The smart way to choose an iPhone
Buying a new iPhone? The choices are overwhelming. Dozens of models, specs that will make you dizzy, and prices that range from budget to ridiculous. You just want a phone that works, lasts, and doesn't break the bank. But here's the thing: the latest iPhone is often not the smartest choice. In fact, by not blindly opting for the latest model, you'll score a device that suits you better and saves you a lot of money. Whether you mainly take photos, listen to music for hours through your AirPods , or simply want reliable performance – the perfect iPhone depends on five specific factors that salespeople rarely tell you. Forget the hype around the Pro Max. With the right accessories , an older model often performs just as well. Time to cut through the marketing bullshit.
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Factor 1: Screen size determines everyday ease of use
Screen size is more than just a matter of preference. It determines how comfortable you are typing, watching videos, and navigating. The differences are greater than you think. A 5.4-inch iPhone 12 mini fits perfectly in any pocket and is easy to operate with one hand. Ideal for those on the go or with small hands.
The standard 6.1-inch iPhone 12 or 13 offers the perfect balance. Large enough for comfortable reading and typing, yet small enough not to be cumbersome. This size explains why these models remain so popular.
For content enthusiasts, the 6.7-inch Pro Max versions are indispensable. Watching movies, editing photos, reading documents—everything works better at this size. Downside: you need two hands, and not every pocket is big enough. Consider where you'll be using the device. Frequently in the car? Then size matters less. Traveling all day? Then choose compact.
Factor 2: Camera quality versus your actual usage
Marketing suggests you need the latest Pro for good photos. Nonsense. The iPhone 11's camera already takes photos that are indistinguishable from those of Pro models on Instagram. For 95% of users, this is more than enough.
The differences are in specific scenarios:
- Night photography: Night mode is available from the iPhone 11. Pro models perform slightly better, but the difference is marginal.
- Zoom: Only Pro models have optical zoom. Useful for concerts or sporting events.
- Video: All recent models film in 4K. ProRes video on Pro models is only used for professional editing.
- Portrait mode: works great for depth-of-field effects from iPhone SE (2020) onwards
Do you mainly take snapshots of outings, children, or pets? Save hundreds of euros and choose a standard model. Are you a hobbyist photographer who edits RAW files? Then a Pro version is definitely worth it.
Factor 3: Processing power and future-proofing
The A13 Bionic chip from 2019 will be around for years to come. This processor is in the iPhone 11 and SE (2020) and is faster than what current Android flagships offer. For WhatsApp, browsing, navigation, and even demanding games, it's more than enough.
Newer chips like the A14 and A15 are primarily more efficient. They consume less power while performing the same tasks. The result: longer battery life. The speed gains are only noticeable with specific tasks like video export or augmented reality.
Software support is more important than pure speed. Apple supports devices with updates for an average of six years. An iPhone 12 from 2020 will therefore receive updates until at least 2026. This often makes a two-year-old model smarter than a brand-new Android alternative.
Factor 4: storage capacity without overpaying
Storage space seems simple: more is better. But the price differences are significant. Going from 64GB to 128GB often costs you €50 extra. Going from 128GB to 256GB costs another €100. This quickly adds up.
Practical guidelines for storage:
- 64GB: sufficient for basic use with iCloud Photo Library (5 euros per month for 200GB cloud)
- 128GB: Sweet spot for most users. Space for apps, music, and thousands of photos.
- 256GB: Only needed for heavy 4K video, large game libraries, or offline music collections
- 512GB/1TB: overkill unless you film professionally
Tip: First, check how much storage you're currently using. Go to Settings > General > iPhone Storage. If you're still using less than 50GB after two years, 128GB is more than enough for a new device.
Factor 5: Battery life and charging habits
Battery life depends on three factors: capacity, processor efficiency, and screen size. Surprisingly, the newest models don't always score the best. For example, the iPhone 11 has a longer battery life than the iPhone 12 mini.
Realistic battery performance:
- iPhone SE (2020): Just gets through the day with normal use
- iPhone 11: A day and a half without problems
- iPhone 12/13: comfortably a day and a half
- Pro Max models: two days possible with moderate use
More important than specifications is your charging pattern. Do you charge overnight? Then battery life is less of an issue. Are you often on the go without a charging option? Then choose models with a larger battery or consider a power bank.
Note: Fast charging is standard from iPhone 8 onwards, but the fast charger isn't included in the box. It costs an additional €25-30. MagSafe wireless charging works from iPhone 12 onwards, which is convenient but not essential.
Refurbished: the best kept secret
A refurbished device saves an average of 30-40% on the new price. These devices have been professionally inspected, cleaned, and repaired where necessary. With a 24-month warranty, you run no risk.
Benefits of refurbished that sellers don't mention:
- Battery condition: replace often when condition is below 85%, so as new
- No teething problems: production errors have already been resolved in refurbished models
- Instantly available: no waiting times like with new releases
- Environmentally friendly: prevents electronic waste and saves raw materials
Practical step-by-step plan for your choice
Stop comparing endlessly. Follow these steps for a quick, informed decision:
- Determine your budget: what can and do you want to spend? Consider accessories.
- Identify deal breakers: minimum screen size? Specific camera feature? List up to three must-haves
- Check your current usage: Check your battery usage and storage settings. This predicts future needs.
- Compare three models: no more, otherwise you will get caught up in details
- Consider refurbished: always compare with a refurbished version of a higher class
The smart choices per user profile
Basic user (WhatsApp, calling, browsing): iPhone SE (2020) or refurbished iPhone 11. More than enough power, compact size, competitive price.
Social media fanatic: refurbished iPhone 12. Good cameras, large screen, 5G for fast uploads, MagSafe for handy accessories.
Business user: iPhone 13 with 256GB. Reliable, long battery life, ample storage for documents, excellent video call quality.
Content creator: Refurbished iPhone 12 Pro. ProRAW photos, LiDAR for fast focus, optical zoom, and no premium price.
Gamer/streaming enthusiast: refurbished iPhone 11 Pro Max. Large screen, powerful processor, long battery life, affordable.
Conclusion: forget the hype, focus on function
The perfect iPhone doesn't exist. But the perfect device for your situation does exist. By systematically considering the five factors, you'll prevent impulse buys and regret later. Newest doesn't automatically mean best. A well-considered choice for an older or refurbished model often yields more satisfaction than blindly following the latest fad. Your use determines the value, not the model number.
Conclusion: choose consciously, not impulsively
Buying the perfect iPhone comes down to one simple truth: your daily use determines the best choice , not Apple's marketing machine. Whether you choose a refurbished iPhone or a newer model, focus on the five factors discussed and ignore the rest. A two-year-old device with the right accessories often performs better than the latest model without. Stop comparing, make a choice based on your true needs, and enjoy a device that truly suits you for years to come.
