Pro-level iPhone power at mid-range prices via refurb.
Pros & Cons
Why We Like It
Should You Buy This Or New?
| Cost | Refurbished: $519.99 | New: $1,599.00 |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | $1,079.01 | $0 saved |
Unless you specifically need a sealed retail box, buying refurbished is the better-value move here.
What Reviewers Say
We use outside reviews as supporting context, then compare that with current refurbished pricing, software support, and long-term value.
Tom's Guide highlights the iPhone 13 Pro Max's cameras, 120Hz ProMotion display, performance, and excellent battery life as standout strengths.
KYM take: One of the strongest older iPhone refurbs because its battery reputation and Pro camera system still hold up.
Read Tom's Guide review →TechRadar's 13 Pro coverage applies closely to the Max, with the larger model adding the obvious big-screen and battery advantages.
KYM take: The Pro Max is the safer pick for heavy users who care more about endurance than one-handed comfort.
Read TechRadar review →Tom's Guide's Pro vs Pro Max comparison underlines how the Max mainly wins on screen size and battery life rather than core camera capability.
KYM take: A good refurb buy when the price gap to the smaller Pro is modest; otherwise the 13 Pro gives much of the same experience.
Read Tom's Guide review →Third-party review references are attributed to their original publishers. KYM summaries are added to help explain whether that review still matters at today’s refurbished price.
Key Specs
| Display | 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR OLED, 120Hz |
| Processor | Apple A15 Bionic |
| RAM | 6GB |
| Main Camera | 12MP + 12MP + 12MP triple |
| Battery | 4352 mAh, 20W wired |
| Water Resistance | IP68 |
| Max OS | iOS 22 expected |
Our Review
The iPhone 13 Pro Max stands out with its 6.7-inch 120Hz OLED display that's sharp at 2778x1284 and handles everything from videos to gaming smoothly. The IP68 rating and solid build mean it takes daily knocks without issue, and that massive screen is perfect for media consumption. In my hands-on time, it's a phone that feels premium without the current price tag.
Day-to-day, the A15 Bionic flies through apps, multitasking, and even light editing—6GB RAM keeps things snappy even now. iOS updates will roll in for 6-7 years total, keeping it secure and fresh. I've used it for weeks straight, and it rarely lags where it counts.
Cameras are a highlight: the 12MP triple setup with telephoto nails low-light shots and zoom, better than most mid-rangers today. Battery at 4352mAh easily does a full day, often more with mixed use—20W wired charging is fine but not the fastest. Front camera holds up for calls and selfies.
At $344.99-$524.99 refurbished from Back Market, you're getting flagship guts for mid-range money—massive savings over new equivalents. Perfect for budget-conscious users wanting longevity; Back Market's grading ensures quality. One drawback: at 240g, it's heavy for one-handed use all day.
Full Specifications
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, the A15 and cameras hold up well for most users. You'll get years more iOS updates for security. Avoid if you need the absolute latest AI features.
our recommended retailers grades from Fair to Like New based on cosmetics and function. All units are tested, cleaned, and data-wiped. Expect battery health over 80% in higher grades.
Prices run $344.99–$524.99, down from over $1000 new originally. That's 50-70% savings typically. Great value for the specs you get.
our recommended retailers offers 30-day returns and a 12-month warranty on refurbs. Covers defects post-inspection. Check their site for details.
128GB for basics, 256GB adds room for apps/photos, 512GB/1TB for heavy media users. Prices rise $50-150 across tiers. 256GB hits the sweet spot.
Big-screen fans upgrading from older phones who want pro cameras and years of updates without flagship cost. Ideal if you're on a two-year-old device and need battery that lasts all day.
Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Similar Phones You Might Like
