iPhone reliability and iOS longevity at under $204.
Pros & Cons
Why We Like It
Should You Buy This Or New?
| Cost | Refurbished: $223.99 | New: $649.00 |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | Same chip, screen, and cameras | Same phone hardware |
| Software | No official end-of-life date listed yet; supports OS 26 | Same software support |
| Savings | $425.01 | $0 saved |
Unless you specifically need a sealed retail box, buying refurbished is the better-value move here.
Key Specs
| Display | 6.1-inch Liquid Retina HD LCD, 60Hz |
| Processor | Apple A13 Bionic |
| RAM | 4GB |
| Main Camera | 12MP wide + 12MP ultrawide |
| Battery | 3110 mAh |
| Water Resistance | IP68 |
| Charging | Wireless charging, Lightning cable |
Our Review
The iPhone 11 landed in 2019, and it's aged better than most mid-range competitors because Apple actually supports its phones. The A13 Bionic is still fast enough for apps, games, and multitasking without stuttering. I've used older iPhones, and this one doesn't feel slow even now. The 6.1-inch Liquid Retina LCD isn't OLED—colours are good but blacks aren't as deep—but honestly, most people won't notice unless they're pixel-peeping.
Day-to-day, this phone is genuinely capable. Battery life reaches a full day with moderate use, and the IP68 rating means it handles spills and brief dunks. Wireless charging is there if you want it. Performance doesn't lag on social media, email, or streaming. It's not a gaming powerhouse, but it handles what most people throw at it.
The camera is the real story. The dual 12MP setup—wide and ultrawide—takes excellent photos in daylight and decent shots in lower light. Night mode works, but don't expect miracles. The front 12MP camera is solid for video calls and selfies. It's not a photography phone, but it's genuinely good for a device this old.
Here's why the refurbished angle matters: a new iPhone 11 would cost significantly more (if you could find one), and you'd get the same performance. Back Market's 12-month warranty means you're protected against battery degradation or hardware issues. At $203.99, you're buying a phone that will get iOS updates for another two to three years minimum, which is longer than most budget Android phones get security patches.
Full Specifications
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, because Apple still updates it and will for another couple of years. The A13 Bionic handles everyday tasks without complaint. The main trade-off is the LCD screen—it's not as punchy as modern OLED. But if you care about longevity and software support, it's worth it.
our recommended retailers refurbished phones are tested thoroughly, reset to factory settings, and often include a battery replacement. They're not new, so there may be minor cosmetic marks, but the phone works like it should. You get a 12-month warranty covering hardware issues.
At $203.99, you're spending roughly 40–50% less than you would for a new flagship iPhone. A new iPhone 11 (if available) would cost significantly more, and you'd get identical performance.
Yes. our recommended retailers offers a 12-month warranty, which covers hardware defects and battery issues. That's a real safety net when buying used—it's why shopping from a certified refurbisher matters.
Almost certainly yes for the next two to three years. Apple updates phones for six to seven years from launch, and the iPhone 11 launched in 2019. That's one of the strongest reasons to buy it refurbished.
If you want a phone that'll get security updates for years and doesn't ask you to learn Android, this is it. Perfect for someone stepping up from an older iPhone or Android user ready to switch without breaking the bank.
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