I've been on an iPhone SE 3 for a few years. The battery is completely dead at this point. I've also found that I really would prefer a slightly larger screen, and better camera so I don't see another SE 3 as a good replacement. I realize that the SE 4 is coming sometime next year but I need a phone now. Lastly, money is an issue and I'd like to stay around $500. So that eliminates a brand new phone. Apple seems to only stock high-end phones in their refurbished store. Looking at second-hand devices, it appears that I can get a standard iPhone 14 for around that price with battery life around 80%. I guess I'm hoping for some thoughts about what to do here, as it seems that a battery issue would soon come up again. I don't need a lot of high end technology and I'm not interested in AI at all. But like I said, a larger screen and a camera that's a little better than the SE 3 would be ideal. What would be the best bang for the buck at this time for someone in the market for a phone? Thanks!
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Other Buying advice: need iPhone: on a budget
- Thread starter jeff123816
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Why not replace the battery of your SE3 to extend the life of it until the SE4 is released next year? Apple does the battery replacement for $69, so it won’t set you back a lot, and that should hold you off until next year. However, if you absolutely need a new device, then I would look on Swappa and see what you can the iPhone 13/14 for.
Doing a quick search on Swappa, you can get the 14 for under $500. It just depends on the condition of the device and what the battery % is at.
Doing a quick search on Swappa, you can get the 14 for under $500. It just depends on the condition of the device and what the battery % is at.
If battery life is a huge thing for you I would say try get yourself a iPhone 14 Plus or a 13 Pro Max, both excellent devices with great battery life and amazing cameras.
If replacing the battery is an option for you I would do that and then wait for the SE4. Otherwise, buying new would be the iphone 14 at $599, or buy used. If you buy used you might end up with a phone that has its own problems such as needing a new battery or worse.
I agree with others suggesting replacing the battery and then waiting for the SE 4 due next year.
However, another option would be an Apple Certified Refurbished iPhone which is about as close to new as you can get as it would include a new battery, new outer shell, and same as new 1 year warranty. Those can start under $500 but availability varies day to day. Right now, it appears the cheapest they have is a 512GB iPhone 14 Plus for $869.
However, another option would be an Apple Certified Refurbished iPhone which is about as close to new as you can get as it would include a new battery, new outer shell, and same as new 1 year warranty. Those can start under $500 but availability varies day to day. Right now, it appears the cheapest they have is a 512GB iPhone 14 Plus for $869.
I would replace the battery on your SE3. When the SE 4 comes out next year (if it does come out), you probably want to wait a few months so all the bugs can be reported and fixed. With a new battery your SE3 should provide adequate service for you for another few years and you can decide what to do then.
Yah used if your patient. I mean that’s what the options are. SE brand new, replace battery and wait, or find a used 14/15 model. You can scour me eBay and offer up. I’ve found good deals on eBay if you’re patient. Plus you get buyers guaranteed if there’s any issues
Apple is “proud” of its refurbs. New battery for the SE to get you to next year Sound like the cheapest way to go.
Thanks everyone for the suggestions. I was hoping not to put more money into a phone that I really don't care for in terms of size but a new battery does still seem to be the most cost effective. Seems like Apple intentionally stocks only high-end refurbished phones. Not really a reasonable option for those looking to save money.
You’ll only need a new battery on your SE3 until the larger SE4 is released which should cost no more than $500 brand new. By then you will be able to sell your SE3 along with its reasonably healthy battery.