Is a cheap iPhone worth buying in Brazil?
Advertisements
After all, a cheap iPhone is the promise of having an Apple device for a much lower price, it's quite seductive.
However, it's crucial to evaluate the device's origin and condition. A deal from China can become a huge headache. The maze of used and refurbished iPhones
Buying a used or refurbished iPhone can be a great option. However, it's crucial to understand the differences between them.
A used device is one that has simply been resold by its previous owner, without going through a formal review process.
A refurbished iPhone, on the other hand, is different; it's returned to Apple or an authorized reseller. It undergoes rigorous inspection, replacement of damaged parts, and thorough testing.
This process ensures a higher quality standard than that of a merely used device.
Advertisements
Many platforms offer “pre-owned” iPhones, but you need to be sure the device is genuinely refurbished.
A device that has gone through Apple's refurbished process usually comes with a new battery and warranty.
The trap of old models
One Cheap iPhone It may be an older model. Apple typically maintains software compatibility for several years, but it doesn't last forever.
An iPhone 8, for example, may have the latest iOS, but the overall performance is no longer the same.
The difference in speed and features is noticeable. Processing photos and opening apps require more hardware. Purchasing an outdated model can mean limitations within a few months.
Read more: Galaxy S25 Ultra vs iPhone 16 Pro Max: Which is Best for You
Consider the device's expected lifespan. Spending a small amount on something that will soon become obsolete can be a false deal.
Technology advances too quickly for models from four or five years ago.
Cheap iPhone vs. Value for Money: The Big Question
Value for money is key.
The cheapest option isn't always the best. Imagine you're buying a tool for an important job; would you rather spend a little more on something durable or save money on an item that will break within the first week?
The iPhone is a tool for work and daily communication.
Buying a discontinued or refurbished model of dubious origin can result in unexpected expenses.
Replacing a battery, for example, can be expensive. Repairing a damaged screen, for example, is a real rip-off in Brazil.
The warranty offered is a crucial point to consider. Devices without a warranty are a risk. A 90-day or one-year warranty protects against unexpected failures.
++ How to choose a cell phone for remote work
The danger of imitations
The Brazilian cell phone market is infested with counterfeit products. Cheap iPhone sold on disreputable marketplace sites may not be a genuine iPhone.
These devices use the Android system, but with an interface that simulates iOS.
They don't offer the security and reliability of iPhones. The camera, processing, and build quality are terrible. Seeking an unrealistically low price is an invitation to be scammed.
A 2024 survey by GSMA Intelligence revealed that 121% of smartphones purchased in Brazil through informal channels are counterfeit or uncertified.
This highlights the importance of buying from official resellers.
++ Comparison between Android and iOS: which system to choose
Used models with good value for money
There are some used models that are worth it. The iPhone 12 series, for example, still offers great performance. The A14 Bionic processor is still very powerful.
The iPhone 12's dual camera delivers high-quality photos and videos. Support for Apple software updates should last for a few more years. It's a more secure option.
The iPhone 13 is also available at more affordable prices. It represents a significant leap in camera quality. Its battery is much more efficient than that of older models.
The Reality Table: Prices and Risks
| Model (used/refurbished) | Average price (2025) | Risk of obsolescence | Maintenance cost |
| iPhone SE (2nd Generation) | R$ 1,500 – R$ 2,000 | Medium/High | Low |
| iPhone 11 | R$ 2.200 – R$ 2.800 | Low | Average |
| iPhone 12 | R$ 3.000 – R$ 3.800 | Low/Very Low | Average |
| iPhone 13 mini | R$ 3,500 – R$ 4,000 | Very Low | Medium/High |
The table above shows that price isn't the only factor to consider. An iPhone 11, while more expensive than the second-generation SE, offers a much longer battery life and fewer hassles.
Opt for Cheap iPhone too much is buying a time bomb.
++ Is a used iPhone worth it? Check out the pros and cons before you buy.
The Bottom Line: When It's Worth It, and When It's Not
The search for a Cheap iPhone In Brazil, it's worth it, but it requires strategy. Buying older models, like an iPhone 11 or 12, whether refurbished or from a reliable source, can be a great deal.
Avoid very old models or those from informal sellers. Cheap can end up being very expensive. The best iPhone is one that will serve you well for years, without the need for constant repairs.
Don't be fooled by the low price alone. Security, performance, and durability are equally important. The satisfaction of having a functional and reliable iPhone outweighs any initial savings.
Is the headache of a broken device worth saving a thousand reais?
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Where can I safely buy a refurbished iPhone?
Choose official Apple websites and authorized resellers. Platforms like iPlace and iHelp also offer refurbished iPhones with warranties.
2. How can I tell if a used iPhone is genuine?
Check the serial number on Apple's website. Compare the IMEI number to the one on the box (if available). Make sure the operating system is indeed iOS.
3. Does an older iPhone receive the same security updates?
Yes, for a while. Apple maintains support for older models, but there comes a point when they no longer receive the latest software updates.
4. Is it worth buying a used iPhone with a low battery health?
Not recommended. A battery with a capacity below 80% will no longer hold a charge. Replacing the battery is a significant additional cost that should be considered.
5. What is the difference between “used” and “refurbished”?
Used, it was simply resold by the original owner. Refurbished has undergone inspection, repair, and parts replacement to be resold in near-new condition.
