QUESTION
Should I buy a budget Android or an older iPhone?
For pricing, a used/refurbished older iPhone is usually about $180–$350, while a new budget Android is usually about $120–$300. If you’re comparing older iPhones to budget Androids, the iPhone often costs more upfront, but it can be the better buy if it’s in good condition and still has solid battery life.
A practical buying rule:
- Older iPhone: good deal around $180–$250 for a clean refurb/used unit with decent battery health.
- Budget Android: good deal around $120–$220 for a new, unlocked model from a reputable brand.
- Walk away if the iPhone has weak battery health, poor storage, or no returns, or if the Android is ultra-cheap with low RAM/storage and a weak update policy.
Prices move a lot by model, storage, battery health, and warranty, so check sold/completed listings before buying.