Recommended Free Tools
Compare the exact iPhone generation first: Pro and Pro Max differences in screen size, camera, battery claims and SIM configuration can change from one generation or region to another. Then inspect the individual phone and the seller’s written terms. Above all, do not buy a device that is still Activation Locked; Apple Support says, “Don’t buy an iPhone if Activation Lock is enabled.”
Compare the exact generation, not just the model names
The Pro is the smaller option and the Pro Max is the larger one, but the practical differences are generation-specific. Before comparing offers, identify the exact model, storage capacity and regional version. Use that model’s specifications rather than assuming a camera, battery or SIM feature carries over from a different year.
Size and everyday handling
Compare display size, dimensions and weight, and consider whether the larger phone is comfortable in your hand and pocket. If possible, handle the same generation of both models before deciding; a larger screen is useful only if the size works for you.
Camera differences
Check the camera configuration for the exact generation, especially whether its telephoto camera or optical zoom differs between Pro and Pro Max. For one specific example, Apple’s US refurbished iPhone 15 Pro Max listing describes a 5x Telephoto camera and a 6.7-inch diagonal display. Those are specifications of that model, not rules for every Pro Max.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
#1 Best Overall
- Titanium frame combines strength and lightness, giving the iPhone 16 Pro a premium feel while reducing weight for prolonged daily use. The polished edges and textured back enhance grip and handling, making it easier to use during long calls, gaming sessions, or when capturing photos and videos on the move.
On the used phone itself, test each available lens, including telephoto and ultra-wide where present. Take photos in bright and low light, check focus and clarity, and record and play back a video.
Battery and price
Compare Apple’s battery claims for the exact model, but treat them as new-device estimates, not promises about a used phone. Apple’s listing for the refurbished iPhone 15 Pro Max gives up to 29 hours of video playback; that manufacturer estimate does not establish how long a particular second-hand device will run.
Rank #2
- 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display featuring Always-On & ProMotion.
Compare prices for the same generation, storage and condition. Include the seller’s warranty and return window, battery promise and parts policy in the comparison, along with any likely battery or repair cost. No single battery-health percentage is established here as a universal cutoff for buying a used iPhone.
SIM configuration, region and carrier lock
Confirm that the exact regional model supports the SIM setup you need, then check whether the phone is locked to a carrier. Apple’s cited US iPhone 15 Pro Max listing specifies dual eSIM and no physical SIM-card compatibility; do not apply that US model detail to another region or generation.
Rank #3
- 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display featuring Always-On & ProMotion.
On the phone, go to Settings > General > About > Network Provider Lock. “No SIM restrictions” means the iPhone is unlocked; a named provider means it is limited to that provider. Check the phone’s exact SIM or eSIM capabilities against your carrier and travel needs.
Inspect the specific iPhone before paying—or during the return period
- Resolve Activation Lock: Have the owner remove the lock before an in-person purchase. Make sure the phone can be erased and activated. If an online phone arrives locked to its owner, Apple advises returning it.
- Ask about condition and repairs: Ask the seller about physical damage, battery condition and repair or parts history. Inspect the display, sides, back and charging connector for scratches, dents, debris or damage.
- Power it on and charge it: Confirm that it starts and charges. Apple advises against buying an iPhone that will not charge.
- Review model and parts information: Open Settings > General > About to check the iOS version and, if present, Parts and Service History. Apple says Parts and Service History may appear on iOS 15.2 or later, depending on the model and whether a part has been replaced.
- Check battery health: On newer iOS versions, open Settings > Battery > Battery Health & Charging. Review Maximum Capacity and any important messages. Apple notes battery-health information may not be available for unknown or nongenuine batteries.
- Test basic functions: Connect to Wi-Fi and test the buttons, cameras and video playback. Check photos for focus and clarity rather than relying only on the seller’s description.
- Keep the seller’s terms: Get warranty and return terms in writing. If an online phone differs from its description, act within the return window.
How to interpret Parts and Service History
When a part is listed as a “Genuine Apple Part,” Apple defines that label as an Apple genuine part used in the repair. An “Unknown” label is not a single diagnosis: it can mean the installation is incomplete, the part is nongenuine or previously used, or the part is not functioning as expected. Ask the seller what repair was performed and weigh the answer alongside the phone’s condition and return terms.
Rank #4
- 6.1" LTPO Super Retina XDR OLED, 120Hz, HDR10, Dolby Vision, 1179x2556px, 1000 nits (typ), 2000 nits (HBM), 19.5:9 ratio, 3274mAh Battery
- 256GB 8GB RAM, Apple A17 Pro (3 nm), Hexa-core (2x3.78 GHz + 4x2.11 GHz), Apple GPU (6-core graphics), iOS 17, upgradable to iOS 17.6.1, planned upgrade to iOS 18
- Rear camera: 48MP, f/1.8 (wide) + 12MP, f/2.8 (telephoto) 3x optical zoom + 12MP, f/2.2 (ultrawide), Front Camera: 12MP, f/1.9 (wide)
- 2G: 850/900/1800/1900, 3G: HSDPA 850/900/1700(AWS)/1900/2100, 4G LTE: 1/2/3/4/5/7/8/12/13/14/17/18/19/20/25/26/28/29/30/32/34/38/39/40/41/42/46/48/53/66/71, 5G: 1/2/3/5/7/8/12/14/20/25/26/28/29/30/38/40/41/48/53/66/70/71/77/78/79/258/260/261 SA/NSA/Sub6/mmWave - Dual eSIM
- Unlocked for freedom to choose your carrier. Compatible with both GSM & CDMA networks. The phone is unlocked to work with all GSM Carriers & CDMA Carriers Including AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, Sprint., Etc.
What Apple Certified Refurbished includes—and what it does not promise elsewhere
Apple’s cited US refurbished iPhone 15 Pro Max listing states that refurbished iPhone models include a new battery and outer shell, a one-year warranty like a new iPhone, a 14-day return policy and the option to purchase AppleCare. These are terms of Apple’s cited US listing; they are not automatically included with a third-party refurbisher’s or private seller’s phone.
For any other seller, check the specific written terms for battery condition, parts used, cosmetic grading, warranty and return period. Do not assume a listing described as refurbished includes Apple’s battery, shell, warranty or returns.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Fully unlocked and compatible with any carrier of choice (e.g. AT&T, T-Mobile, Sprint, Verizon, US-Cellular, Cricket, Metro, etc.).
- Inspected and guaranteed to have minimal cosmetic damage, which is not noticeable when the device is held at arm's length.
- Successfully passed a full diagnostic test which ensures like-new functionality and removal of any prior-user personal information.
- The device does not come with headphones or a SIM card. It does include a charging cable that may be generic.
- Tested for battery health and guaranteed to have a minimum battery capacity of 80%.
Sources
- Apple Support Ireland: If you want to buy a pre-owned iPhone
- Apple: Refurbished iPhone 15 Pro Max 256GB – Natural Titanium (Unlocked)
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
