Choosing among these five iPhone models comes down to what matters most: a current generation, a smoother screen, a smaller body, or a more affordable path to familiar iPhone features. I put the unlocked iPhone 16 first for its newer A18 chip, 48MP camera, and broad carrier compatibility. The iPhone 14 Pro is my pick for a compact Pro experience with a 120 Hz display and triple cameras, while the iPhone 13 offers a more straightforward everyday option.
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These are all renewed devices, so buyers should weigh model features alongside condition, warranty terms, and carrier details. The iPhone 14 Pro Max has the largest display here, but it is Verizon locked and the supplied listing says it is not water resistant. At the other end, the iPhone 12 mini is the smallest choice, though its age and minimum 80% battery capacity make it a more specialized pick. I rank each model by how well it serves a distinct buyer, not by treating every spec as equally valuable.
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Key Takeaways
- I rank the unlocked iPhone 16 first for buyers who want the newest generation in this group, a 48MP camera, and carrier flexibility.
- The iPhone 14 Pro is the stronger fit than the standard iPhone 16 if a 120 Hz display, Always-On screen, and triple rear cameras matter most.
- The iPhone 14 Pro Max brings the largest listed display and ProMotion, but its Verizon lock limits who can use it.
- The iPhone 13 is the practical everyday choice for buyers who want an unlocked 6.1-inch OLED iPhone and dual rear cameras.
- The iPhone 12 mini is the only compact pick here, but its renewed battery is guaranteed to retain at least 80% capacity, not to be like new.
| Apple iPhone 16, 128GB, Black, Unlocked (Renewed) |  | Best Overall | Model year: 2024 | Storage: 128 GB | Processor: Apple A18, 3.2 GHz | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Apple iPhone 14 Pro, 128GB, Deep Purple, Unlocked (Renewed) |  | Best for Pro Features in a Smaller Phone | Storage: 128 GB | Processor: Apple A16 Bionic | Display: 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED, 2556 × 1179 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Apple iPhone 13, 128GB, Midnight, Unlocked (Renewed) |  | Best Everyday Value | Storage: 128 GB | Display: 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED, 2532 × 1170, 60 Hz | Rear cameras: 12 MP wide and 12 MP ultra-wide | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Apple iPhone 14 Pro Max, 128GB, Space Black, Verizon Locked (Renewed) |  | Best Large-Screen Pro Pick | Model year: 2022 | Storage: 128 GB | Display: 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR with Always-On and ProMotion | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Apple iPhone 12 Mini, 128GB, Green (Unlocked, Renewed) |  | Best Compact iPhone | Storage: 128 GB | Color: Green | Network: Unlocked; GSM and CDMA carrier compatibility should be verified | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| iPhone model | Storage | Display | Processor | Front camera |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apple iPhone 16 | 128 GB | 6.1-inch OLED, 2556 × 1179 pixels, 460 ppi, 60 Hz | Apple A18, 3.2 GHz | 12 MP |
| Apple iPhone 14 Pro | 128 GB | 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED, 2556 × 1179 | Apple A16 Bionic | 12 MP |
| Apple iPhone 13 | 128 GB | 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED, 2532 × 1170, 60 Hz | — | 12 MP |
| Apple iPhone 14 Pro Max | 128 GB | 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR with Always-On and ProMotion | A16 Bionic | — |
| Apple iPhone 12 Mini | 128 GB | — | — | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Apple iPhone 16, 128GB, Black, Unlocked (Renewed)
I rank the iPhone 16 first because it offers the newest generation in this group without tying the buyer to one carrier. Its A18 chip and 48MP rear camera make it the most current all-around package among these five, while the 6.1-inch OLED screen keeps the phone in a familiar, manageable size. Compared with the iPhone 13, it brings newer hardware and a higher-resolution main camera; compared with the iPhone 14 Pro, it gives up ProMotion and the triple-camera arrangement.
That screen tradeoff is worth noticing: this listing specifies a 60 Hz refresh rate, while both 14 Pro models offer 120 Hz ProMotion. Scrolling and motion may feel less fluid than on those Pro models, even though the iPhone 16 is newer. The listing also says the device is not water resistant, so I would not select it on the assumption that it can shrug off liquid exposure. Its renewed condition and 90-day warranty are practical factors to weigh, too.
For someone who wants an unlocked, current-generation iPhone with a strong camera specification and USB-C, this is the clearest default recommendation. I would choose the 14 Pro instead if a smoother display and dedicated camera versatility matter more, or the iPhone 13 if a simpler everyday phone better fits the need. The iPhone 16’s role is to balance newer hardware and carrier flexibility, not to beat the Pro models at every feature.
Pros:- Unlocked for all carriers, according to the listing
- A18 processor and 8 GB RAM
- 48MP rear camera with 4K video capture
- USB-C connector and wireless charging
Cons:- 60 Hz display is less fluid than the 14 Pro models’ 120 Hz screens
- Renewed condition may vary, and the supplied warranty is 90 days
- The listing says the phone is not water resistant
Best for: Buyers who want the newest-generation phone in this lineup, 5G, a 48MP camera, and all-carrier compatibility.
Not ideal for: Buyers who prioritize a 120 Hz screen, a triple-camera system, or a listing that specifies water resistance.
- Model year:2024
- Storage:128 GB
- Processor:Apple A18, 3.2 GHz
- Display:6.1-inch OLED, 2556 × 1179 pixels, 460 ppi, 60 Hz
- Rear camera:48 MP
- Front camera:12 MP
- Connectivity:5G; unlocked for all carriers; eSIM
- Connector:USB Type-C
- Warranty:90 days
Our verdict“I recommend the unlocked iPhone 16 as the strongest all-around choice here for buyers who value newer hardware and carrier flexibility over a ProMotion display.”
Apple iPhone 14 Pro, 128GB, Deep Purple, Unlocked (Renewed)
The iPhone 14 Pro is my choice for buyers who want Pro-level screen and camera features without moving up to the 6.7-inch Pro Max. Its 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display combines Always-On functionality with 120 Hz ProMotion, giving it a smoother feel than the standard iPhone 16’s specified 60 Hz screen. The triple rear camera system also offers a more versatile setup than the single 48MP rear camera described for the iPhone 16 or the dual 12MP cameras on the iPhone 13.
Its A16 chip is an older generation than the iPhone 16’s A18, so buyers choosing the 14 Pro are prioritizing its Pro hardware rather than the newest model year. The phone is unlocked for all carriers and supports 5G and wireless charging, which makes it easier to fit into a change of carrier or device routine than the Verizon-locked 14 Pro Max. Its 90-day Amazon Renewed warranty and the possibility of variation in renewed condition are still part of the decision.
This is a better match than the iPhone 16 for someone who cares about a fast-refresh screen and three rear cameras, and a better match than the Pro Max for someone who wants those features in a smaller body. I would skip it if the main goal is the newest generation, or if one physical SIM slot is a dealbreaker. Its distinct appeal is the compact Pro package, not maximum screen size or generation freshness.
Pros:- 6.1-inch OLED display with Always-On and 120 Hz ProMotion
- 48MP triple rear camera system
- Unlocked for all carriers and supports 5G
- Supports wireless charging and dual SIM
Cons:- A16 chip is an older generation than the iPhone 16’s A18
- Renewed condition may vary
- Only one physical SIM slot is listed
Best for: Buyers who want a 6.1-inch iPhone with a 120 Hz display, Always-On functionality, and a triple rear camera system.
Not ideal for: Buyers who want the newest model in this group, more than one physical SIM slot, or a large-screen phone.
- Storage:128 GB
- Processor:Apple A16 Bionic
- Display:6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED, 2556 × 1179
- Refresh rate:120 Hz
- Rear camera:48 MP, three cameras
- Front camera:12 MP
- Connectivity:5G; unlocked for all carriers
- SIM:Dual SIM; one physical SIM slot
- Warranty:90-day Amazon Renewed warranty
Our verdict“I recommend the iPhone 14 Pro to buyers who value its smoother display and triple cameras more than the iPhone 16’s newer generation.”
Apple iPhone 13, 128GB, Midnight, Unlocked (Renewed)
The iPhone 13 is the straightforward pick for a buyer who wants a familiar 6.1-inch iPhone experience, unlocked carrier use, and a capable dual-camera setup. Its Super Retina XDR OLED display has the same 60 Hz refresh rate listed for the iPhone 16, and its two rear cameras provide wide and ultra-wide perspectives. That makes it more flexible for framing than the single rear camera listed for the iPhone 16, though the newer phone has a much higher-resolution main camera and newer hardware.
Compared with the iPhone 12 mini, the iPhone 13 gives up the tiny body but is the less specialized choice for people who want a standard-sized screen. It also records 4K video at up to 60 frames per second, and the listing describes the phone as professionally inspected, tested, and cleaned. It may arrive in a generic box, and it is not Apple certified; buyers should treat the renewed condition as a real factor rather than assuming a factory-fresh device.
I place it below the iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 16 because it lacks their newer generation positioning and Pro display features. But it can make more sense than either if a buyer simply wants an unlocked iPhone with OLED, Face ID, dual cameras, and 4K recording. Its Lightning connector is also a practical distinction from the iPhone 16’s USB-C. Choose this model for the basics done well; skip it if you want the fastest display or the newest camera hardware.
Pros:- Unlocked for carrier flexibility
- 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display
- Dual 12MP rear cameras and 4K recording up to 60 fps
- Professionally inspected, tested, and cleaned
Cons:- Renewed device is not Apple certified
- May arrive in a generic box
- Uses Lightning rather than USB-C
Best for: Buyers who want an unlocked, standard-size iPhone with an OLED screen, dual rear cameras, and 4K video.
Not ideal for: Buyers seeking a 120 Hz display, USB-C, the newest generation, or an Apple-certified renewed device.
- Storage:128 GB
- Display:6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED, 2532 × 1170, 60 Hz
- Rear cameras:12 MP wide and 12 MP ultra-wide
- Front camera:12 MP
- Video:4K at up to 60 fps; 1080p at up to 240 fps
- Connector:Lightning
- SIM:Single Nano-SIM
- Security:Face Recognition
- Condition:Renewed; professionally inspected, tested, and cleaned
Our verdict“I recommend the iPhone 13 for buyers who want a capable unlocked daily phone and do not need the newer hardware or Pro display of the top-ranked models.”
Apple iPhone 14 Pro Max, 128GB, Space Black, Verizon Locked (Renewed)
The iPhone 14 Pro Max is the large-screen choice in this roundup. Its 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR display adds Always-On and ProMotion, so it offers a more expansive view and smoother motion than the 6.1-inch iPhone 14 Pro. Both share an A16 Bionic chip and a 48MP main camera, according to the supplied details, making the Pro Max a size-led alternative rather than a newer or fundamentally different generation of Pro hardware.
That extra screen area is useful for buyers who spend a lot of time watching video, reading, or working across a larger display. In exchange, the phone weighs 7 ounces and has a larger body than the compact Pro and standard models. The more consequential limit is its Verizon lock: it is not the flexible choice for someone who may switch carriers or wants an unlocked handset. The listing also states that it is not water resistant, a notable limitation beside the water-resistant iPhone 14 Pro listing.
I rank it below the unlocked 14 Pro because the audience is narrower, even though the screen is bigger. Choose it when large-screen Pro features and Verizon compatibility are the priorities. If you want a similar Pro display in a more manageable phone, the 14 Pro is the better fit; if you want newer-generation hardware and unlocked service, the iPhone 16 makes more sense.
Pros:- Large 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR display
- Always-On and ProMotion features
- 48MP main camera and 4K Dolby Vision video
- A16 Bionic chip, 5G, and Crash Detection
Cons:- Locked to Verizon
- Listing says it is not water resistant
- Larger 7-ounce body may not suit buyers who prefer compact phones
Best for: Verizon customers who want a large 6.7-inch display with Always-On, ProMotion, and a 48MP main camera.
Not ideal for: People who need an unlocked phone, plan to switch carriers, or want a device listed as water resistant.
- Model year:2022
- Storage:128 GB
- Display:6.7-inch Super Retina XDR with Always-On and ProMotion
- Main camera:48 MP
- Processor:A16 Bionic
- Connectivity:5G; Verizon locked
- Weight:7 ounces
- Water resistance:Not water resistant, according to listing
- Safety:Crash Detection
Our verdict“I recommend this Pro Max only to Verizon users who specifically want a large display and accept the renewed-device and water-resistance limits.”
Apple iPhone 12 Mini, 128GB, Green (Unlocked, Renewed)
The iPhone 12 mini earns its place for one clear reason: it is the compact option in a lineup otherwise built around 6.1-inch and 6.7-inch screens. For buyers who prefer a phone that takes up less room, that form factor may matter more than newer camera or processor specifications. Its unlocked status also gives it a flexibility advantage over the Verizon-locked iPhone 14 Pro Max, provided the buyer verifies compatibility with their carrier.
The tradeoff is that the supplied product details are much thinner than those for the other models. They specify 128GB storage, green color, renewed condition, and a battery guaranteed to retain at least 80% capacity; they do not provide detailed display, camera, or processor specifications. That minimum battery figure is a floor, not a promise of like-new endurance. The listing includes a generic MFi-certified charging cable, but headphones and a SIM card are not included.
I would choose this over the iPhone 13 only when compact size is the main requirement. The iPhone 13 offers more detail about its screen and dual cameras, while the iPhone 16 and 14 Pro offer newer-generation or Pro features. Buyers who use their phone heavily throughout the day or want the strongest camera details in this comparison should look elsewhere. The mini is a specialist pick for people who value a small footprint and accept the limits of an older renewed model.
Pros:- Compact mini form factor
- Unlocked for compatible GSM and CDMA carriers
- 128 GB storage
- Includes a generic MFi-certified charging cable
Cons:- Renewed battery is guaranteed to have at least 80% capacity, not more
- Carrier compatibility should be checked before purchase
- Headphones and SIM card are not included
Best for: Buyers who want the smallest phone in this lineup and need an unlocked model for a compatible carrier.
Not ideal for: Buyers who need detailed camera specifications, long battery endurance, or a newer-generation phone.
- Storage:128 GB
- Color:Green
- Network:Unlocked; GSM and CDMA carrier compatibility should be verified
- Condition:Renewed
- Minimum battery capacity:80%
- Included accessory:Generic MFi-certified charging cable
- Not included:Headphones and SIM card
Our verdict“I recommend the iPhone 12 mini only when a compact size is the deciding factor and the buyer accepts the stated renewed-battery floor.”
How We Picked
I ranked these phones by how clearly each one meets a different buyer need within a comparison of best iPhone models. I gave the most weight to generation and everyday capability, then considered display quality, camera setup, carrier freedom, size, and the disclosed limits of each renewed listing. That puts the unlocked iPhone 16 at the top for its 2024 generation, A18 chip, 48MP rear camera, and all-carrier compatibility. The iPhone 14 Pro follows for buyers who value Pro display and camera hardware over having the newest model.
I also counted constraints that can change whether a phone is a sensible choice. The 14 Pro Max is capable on paper, but a Verizon lock narrows its audience. The 12 mini earns a spot for its compact size and unlocked status, while its stated minimum battery capacity calls for realistic expectations. The iPhone 13 remains a strong all-around option, though it lacks the faster refresh rates and newer-generation positioning of the Pro and 16 models. All five are renewed, so I include condition and warranty details where supplied and avoid assuming that cosmetic condition or battery performance exceeds the listing.
These rankings reflect the product information provided, not hands-on testing. I have not inferred unsupported details, such as exact battery life for models where it was not supplied. Since renewed condition can vary and carrier restrictions matter, buyers should check the listing and confirm compatibility with their own carrier before choosing.
| iPhone model | Processor |
|---|---|
| Apple iPhone 16 | Apple A18, 3.2 GHz |
| Apple iPhone 14 Pro | Apple A16 Bionic |
| Apple iPhone 13 | — |
| Apple iPhone 14 Pro Max | A16 Bionic |
| Apple iPhone 12 Mini | — |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Best IPhone Models
I would start with how you use a phone day to day, then check carrier and renewed-device terms. A model with stronger specs is not automatically the right purchase if its lock, screen size, or condition details do not fit your needs.
Choose between newer hardware and Pro features
The iPhone 16 is the newest model in this group and has the A18 chip, USB-C, and a 48MP rear camera. The iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max use the A16 generation, but they offer 120 Hz ProMotion and Always-On displays. The 14 Pro listing also specifies three rear cameras. If you value a smoother screen and camera variety, I would favor the 14 Pro; if generation and USB-C matter more, I would choose the iPhone 16.
Match the screen to your grip and routines
The Pro Max has the largest screen at 6.7 inches, while the 14 Pro, iPhone 16, and iPhone 13 are listed at 6.1 inches. The 12 mini is the compact pick, though the provided listing does not supply its screen size. Larger displays suit video and reading, but they also mean a larger handset: the Pro Max weighs 7 ounces. Buyers who want a more manageable size have several standard-format options, and those who want the smallest body should look closely at the mini.
Confirm carrier support before choosing
Carrier status changes the practical value of these models. The iPhone 16 and iPhone 14 Pro are described as unlocked for all carriers, and the iPhone 13 is also listed as unlocked. The 12 mini is unlocked for compatible GSM and CDMA carriers, with a specific instruction to verify compatibility. The 14 Pro Max is Verizon locked, so it is best suited to buyers who plan to use it with Verizon service. Check your carrier’s device and eSIM requirements before ordering.
Set realistic expectations for renewed condition
Every option here is renewed, but the supplied condition details differ. The 12 mini listing guarantees at least 80% battery capacity. The iPhone 16 and 14 Pro listings specify a 90-day warranty; the iPhone 13 is described as professionally inspected, tested, and cleaned, but not Apple certified, and it may arrive in a generic box. Review the seller’s current condition terms and included accessories for the exact unit. I would not treat a stated minimum battery level or inspection as a guarantee of a like-new appearance or endurance.
Compare the camera setup you will actually use
The iPhone 14 Pro listing has a 48MP triple rear camera system, while the iPhone 14 Pro Max lists a 48MP main camera and 4K Dolby Vision video. The iPhone 16 has a 48MP rear camera with 4K capture. The iPhone 13 instead has dual 12MP wide and ultra-wide cameras, which can help when you want a broader framing option. For camera versatility, the two Pro models stand out; for newer hardware with a high-resolution main camera, the iPhone 16 leads this set.
Check water-resistance details and connections
The supplied iPhone 16 and iPhone 14 Pro specs say they are not water resistant and water resistant, respectively; the iPhone 14 Pro Max listing also says it is not water resistant. The provided iPhone 13 and 12 mini details do not specify water resistance, so I would not assume a rating from this comparison. Connector choice also affects daily use: the iPhone 16 uses USB-C, while the iPhone 13 uses Lightning. Match the phone to the cables and accessories you already rely on.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which iPhone is the best overall choice in this comparison?
I rank the unlocked iPhone 16 first because it is the newest model listed and combines an A18 chip, a 48MP rear camera, 5G, USB-C, and all-carrier compatibility. The iPhone 14 Pro may suit you better if you value a 120 Hz screen and triple cameras more than a newer generation. The iPhone 16 listing specifies a 60 Hz screen and says the device is not water resistant, so those details should factor into the choice.
Should I choose the iPhone 14 Pro or iPhone 16?
Choose the iPhone 14 Pro if its 120 Hz ProMotion display, Always-On feature, and triple rear camera system are your priorities. Choose the iPhone 16 if you prefer the newer A18 generation, USB-C, and an unlocked model described as compatible with all carriers. Both listings describe renewed devices, and the iPhone 14 Pro includes a 90-day Amazon Renewed warranty.
Is the iPhone 14 Pro Max a good choice for any carrier?
No. The supplied listing identifies the iPhone 14 Pro Max as Verizon locked, which makes it most appropriate for buyers using Verizon service. If you want a Pro model with broader carrier flexibility, the unlocked iPhone 14 Pro is the closer alternative. I would confirm the exact device’s compatibility with your carrier before buying, especially if you rely on eSIM or plan to change networks.
What should I know about the renewed iPhone 12 mini battery?
The listing guarantees a minimum of 80% battery capacity. That tells you the battery may have less capacity than when new, and the guarantee does not promise a particular number of hours for your personal use. If all-day heavy use is a priority, I would compare the mini carefully with the iPhone 13 or iPhone 16, whose listing provides average battery-life details; those figures still do not guarantee the same result for every user.
Which model should I choose if I want a smaller phone?
The iPhone 12 mini is the compact pick in this lineup. It is unlocked for compatible carriers and has 128GB storage, but the supplied details do not describe its display, camera, or processor, and its battery is guaranteed at a minimum of 80% capacity. If you want a standard-size phone with more detailed camera information, the 6.1-inch iPhone 13 is a better documented alternative; if you want compact Pro features, consider the 6.1-inch iPhone 14 Pro.
Conclusion
I would choose the unlocked iPhone 16 for the best mix of newer hardware and carrier flexibility in this lineup. If display smoothness and camera versatility matter more, the iPhone 14 Pro is the Pro-focused alternative in a 6.1-inch body. For a large-screen Verizon phone, the iPhone 14 Pro Max fits that specific need, while the iPhone 13 suits buyers who want a simpler unlocked daily iPhone. Pick the iPhone 12 mini when a compact size outweighs the age and stated battery floor. Before ordering any of them, confirm carrier compatibility and review the renewed condition and warranty details for the listing.
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