Refurbished iPhone ProMotion: Which Models Have 120Hz?

A refurbished iPhone ProMotion display is available on Pro models starting from the iPhone 13 Pro onwards, including the latest iPhone 17 range. If a smooth 120Hz screen is your priority, standard second-hand iPhone models such as the iPhone 13, 14, 15, 16 and 16e will not provide this feature. These unlocked iPhone models offer excellent value, but they lack the high refresh rate technology found in the Pro series.

That difference is easy to miss when comparing listings with similar names and price points. Whether you are browsing for a Pro or a standard handset, always check the exact model specifications rather than focusing solely on the storage capacity or cosmetic grade.

Key Takeaways

• ProMotion technology, which delivers a fluid 120Hz refresh rate, first arrived on the iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max.
• Every premium handset from the iPhone 13 Pro up to the latest iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max features a 120Hz ProMotion display.
• The standard iPhone 17 and iPhone Air models are now equipped with ProMotion, sitting alongside the 17 Pro lineup.
• Standard iPhone 13, 14, 15, 16, and 16e models continue to use 60Hz screens without the high refresh rate capability.
• While a 120Hz refresh rate provides noticeably smoother UI interaction, factors such as battery health, overall physical condition, and the length of your warranty remain just as important as the screen technology itself when buying a refurbished device.

What ProMotion Changes in Everyday Use

ProMotion is Apple’s branding for an adaptive refresh rate technology that pushes the Super Retina XDR display to a smooth 120Hz. While a standard iPhone screen refreshes 60 times per second, a ProMotion panel can refresh twice as often when you scroll, move around Maps, or swipe between apps. This is particularly noticeable on an iPhone 16 Pro, where the high refresh rate ensures that fast-paced gaming animations remain fluid and responsive.

The difference is most obvious when moving through long messages, social feeds, and web pages. Text remains clearer while scrolling, and app transitions feel significantly less jerky. Once you become accustomed to this fluidity, switching back to a 60Hz iPhone can feel noticeably slower.

However, ProMotion does not make every task perform faster. Streaming video often runs at 24, 25, 30, or 60 frames per second, and photos or emails gain very little from 120Hz. You should treat this as a comfort feature rather than a reason to ignore a weak battery or a poor repair history.

Apple’s adaptive system cleverly reduces the refresh rate when the screen is still to limit unnecessary power consumption. During our rigorous testing process at Used Mobiles 4U, we place a heavy emphasis on battery health verification to ensure this efficiency remains intact for the user. We verify that these power management systems work as intended, ensuring you get the performance benefits without compromising your device longevity.

ProMotion improves how an iPhone feels in the hand. It does not replace careful checks on battery health, Face ID, cameras, and frame condition.

Refurbished iPhones With ProMotion Displays

The following unlocked iPhone models feature ProMotion displays. It is important to note that earlier handsets and standard non-Pro versions typically lack this technology.

For most refurbished buyers, the iPhone 13 Pro and 13 Pro Max represent the most accessible entry points to high-refresh-rate technology. These handsets introduced ProMotion to the iPhone lineup alongside OLED screens, telephoto lenses, and 5G connectivity. They remain incredibly capable for everyday tasks like banking, navigation, messaging, photography, and streaming.

The iPhone 14 Pro range introduced the Dynamic Island and an always-on display. This series is a compelling choice if the price difference compared to the 13 Pro is minimal, though these models are slightly heavier in the hand. Your choice of storage capacity is a vital consideration here. A 128GB model may suffice for light usage, while 256GB provides much more breathing room for those who hoard photos, videos, and offline media.

With the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max, the transition to a USB-C charging cable becomes a significant factor. This standard simplifies your setup if you already use USB-C for your laptop, tablet, or other devices. Furthermore, these models feature a premium titanium finish that reduces overall weight. Our refurbished iPhone 15 range is worth exploring, though remember that the standard iPhone 15 includes the Dynamic Island but lacks ProMotion capabilities.

The iPhone 16 Pro and 16 Pro Max build upon this foundation with larger display options, refined camera hardware, and an even more durable titanium finish. These devices are ideal for users who intend to keep their phone for several years, though they command a higher price point. The iPhone 17 family is set to widen access to ProMotion beyond the traditional Pro branding, although the availability of these refurbished unlocked iPhone models will naturally fluctuate based on market stock and device condition.

Which ProMotion iPhone Makes the Most Sense?

The best choice depends on whether you value the lowest price, USB-C convenience, a larger screen, or a newer camera system. You should not pay extra for a Pro Max model merely because it has ProMotion, as the smaller Pro versions offer the same high refresh rate.

Choose the iPhone 13 Pro or 13 Pro Max if:

• You want one of the more affordable refurbished iPhones with a 120Hz display.
• You are happy to keep using Lightning cables.
• You care about a telephoto camera and strong daily performance.
• You are looking for unlocked iPhone models to ensure seamless carrier compatibility across any network.

Choose the iPhone 14 Pro or 14 Pro Max if:

• Dynamic Island and an always-on display appeal to you.
• The condition is better than similarly priced 13 Pro listings.
• You want a 48MP main camera while remaining with the Lightning connector.
• You prefer proven, unlocked iPhone models that offer broad carrier compatibility.

Choose the iPhone 15 Pro or 15 Pro Max if:

• Transitioning to USB-C would reduce the number of cables you need to carry.
• You want a lighter device, as the titanium finish on the 15 Pro range significantly reduces weight compared to older models.
• Camera upgrades matter to you, especially the 5x optical zoom found on the iPhone 15 Pro Max.

Choose the iPhone 16 Pro or 16 Pro Max if:

• You want a newer model with a longer software support window.
• You use the camera heavily or prefer the immersive 6.9-inch display on the iPhone 16 Pro Max.
• The current price difference is reasonable for the condition offered.

Buyers looking at cheap refurbished iPhones sometimes choose a standard iPhone 13 because it offers excellent value. That remains a sensible phone, but it has a 60Hz screen. You should only pay Pro pricing when the smoother display, telephoto camera, and premium build suit how you use your mobile.

Our Experience Refurbishing This Model at Used Mobiles 4U

When we assess Pro iPhones, the display is only one part of the inspection. Every device undergoes our rigorous 55-point inspection to ensure internal integrity. On the bench, an iPhone 13 Pro or 14 Pro can look excellent while carrying battery wear from heavy use, so we use precise diagnostic testing to identify hidden issues. We evaluate all daily functions, including Face ID, touch response, cameras, speakers, charging, and network connectivity, followed by a complete factory reset to ensure a fresh start for the new user.

Our technicians often see heavy wear around the stainless-steel edges of the 13 Pro and 14 Pro models, which we classify using our strict cosmetic condition grades. Fine scratches are typical, yet a bent frame is more serious. A twisted housing can place a replacement screen under stress and may cause it to sit unevenly. We use diagnostic testing here to ensure the housing remains structurally sound.

The iPhone 15 Pro and 16 Pro series bring a different set of checks. Their lighter frames can show scuffs, and we ensure any previous screen repairs meet our quality standards. We confirm that True Tone is active, front-sensor behaviour is normal, and touch response is reliable, as a poorly fitted third-party screen can ruin the premium experience.

We also pay close attention to battery health verification. A ProMotion display is enjoyable, but an ageing battery can make any phone frustrating by late afternoon. Our tested refurbished stock includes a stated battery standard, secure data wiping, clear cosmetic condition grades, and a comprehensive 18-month warranty, which includes one-year warranty battery coverage terms for your peace of mind.

What We Commonly See

• Buyers often select an iPhone 13 Pro when they are looking for the most affordable entry point into the ProMotion display experience among unlocked iPhone models.
• Customers frequently weigh the benefits of the 14 Pro against the 15 Pro when USB-C connectivity serves as their primary motivation for upgrading.
• The top priority during our evaluation process is battery health, followed closely by verifying that the screen has not been replaced with sub-par components.
• Larger Pro Max models remain the preferred choice for those who consume significant amounts of video, edit high-resolution photos, or simply require superior battery capacity.
• A common oversight for many buyers is assuming that every iPhone featuring the Dynamic Island also includes a 120Hz ProMotion display.

When browsing used iPhones UK listings, it is easy to let a flawless rear glass panel distract you from the more essential functional checks. We would always prefer a handset with minor cosmetic marks that features a straight frame, healthy battery life, and a clear warranty over a Grade A refurbished device that hides a loose charging port or questionable previous repair work.

Avoid These ProMotion Buying Mistakes

Many second hand iPhones UK adverts use broad terms such as Pro display or high refresh screen. Always confirm the exact model number in Settings to ensure you are eligible for the latest iOS software updates, then check its official specifications. An iPhone 15, for example, looks modern and has Dynamic Island, but it remains a 60Hz phone.

When browsing, do not just rely on cosmetic condition grades. A Grade A handset may look spotless, yet it could have less storage than you need. Conversely, a Grade B phone may have a few visible marks but offer stronger battery health and better value. Whether you are browsing Apple Certified Refurbished listings, the Amazon Renewed Store, or looking for certified pre-owned options from independent specialists, it is essential to look beyond the exterior.

Before you buy a refurbished iPhone, you should check:

• Whether the device is unlocked or if you are finding the best SIM-free iPhone deals for your network.
• Battery health and the seller’s specific battery policy.
• Storage capacity, especially if you record 4K video or download media.
• Warranty length, the importance of a 30-day return policy, and whether the seller tests Face ID and cameras.
• Signs of screen lifting, uneven gaps around the frame, or a loose charging port.

A cracked ProMotion screen can be expensive to replace. If an older iPhone needs both a screen and battery, an upgrade often offers better value than piecemeal repairs. In that situation, we can Sell Your Old Phone to boost your trade-in value and offset the cost of a newer handset instead of continuing to spend on a device with several faults.

Suggested image: A real photo of a refurbished iPhone Pro being tested for touch response and display quality at Used Mobiles 4U.

Suggested image alt text: Refurbished iPhone ProMotion display being tested before resale at Used Mobiles 4U.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does every refurbished iPhone have ProMotion?

No, only specific models in the Pro lineup feature ProMotion technology. While all iPhones from the 13 Pro series onwards include this 120Hz display, standard models like the iPhone 13, 14, 15, and 16 use a 60Hz screen without the adaptive refresh rate capability.

Can I notice the difference between 60Hz and 120Hz?

Yes, the difference is most noticeable when scrolling through web pages, long social media feeds, or navigating between apps. The 120Hz refresh rate makes these movements feel significantly smoother and more responsive compared to a standard 60Hz display.

Does ProMotion drain the battery faster on refurbished models?

ProMotion uses an adaptive refresh rate system that automatically reduces the speed when the screen is still to save power. While a high refresh rate uses more energy, this smart management helps maintain efficiency, and we perform rigorous battery health testing on every device to ensure lasting performance.

Should I buy a Pro model just for the screen?

ProMotion is a fantastic comfort feature, but it should not be the only factor in your decision. It is essential to balance your desire for a 120Hz display with other critical aspects like battery health, storage capacity, physical condition, and your overall budget.

Finding the Right Refurbished Pro iPhone

ProMotion technology is available across the iPhone 13 Pro, 14 Pro, 15 Pro, and 16 Pro families, as well as the iPhone 17 range. While the iPhone 13 Pro remains a strong, cost-effective choice, the iPhone 15 Pro is often the more practical step up due to the inclusion of USB-C. When searching for your next device, it is helpful to use Apple Certified Refurbished standards as a benchmark for quality. Furthermore, our unlocked iPhone models ensure you have the flexibility to choose the network provider that works best for you.

Before focusing on screen smoothness, we recommend comparing battery condition, storage capacity, warranty coverage, and frame integrity. By prioritising these factors, you can avoid a poor-value purchase when browsing refurbished smartphones UK listings. To provide peace of mind, every device we offer comes with a comprehensive one-year warranty and a 30-day return policy. Additionally, investing in newer models ensures your device will receive vital iOS software updates for longer, keeping your phone secure and current.

For a wider comparison of models, grades, and practical checks, Read Our Refurbished iPhone Buying Guide. When you understand the right balance of display quality, physical condition, and your own budget, you can Browse Refurbished iPhones with more confidence. Every handset we sell includes a one-year warranty, so you can shop safely knowing your purchase is protected.

This guide reflects the rigorous checks we make when assessing ProMotion iPhones for resale, particularly regarding screen quality, battery health, and signs of earlier repair work.

Written by James Waterston, 24 years in the mobile phone industry, now running Used Mobiles 4U.