Buying Guide
When Should You Upgrade Your iPhone? A Decision Framework
iPhone upgrade cycles have stretched dramatically — 4–5 years is now common, not 2. Apple's 7-year support commitments mean you don't have to upgrade as often, but you should know when you actually need to. Here's the framework.
Updated · By SmartphoneAwards Editorial
Signal 1: Battery health is below 80%
Check Settings → Battery → Battery Health & Charging. If 'Maximum Capacity' is below 80%, you're getting noticeably less screen-on time. Two options: 1. **Replace the battery** ($89–$99 at Apple, ~$70 third-party). Adds 2–3 years of useful life. 2. **Upgrade the phone**. Better if you're 4+ years in. If you're on iPhone 11/12/13 with degraded battery, replacement is usually the right call. iPhone 14+ with degraded battery — consider upgrade since chip and software improvements are also significant.
Signal 2: Your iPhone doesn't support Apple Intelligence
Apple Intelligence is supported on: - iPhone 15 Pro / 15 Pro Max - All iPhone 16 models - All iPhone 17 models It is NOT supported on: - iPhone 15 (base) - iPhone 14 (any variant) - iPhone 13 and older If you have an iPhone that doesn't support Apple Intelligence and you're considering AI features in your daily workflow, upgrading is the right call. The cheapest path: iPhone 16 at $599–$699 discounted.
Signal 3: iOS support is winding down
Apple typically supports iPhones for 5–7 years of major iOS updates. As of mid-2026: - **iPhone 11 and earlier**: end of major updates (security patches only) - **iPhone 12 / 12 Mini / 12 Pro / 12 Pro Max**: 1 year of major updates remaining - **iPhone 13 line**: 1–2 years remaining - **iPhone 14 line**: 2–3 years remaining - **iPhone 15 line**: 3–4 years remaining - **iPhone 16/17 lines**: 5+ years remaining If your iPhone has fewer than 2 years of major updates remaining, plan to upgrade within 12 months.
Signal 4: You're feeling daily friction
Subjective but real. If apps regularly crash, photos take noticeable time to process, your phone runs hot during normal use, or you're getting low-storage warnings — your phone is asking to be upgraded. If none of these things happen and battery is fine, your phone is fine.
Apple · From $799
Best 2026 upgrade targets
**iPhone 17** ($799) — MKBHD's 2025 Phone of the Year. Easiest upgrade for most buyers. **iPhone 17 Pro** ($1,099) — runner-up Best Camera 2025. For creators and ProRes video. **iPhone 16** ($599–$699 discounted) — MKBHD's 2024 Best Small Phone. Best value for cost-conscious buyers who want Apple Intelligence. **iPhone 15 Pro refurbished** ($599–$699) — MKBHD's 2023 Best Camera. Cheapest path to Pro-tier iPhone with Apple Intelligence.
Apple · From $799
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I upgrade my iPhone?
Upgrade when: battery health is below 80% AND your iPhone doesn't support Apple Intelligence; OR your iPhone has fewer than 2 years of iOS support remaining. Otherwise wait.
Is replacing the battery a good alternative to upgrading?
Yes if your phone is 2–3 years old and otherwise working well. Apple's $89 battery replacement adds 2–3 years of useful life — much cheaper than a new phone.
How long should an iPhone last?
On Apple's 5–7 year support window, 4–5 years is the sweet spot. Beyond that, batteries degrade and you start missing newer features.