iCloud backups of your iPhone or iPad. Note that since iOS 9, backups include your app data but not the apps themselves.
• Family: This will show you how much storage your family members have used if you share an iCloud+ account.
• Mail: This category includes the standard mail from your iCloud address and any mail from custom domains and addresses.
• Messages: Messages include not only the messages you send and receive via iMessage but any attachments as well.
• Photos and Videos: As the name suggests, these are the photos and videos stored in your iCloud space.
• Documents: Files, information, third-party application data, and much more call the Documents section home.
• Others: If you have a smaller screen-size device, you may see the “Others” category since your handset will prioritize top categories first and foremost. You can also customize your iPhone home screen to better organize how you access apps and features.

Below the graph, you’ll see a list of features and apps alongside how much iCloud storage they currently use. You can tap on any app or feature to learn more about how it uses data and storage space on your device. If you’re looking to protect your iPhone while managing storage, it’s worth reviewing all the ways to keep your device in good shape.

Why is my iPhone backup taking forever?

If you find yourself stuck while you back up your iPhone and wonder why it’s taking so long, there are a few common culprits, including data-heavy applications or an unreliable internet connection.

For example, your encrypted backup might take too long because your phone has several data-rich apps. These can include mobile games with large save files and apps that have larger local files or app data. Keep in mind that since iOS 9, backups include user data from apps but not the apps themselves – so even without the full app, save data and app files can still add significant bulk to your backup.

Also, you may simply have too many files and videos on your device to efficiently back up your iPhone data. A typical iCloud backup can range from 1 GB to over 100 GB depending on what’s stored on your device, so it’s worth following recommended device cleaning tips or manually removing duplicate photos or low-quality videos before attempting your next iCloud backup.

Another factor worth considering is your available iCloud storage. Apple only provides 5 GB of free iCloud storage, which fills up quickly for most users. If your storage is nearly full or maxed out, your backup will stall or fail entirely. Upgrading to an iCloud+ plan gives you 50 GB, 200 GB, 2 TB, 6 TB, or 12 TB of storage depending on your plan.

Sometimes, the most common culprit is also the simplest: a poor internet connection. Backup procedures won’t work correctly if your phone can’t maintain a stable connection. Double-check your Wi-Fi settings and ensure you have a strong signal before attempting an iPhone backup.

Lastly, if this is your first time going through the iCloud backup process, understand that it will take significantly longer than future backups. This is especially true if you enable automatic iCloud backups or back up while your device is on standby. Subsequent backups are incremental, meaning only new or changed data is uploaded, which speeds things up considerably. If you’re also dealing with other software issues, check out our guide to common iOS problems and how to fix them.

‘This iPhone cannot be backed up because there is not enough iCloud storage’

Sometimes, an iPhone backup will require more space than you have available in iCloud. If you receive an alert saying there isn’t enough available storage, tap the alert for more detailed information before taking any action.

In iOS or iPadOS, go to Settings, tap your name, then select Manage Account Storage or Manage Storage. From here, you can see exactly how much iCloud space you’ve used and how much remains available for your next backup.

It’s worth knowing that Apple gives every user 5 GB of free iCloud storage by default. Depending on your device and how much data you’ve accumulated, a typical iCloud backup can range anywhere from 1 GB to over 100 GB, so that free tier fills up quickly – especially since backups include app data (though not the apps themselves, a behavior that has been consistent since iOS 9).

If you’re running low, you have a few options:

• Upgrade your storage plan. iCloud+ paid plans are available at 50 GB, 200 GB, 2 TB, 6 TB, or 12 TB, giving you much more room to work with.
• Free up space. Delete old backups, remove large files, or offload apps you no longer use to reduce your next backup size.
• Back up to your computer instead. Using a Mac or PC to back up your iPhone via Finder or iTunes bypasses iCloud storage limits entirely.

To check your projected backup size, go to Settings → Your Name → iCloud → iCloud Backup and review the Backup Size listed there. This gives you a clear picture of whether your available iCloud storage is sufficient before you begin.

One important note: iCloud backups are retained for 180 days after you disable or stop using iCloud Backup, and if you’re switching to a new device, Apple provides a 21-day window to restore a temporary backup before it’s permanently deleted – so don’t delay if you’re mid-transition.

Selectively back up iPhone data to your computer

On iOS 9 or later, you can choose which apps do and don’t save backup data to iCloud. To start, go to the Settings menu, tap your name, then tap iCloud. From here, go to Manage Storage, followed by Backups.

Choose the device you want to selectively back up. You’ll see a list of apps under Choose Data to Back Up. From here, you can toggle individual apps on or off to control which ones are included in your backup. Keep in mind that since iOS 9, backups include user data from apps but not the apps themselves, so your actual app files won’t take up backup space.

It’s worth noting that iCloud gives every user 5 GB of free storage by default, and a typical iCloud backup can range anywhere from 1 GB to over 100 GB depending on how much data is stored on your device. If you’re running low on space, selectively disabling app backups is a great way to keep your backup size manageable. If you need more room, paid iCloud+ plans are available with 50 GB, 200 GB, 2 TB, 6 TB, or 12 TB of storage.

One more thing to keep in mind: iCloud backups are retained for 180 days after you disable or stop using iCloud Backup, so you won’t lose your data immediately if you switch things up. And if you’re switching to a new device, Apple gives you 21 days to restore a temporary backup before it’s permanently deleted.

Back up iPhone using iTunes

iTunes automatically creates a backup whenever you connect your device to a compatible computer. However, it’s worth noting that iTunes is no longer available on macOS Catalina (10.15) and later – Apple replaced it with the Finder app for managing and backing up your iPhone on Mac. iTunes is still available on Windows.

On a Windows PC, start by connecting your device via USB. Open iTunes, then click the Device button in the top left of the application screen. Select Summary, then click Back Up Now under the Backups section.

On a Mac running macOS Catalina or later, connect your iPhone via USB and open Finder. Select your device from the left-hand sidebar, click the General tab, and then click Back Up Now.

To encrypt your backup on either platform, check the box for Encrypt local backup, create a strong password, and confirm it. Encrypted backups include additional sensitive data such as saved passwords, Health data, and Wi-Fi settings that unencrypted backups leave out – making this option well worth enabling.

Local backups like these are a smart alternative if you’re running low on iCloud storage, since iCloud only offers 5 GB of free storage by default. Paid iCloud+ plans start at 50 GB and go up to 12 TB, but a local backup costs nothing and can store far more data without hitting a storage cap. If you’re weighing whether to upgrade your device or explore other phone plan options, keeping regular local backups ensures your data is always ready to transfer.

Back up using Finder on an Apple Mac

If you didn’t already know, you can back up your iPhone directly to your Apple Mac using the Finder window. First, connect your iPhone to your Mac with the appropriate cable. If you’re using a newer iPhone, this will be a USB-C cable, while older models use a Lightning cable. Once connected, select your iPhone from the Finder sidebar on your Mac.

To use Finder to back up your iPhone, your Mac needs to be running macOS Catalina (10.15) or newer. If your Mac is running an older version of macOS, you’ll need to use iTunes to back up your iPhone instead.

At the top of the Finder window, click General. Then, select “Back up all of the data on your iPhone to this Mac.”

If you want to keep your backup data secure, select “Encrypt Local Backup” to password-protect your backup file. Once you’re ready, click Back Up Now and wait for the process to complete.

It’s worth noting that a local Mac backup is a great alternative if you’re running low on iCloud storage. iCloud only provides 5 GB of free storage, and depending on how much data is on your device, a typical iCloud backup can range anywhere from 1 GB to well over 100 GB. Backing up to your Mac avoids that limitation entirely and keeps a full copy of your data stored locally.

Find your next Apple device with Gazelle

Whether you’ve run out of onboard storage or want a newer, faster device to handle all your files and images, it might be time to upgrade. Gazelle can help with our inventory of certified renewed devices that each pass a rigorous 30-point inspection.

If you want to upgrade to the latest iPhone or trade in an older model, our team has you covered. When you’re ready to switch devices, check out Gazelle’s affordable inventory to find your next Apple product.

The post How to Backup Your iPhone Scott Strandberg appeared first on Gazelle The Horn.

Though Apple released its newest iPhone models in 2023, that doesn’t mean that a device such as the iPhone 15 Pro Max is ideal for every buyer.

Between devices like the Apple iPhone SE and standard iPhone Pro Models, we’ll take you through some of the brand’s top current devices, their features, and why they might make an excellent fit for your next smartphone.

Which of Apple’s smartphones is the best?

Overall, Apple is a brand known for quality and innovative features. While even a standard iPhone has benefits like portrait mode, rear cameras, the Touch ID fingerprint sensor, and the Dynamic Island (depending on the model), some Pro Max and Pro models come with enhanced telephoto lens capacity, longer battery life, and USB-C capabilities.

Generally, the “best iPhone” for you will depend on your needs. Do you want the best camera quality with a solid telephoto lens and enhanced rear cameras? Consider the iPhone 15 Pro Max.

Do you need faster data transfer speeds and better software support for your Apple Watch? A regular iPhone might be the only iPhone you need.

Consider your use cases, from Apple Music streaming to web browsing, and look at what features come standard in which iPhone. This can help you narrow down your choices.

Apple iPhone 13

Apple first announced the iPhone 13 at the 2021 Apple Event in Cupertino, CA. Released alongside other models like the iPhone 13 Max, Pro Max, and Mini, the 13 quickly established itself as a high-performance handset with marked improvements over the iPhone 12.

Though both devices retain similar builds and material quality, relying on Apple’s signature rounded curves and flat-edged frames, the iPhone 13 iterated on the Super Retina XDR display to deliver more brightness, greater color depth, and richer pixel density, all powered by the A15 Bionic Chip.

Here are some additional details about the iPhone 13:

• Display: The 13 has a 6.1-inch screen size with Super Retina XDR. This smartphone boasts a Ceramic Shield front cover that is tougher than many smartphone glass builds and offers a clear display.
• Chip: Get reliable performance from the A15 Bionic Chip.
• Environmental Resistance: The iPhone 13 has an IP68 water resistance rating, which means it can withstand being submerged in up to six meters of water for up to 30 minutes.
• LiDAR: The 13 has a LiDAR Scanner on the rear camera system that enables faster autofocus and improved AR experiences.
• 5G Experience: Apple iPhone 13 supports 5G connectivity to get lightning-quick speeds on covered mobile device plans.
• Pricing: Apple iPhone 13 starts at $699, which can be pricey for an older phone unless you purchase a refurbished or renewed device.

Overall, the iPhone 13 is a reliable smartphone, particularly for an older model. It has a powerful processor, a great camera, and a long-lasting battery. You’re liable to get the best deal if you shop used or refurbished with a company like Gazelle (or if your provider offers a discount).

Apple iPhone 13 Pro

The iPhone 13 Pro is one of the most reliable devices from Apple. The brand released the phone in September 2021, alongside the other iPhone 13 models, and many enthusiasts referred to the 13 Pro as the “best iPhone” at the time.

The 13 Pro comes available in several colors, including Graphite, Silver, Gold, and Sierra Blue. The iPhone 13 Pro has a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display with ProMotion, which means it has a refresh rate of up to 120Hz. 120hz refresh makes the display look smooth and fluid, especially when scrolling through web pages or playing games.

The iPhone 13 Pro is powered by the A15 Bionic Processor chip, which, at the time of release, was Apple’s fastest handset chip and clocked itself ahead of the standard A15.

The A15 Bionic processor makes the iPhone 13 Pro snappy and responsive, and it also enables some impressive new features like Cinematic mode for video recording.

The iPhone 13 Pro has a triple-lens rear camera system with a 12MP Ultra Wide camera, a 12MP Wide camera, and a 12MP Telephoto camera.

The Ultra Wide camera is excellent for taking landscape photos or group shots, the Wide camera is great for everyday photos, and the Telephoto camera is ideal for zooming in on distant objects. The iPhone 13 Pro also has a LiDAR Scanner, much like the base model iPhone 13, which is used for AR and improved autofocus in low-light conditions.

The iPhone 13 Pro has a battery life of up to 22 hours, which is excellent news for power users, students, streamers, or anyone who wants to get the most out of their device between charges.

Get a glimpse at the overall specifications:

• Display: A bright, colorful 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display powers this device and includes ProMotion for ultra-smooth browsing.
• Chip: The A15 Bionic Processor offers advantages over the standard chip found in the base 13 and 13 Plus.
• Battery: Get up to 22 hours of use with a more capable battery without upgrading to a larger iPhone.
• Storage: Choose between 128, 256, and 512GB of storage, or get 1TB of onboard storage.
• Colors: The 13 Pro and Pro Max come in Sierra Blue, Gold, Graphite, Silver, and Alpine Green.

Ultimately, the iPhone 13 Pro is an excellent smartphone that offers many features and performance for the price.

If you want a more powerful smartphone that isn’t as expensive as the new Apple iPhone, consider the 13 Pro. However, if you want features like Dynamic Island, more reliable Touch ID, or Always On Display, consider a newer device like the iPhone 15 Pro Max.

Apple iPhone 14

The iPhone 14 is the last-gen smartphone from Apple. It sold incredibly well due to its sleeker design, the powerful A15 Bionic chip, and an improved camera system.

The iPhone 14 comes standard in four colors: Midnight, Starlight, Product Red, and Blue. It has a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display with ProMotion, which means it has that much-appreciated high refresh rate for smoother scrolling and animations across videos, web browsing, and other apps. The phone is also water-resistant and dust-resistant to a certain degree.

The base iPhone 14 is powered by the A15 Bionic chip, similar to some iPhone 13 Pro models. The handset can hit up to 6GB of RAM and 512GB of storage, depending on your preferences and plan.

The phone also has a refined camera system with a 12MP wide-angle lens and a 12MP ultra-wide-angle lens. The front-facing camera is also a 12MP camera.

The iPhone 14 runs iOS 16 out of the box, which includes several new features and improvements over the older models. Some of the new features of this OS iteration include a customizable lock screen, an updated Messages app, and a refreshed Maps app.

Take a quick look at the iPhone 14’s specifications:

• Display: The screen size is a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display with ProMotion that offers smoother scrolling, crisp animations, and bold colors.
• Chip: Enjoy snappier performance from the A15 Bionic Chip.
• Battery: Get up to 17 hours of video playback with an enhanced battery that outperforms the previous model.
• Storage: The iPhone 14 comes in 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB sizes.
• Colors: Express yourself with classic shades like Midnight, Starlight, Product Red, and Blue.
• Base operating system: iOS 16, though the device is compatible with newer iterations.

Apple iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max

The iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max are two of the more robust offerings from Apple. The brand released both in September 2022 alongside the base iPhone 14, and each device boasts several features and improvements over the previous generation.

One of the most notable changes is the new design. The iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max have a flat-edge design, similar to the iPad Pro. They also have a new system with a triple-lens rear camera and a 48-megapixel primary sensor.

The iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max also have a new A16 Bionic chip, which is faster and more efficient than the A15 Bionic chip in the iPhone 13 Pro and Pro Max and the base iPhone 14. 

The 14 Pro and Pro Max also have 6GB of RAM, which is 2GB more than many previous device lineups. 

The iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max have a 6.1-inch and 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR display, respectively. The display is bright and vibrant, with truer color saturation and depth, and it has a high refresh rate of 120Hz.

The iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max also have longer battery life than previous models, thanks to performance efficiency improvements. Both devices have a larger battery than the iPhone 13 Pro and Pro Max, and they also have the more robust A16 Bionic chip.

The iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max are available in four colors: Graphite, Silver, Gold, and Sierra Blue. They start at $999 and $1,099, respectively, though you can find great deals when you shop for used or certified renewed devices with Gazelle. 

Overall, the iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max are excellent smartphones. They have a sleeker, modernized design, a high-end camera system, the A16 Bionic chip, and longer battery life for power users. 

If you’re looking for a top-of-the-line smartphone, the iPhone 14 Pro or Pro Max is still a great option.

Here’s your at-a-glance information about the iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max:

• Camera: The iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max have a triple-lens rear camera system with a 48-megapixel primary sensor, a 12-megapixel ultrawide sensor, and a 12-megapixel telephoto sensor. The iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max have a 12-megapixel front-facing camera.
• Chip: Get an even better performance from the high-end A16 Bionic Chip.
• Display: The handsets have a 6.1-inch and 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR display, model-dependent.
• Colors: Express yourself when you choose between four colors: Graphite, Silver, Gold, and Sierra Blue.
• Pricing: The iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max start at $999 and $1,099.

Apple iPhone 15

The iPhone 15 is the newest flagship device from Apple. The brand announced the device at the annual Apple Event in September 2023 and released it shortly after that. Though cosmetically similar to the 14 series of phones, the iPhone 15 has several new features that make it a noteworthy upgrade from previous models.

Perhaps the most significant upgrades lie within the camera setup. Instead of the older dual camera system, the iPhone 15 has a triple-lens camera system with a new 48MP wide-angle lens. This lens takes stunning photos and videos, even in low light, thanks to a more robust Night Mode feature.

The iPhone 15 also has a new Cinematic mode for video, which allows you to create Hollywood-style videos with ease.

The screen size resembles previous models, clocking in around 6.12 inches. Also, the device includes a USB-C port for standardized USB-C charging, resulting in faster charging times for restoring the phone’s battery life.

The iPhone 15 has several new features, including the faster A16 Bionic chip, previously only available on the iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max models. 

The iPhone 15 has long battery life and 120hz display capabilities for the ultra-smooth scrolling experience Apple users love. These features make the iPhone 15 a powerful and versatile smartphone perfect for everyday use.

Overall, the iPhone 15 is a significant upgrade from previous models. It has several new features that make it a powerful and versatile smartphone. If you are looking for a new smartphone, the iPhone 15 is definitely worth considering.

Take a look at the overall specs of the iPhone 15:

• Display: 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display with ProMotion for smooth scrolling and bright colors.
• Chip: The A16 Bionic chip provides snappy performance, using the same processing power available to the previous lineup of Pro and Pro Max devices.
• Camera: With a 48MP wide-angle camera, a 12MP ultra-wide-angle camera, and a 12MP telephoto camera, you can take stunning shots on the latest iPhone.
• Battery: Get up to 19 hours of video playback on a single charge, depending on stream quality and other factors.
• Storage: The latest iPhone has storage space options including 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB.
• Colors: You can find the iPhone 15 in classic shades like Midnight, Starlight, Product Red, Blue, and Pink.

The iPhone 15 also has Dynamic Island, Optical Zoom, a USB-C port, and Always On Display capabilities that older models don’t have. Like the 14, this device is wireless charging compatible.

Apple iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max

The Apple iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max could each stake their claim for the title of “best iPhone.” From the new USB-C port to the best battery life, Optical Zoom, and Dynamic Island features, the Apple iPhone 15 series put a lot of bells and whistles into the Pro lineup.

The Apple iPhone 15 Pro series features the lineup’s lighter titanium build, a long battery life, spacious screen size, and the A17 Pro Chip, making it a powerhouse of performance. Either the iPhone 15 Pro or Pro Max will work well for standard tasks and can outperform any other device in the iPhone lineup.

Of course, the iPhone 15 Pro Max is also the most expensive iPhone available. Out of the iPhones mentioned on this list, it has the most features, excellent onboard camera tools, and a chip that puts last year’s model to shame.

In general, the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max stand out as among the most exceptional smartphones currently available. Both devices include a formidable processor, an outstanding camera setup, and a long-lasting battery. If you’re in the market for a top-tier smartphone, the Apple iPhone 15 Pro or Pro Max represents a compelling choice.

For a quick look at the specs of both the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max, keep these stats in mind:

• Display: The Pro model features a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display, while the Pro Max version offers an even larger 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR display.
• Processor: Both models have the A16 Bionic chip, ensuring cutting-edge performance and efficiency.
• Camera: The iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max sport a triple-lens rear camera system comprising a 48MP wide-angle lens, a 12MP ultra-wide-angle lens, and a 12MP telephoto lens. This onboard setup delivers exceptional photography capabilities, enabling you to capture stunning images in various scenarios.
• Battery: With a battery life of up to 28 hours of video playback, the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max provide remarkable endurance, ensuring that your device keeps up with your daily demands.
• Colors: Both models are available in a choice of elegant colors, including Graphite, Silver, Gold, and the distinct Sierra Blue.
• Price: The iPhone 15 Pro starts at $1,099 and the 15 Pro Max at $1,199, offering a premium smartphone experience with a price point that reflects their exceptional features and capabilities.

Ultimately, the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max represent the pinnacle of Apple’s smartphone technology, delivering top-tier performance, cutting-edge camera capabilities, and an enduring battery.

Whether you’re a photography enthusiast, a power user, or simply someone who appreciates the best that technology has to offer, these models are a compelling choice in the competitive world of smartphones.

Apple iPhone SE

Starting at just $399, the iPhone SE stands as Apple’s most budget-friendly iPhone offering, making it an appealing choice for individuals seeking a potent iPhone without needing a hefty investment.

For starters, the iPhone SE 2022 boasts that classic iPhone design that newer products in the iPhone lineup moved away from.

Equipped with a 4.7-inch Retina HD display boasting a resolution of 1334 x 750 pixels, the screen delivers vivid, well-lit visuals with excellent viewing angles. Including a True Tone display ensures automatic white balance adjustments by ambient lighting conditions.

Under the hood, the iPhone SE is driven by the A13 Bionic chip, the same capable processor featured in the iPhone 11 and iPhone 11 Pro. This chip’s impressive capabilities enable it to tackle demanding tasks, further enhanced by its Neural Engine, enabling lightning-fast machine learning tasks.

For photography enthusiasts, the iPhone SE offers a 12-megapixel rear camera with an f/1.8 aperture. This camera excels in capturing high-quality images across various lighting scenarios and boasts a Portrait mode for creating professional-looking photos with blurred backgrounds.

The front-facing camera, at 7 megapixels and featuring an f/2.2 aperture, not only delivers solid selfies but also supports Face ID, Apple’s advanced facial recognition system.

Overall, the iPhone SE is a great budget smartphone for people who want a powerful device that is easy to use and carry around. The iPhone SE has a fast processor, a strong camera, and a long-lasting battery.

However, it does have a small screen, so it may not be the best choice for people who want a large display. It also does not have popular features available on other iPhone models, such as Face ID and wireless charging.

Beyond that, the iPhone SE is a great value for the price, and it is a good choice for people looking for an affordable smartphone that doesn’t compromise too much on software support or performance.

Buying Options

Once you’ve chosen the best iPhone for your needs, you should decide how and where to purchase it. Depending on your mobile service carrier, you may be eligible for a device upgrade. However, many carriers keep you locked in with extended payment contracts if you don’t buy your phone outright.

You could also see if Apple has any deals. While you might not get a stellar deal on the iPhone 15 Pro Max, you may be able to get an older model for less money through the manufacturer.

Certain retailers offer occasional deals on devices like the iPhone SE 2022 and other models. Still, they might not have discounts on the Apple iPhone 15 unless you are signing up for a new line or adding a service contract.

The easiest way to score a deal on the best iPhone is by purchasing a refurbished or certified pre-owned device from a retailer like Gazelle.

Which iPhone is the best budget pick?

If you want a budget phone to handle everyday tasks without compromising performance, you should consider an Apple phone like the iPhone SE 2022. It’s one of the best iPhone models available due to its combination of affordability, feature richness, and screen size that some new phones and budget Android devices can’t match.

The SE line is generally the best overall budget selection if you’re okay with the noticeably reduced screen size and the lack of features like a USB-C port, Dynamic Island, optical zoom, or robust Touch ID features.

Also, being the smallest iPhone in the lineup, you’re limited to reduced storage space and a more compact design that shows it’s the one true budget iPhone that Apple sells.

However, if you’re okay with spending a bit more, a device from the 14 family of smartphones may be the best iPhone you could choose. The 14 isn’t as spendy as the Apple iPhone 15 but boasts some newer, more exciting features that the iPhone SE 2022 and iPhone 13 don’t have.

When should you upgrade if you have an older iPhone?

While the answer ultimately depends on your budget and needs, there are a few telltale signs that your older iPhone might not be cutting it anymore.

• Performance: If your current iPhone is noticeably slower, experiences frequent crashes or freezes, or struggles to run the latest apps and software updates, it may be time for an upgrade. Newer iPhones typically offer improved performance.
• Battery Life: If your iPhone’s battery life has significantly degraded and it struggles to hold a charge throughout the day, it could be a good reason to upgrade. Newer iPhone models often feature more energy-efficient components.
• Software Support: Apple provides software updates for its devices for several years. If your current iPhone no longer receives software updates, it may be time to upgrade to ensure you have the latest security features and compatibility with new apps.
• Camera and Features: Someone passionate about photography or videography might consider upgrading to a newer iPhone with improved camera technology, which can be a compelling reason to switch. More recent models often come with enhanced camera features.
• Storage Space: For people running out of storage space for photos, videos, apps, and other data, upgrading to a model with more storage capacity can be a practical solution.
• Trade-in Opportunities: Sites like Gazelle offer trade-in programs where you can exchange your old iPhone for credit toward a new one. This can make upgrading more cost-effective.

Of course, these aren’t the only reasons you might consider switching from an older device. However, that doesn’t mean you need to buy an expensive iPhone. There are still budget devices that may be a considerable upgrade over your current model.

What’s the most affordable iPhone Pro?

Are you looking for a Pro iPhone model that’s more affordable? You’re not alone. It also means you might want to avoid annual flagship releases like the new iPhone 15 Pro Max. While it may be, feature-wise, the best iPhone on the market, it’s not as wallet-friendly as an iPhone 13 or 14 Pro.

Sometimes, buying last year’s model can help you access the same features of the newer iPhone line without paying the total price for a new phone.

Of course, the best way to get an affordable deal on a new iPhone, even an iPhone 15 Pro, is to shop for used, renewed, and refurbished devices.

A refurbished device performs just as well as a factory-new product, meaning you can access the best iPhones without paying full retail prices.

That being said, you should only shop for refurbished or renewed devices from a trusted retailer. Sites like Gazelle make it easy to get an estimate for your current device and trade it in for credit toward a refurbished model. We also put every device through rigorous testing protocols to meet our high standards.

Which iPhones have Touch ID and headphone jacks?

Are you a fan of having a headphone jack on your phone? Sometimes, it’s the easiest way to listen to Apple services like music, podcasts, and other content.

While the old iPhone families still have headphone jacks and lightning port capabilities, the new iPhone launch did away with both in favor of USB-C connectivity to meet modern charging standards.

From the base iPhone 15 to the iPhone 15 Pro Max, every newly released device in September 2023’s lineup now has USB-C charging, which can be used for some compatible headphones. Much like the lightning port, of course, you can only have one cable plugged into your iPhone at a time (unless you use a USB splitter).

Also, you can invest in a USB to 3.5mm adapter if you still need a traditional headphone jack instead of USB headphones.

Find the best iPhone for your needs when you shop with Gazelle.

Whether you’re saying goodbye to one of the older iPhone models in favor of the iPhone 15 Pro Max with its enhanced battery life, or you’re trying to save money with an iPhone SE as your new iPhone, Gazelle is here to help you get the best deals on the best iPhones in our inventory.

From Pro models to budget-friendly devices, we have something for everyone. Each Apple iPhone in our lineup comes backed by our thorough 30-point inspection and quality guarantee. Browse our available iPhone models, trade in your old device, and find a new handset to meet your needs. To get started, explore our inventory today.

The post Best Apple iPhone Model to Buy in 2024 Scott Strandberg appeared first on Gazelle The Horn.

Are you experiencing a major software issue? Or, are you ready to trade your phone in for the latest model? You may want a fresh start and don’t want to sift through all of your apps and files individually.

If so, you’ll want to understand how to factory reset your iPhone or iPad. If you’re getting ready to sell or trade in your old phone, or you’re simply looking to reset your device to its original state, it’s essential to understand why you’d want to factory reset, how to do so, and how it’s different than a soft reset.

Factory resetting is the only way to securely delete your information from an old device or iPhone. To do so, navigate to Settings → General → Transfer or Reset iPhone → Erase All Content and Settings. If your iPhone is running iOS 15.2 or later, you can even reset a forgotten passcode directly on the device without needing a computer.

It’s worth noting that if your iPhone uses an eSIM, erasing your device will also remove your eSIM configuration, meaning you’ll need to contact your carrier to reactivate your cellular plan afterward. Additionally, if you perform a factory restore via computer, it will install the latest version of iOS on your device automatically.

Keep in mind that a factory reset is different from “Reset All Settings,” which only resets network settings, keyboard dictionary, location settings, privacy settings, and Apple Pay cards — no data or media are deleted with that option.

If you’d like to know how to reset your iPhone, read on to discover the most common methods.

How to factory reset your iPhone, iPad, or iPod Touch

The factory reset process is fairly straightforward, and you won’t have to wait long for it to complete. To begin, tap Settings, then General, then Transfer or Reset iPhone (or iPad, depending on your device).

After this, tap Erase All Content and Settings. At this point, your device may ask for your Apple ID and password. Enter both if necessary.

Then, confirm that you want to erase your device. If your iPhone has an eSIM, you’ll be asked whether or not to erase it as well. If you choose to erase your eSIM, you’ll likely need to contact your carrier to reactivate your cellular plan afterward.

A couple of things worth knowing before you reset:

• If your iPhone is running iOS 15.2 or later and you’ve forgotten your passcode, you can reset the device directly on-screen without needing a computer.
• If you’re looking for a less drastic option, Reset All Settings will clear network settings, keyboard dictionary, location and privacy settings, and Apple Pay cards – but none of your data or media will be deleted.
• If you prefer to restore your iPhone via a computer, doing so will also install the latest available version of iOS on your device.

Ready to upgrade your iPhone? Protect your personal data first.

If you’re selling your old Apple device, like an iPad or iPhone, to a site like Gazelle, we request that you factory reset any trade-ins beforehand. If you sell your current device without removing data, its new owner may have access to your passwords, saved login information, credit card details, and more. Naturally, you wouldn’t want certain content and settings falling into the wrong hands.

Before you reset, make sure you’ve backed up anything you want to keep – whether through iCloud or your computer. Then, to fully wipe your device, go to Settings → General → Transfer or Reset iPhone → Erase All Content and Settings. This removes your personal data, apps, and account information before the device leaves your hands.

A few important things to keep in mind:

• eSIM users: If your iPhone uses an eSIM, erasing your device will also erase your cellular plan. You’ll need to contact your carrier to reactivate it on your new device.
• “Reset All Settings” is not a factory reset. This option only resets network settings, keyboard dictionary, location settings, privacy settings, and Apple Pay cards – your personal data and media remain on the device. Make sure you’re choosing Erase All Content and Settings instead.
• Forgot your passcode? If you’re running iOS 15.2 or later, you can reset a forgotten passcode directly on the device without needing a computer.
• Older iPhone models: If you’re selling an older device – specifically iPhone models 5s through 6s – take extra care during the reset process, as these first-generation Touch ID devices may require additional steps to ensure biometric data is fully purged.

Taking a few minutes to properly wipe your device protects you long after the sale is complete. If you’re not sure which iPhone model to upgrade to next, or want to learn more about buying refurbished to save money, we’ve got you covered.

Confirm that you want to erase your device.

When you’re sure you want to restore your device to factory settings, remove all private information, and give your old phone a complete overhaul before selling it, you’ll need to confirm the action through the settings menu.

To do this, navigate to Settings → General → Transfer or Reset iPhone → Erase All Content and Settings. Once confirmed, the process will wipe your device and cannot be undone, so make sure you’ve backed up anything you want to keep beforehand.

A few important things to keep in mind before you confirm:

• If your iPhone has an eSIM, erasing your device may also erase your eSIM configuration. You’ll need to contact your carrier to reactivate your cellular plan. If you’re planning to prepare your device for international travel, make sure to sort out your eSIM settings beforehand.
• If you’re running iOS 15.2 or later and have forgotten your passcode, you can reset your device directly on the iPhone without needing a computer.
• If you only want to reset settings without losing data, choose Reset All Settings instead. This resets network settings, keyboard dictionary, location settings, privacy settings, and Apple Pay cards — but no personal data or media will be deleted.

Once you confirm the full erase, your iPhone will restart and be restored to factory settings, ready for a new user to set up.

Back up your iPhone to iCloud.

Whether you’re getting a new iPhone to keep up with digital trends or simply performing a soft reset ahead of the latest version of iOS, it’s helpful to back up your device before making any changes.

A backup can help you in the event you need to restore your device content and settings. It’s also essential if you’re planning to transfer data to a new device or perform a factory reset.

One of the easiest ways to back up your iPhone is through iCloud. To perform an iCloud backup, navigate to Settings → [Your Name] → iCloud → iCloud Backup, then tap Back Up Now. From this screen, you can also manage which apps and data are included in your backup. That way, in the event of a factory reset, you can restore everything by simply signing into your Apple ID.

You can also back up your iPhone to a Mac using Finder, or to a PC using the Apple Devices app (previously handled through iTunes). Simply connect your iPhone via USB cable – or USB-C cable on newer models – and follow the on-screen prompts to create a local backup.

A few things worth keeping in mind before you reset:

• If your iPhone has an eSIM, erasing your device may also erase your cellular plan. Contact your carrier to reactivate it after the reset.
• If you’re running iOS 15.2 or later, you can reset a forgotten passcode directly on the device without needing a computer.
• The official factory reset path is: Settings → General → Transfer or Reset iPhone → Erase All Content and Settings.
• Choosing Reset All Settings instead will clear network settings, keyboard dictionary, location settings, privacy settings, and Apple Pay cards – but none of your photos, apps, and personal data will be deleted.

Having a current backup ensures that whichever reset option you choose, your photos, apps, and personal data are safe and easy to restore.

What if you can’t erase your iPhone, iPad, or iPod Touch?

If you don’t remember your device password, you may be unable to factory reset your iPhone, iPad, or iPod. How you recover access depends on which version of iOS your device is running.

If your device is running iOS 15.2 or later, you’re in luck – you can reset a forgotten passcode directly on the device without needing a computer. After several failed passcode attempts, you’ll see an option to erase your iPhone from the lock screen itself. Follow the on-screen prompts to erase all content and settings and regain access.

If your device is running an older version of iOS, you’ll need to use recovery mode instead. Here’s how:

First, get access to a computer. If it’s a PC, make sure it’s running Windows 10 or later. Then, power down your device.

Next, locate the correct button for your device model – this will be the Side Button, Volume Down button, or Home button, depending on your specific iPhone, iPad, or iPod. Press and hold this button while simultaneously plugging your device into the computer.

Keep holding the button until your device enters recovery mode. Once in recovery mode, open Finder (on Mac) or iTunes (on PC) and locate your device. Click Restore iPhone and allow your computer to download the restoration software. Note that this process will install the latest version of iOS on your device.

Once the restore finishes, you can set up and use your device again as normal.

The Soft Reset vs. Hard Reset

If you want to refresh your device but don’t want to factory reset or erase iPhone storage completely, you may want to consider a soft reset instead. A soft reset is more appropriate for occasional glitches or if a process on your phone forces you to wait too long.

To perform a soft reset on your iPhone, first determine your model. On models newer than the iPhone X, press and quickly release the Volume Up button, press and quickly release the Volume Down button, then press and hold the Side (Sleep/Wake) button. Once the screen displaying the “Slide to Power Off” prompt appears, follow the on-screen instructions to turn off your iPhone.

Once the screen goes black, press and hold the Side button again until the Apple logo appears, and your iPhone will restart.

In comparison, a hard reset – or factory reset – will completely erase all data and settings on your device. The official path to do this is: Settings → General → Transfer or Reset iPhone → Erase All Content and Settings. While this process is more drastic, you can restore your data afterward using an iCloud backup or a previously saved iTunes/Finder backup if needed.

A few important things to keep in mind before performing a hard reset:

• If your iPhone uses an eSIM, erasing your device may also erase your eSIM configuration, requiring you to contact your carrier to reactivate your cellular plan.
• If you only want to resolve settings-related issues without deleting personal data, choosing “Reset All Settings” is a less drastic option. This resets network settings, keyboard dictionary, location settings, privacy settings, and Apple Pay cards, but leaves your media and data intact.
• iPhones running iOS 15.2 or later allow you to reset a forgotten passcode directly on the device without needing a computer.

Transfer data to a new iPhone.

Before you factory reset an iPhone or iPad, you may want to transfer your data to a new iPhone. With Quick Start, you can speedily send data to your newer device.

To get started, ensure both devices are connected to Wi-Fi and have Bluetooth turned on. When you power on a new iPhone, the Quick Start prompt should appear automatically, allowing you to begin the transfer process right away.

Once in Quick Start, you have a couple of options for how to move your data. You can restore from an iCloud backup or transfer directly from your previous iPhone or iPad. The direct device-to-device transfer is often the faster option if both devices are nearby and have sufficient battery life.

It’s worth noting that if your old or new device uses an eSIM, erasing it during a factory reset will remove your cellular plan. In that case, you’ll need to contact your carrier to reactivate it after the reset.

This process can take several minutes depending on how much data you have, so keep both devices powered on and plugged in throughout to avoid any unnecessary interruptions.

Trade in your old phone at Gazelle.

Once you erase your storage, remove your Apple ID, and reset your device to factory settings using Settings → General → Transfer or Reset iPhone → Erase All Content and Settings, trade it in toward the latest version of your favorite devices. Gazelle offers certified renewed smartphones, tablets, laptops, and other electronics at a fraction of the retail price.

Each of our devices passes a rigorous performance inspection to ensure that you receive a device that performs to the highest of standards. To learn more about our trade-in program or start shopping for a new device, check out Gazelle’s inventory today. Not sure which phone to get? Check out our iPhone 14 vs iPhone 14 Pro comparison, or explore the iPhone 12 Pro vs 13 Pro to find the right fit for your needs.

The post How to Factory Reset Your iPhone Scott Strandberg appeared first on Gazelle The Horn.

Sometimes, it’s as simple as going into your settings and arranging select data management protocols. Other times, you can use third-party apps like Google Chrome or your phone’s built-in Safari browser to clear browsing data.

It’s worth noting that unlike Android, iPhones do not have a dedicated system cache clearing option – iOS automatically manages system cache in the background to optimize performance. Additionally, iOS does not support clearing all app cache at once, so cache must be managed on an app-by-app basis.

Here’s how to clear cache and cookies depending on which browser you’re using:

Clearing Cache and Cookies in Safari

To clear your Safari cache and cookies, go to Settings → Apps → Safari, then tap “Clear History and Website Data.” Keep in mind that this will not affect your AutoFill information, so saved passwords and form data will remain intact.

If you want to take things a step further, you can block all cookies entirely by navigating to Settings → Apps → Safari → Advanced and toggling on “Block All Cookies.”

Clearing Cache and Cookies in Google Chrome

If you use Google Chrome on your iPhone, open the app and navigate to the browsing data settings. Chrome allows you to select a time range for the data you want to delete, and the default time range is set to Last 15 minutes – so be sure to adjust that if you want to clear a longer history.

How to clear cache and cookies on iPhone or iPad

If you want to delete cookies and clear your cache on an iPhone or iPad, there are a few options to consider depending on your browser and how much data you want to remove.

For Safari, navigate to Settings → Apps → Safari, then tap “Clear History and Website Data.” This will remove browsing history, cookies, and cached files in one step. Importantly, this does not affect your AutoFill information, so saved passwords and form data will remain intact.

If you’d prefer to keep your browsing history but still want to remove stored website data, go to Settings → Apps → Safari → Advanced → Website Data, then tap Remove All Website Data. If no data is currently stored, this option will be grayed out. To block cookies from being stored going forward, you can also toggle on “Block All Cookies” from the same Advanced menu.

If you use Google Chrome on your iPhone, you can clear browsing data directly within the app. By default, Chrome sets the time range to the last 15 minutes, so be sure to adjust this if you want to clear a longer period of data.

It’s worth noting that unlike Android devices, iPhones do not have a dedicated system cache clearing option. iOS automatically manages system cache in the background to optimize performance, so manual intervention isn’t necessary or possible at the system level. Additionally, there is no way to clear all app cache at once on iOS — if you need to clear cache for a specific app, you’ll need to manage it on an app-by-app basis, typically by offloading or reinstalling the app.

While clearing your cache and cookies can improve Safari’s performance and resolve certain browsing issues, it is not a primary method for significantly boosting your iPhone’s overall storage.

How to clear your iPhone cache in Safari

If you want to clear browsing data from Safari and also clear history, it’s fairly straightforward on an iPhone. Open the Settings app on your phone and select Apps, then tap Safari. From here, tap “Clear History and Website Data” and your device will take care of the rest.

Note that clearing your history and website data this way does not affect your AutoFill information, so any saved passwords or form data will remain intact.

If you want to block cookies entirely, go to Settings → Apps → Safari → Advanced and toggle on “Block All Cookies.” From the Advanced tab, you can also review and manage individual website data as needed.

It’s also worth knowing that unlike Android devices, iPhones do not have a dedicated system-wide cache clearing option. iOS automatically manages system cache in the background to optimize performance. If you want to clear cache for other apps, you’ll need to do so on an app-by-app basis, as iOS does not support clearing all app caches at once. If you’re coming from an Android and still getting used to how iOS works, our guide on why switching from Android to iPhone might help you get oriented.

How to clear your iPhone cache in Chrome

If Google Chrome is your preferred browser and you want to delete logs, files, and other website data, it’s about as straightforward as doing so on Safari. Start by opening the Chrome app on your iPhone. At the bottom of the screen, tap the “More” icon represented by the “…” symbol.

Tap “History” and then select the option to clear browsing data. Before confirming, double-check that you’ve selected both “Cookies, Site Data” and “Cached Images and Files.” Keep in mind that Chrome’s default time range for deleting browsing data is set to 15 minutes, so you’ll want to adjust that range if you want to clear a longer history. Once you’ve made your selections, tap “Clear Browsing Data” and confirm.

It’s worth noting that unlike Android, iPhones do not have a dedicated system-wide cache clearing option. iOS automatically manages system cache to optimize performance, so clearing your cache must be handled on an app-by-app basis.

How do content blockers work?

If you want to prevent certain websites from displaying ads or images or saving cookies, you can consider adding a content blocker to your device. To activate a content blocker and improve your online experience, you can search for one in the App Store.

Once you’ve found a content blocker that you like and includes the functionality you require, you can install it on your iPhone. Then, open the Settings app and navigate to Apps → Safari. From there, tap on Extensions.

Once you’ve found the Extensions section, you can navigate to the content blocker you installed and activate it. You can also use more than one content blocker at a time if you have multiple apps that you enjoy.

It’s worth noting that if you want to block all cookies in Safari directly — without a third-party app — you can do so by going to Settings → Apps → Safari → Advanced and toggling on “Block All Cookies.” Keep in mind that blocking all cookies may affect how some websites function.

If you’re looking to clear your existing Safari history and cookies, head to Settings → Apps → Safari and tap “Clear History and Website Data.” Note that this will not affect any AutoFill information you have saved.

How can I browse on Safari without history?

Safari offers robust privacy tools for users who want to avoid storing data from the websites they visit. Private Browsing creates tabs that won’t store search history or page visits, which can be useful if you share your Apple products with other household members.

When you’re on your iPhone, navigate to the Safari app. Tap the Tabs icon represented by two overlapping squares. Swipe right on the bar at the bottom of the screen until you activate Private Browsing mode. Then, tap the Unlock icon and use your credentials to access Private Browsing.

You can also set a preferred search engine specifically for Private Browsing sessions. Go to Settings → Apps → Safari, then navigate to Private Search Engine to choose your preferred option.

If you want to clear your existing browsing history rather than simply browse privately going forward, go to Settings → Apps → Safari and tap “Clear History and Website Data.” Keep in mind that this will not affect your AutoFill information, so saved passwords and form data will remain intact.

For users who want an additional layer of privacy, you can block all cookies by going to Settings → Apps → Safari → Advanced and toggling on “Block All Cookies.” On top of this, Apple also offers Safari Privacy Reports that give you a quick snapshot of cross-site trackers that have been blocked during your browsing sessions.

It’s also worth noting that unlike Android devices, iPhones do not have a dedicated system-wide cache clearing option. iOS automatically manages system cache to optimize performance, and app cache must be managed on an app-by-app basis.

Unlock more storage on your iPhone or iPad

If you want access to more storage on your iPhone or iPad, you’ll want to consider clearing Safari history and website data, deleting applications, clearing out old photos, or subscribing to a higher tier of iCloud+.

Keep in mind that clearing your Safari history and website data will not affect your AutoFill information – those are managed separately. To clear Safari cache and cookies, go to Settings → Apps → Safari, then tap “Clear History and Website Data.” If you want to go a step further, you can block all cookies by navigating to Settings → Apps → Safari → Advanced and toggling on “Block All Cookies.”

It’s also worth knowing that iOS does not support clearing all app cache at once – unlike Android, there is no dedicated system cache clearing option. Instead, cache must be managed on an app-by-app basis. iOS automatically handles system cache in the background to help optimize performance.

The easiest way to increase your available storage on either an iPhone or iPad is by upgrading to iCloud+. On your device, navigate to the Settings app and select your name. Find the iCloud option and tap Manage Account Storage.

Alternatively, you can scroll down on the iCloud page and select the “Upgrade to iCloud+” option. Under Manage Account Storage, you’ll also see options to buy more storage and upgrade your existing plan. Once you find a plan that works for you, select it and confirm your upgrade.

How to clear cookies on iPad and iPhone automatically

Unfortunately, iOS does not currently support clearing all cookies or app cache automatically in one go – each app must be managed individually, and there is no built-in scheduler or system-wide cache clearing option like you might find on Android. Apple’s iOS instead manages system cache automatically in the background to optimize performance.

That said, there are a couple of settings worth knowing about to stay on top of your data:

• Block All Cookies in Safari: Go to Settings → Apps → Safari → Advanced, then toggle on “Block All Cookies.” This prevents new cookies from being stored going forward.
• Clear History and Website Data in Safari: Go to Settings → Apps → Safari, then tap “Clear History and Website Data.” Note that this does not affect your AutoFill information.

Because there’s no automatic solution, setting up a regular manual routine is your best option. Whether you clear your Safari data at the end of each week or do a monthly sweep through your most-used apps, consistency is key. This helps improve browser performance, reduces stored tracking data, and keeps your device running smoothly over time.

Why should you clear your cache and cookies on your iPhone?

While your cache can be beneficial, often containing login information and site preferences, there are plenty of reasons why you may want to clear your cache data and delete browsing history and cookies.

For starters, when you delete cookies and clear your browser cache in the Settings app, it can free up space on your phone and help with performance. Website data can eat up prized iPhone storage space, so it can help to clear history and browsing data on occasion. Keep in mind that iOS does not support clearing all app cache at once – unlike Android, there is no dedicated system-wide cache clearing option. Instead, cache must be managed app by app, as iOS automatically handles system cache in the background to optimize performance.

Also, if you share your iPhone or iPad with other members of your household, you might not want to leave certain accounts connected or logged in. Clearing your cache helps keep certain information private. It’s worth noting that clearing your history and website data using Apple’s method does not change your AutoFill information, so you’ll need to manage that separately if needed.

In addition, if you’re experiencing consistent webpage issues or you want to force a fresh reload of a site, clearing cache info can help. Try clearing this data if you notice pages loading partially or displaying outdated or incorrect information. To clear Safari’s cache and cookies, head to Settings → Apps → Safari, then tap “Clear History and Website Data.” If you want to go further, you can block all cookies entirely by going to Settings → Apps → Safari → Advanced and toggling on “Block All Cookies.”

If you use Google Chrome on your iPhone instead of Safari, note that the default time range for deleting browsing data is set to 15 minutes, so be sure to adjust that range if you want to clear a longer history.

How do I check iPhone storage?

If you’ve cleared your cache and cookies but still have performance hiccups and slowdowns, you may want to check your storage to see if you can free up space. Luckily, it’s a breeze to check your existing storage and see where your device is at.

To start, open the Settings app. Navigate to General, then tap iPhone Storage. On this page, your iOS device will automatically make storage optimization recommendations you can follow.

The iPhone Storage page also gives you more detailed breakdowns about individual app storage and how much space each one is consuming. In this view, you have two handy options for reclaiming space:

• Offload App – This removes the app itself but keeps its documents and data, so you won’t lose your information if you reinstall later.
• Delete App – This removes the app and all of its associated data entirely.

It’s worth noting that iOS does not support clearing all app cache at once – storage must be managed on an app-by-app basis. Unlike Android, iPhones don’t have a dedicated system cache clearing option, as iOS automatically manages system cache in the background to optimize performance.

Your iPhone Storage page will also sort everything into helpful categories, making it easy to identify what’s eating up the most space, whether that’s apps, photos, media, or other files.

Find your next iPhone with Gazelle

Now that you know how to clear your site data and better navigate your settings app, you’re ready to take greater control over your browsing data and browser cache. However, if removing the data stored on your phone doesn’t help with device performance, it may be time to upgrade. Gazelle can help.

In just a few taps, you can explore our inventory of certified renewed iPhones, Androids, and other handheld devices. Find your next iPhone or iPad when you shop with Gazelle and let us guide you to the device of your dreams.

The post How to Clear the Cache and Cookies on Your iPhone Scott Strandberg appeared first on Gazelle The Horn.

But how does the iPhone 15 stack up against its predecessors, the iPhone 14 and 13? We’ll look in-depth to see which iPhone model has the strongest specifications and the best value.

Chipset & Performance

The iPhone 13 and iPhone 14 both run on Apple’s A15 Bionic chip, while the iPhone 15 steps up to the A16 Bionic. That upgrade isn’t just a number bump – the A16 delivers a 24-28% boost in graphics performance thanks to a new penta-core GPU, according to PhoneArena. Even between the 13 and 14, there are measurable gains: Tom’s Guide Geekbench testing showed the iPhone 14 posting multicore and single-core scores of 4,553 and 1,727 respectively, representing improvements of 8% and 2% over the iPhone 13. In GPU testing specifically, the iPhone 14 scored 69 fps versus the iPhone 13’s 60 fps – a 15% gain attributed to an additional GPU core.

RAM

The iPhone 13 comes with 4GB of RAM, while the iPhone 15 bumps that up to 6GB of the faster LPDDR5 variety. More RAM means better multitasking and improved performance when switching between demanding apps.

Camera

One of the most significant upgrades in the iPhone 15 is its primary camera sensor, which jumps to 48MP – four times the megapixel count of the iPhone 14’s 12MP primary lens. This allows for much greater detail in photos and enables higher-quality cropping without noticeable quality loss.

Battery

Battery capacity sees a modest improvement across the generations. The iPhone 13 houses a 3,227mAh battery, while the iPhone 15 edges ahead with a 3,349mAh cell. The difference is incremental, but combined with the more efficient A16 chip, real-world battery life on the iPhone 15 tends to pull ahead.

Display

The iPhone 13 and iPhone 14 feature largely identical panels, but the iPhone 15 brings a meaningful upgrade with peak brightness reaching up to 2,000 nits – a noticeable improvement for outdoor visibility and HDR content.

iPhone 15 vs. iPhone 14

The iPhone 15 and iPhone 14 are both smartphones made by Apple. The iPhone 15 is the newer model, with several notable improvements over the iPhone 14. For example, the iPhone 15 features the A16 Bionic chip (a step up from the iPhone 14’s A15 Bionic), a significantly upgraded 48MP primary camera, improved brightness, and a slightly larger battery. However, the iPhone 14 is still a capable phone and can often be found at a reduced price. If you are on a budget, the iPhone 14 remains a solid option. But if you want more performance and camera capability, the iPhone 15 is the stronger choice. If you’re trying to decide on the best iPhone model to buy, it helps to compare your options carefully.

One of the biggest visual differences between the two is the Dynamic Island. The iPhone 15 brings this feature to the standard lineup, replacing the traditional notch with a pill-shaped cutout that houses all Face ID sensors. A software layer around the cutout brings it to life, allowing you to control music playback, track timers, follow sports scores using Live Activities, and more.

It’s also a useful interface for phone calls, which expand from the top of the display when you receive one. The iPhone 15 also includes stronger call management features, such as filtering out background noise on live calls.

The iPhone 14, on the other hand, sticks with the more traditional notch for Face ID. It lacks Dynamic Island entirely, which makes the 14 feel comparatively dated in both design and features. That said, some users may simply prefer the look of the notch, and the iPhone 14 still handles everyday tasks with ease thanks to the A15 Bionic chip.

The Design

The iPhone 15 has a familiar design language shared with its predecessors, but introduces several notable changes that help it stand out. The front and back of the phone feature rounded edges, giving it a more comfortable feel in the hand.

The glass on the back has a new matte finish, providing a subtly different look and feel compared to earlier models. The IP68 dust and water resistance rating carried over from the iPhone 14, keeping it competitive in terms of durability. Apple also introduced a new “Action Button” on the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max, replacing the traditional mute switch found on previous models.

The Action Button is fully customizable and can be configured to perform a wide range of tasks, such as turning on the flashlight, activating a Focus mode, running a custom shortcut, or simply muting the phone as the old switch did. It is worth noting, however, that this button is exclusive to the iPhone 15 Pro models and is not found on the standard iPhone 15 or iPhone 15 Plus.

Perhaps the most significant design change in the iPhone 15 lineup is the switch from Apple’s proprietary Lightning connector to USB-C, bringing the iPhone in line with most other modern mobile devices. This change was largely driven by EU regulations requiring a common charging standard. Beyond convenience, USB-C also enables considerably faster data transfer speeds, particularly on the Pro models.

The Dynamic Island, which debuted on the iPhone 14 Pro lineup, expanded to all iPhone 15 models. This replaces the notch with a pill-shaped cutout that dynamically adapts to display alerts, activities, and notifications in a more integrated and visually polished way. Overall, while the iPhone 15’s design is an incremental evolution of the iPhone 14, the combination of USB-C, the Dynamic Island across the full lineup, and the new Action Button on Pro models make it a meaningful step forward.

The Cameras

Apple upgraded the iPhone 15’s primary lens to a new 48-megapixel sensor, four times the megapixels of the iPhone 14’s 12-megapixel primary lens. This allows for more accurate colors, improved performance at night, and sharper images since you can shoot in full 48MP resolution if you choose. Plus, you can use the middle 12 megapixels of the sensor for zooming in without losing quality, which is a convenient feature. You also get an improved 12-megapixel ultrawide camera with less lens flare, better portrait mode photos, and 4K video support in Cinematic mode.

In contrast, the iPhone 14 has a more simplistic camera setup. It has a 12-megapixel primary camera and a 12-megapixel ultrawide camera, both carried over from the iPhone 13, making them increasingly dated by today’s standards. The photo and video quality is consistently good, and you will likely be satisfied with the results in everyday situations, but they are far from the most capable cameras Apple offers. You will not be able to enjoy the extra resolution of the iPhone 15’s cameras or any of its newer portrait mode features.

Both the iPhone 15 and iPhone 14 feature 12-megapixel selfie cameras that take great photos. However, the iPhone 15’s primary camera pulls ahead significantly thanks to its 48-megapixel sensor, larger image sensor size, and improved ultrawide shooter, all of which contribute to sharper images and better low-light performance.

The iPhone 15’s main camera has a larger sensor than the iPhone 14’s, which allows it to capture more light. This results in sharper images with less noise, even in low-light conditions. The ultrawide camera also benefits from a larger sensor, reducing lens flare and improving overall image quality. Portrait mode shots from the iPhone 15 are noticeably sharper and more detailed than those from the iPhone 14.

Overall, the iPhone 15 has a significantly better camera system than the iPhone 14 in several meaningful ways. If you want the best possible photo and video quality from these two models, the iPhone 15 is the clear choice. That said, the iPhone 14 still produces good images for everyday use and remains a more budget-friendly option.

Performance

The iPhone 15 offers several notable performance improvements over the iPhone 14. These include:

• The iPhone 15 features the A16 Bionic chip, a step up from the A15 Bionic found in both the iPhone 13 and iPhone 14. The A16 delivers real-world gains, including roughly 24-28% better graphics performance thanks to its new penta-core GPU.
• The iPhone 15 also bumps RAM up to 6GB of faster LPDDR5 memory, compared to 4GB in the iPhone 14, which contributes to smoother multitasking and better sustained performance.
• Battery capacity increases slightly from 3,279mAh on the iPhone 14 to 3,349mAh on the iPhone 15, and when paired with the more efficient A16 chip, users can expect a meaningful improvement in overall battery life.

Overall, the iPhone 15 is a solid performance upgrade, particularly when compared to the iPhone 13 or earlier. The jump from the iPhone 14 is more modest since both share the A15 Bionic, but the A16 chip, additional RAM, and improved GPU make the iPhone 15 the stronger choice for gaming, multitasking, and demanding applications.

Beyond performance, the iPhone 15 brings several other meaningful upgrades, including a 48MP primary camera – four times the resolution of the iPhone 14’s 12MP sensor – along with a brighter display reaching up to 2,000 nits, a USB-C port replacing Lightning, and a refined design featuring Dynamic Island in place of the traditional notch. If you’re weighing whether an upgrade makes sense, see our breakdown of repairing vs. replacing your iPhone.

Other Differences

Upgrading to the iPhone 15 brings some meaningful improvements across the board. You’ll get a major camera upgrade with a 48MP main sensor – four times the resolution of the 12MP primary lens on the iPhone 14. The iPhone 15 also features the A16 Bionic chip, which delivers around a 24-28% boost in graphics performance thanks to its penta-core GPU. On top of that, the iPhone 15 packs 6GB of faster LPDDR5 RAM compared to just 4GB in the iPhone 14, a brighter display capable of reaching 2,000 nits, and the switch to USB-C charging. The exterior also received a redesign, including the addition of Dynamic Island in place of the traditional notch.

If you want the best camera, performance, and display brightness, the iPhone 15 is clearly the stronger choice. However, if budget is a concern, the iPhone 13 and iPhone 14 are still solid performers – both running the capable A15 Bionic chip – and you can find excellent deals on lightly used or refurbished models of either. The differences are real, but they may not justify the upgrade cost for everyone.

iPhone 15 vs. iPhone 13

The iPhone 15 and iPhone 13 are both capable smartphones, but there are some meaningful differences worth knowing before you buy. The iPhone 15 features the newer A16 Bionic chip, 6GB of LPDDR5 RAM, a significantly upgraded 48MP main camera, and a brighter display than the iPhone 13. That said, the iPhone 13 remains a solid performer and is available at a much lower price point. The right choice ultimately comes down to your priorities and budget.

The Design

Physically, the iPhone 15 is very similar to the iPhone 14, with the most notable visual change being the replacement of the notch with a Dynamic Island – the pill-shaped cutout that houses Face ID and front camera components while doubling as an interactive notification and activity hub. Another major design shift is the switch from Lightning to USB-C connectivity. The new USB-C connector is more durable than the Lightning connector and is the standard connector for many other devices, making it easier to find compatible cables and accessories. The iPhone 15 also features a slightly curved aluminum frame that meets a matte back panel, giving the phone a more comfortable feel in hand. If you’re curious about the latest iPhone updates, check out what’s new with the iPhone 16 to see how Apple has continued to evolve its design.

The Cameras

The iPhone 15 introduced a major camera leap over both the iPhone 13 and iPhone 14, upgrading the primary lens to a 48MP sensor – four times the megapixels of the 12MP cameras found on both the iPhone 13 and iPhone 14. This was the first megapixel increase on the standard iPhone lineup since the iPhone 14 Pro brought 48MP to the Pro models in 2022, making the iPhone 15’s camera a genuinely compelling reason to upgrade from an iPhone 13.

iPhone 15 users can shoot photos at 48MP or 24MP resolution, producing significantly higher-quality images than either the iPhone 13 or iPhone 14. The larger 48MP sensor also improves zoom shots – even without a dedicated telephoto lens, the camera crops into the sensor when the 2x zoom button is pressed, retaining strong detail and sharpness. Portrait mode, Night mode, and Smart HDR all received meaningful updates on the iPhone 15 as well.

Here are some additional details about the iPhone 15’s camera:

• The 48MP sensor is physically larger than the iPhone 13’s 12MP sensor, capturing significantly more light and detail in every shot.
• The camera benefits from an updated image signal processor paired with the A16 Bionic chip, improving computational photography across the board.
• Cinematic mode returns on the iPhone 15, allowing you to record videos with a cinematic depth-of-field effect, and the phone automatically shifts to Portrait mode when it detects a subject in the frame, adding light capture and rich detail enhancements.
• Note that the LiDAR scanner remains exclusive to the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max – the standard iPhone 15 does not include it.

Overall, the iPhone 15’s camera is a substantial upgrade over the iPhone 13, and a much more significant jump than the incremental improvements seen between the iPhone 13 and iPhone 14, which shared the same 12MP primary sensor. If you’re a photography enthusiast still on an iPhone 13, the iPhone 15’s 48MP sensor, improved low-light performance, and enhanced computational photography features make for a strong case to upgrade.

Performance

With Apple, it’s reasonable to expect each new phone to perform faster than the previous one – though the generational leaps aren’t always equal across the lineup. A notable example: both the iPhone 13 and iPhone 14 shipped with the A15 Bionic chip, meaning the real performance jump came with the iPhone 15 and its A16 Bionic chipset.

The A16 Bionic in the iPhone 15 brings meaningful real-world improvements over the A15 found in the iPhone 13. Most notably, the A16 features a new penta-core GPU that delivers a 24-28% boost in graphics performance compared to the A15. That’s a meaningful upgrade if you enjoy mobile gaming, game streaming through services like Apple Arcade or Game Pass, or any other graphics-intensive tasks.

In benchmark testing by Tom’s Guide, the iPhone 14 posted multicore and single-core Geekbench scores of 4,553 and 1,727, representing gains of 8% and 2% over the iPhone 13. In GPU testing, the iPhone 14 scored 69 fps versus the iPhone 13’s 60 fps – a 15% gain. Since the iPhone 15 steps up to the A16 Bionic, the gap between the iPhone 13 and iPhone 15 is even more significant.

The iPhone 15 also benefits from 6GB of faster LPDDR5 RAM, compared to just 4GB in the iPhone 13. This additional RAM helps with multitasking, keeping more apps active in the background, and handling memory-heavy applications more smoothly.

It’s worth noting that the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max took things even further with the A17 Pro chip, built on a 3nm process and featuring a GPU up to 40% faster than the A16 Bionic. So while the standard iPhone 15 represents a strong upgrade over the iPhone 13, those seeking the absolute best performance would benefit from stepping up to a Pro model. That said, for the majority of everyday users, the iPhone 15’s A16 Bionic offers a well-rounded and noticeably faster experience compared to the iPhone 13.

Other Differences

The iPhone 15 has a significantly brighter screen than the iPhone 13, with a peak outdoor brightness of 2,000 nits compared to the iPhone 13’s 800 nits. This makes a real difference when viewing the screen in direct sunlight. The iPhone 15 also features curved edges, while the iPhone 13 has straight edges, giving the newer model a more modern look and feel.

Battery life is another area where the iPhone 15 edges ahead. It carries a 3,349mAh battery compared to the iPhone 13’s 3,240mAh, and its more efficient A16 Bionic chipset helps stretch that capacity further in real-world use. All told, the iPhone 15 is a noticeable upgrade over the iPhone 13, with a brighter screen, curved edges, longer battery life, and a substantially more capable camera system.

Here are some other improvements that the iPhone 15 has over the iPhone 13:

• A faster processor thanks to the A16 Bionic chip. The iPhone 13 uses the A15 Bionic, and while that chip held up well across two generations, the A16 delivers a meaningful performance boost – including up to 24-28% better graphics performance thanks to its penta-core GPU. If you opt for the Pro or Pro Max, you get the even more powerful A17 Pro chip.
• A dramatically better camera system. The iPhone 15’s primary lens jumps to a 48MP sensor – four times the resolution of the iPhone 13’s 12MP main camera. This means sharper detail, improved cropping flexibility, better low-light performance, and a more capable night mode overall.
• More RAM and faster memory. The iPhone 15 includes 6GB of LPDDR5 RAM versus the iPhone 13’s 4GB, which translates to smoother multitasking and better app performance over time.
• More storage options, with Pro and Pro Max models reaching up to 1TB of onboard storage. The base iPhone 15, 15 Plus, and 15 Pro start at 128GB, while the 15 Pro Max starts at 256GB.

Though the iPhone 15 is the clear technical winner, there are still plenty of reasons to consider an iPhone 13. It remains a capable and affordable device, especially if you purchase a certified renewed model like the ones available at Gazelle. You’re still getting access to a solid camera, reliable performance for everyday tasks, and continued iOS support.

However, if you want top-tier performance, a best-in-class camera, a brighter display, and faster memory, the iPhone 15 – or the 15 Pro or Pro Max – is the stronger long-term investment. Ultimately, the right choice comes down to your needs and budget. Luckily, Gazelle has smartphones for any buyer, and we also accept qualified trade-ins to help you save even more on your next handset.

Shop the upcoming iPhone 15 and all other iPhones at Gazelle! 

If you’re ready to find your next smartphone but don’t want to pay steep retail prices, we’re here to help you save. We offer dozens of certified renewed devices from Apple, Samsung, Google, and other top manufacturers. We put every pre-owned device through a rigorous checklist to ensure they meet our high quality standards. Check out our large inventory of iPhone models and start saving today!

The post iPhone 15 vs iPhone 14 and iPhone 13 Scott Strandberg appeared first on Gazelle The Horn.

However, with so many options, which one do you choose? Do you go with the base model iPhone 15, starting at $799 and perfect for light use, calls, and texts? Or do you go for the iPhone 15 Pro Max at $1,199 and get your hands on one of the best smartphones of that generation? There’s also the iPhone 15 Plus at $899 and the iPhone 15 Pro at $999, each offering their own compelling mix of features and value.

We’re here to help you decide between Apple’s competitive flagship devices to get the best combination of form, function, and affordability.

The iPhone 15 Lineup

The 2023 Apple device lineup follows a familiar structure to previous years. On September 12, 2023, at Apple Park in Cupertino, California, Apple announced a total of four new smartphones: the standard iPhone 15 and 15 Plus, alongside the higher-end iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max. Pre-orders opened on September 15, 2023, with devices hitting shelves on September 22, 2023.

The iPhone 15 Pro made headlines as the first smartphone to feature Apple’s A17 Pro chip, built on an industry-first 3-nanometer process. The lineup also introduced a significant display upgrade, reaching up to 2,000 nits of brightness in direct sunlight – twice the capability of the iPhone 14. On the sustainability front, the base iPhone 15 was built with 100% recycled cobalt in the battery and 75% recycled aluminum in the frame.

As for pricing, the iPhone 15 started at $799, the iPhone 15 Plus at $899, the iPhone 15 Pro at $999, and the iPhone 15 Pro Max at $1,199. Apple also announced two new Apple Watch models alongside the iPhone lineup, making 2023 a strong year for the company’s wearable ecosystem as well. Let’s look a little closer at each model’s features, capabilities, and connectivity.

iPhone 15 and iPhone 15+

The iPhone 15 has several new features and improvements over the iPhone 14. Here are some of the highlights.

• The A16 Bionic chip is faster and more efficient than the A15 chip in the iPhone 14. Expect snappier performance, quicker response times, and faster loading both on WiFi and 5G networks.
• The iPhone 15 has a larger battery than the iPhone 14, providing longer battery life. This expanded battery means you can game, stream, call, or text longer than before without wearing your device down too quickly.
• The iPhone 15 includes the U2 ultra wideband chip for better location services, connectivity, and device finding. You’ll get better responses from the Find My application, and the iPhone 15 will provide both audio and haptic confirmation when you’re close to your devices.
• The iPhone 15 uses more advanced machine learning that prioritizes your voice. Combined with a better chip that can take advantage of the 5G network, you can expect crisper calls with fewer vocal distortions and dropped connections.
• The iPhone 15 has a Voice Isolation tool that filters out background noise, meaning clearer calls and less confusion.
• The display reaches up to 2,000 nits of brightness in direct sunlight — twice the brightness of the iPhone 14 — making it significantly easier to see your screen outdoors.
• Apple made meaningful strides in sustainability with the iPhone 15, incorporating 100% recycled cobalt in the battery and 75% recycled aluminum in the frame.

Overall, the iPhone 15 is a solid upgrade over the iPhone 14, offering faster performance, longer battery life, and improved features like the U2 ultra wideband chip, Voice Isolation, and a dramatically brighter display. The base iPhone 15 started at $799, with the iPhone 15 Plus starting at $899. If you’re looking for a capable iPhone at a more accessible price point, the iPhone 15 remains well worth considering.

iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max

The iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max represent the higher-end, more powerful devices Apple showcases yearly. Alongside the company’s most advanced chip, the Pro and Pro Max generally also have higher build quality than their base model counterparts. This remains true of this generation, with a device that uses robust titanium, aluminum, and ceramic to create durable, stylish, and functional smartphones.

Naturally, the enhancements aren’t strictly physical, either. The Pro and Pro Max also have stronger cameras, quicker performance, and greater connectivity.

Here are some of the key features of the iPhone 15 Pro.

• A17 Pro chip: The Pro has some performance gains over the 15 and 15 Plus. The new generation includes the latest Apple Silicon, featuring the industry’s first three-nanometer chip, the A17 Pro. This chip allows for faster processing and better graphics, delivering up to 10% faster CPU performance and up to 30% faster GPU performance than the A16 Bionic chip. The chip also requires less power than previous iterations, leading to stronger battery life and better lifespan performance.
• Brighter display: The iPhone 15 Pro’s display reaches up to 2,000 nits of brightness in direct sunlight – twice what the iPhone 14 could manage – making it significantly easier to use outdoors in bright conditions.
• Triple-lens rear camera system: The triple-lens rear camera system includes a 48-megapixel main wide-angle lens, a 12-megapixel ultra-wide-angle lens, and a 12-megapixel telephoto lens. The camera system also includes a LiDAR scanner for improved autofocus and AR capabilities. If you love smartphone photography and videography, the 15 Pro and Pro Max come with some of the best onboard cameras in the industry.
• Customizable action button: The action button can be customized to perform different tasks, such as launching the camera, starting a voice memo, or opening accessibility features. This gives you greater control over how you interact with your iPhone.
• USB-C connectivity: The iPhone 15 Pro features USB-C connectivity for faster data transfer and charging. You can now charge your device with any USB-C cable, making it more universally compatible with other devices and accessories.
• Sustainability: The iPhone 15 Pro incorporates 100% recycled cobalt in the battery and 75% recycled aluminum in the frame, reflecting Apple’s ongoing commitment to its environmental goals.
• Available in black titanium, white titanium, blue titanium, and natural titanium.

The iPhone 15 Pro starts at $999, while the Pro Max starts at $1,199. If you want the latest, greatest, and most innovative smartphones available, you’ll probably spend some time deciding between the two. Each has a compelling argument for a purchase, and the differences between them aren’t so stark that you’re liable to feel massive buyer’s remorse choosing one over the other.

The Designs

Overall, don’t expect anything too crazy regarding this lineup’s design changes. While there are visible cosmetic changes to several of the models, they don’t stand out enough to make or break a purchase decision unless you’re a big fan of razor-thin bezels.

The four primary handsets come in two sizes: 6.1″ for the iPhone 15 and 15 Pro, and 6.7″ for the iPhone 15 Plus and Pro Max. In general, Apple has tried to maximize viewable screen size this generation, trimming down margins and expanding the front screen to its fullest potential. The display also received a significant brightness upgrade, reaching up to 2,000 nits in direct sunlight – twice the capability of the iPhone 14.

The base models use aluminum frames made with 75% recycled aluminum, continuing Apple’s push toward more sustainable materials. The Pro and Pro Max, on the other hand, step things up with premium titanium alloy frames, giving those devices a noticeably more refined, high-quality feel compared to their predecessors.

Apple also made sustainability a focus beyond just the frames – the iPhone 15’s battery incorporates 100% recycled cobalt, a notable step forward for the company’s environmental commitments across the lineup.

The Displays

The iPhone 15 features the Dynamic Island, which displays live information such as flight updates, game scores, and more. It also works seamlessly with iOS 17, including the Standby feature that displays helpful information when your device is turned on its side while charging. Standby automatically initiates when charging, though you can toggle this setting on and off.

The iPhone 15 features a Super Retina XDR Display with OLED technology and Dolby Vision support. The iPhone 15 has a 6.1-inch screen, while the 15 Plus has a larger 6.7-inch screen. Both models received a significant brightness upgrade over their predecessors, with the display capable of reaching up to 2,000 nits of brightness in direct sunlight – twice what the iPhone 14 could manage.

Each device is polished with nano-crystalline particles and then etched to give it a smooth feel and superior sheen that users associate with Apple products. The Ceramic Shield front cover provides greater drop and shock resistance, and you can take steps to avoid a broken iPhone screen as well. The device also has robust water and dust resistance built in. The iPhone 15 includes a 48-megapixel main camera that can maximize image and video resolution and capture fine details even when zoomed in.

While the always-on display is an enticing feature for some, keep in mind that it is not available on the standard iPhone 15 or iPhone 15 Plus. If you want to take advantage of always-on content, widgets, and certain app integrations, you’ll need to opt for the iPhone 15 Pro or Pro Max models instead.

The Cameras

The latest iPhones use a blend of computational photography and sensor groups that cluster pixels together for better image captures. The phone’s built-in engine then optimizes the light capture and combines it with a high-resolution image for superior details, crisp shots, and stunning color recreation. This process creates a 24-megapixel photo that is beautiful without an inflated file size that’ll eat up your phone’s storage. If your storage is getting full, learn how to delete photos on your iPhone to free up space. The iPhone 15 also has a 12-megapixel camera that enables 2x telephoto zoom and image stabilization, leading to more precise, crisper images.

You can frame scenes using the 4K Cinematic Mode, which includes enhanced portrait photography capabilities. The iPhone 15 uses machine learning to recognize when there is a subject in the shot and automatically introduces rich depth touches to the finished images. That way, you never have to worry about forgetting to turn on Portrait Mode. You can also switch the focus in images even after taking a picture, making it simpler to capture the perfect shot every single time.

Night Mode provides better dark scene lighting and true-to-life colors than ever before. The iPhone 15 uses Smart HDR technology to provide brighter highlights and richer deep tones without compromising the image’s overall quality. If you’re curious how Night Mode stacks up against the competition, check out our iPhone 14 vs. Galaxy S23 night photography comparison. You can take stunning photos and videos daily with the iPhone 15’s multiple cameras.

For the Pro and Pro Max, the camera is another big draw. It blends multiple lenses, computational power, and strong hardware to create a device with the equivalent of seven camera lenses. Like other models, it uses a 48-megapixel main camera but also includes a larger sensor for stronger Night Mode photos and better light capture.

The device can shoot high-definition photos in 24, 28, and 35mm and also includes stronger focus and depth control alongside macro photography options with up to 5x optical zoom on the Pro Max for a powerful, multipurpose camera. The Pro models also benefit from the A17 Pro chip — the industry’s first 3-nanometer chip — which significantly boosts computational photography performance, enabling faster processing, improved low-light rendering, and more accurate color science across all shooting modes.

The Specs

The iPhone 15 lineup consists of four different handsets, each with differing specifications that could tip you toward one model over another. The base iPhone 15 has three storage options: 128, 256, and 512GB, each with 6GB onboard RAM. Not sure how much storage you need? The iPhone 15+ comes with the same storage and RAM options available, though where the iPhone 15 has a Li-Ion 3349 mAh battery built in, the 15+ has a Li-Ion 4383 mAh, which offers some noticeable battery improvements.

Moving on to the iPhone 15 Pro, there are four storage options: 128, 256, and 512GB, as well as 1TB. Each option includes 8GB onboard RAM for snappier performance and computation. The 15 Pro is powered by Apple’s A17 Pro chip – the industry’s first 3-nanometer chip at the time of its release – delivering a meaningful performance leap over its predecessor. The 15 Pro’s battery is a Li-Ion 3274 mAh, a slight compromise for the increased performance.

As for the Pro Max, there are only three storage options, as Apple has forgone the 128GB selection for this model. Instead, there are 256 and 512GB options alongside 1TB. Like the Pro, the Pro Max has 8GB onboard RAM in each model and is also powered by the A17 Pro chip. The Pro Max has the most robust battery of all four models, using a Li-Ion 4422 mAh.

In terms of pricing at launch, the base iPhone 15 started at $799, the iPhone 15 Plus at $899, the iPhone 15 Pro at $999, and the iPhone 15 Pro Max at $1,199. It’s also worth noting that Apple made a sustainability push with this lineup, incorporating 100% recycled cobalt in the battery and 75% recycled aluminum in the frame of the base models.

Launch Dates and Prices

The iPhone 15 lineup was announced on September 12, 2023, at an Apple Event held at Apple Park in Cupertino, California. Pre-orders opened just three days later on September 15, 2023, with all models becoming available for purchase – both online and in-store – on September 22, 2023.

Pricing across the lineup reflects the different tiers and capabilities of each model. The iPhone 15 started at $799, the iPhone 15 Plus at $899, the iPhone 15 Pro at $999, and the iPhone 15 Pro Max at $1,199, with the Pro models starting at 256 GB of storage. These prices were consistent with the previous generation, making the upgrade a relatively straightforward value proposition for those comparing iPhone costs coming from older devices.

Naturally, different carriers will have varying trade-in offers, specials, and discounts, but these often come at the cost of higher monthly bills, extended service contracts, or installment loans. When you’re ready to find your next smartphone or handset, try shopping with Gazelle.

Trade in and Upgrade with Gazelle 

Gazelle is a great place to buy and sell Apple products. Whether you’re looking to upgrade to a newer model or find a great deal on a recent release, we’ve got you covered. Take advantage of our wide selection of lightly used iPhones, including models from the iPhone 15 lineup – which starts at $799 new for the base model – at significantly reduced prices. We offer a wide variety of products, and our prices are very competitive. You can also trade in your old device, which can save you a lot of money on your new purchase. Not sure which iPhone is right for you? Check out our 2024 holiday gift guide to help you decide. Visit our site to learn about Gazelle’s rental phone program and start saving today!

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Factors That Affect Battery Life

Before we dive into which phones get the most battery life, there are a few things you should know about how we measure and discuss smartphone batteries. It’s tough to say exactly how long any phone will last someone because there are tons of factors at play. While we can tell you the size of a phone battery in milliamp-hours (mAh), that value will mean something very different between devices, people and even environments.

Simply put, your mileage may vary. Below are some of the factors that can affect it.

1. Temperature and Age

Temperature and age are two elements that can bring down even the best phone batteries. Batteries are all about chemical reactions, and over time, these chemicals can break down and the reactions become less efficient. Heat is a major reason for that. Even if you keep your phone at room temperature its whole life, the electronics in the phone produce heat, which affects the chemicals in the battery.

Manufacturers often specify how many charge cycles a battery supports and offer data on your battery’s health so you can see where you’re at and whether it’s time for a new one.

2. Hardware

Unsurprisingly, the kind of hardware your phone uses also affects how much juice it needs. Some components that can affect battery life include:

• Displays: Your phone’s display is one of the biggest culprits in reducing battery life. A huge, bright screen typically pulls more power than something smaller and dimmer. Characteristics that increase demand include size, brightness, resolution and refresh rate. Still, a phone with a large screen usually has more room for a bigger battery. You can often extend battery life by dimming your screen or reducing the refresh rate.
• Processors: The processor underpins everything your phone does, and modern processors make a big difference in how long your phone’s battery lasts. With every version, manufacturers learn to use power more efficiently and make the chips smaller, leaving room for bigger batteries.
• Battery technology: Battery chemistry itself has evolved. Silicon-carbon batteries, now found in phones like the OnePlus 15 with its 7,300 mAh cell, pack more energy into less space than traditional lithium-ion designs. This is a key reason some 2025-2026 flagships are pushing battery life to new heights without becoming bulky.
• External connections: When your phone gets a Wi-Fi or cellular signal, it uses certain hardware components that increase power demand. A common reason for a fast-draining battery is a phone that can’t get a good signal. When there’s no connection, your phone will keep trying to check for better signal strength, pulling more juice every time.
• Camera: While a camera isn’t particularly power-hungry on its own, the computational photography and AI processing that modern phones perform can add up quickly, especially during video recording or night mode captures.
• Other hardware: Even small components like speakers or flashlights will slowly but surely reduce battery life.

3. Use Habits

How you use your phone affects how long it lasts in day-to-day use and the overall life span of the battery. Of course, if you play games all day long, your phone will die faster than if you let it sit idle. Some apps are more power-hungry than others, namely those that use demanding graphics, like games and photo apps, or those that frequently need to fetch data, like GPS or video streaming platforms.

Apps that run in the background, like music players or weather forecasts, will use some power. Still, they’re well-optimized, so unless you run a lot at once, they shouldn’t be much of an issue.

When it comes to long-term battery performance, how you charge your phone is significant. Batteries are complicated, but chemistry tells us to shoot for a sweet spot, about 20%-80%. If you always keep it plugged in or let it die every day, you’re not doing your phone any favors. Most modern phones have smart charging tech to help you stay in that optimal range.

For example, Apple® iPhones can quickly charge up to 80%, then switch to trickle charging, which moves more slowly and is better for the battery. The iPhone 17 Pro Max is a strong example of how software and hardware optimization can work together — it achieves an impressive 37 hours of video playback from a battery under 5,000 mAh, proving that raw battery size isn’t everything. Many smartphones can also learn from your usage to optimize charging. If you leave your phone plugged in overnight, it might spread out the charge. Onboard power features are another reason smartphone manufacturers want you to use their official chargers. No-name brands might not have the same hardware required to run those optimized power tools. If you’re shopping for a new device with battery life in mind, it’s worth checking out the best phones under $300 to find strong performers at a lower price point.

10 Phones That Have Great Battery Life

Now that you know the nuances of smartphone batteries, we can dive into the best phones for battery life. Most phones on the market today tout “all-day battery life.” For all the reasons we just went over, battery life can vary widely, and mAh capacity isn’t a good measure of how long a phone will last.

All-day battery life is, as it sounds, a way to describe a phone that should last the average user the whole day or longer. It assumes you use a good mix of features, like some phone calls, some videos and some web browsing. As you explore the best smartphone for your needs, look beyond the mAh capacity and consider how many hours of use you can get. Manufacturer specs are usually pretty close, but you can also look at third-party tests for more details.

1. Apple(R) iPhone 17 Pro Max

First on our list is Apple’s current flagship. The iPhone 17 Pro Max is a remarkable achievement in battery efficiency – it delivers an impressive 37 hours of video playback from a battery that stays under 5,000 mAh, proving that raw capacity isn’t everything. Apple’s tight hardware-software integration, combined with its latest processor, squeezes every last drop of performance out of each charge.

Like other modern iPhones, it supports MagSafe and wireless Qi charging, along with fast charging to top up quickly when you need it.

Standout features include:

• An Always-On display: Even though the display is always on, Apple’s technology keeps it super energy-efficient, showing you the basics without draining your battery.
• ProMotion technology: This feature adapts your phone’s refresh rate for smooth visuals when you need them and power savings when you don’t.
• Dynamic Island: The pill-shaped cutout around the front camera system changes shape and content based on what you’re doing, offering a seamless way to interact with notifications and live activities.
• Satellite-based Emergency SOS: Works via satellite even when you’re completely off the grid, giving you a safety net in remote areas.

The 17 Pro Max also features the Pro camera system and Apple’s latest chip for fast, efficient performance. If the flagship price is a concern, keep an eye on certified refurbished options as they become available.

2. OnePlus 15

The OnePlus 15 is a serious contender for the best battery life of any smartphone on the market right now. In Tom’s Guide testing, it ran for an extraordinary 25 hours and 15 minutes – outpacing even dedicated gaming phones. GSMArena backed this up with an Active Use Score of 23 hours and 7 minutes, putting it at the top of their charts as well.

The secret is its massive 7,300 mAh silicon-carbon battery, a newer battery technology that packs more energy into a smaller, lighter form factor than traditional lithium-ion cells. The OnePlus 15 also supports blazing-fast wired and wireless charging, so even when you do need to top up, you won’t be waiting long.

It’s a strong pick for power users, gamers or anyone who spends long days away from an outlet.

3. Oppo Find X9 Pro

The Oppo Find X9 Pro put up one of the most impressive numbers we’ve seen in independent testing. In Tech Advisor’s PCMark battery test, it scored 26 hours and 40 minutes – beating out both the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra and the OnePlus 13. That’s a stunning result for a flagship smartphone that also delivers top-tier cameras and a premium display.

If you’re outside the US where Oppo has broader availability, the Find X9 Pro is absolutely worth putting on your radar for its exceptional real-world endurance.

4. Vivo X200 Ultra

The Vivo X200 Ultra is another flagship that punches above its weight in battery performance. PhoneArena’s testing gave it an estimated 9 hours and 37 minutes of screen-on time – comfortably ahead of the iPhone 17 Pro Max at 8 hours and 30 minutes, and the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra at 8 hours even. For a phone that also competes at the very top end of mobile photography, those endurance numbers are impressive.

Like the Oppo Find X9 Pro, availability in the US can be limited, but it’s worth considering if you’re shopping internationally or through import retailers.

5. Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra

Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Ultra is the go-to choice for Android fans who want a premium all-around experience with strong battery life. It features a large 5,000 mAh battery and Samsung’s latest processor, and while newer rivals like the Vivo X200 Ultra edge it out in pure endurance testing, it still delivers a full day of heavy use with room to spare.

The S25 Ultra retains the built-in S Pen, an exceptionally versatile camera system, a stunning 6.9-inch display with adaptive refresh rates and an in-display fingerprint scanner. It also supports super-fast charging and Wireless PowerShare, which lets you charge other devices directly from your phone.

For most Android users, the S25 Ultra strikes the best balance of battery life, performance, features and long-term software support.

6. Google Pixel 9 Pro

Google’s Pixel 9 Pro continues the Pixel tradition of delivering reliable all-day battery life with smart software optimizations doing much of the heavy lifting. The Extreme Battery Saver mode can stretch usage well beyond a single day when needed, and Google’s AI-driven adaptive features help manage power consumption intelligently in the background.

It also offers:

• Adaptive refresh rates to balance smoothness and efficiency
• A top-tier camera system powered by Google’s computational photography
• Google’s latest Tensor processor
• Fast wired and wireless charging
• An always-on display
• An in-display fingerprint scanner

The Pixel 9 Pro is a particularly strong choice if you want a clean Android experience with guaranteed long-term software updates directly from Google.

7. Apple(R) iPhone 16 Pro Max

The iPhone 16 Pro Max remains a solid choice in 2026, especially now that it can be found at reduced prices as the 17 series has taken over as Apple’s current lineup. In PhoneArena testing, it delivered around 8 hours and 30 minutes of screen-on time – strong numbers for a flagship, though it now trails newer competition like the Vivo X200 Ultra. It still offers ProMotion, Always-On display, Dynamic Island, MagSafe charging and Apple’s Pro camera system, making it a well-rounded option for anyone looking to save a bit compared to the 17 Pro Max.

8. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6

A big, foldable screen doesn’t have to mean sacrificing battery life. The Galaxy Z Fold 6 opens into a 7.6-inch display and offers meaningful improvements in both efficiency and endurance compared to earlier Fold models. Samsung’s power management has matured with each generation, and the Z Fold 6 is capable of getting through a full day of mixed use even with its expansive inner screen running.

It works with the S Pen and offers fast charging, wireless charging and Wireless PowerShare. If you want a phone that transforms into a mini tablet experience, the Z Fold 6 is the most practical foldable for battery life right now.

9. Motorola Moto G (2025)

If you’re shopping on a budget, the Motorola Moto G (2025) is a standout performer that punches well above its price class. PhoneArena testing found it leads affordable phones with an overall score of 8 hours and 15 minutes – and an extraordinary 22-plus hours of web browsing endurance. For a budget device, that’s a remarkable achievement.

It won’t have the camera sophistication or processing power of a flagship, but if your priority is lasting through a long day without a charge and spending as little as possible, the Moto G (2025) is hard to beat.

10. Apple(R) iPhone SE (4th Generation)

The latest iPhone SE is the most affordable way to get into the current Apple ecosystem, and it’s a meaningful upgrade over its predecessor in both design and battery life. It ditches the old home-button design in favor of a modern look with Face ID, and it runs on Apple’s current-generation chip for fast, efficient performance.

It won’t match the Pro models for endurance, but it delivers a genuine all-day battery experience for moderate users, along with wireless charging support and compatibility with the latest version of iOS. For buyers who want an iPhone without flagship pricing, the 4th-generation SE is the sensible pick.

Grab a Long-Lasting Smartphone for Less

If your smartphone battery just isn’t cutting it, you may be ready for a new one. Battery life has become one of the most important factors when choosing a phone – and the good news is that today’s top devices last longer than ever. Recent testing shows just how far things have come: the OnePlus 13 ran for over 25 hours in Tom’s Guide’s battery test, the Oppo Find X9 Pro scored nearly 27 hours in PCMark testing, and even Apple’s iPhone 16 Pro Max now achieves an impressive 33 hours of video playback. If you’re a heavy user, options like the Vivo X200 Ultra are averaging close to 10 hours of screen-on time – well ahead of flagships like the Galaxy S25 Ultra.

Of course, the latest flagships come with flagship price tags. That’s where buying used makes a lot of sense. Whether you’re a power user or just need something to last the day, Gazelle has plenty of options to choose from at a fraction of the retail cost.

Choose from our selection of used smartphones and save big without the hassle of buying from strangers. We offer easy 30-day returns, financing options and transparent listings. Explore our used phones today to find one that will keep up with your day – and then some!

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