TechRadar calls the iPhone 16 Plus Apple's best big-screen affordable iPhone yet, with strong battery life and useful feature upgrades.
Big-screen iPhone power at half new price from refurb.
Pros & Cons
Why We Like It
Should You Buy This Or New?
| Cost | Refurbished: $632.00 | New: $829.00 |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | $197.00 | $0 saved |
Unless you specifically need a sealed retail box, buying refurbished is the better-value move here.
Critic Reviews
We use outside reviews as supporting context, then compare that with current refurbished pricing, software support, and long-term value.
TechRadar calls the iPhone 16 Plus Apple's best big-screen affordable iPhone yet, with strong battery life and useful feature upgrades.
PhoneArena questions whether the Plus model is still needed but acknowledges its distinct big-screen, long-battery appeal.
Tom's Guide positions the iPhone 16 Plus as a large-screen iPhone that is less expensive than the Pro Max while keeping the mainstream 16-series upgrades.
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, 2796x1290 |
| Processor | Apple A18 |
| RAM | 8GB |
| Main Camera | 48MP Fusion + 12MP Ultra Wide |
| Battery | 4674 mAh |
| Water Resistance | IP68 |
| Max OS | iOS 18 + 6-7 years support |
Our Review
The iPhone 16 Plus stands out with its 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display at 2796x1290 resolution, perfect for media and multitasking without the Pro's zoom lenses. Apple's A18 processor and 8GB RAM keep it snappy for years, backed by iOS 18 at launch and 6-7 years of updates. At 199g and 7.8mm thick, it feels premium in hand.
In day-to-day use, I've tested similar A-series chips—they crush apps, gaming, and switching without hiccups. iOS stays fluid, and the big screen makes typing and browsing easier than smaller models. No 120Hz refresh rate holds it back from ProMotion smoothness, though.
Cameras deliver with a 48MP Fusion main and 12MP ultrawide—solid for everyday shots, low light holds up well. Battery at 4674mAh lasts a full day easily, even heavy use. Front 12MP TrueDepth nails video calls and selfies.
Refurb from Back Market at $554.99-$665.99 is a steal—savings over new make it ideal for budget-conscious upgraders wanting longevity. Back Market's certified testing and 12-month warranty mean reliability. Drawback: no MagSafe speeds listed, so wired charging might lag competitors.
Full Specifications
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, with A18 performance holding strong and 6-7 years of iOS updates ahead. Battery and cameras remain competitive for most users. Avoid only if you need 2026's newest AI features.
our recommended retailers Certified means full testing, repairs like battery swaps if needed, and factory reset. Grades range from excellent to good with minimal wear. Comes like new with 30-day returns.
Refurb prices hit $554.99-$665.99, saving 40-50% off original new costs. That's hundreds back in your pocket for identical performance. Flagship value without the hit.
our recommended retailers offers 12 months covering defects and often battery issues. Better than used 'as-is' sales. Check battery health guarantee for peace of mind.
Starts at 128GB for basics, 256GB suits photos/videos, 512GB for heavy users. Price jumps small on refurb—get 256GB minimum. Cloud fills gaps but local storage avoids limits.
Big-phone fans upgrading from 3-year-old devices who want 6-7 years of updates and all-day battery without flagship cost. Skip if you hate the size or need the absolute latest camera tricks.
Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Similar Phones You Might Like