Is the iPhone 13 still worth it in 2025?

Is the iPhone 13 still worth it? In 2025, the answer is yes . Despite the arrival of newer models, the iPhone 13 remains a powerful and relevant smartphone several years after its release. Thanks to its powerful A15 Bionic chip, its quality camera, its excellent battery life and Apple's continuous software support (iOS 18 and beyond), it offers a premium experience at a price that is now much more affordable in refurbished form.

iPhone 13 performance in 2025 (A15 Bionic chip, smoothness, iOS 18)

The iPhone 13 features the A15 Bionic chip, which was cutting-edge in 2021 and remains very strong in 2025. This processor is still among the most powerful on the mobile market and ensures exemplary fluidity in all uses. Demanding applications, 3D games and multitasking run without noticeable slowdown, confirming that the iPhone 13 still has enough power under the hood. Moreover, it is notable that the iPhone 14 released after it still uses the A15 chip – a sign of the durability and power of this generation of processor.

In terms of software, the iPhone 13 natively supports iOS 18 , Apple's operating system from 2024/2025. It therefore benefits from Apple's latest software features and optimizations. The interface and features offered are exactly the same as on more recent models (for example the iPhone 15), and everything remains perfectly fluid and responsive. Apple is known for its long-term support: most iPhones receive around 5 to 6 years of major iOS updates . Therefore, we can estimate that the iPhone 13 will continue to receive major updates until 2026-2027, with possibly security patches beyond that. In short, in terms of performance and software, is the iPhone 13 still worth it? Yes, it still has a bright future in that regard.

Camera, design and battery life

The iPhone 13 features a modern design with flat aluminum edges and a 6.1-inch edge-to-edge display with a reduced notch. This look remains virtually unchanged across subsequent generations, proving that it has lost none of its visual appeal.

Design -wise, the iPhone 13 still looks as current as ever in 2025. Since Apple adopted angular lines with flat edges from the iPhone 12 onwards, the aesthetics of the iPhone 13 remain close to those of the iPhone 14 and even 15. The aluminum chassis and glass back give an impression of premium quality, without any major visual changes compared to more recent models. . Its reasonable dimensions and 6.1-inch screen offer a comfortable grip, without a “brick” effect. In addition, it is IP68 certified for water and dust resistance, and protected by the Ceramic Shield on the screen – enough to ensure good physical durability in everyday use. The only slight differentiator from later models is that the iPhone 13 retains the Lightning port (USB-C was only adopted from the iPhone 15), but this does not hinder its use for most users.

In terms of the camera , the iPhone 13 has a dual 12 MP rear sensor (wide-angle + ultra-wide-angle) which is still among the best on the market in its category. It inherited the photo advances of the iPhone 12 Pro Max at its release, with larger sensors capturing light better, which gives photos rich in detail and sharper in low light. Night mode automatically improves shots in the dark, and Cinematic mode lets you shoot videos with beautiful background blur (a feature missing from the iPhone 12). Thanks to the power of the A15 processor, image processing is excellent and fast. In fact, the iPhone 13 only lacks a telephoto lens for optical zoom to compete with the “Pro” models, but other than that, its camera will still more than meet the needs of most users in 2025.

Finally, the iPhone 13's battery life is a notable asset. Apple had significantly improved the battery capacity compared to the iPhone 12, and it shows: we gain up to 2.5 hours of additional use compared to the previous generation . In concrete terms, the iPhone 13 easily lasts a full day on battery with intensive use (apps, video, 4G/5G, GPS, etc.), and often a day and a half with more moderate use. This leap in endurance was welcomed upon its release, putting an end to the mockery of the poor battery life of older iPhones . Charging can be done via a 20W charger (about 1h30 for 100%) or via MagSafe wireless. In 2025, the battery of refurbished units is generally checked and replaced if necessary by the sellers, which guarantees good battery performance even for a device that is 3-4 years old. Again, is the iPhone 13 still worth it? Yes, because it offers comfortable everyday endurance, comparable to that of newer models.

Apple Software Support Duration (iOS Updates)

One of the strengths of the Apple ecosystem is its software support over time. Is the iPhone 13 still worth it in terms of software longevity? Most certainly, because Apple provides iOS updates for many years. The iPhone 13, launched with iOS 15, has already received iOS 16, iOS 17, and then iOS 18 in 2024. It will continue to benefit from future versions (iOS 19 in 2025, iOS 20 in 2026, etc.) as long as its hardware allows it. According to Apple's habits, an iPhone receives approximately 5 to 6 years of major updates after its release. . We can therefore expect the iPhone 13 to be fully supported until at least 2026/2027, which is a guarantee of software sustainability .

In practical terms, this means that your iPhone 13 will be entitled to new iOS features for several more years, as well as security patches that protect your data. For example, in 2025 with iOS 18 , an iPhone 13 benefits from the same modernized interface and software features as a recent iPhone 15 New features (like screen customizations, privacy enhancements, etc.) are available, and apps remain compatible. The user experience won't be outdated. In short, Apple's extensive software support allows the iPhone 13 to stay up-to-date and secure longer than many competing smartphones. This should reassure those who want to keep it for a few more years.

Comparison with iPhone 12 and iPhone 14

It's worth comparing the iPhone 13 to its direct predecessor (the iPhone 12) and successor (the iPhone 14) to see if it's still worth it in 2025.

• Compared to the iPhone 12 (2020) : The iPhone 13 brings significant improvements. Its A15 chip is about 20% more powerful than the A14 in the iPhone 12, which translates to better performance longevity. Above all, battery life has jumped with the iPhone 13, offering several hours more battery life. In terms of photography, the 13 has more advanced sensors (from the 12 Pro Max) and new features like Cinematic mode, which the iPhone 12 does not have. The design is very similar between the two (6.1” OLED screen with notch), except for a slightly reduced notch on the 13. In short, the iPhone 13 outperforms the iPhone 12 in almost every way, which makes it much more worth it than an iPhone 12 in 2025, especially since the iPhone 12 will reach the end of software support sooner.

• Compared to the iPhone 14 (2022) : good news, the iPhone 13 largely holds its own. Apple has changed the recipe only slightly on the iPhone 14, which uses the same design and same screen as the 13. Above all, the iPhone 14 uses the same A15 processor (admittedly with an additional GPU core, from the 13 Pro), so everyday performance remains almost identical between a 13 and a 14. The main camera of the iPhone 14 has been slightly improved (a slightly larger sensor, new Photonic Engine software stabilization), and the front camera of the 14 gains autofocus. However, in practice the differences in photo quality between an iPhone 13 and 14 are minimal in most situations. The 14 also brings safety features like accident detection and satellite emergency calling , absent on the iPhone 13 – useful additions but not essential for everyday use for many users. On the other hand, the new or even refurbished iPhone 14 will still cost significantly more than the iPhone 13 in 2025. So, from a value-for-money perspective, the iPhone 13 offers a very similar experience to the iPhone 14 for a much more attractive price. Unless you absolutely want the latest features of the 14, the iPhone 13 is clearly worth it compared to its direct successor.

Value for money in refurbished condition

Three years after its release, the iPhone 13 is no longer sold new by Apple, but it is easily found refurbished on specialist sites or second-hand stores. This is where it particularly shines in 2025: its quality/price ratio in refurbished used condition is excellent. Remember that when it was released at the end of 2021, the iPhone 13 cost nearly €909 in its basic version . Today, you can get a refurbished iPhone 13 for around €300 depending on storage and condition, which is about three times cheaper than its original price. For less than €350, few smartphones offer such a solid package: a high-end chip, an OLED display, a versatile camera, great battery life, and several years of remaining iOS updates.

In the 2025 refurbished market, the iPhone 13 is one of the most popular models. It remains at the top of sales , thanks to its very advantageous performance/price combination. Its A15 chip, 5G compatibility, enhanced battery life and dual camera make it a phone that is still very competitive , more than enough for intensive use in 2025. It can be recommended to both a techie and someone looking for their first iPhone, without blowing their budget. In addition, buying refurbished is part of an ecological approach (extending the lifespan of a device) while being economical. Refurbished iPhones from reputable sellers are tested, refurbished, with battery and defective parts replaced if necessary, and sold with a warranty - so you get a nearly new device for a fraction of the price.

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Who is it still a good choice for in 2025?

Who can say the iPhone 13 is still worth it in 2025? Actually, it's a lot of people . This versatile smartphone appeals to a wide audience who want to enjoy the Apple experience without paying the high price of the latest models. Here are some typical profiles for whom the iPhone 13 remains an excellent choice:

• Older iPhone users : If you have an iPhone 8, XR, 11, or even an older model, upgrading to the iPhone 13 will give you a huge technological leap (better screen, much better performance, much better battery life, better cameras, 5G, etc.). Without going all the way to the latest iPhone 15, the 13 will already offer you a major qualitative leap for a moderate cost. Many experienced users who had kept an old iPhone are taking advantage of 2025 to renew it with a refurbished iPhone 13, and they are delighted .

• Newcomers to the Apple ecosystem : If you've never had an iPhone and want to join the Apple universe, the iPhone 13 is an ideal entry point . It's modern enough to discover iOS in the best conditions (with Face ID, an OLED screen, a very powerful chip) without costing as much as a last-generation iPhone. For a teenager who is receiving their first "real" smartphone, or for an Android user curious to test the iPhone without breaking the bank, it's a very wise choice.

• People on a budget : The iPhone 13 is aimed at those looking for a balance between price and performance . In 2025, spending €300 on such a comprehensive phone is a great deal. Conversely, buying a new, state-of-the-art model (iPhone 15/16) easily costs 3 to 4 times more. If your uses are traditional (apps, video, photos, social networks, a little gaming) and you don't absolutely need the latest exclusive features, the iPhone 13 will do the job perfectly. It offers Apple reliability, build quality , and longevity without making you pay the "newness tax."

• Demanding users but not extreme techies : Even for advanced needs, the iPhone 13 has what it takes. It can suit casual content creators, professionals on the go, or mobile gamers, thanks to its powerful chip and optimized app ecosystem. Unless you specifically need a 3x telephoto lens or a 120Hz display (reserved for the newer Pro models), the iPhone 13 covers most intensive uses with flying colors. It's also known for its reliability and software stability, making it a work or leisure tool that's still very relevant in 2025.

In conclusion, is the iPhone 13 still worth it? For the majority of average users in 2025, the answer is a resounding yes. This phone combines long-lasting performance, beautiful photos, solid battery life, and guaranteed updates, all in a design that's still relevant today. At a reduced refurbished price, it represents a safe and sound investment for at least 2 or 3 years to come. The iPhone 13 may no longer have the aura of novelty, but it has reached a form of maturity that makes it very competitive with more recent models. In short, it 's still well worth it for anyone looking for a versatile and durable iPhone without breaking the bank.