As we move through 2026, many people are wondering if older tech like the iPhone 13 and the tiny 13 mini can still keep up. Even though these phones are now five years old, they are surprisingly still great choices for anyone trying to save some money. In fact, many experts point out that when the iPhone 14 first came out, it didn't offer much of a leap forward, which helped the iPhone 13 stay relevant and popular for much longer than expected.

If you are looking at the used market right now, you can usually find a standard iPhone 13 for somewhere between $200 and $250. Interestingly, the 13 mini often costs just as much, or sometimes even more, because Apple stopped making small phones and collectors are snatching them up. For that price, you're getting a phone that still feels smooth, takes beautiful photos, and has a high-quality screen that doesn't feel outdated. Plus, there is good news on the software side: these models are likely to stay updated all the way until iOS 28, so you won’t be left behind on apps or security.

However, it’s not all perfect. The biggest headache with these older phones is the battery life. This is especially true for the iPhone 13 mini; because the battery is so small, once its health starts to drop, the phone can get sluggish or even turn off randomly. While these hold up well against the iPhone 14, they naturally can’t compete with the massive battery life and advanced screens of the newer iPhone 17. Overall, if you can find one in great condition with a fresh battery, it’s a fantastic budget investment, but you have to be careful when buying secondhand.