Second-Hand iPhone 13–14 Checklist: Storage, Carrier Lock, Warranty, and More

Buying a used iPhone can feel a bit like treasure hunting—you can score an amazing deal, or you can end up with a device that gives you headaches two days later. If you’re eyeing the iPhone 13 or iPhone 14 in the second-hand market, a little homework goes a long way. Below is your no-nonsense checklist to make sure you’re getting a solid device at a fair price while staying away from hidden issues.

And hey—since you’re exploring the used market, places like Easy Phones make the process smoother by providing verified devices, clear grading, and warranty support. Let’s dive into what to check before you click “Buy.”

check the storage you actually need

Before anything else, figure out the storage you’re comfortable with. iPhones don’t have expandable storage, so once you buy a device with too little space, you’re stuck juggling apps and photos. The iPhone 13 and 14 typically come in 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB variants.

Ask yourself:

• Do you shoot lots of 4K videos?

• Do you play graphics-heavy games?

• Are you a “download everything” kind of person?

If you answered yes to any of these, 256GB or more will save you from future frustration. For lighter users, 128GB is usually enough.

When browsing listings, make sure the seller clearly mentions the storage capacity. If not, double-check in the device settings once you get your hands on the phone.

verify the battery health

Battery health is a big deal with second-hand iPhones. Apple’s batteries naturally degrade over time, but anything above 85% is generally acceptable for daily use. If it’s below that, you may face faster draining or performance throttling.

If you’re buying from a platform that shows battery health in the listing, great. If you’re buying from an individual seller, ask for a screenshot of Settings → Battery → Battery Health & Charging.

check for carrier lock or imei issues

Carrier-locked phones aren’t always a dealbreaker, but they do limit flexibility. Make sure the iPhone is unlocked so you can use any SIM card in India without hassle.

Also, request the IMEI number and check if the device is:

• Reported lost or stolen

• Under any outstanding contract dues

• Blacklisted by networks

You can easily verify this on various IMEI-checking websites. A clean IMEI is non-negotiable.

inspect for physical and internal damage

A few minor scratches are normal, but cracks, dents near the camera, or frame bends indicate trouble. The iPhone 13–14 generations are water-resistant, but that doesn’t guarantee water hasn’t sneaked in due to previous damage.

If possible, physically inspect:

• Display (no yellowing, ghost touch, dead pixels)

• Speakers

• Cameras

• Charging port

• Face ID functionality

• Buttons and haptic feedback

When buying online, choose sellers who provide detailed photos and condition grades.

confirm the warranty or return policy

One of the biggest perks of buying from a trusted refurbisher is warranty support. Even a 3–6-month warranty can save you from unexpected repair bills. Easy Phones, for example, offers warranty coverage that gives you legit peace of mind.

Always check:

• Warranty duration

• What the warranty covers

• Whether there is a return window

• How repairs or replacements are handled

Never skip this step—warranty often justifies a slightly higher price.

compare prices across platforms

Second-hand iPhone pricing varies depending on storage, color, condition, and battery health. Make sure you scan prices across at least three sources to ensure you’re not overpaying.

But remember: the cheapest option isn’t always the best. A slightly higher price with warranty and verified parts is usually the safer bet.

prefer trusted refurbishers over random sellers

When buying from individuals, you’re relying on trust—and sometimes that trust doesn’t pan out. Refurbished marketplaces inspect devices, replace faulty components, and provide warranties, which dramatically lowers your risk.

If you're considering the iPhone 13, check out the refurbished apple iphone 13 option for a device in like-new condition with zero scratches. If you’re leaning toward the newer model, the refurbished apple iphone 14 also comes with similar quality checks and support.

explore curated marketplaces for second-hand options

If you’re browsing larger collections, platforms specializing in used Apple devices compile all options in one place. For example, you can explore a wide range of models through second hand iphones in india, making it easier to compare conditions and prices without hopping between dozens of random sellers.

research model longevity before buying

The iPhone 13 and 14 continue to age impressively well, especially with Apple’s long software support cycle. If you're wondering how the iPhone 13 holds up in the coming years, this breakdown of iphone 13 in 2025 gives a good sense of its performance, display quality, and real-world usability.

final thoughts: play it smart and shop confidently

A second-hand iPhone can be an incredible value if you know what to look for. By checking storage, battery health, carrier status, physical condition, and warranty, you drastically reduce your chances of ending up with a lemon.

If you prefer the safer route with reliable refurbishment and clear grading, Easy Phones takes out the guesswork and gives you a clean, tested device with after-sales support. Buying second-hand doesn’t have to feel risky—you just need the right checklist and the right seller.