As new iPhones launch, older models become tempting bargains. In 2025, the iPhone 11 and iPhone 13 are two popular budget-friendly options. While the iPhone 11's price is rock-bottom, is the saving worth it in the long run?
The Price Tag: A Tale of Two Budgets
In the landscape of 2025, the pricing for these two phones puts them in very different categories.
- iPhone 11 Price: As a 6-year-old device, the iPhone 11 is no longer sold new. You will find it exclusively on the used and refurbished market. Expect the iPhone 11 price to be in the $150 to $250 range, making it an ultra-budget option.
- iPhone 13 Price: At 4 years old, the iPhone 13 is a much more modern device. It's widely available on the refurbished market and may still be offered as a budget new option by some carriers. Expect the iPhone 13 price to be in the $350 to $450 range, positioning it as a prime "best value" choice.
The Deal-Breaker: Future-Proofing and Longevity
The price difference is significant, but the biggest factors in your decision should be how long the phone will remain useful and secure. This is where the value proposition diverges dramatically.
Software Support (iOS Updates)
This is the most critical point. The iPhone 11 was released in 2019. In late 2025, it is at or very near the end of its software update eligibility. This means it may not receive the latest version of iOS, leaving it without new features and, more importantly, without critical security patches. The iPhone 13, released in 2021, is guaranteed to receive iOS updates for several more years, ensuring it remains secure and compatible with the latest apps.
Connectivity: 4G vs. 5G
The iPhone 11 is a 4G LTE phone. The iPhone 13 has 5G. In 2025, with 5G networks now the standard across the US, this is a major difference. The iPhone 13 will deliver noticeably faster download and upload speeds, better streaming quality, and a more responsive online experience than the iPhone 11.
Key Upgrades: What Your Extra Money Buys withthe iPhone 13
Beyond the crucial future-proofing advantages, the higher iPhone 13 value is evident in its superior hardware across the board.
- A Brighter, Sharper Screen: The iPhone 13 features a Super Retina XDR (OLED) display, which is significantly brighter, has true blacks, and is much sharper than the older Liquid Retina (LCD) screen on the iPhone 11.
- A More Capable Camera System: While both take good photos in daylight, the iPhone 13's camera is a major leap forward. It has a larger main sensor for better low-light photos, sensor-shift stabilization for less blurry shots, and access to software features like Cinematic Mode.
- A Faster Processor: The A15 Bionic chip in the iPhone 13 is two generations ahead of the A13 Bionic in the iPhone 11. This means faster app launches, smoother gaming, and better overall performance that will feel more fluid for years to come.
- Improved Battery Life: Thanks to a more efficient chip and a larger battery, the iPhone 13 offers a noticeable improvement in day-to-day battery life.
The Verdict: Who Should Buy Which Phone in 2025?
The choice comes down to your budget versus your need for a phone that will last.
- Buy the iPhone 11 if: Your budget is strictly under $250, you only need a phone for basic calling, texting, and light browsing, and you fully accept the risk that it may stop receiving important security updates very soon.
- Buy the iPhone 13 if: You want the best possible value for your money. For nearly every user, the iPhone 13 is the smarter purchase. The extra cost is a direct investment in a longer, more secure, and more capable lifespan for your device.
Investing in the Future, Not Just the Price
While the rock-bottom iPhone 11 price is certainly tempting, its aging technology and imminent end to software support make it a risky purchase in late 2025. The iPhone 13 price, while higher, buys you a device that is faster, more capable, and will remain a secure and useful part of your digital life for years to come, making it the clear winner in terms of long-term value.