How Long Do Refurbished iPhones Last and What to Expect from Their Battery Life
11/01/2025
5 Mins
When buying a refurbished iPhone, one of the most important factors to consider is its battery life. After all, a phone’s battery determines how often you need to charge it and whether it can keep up with your daily needs. In this blog, we’ll explore the battery life of refurbished iPhones, including how long you can expect it to last, factors affecting performance, and tips on extending its life.
What is a Refurbished iPhone?
A refurbished iPhone is a pre-owned device that has been inspected, repaired, and restored to like-new condition by a professional. Refurbished iPhones are usually sold at a lower price than brand-new models, making them a great option for those looking to save money while still getting a high-quality phone. These devices are often tested for functionality, with any defective components, including batteries, replaced or repaired.
How Long Does a Refurbished iPhone Battery Last?
The battery life of a refurbished iPhone largely depends on several factors, including the model of the phone, the health of the battery, and how the phone is used. Generally, you can expect a refurbished iPhone to have a battery life comparable to that of a brand-new device, assuming the battery has been replaced or is in good condition.
What to Expect from the Battery Life of a Refurbished iPhone
- Battery Health
Apple allows users to check the health of their iPhone’s battery in the settings under “Battery Health.” This feature shows the maximum capacity of the battery compared to when it was new. If the refurbished iPhone has a battery health of 80% or higher, it should offer decent battery life. However, if the battery health is lower, you might experience faster battery drain and may need to charge your phone more frequently. - Battery Performance by iPhone Model
Different iPhone models have varying battery life. For example:- iPhone 7/8: These models typically last around 12-14 hours of continuous use, depending on the battery condition.
- iPhone X/XS: Expect 14-16 hours of battery life under normal usage.
- iPhone 11/12/13: These newer models offer improved battery efficiency, with up to 17-20 hours of battery life in standard use.
A refurbished iPhone should provide similar performance to the original battery specifications, assuming the battery has been replaced or properly maintained.
- Battery Cycle Count
iPhone batteries have a limited number of charge cycles—usually around 500 full charges before the battery’s capacity begins to degrade. Refurbished iPhones that have undergone a proper refurbishment process should have a battery with a relatively low cycle count. Some refurbished phones may come with a brand-new battery, which ensures maximum battery life and performance.
Factors That Affect Refurbished iPhone Battery Life
Several factors can influence how long your refurbished iPhone’s battery lasts on a single charge, including:
- Usage Patterns
The more you use your phone, the faster the battery will drain. Activities like gaming, streaming videos, and using power-hungry apps will deplete the battery more quickly than simple tasks like texting or browsing. - Background Processes
Some apps run in the background, constantly using power. If you have a lot of apps open or allow certain apps to update or refresh in the background, you may notice a faster battery drain. - Environmental Conditions
Extreme temperatures—whether hot or cold—can negatively impact battery performance. It’s best to avoid exposing your iPhone to extreme heat or cold for extended periods. - Battery Calibration
Over time, a battery’s ability to gauge its own capacity can become misaligned. Occasionally, it’s a good idea to let your refurbished iPhone battery fully discharge and then fully recharge it to recalibrate the battery gauge.
Tips to Extend the Battery Life of a Refurbished iPhone
To make the most of your refurbished iPhone’s battery and extend its lifespan, consider the following tips:
- Enable Low Power Mode
Low Power Mode reduces the power usage of your phone by limiting background activity, visual effects, and other features. It’s an easy way to conserve battery when you’re running low. - Reduce Screen Brightness
One of the biggest drainers of battery is screen brightness. By lowering the brightness or enabling Auto-Brightness, you can save a significant amount of power. - Manage Your Apps
Make sure you regularly close apps that you’re not using. Also, go to your phone’s settings and disable unnecessary background app refreshes. - Turn Off Unnecessary Features
Turning off features such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and Location Services when you’re not using them can also conserve battery life. - Update Your iPhone
Keeping your iPhone’s software up to date ensures that it runs as efficiently as possible. Apple often releases software updates that improve battery performance and fix bugs that might cause excessive battery drain.
How to Check the Battery Health of Your Refurbished iPhone
If you want to monitor the health of your iPhone’s battery, follow these simple steps:
- Go to Settings > Battery.
- Tap on Battery Health & Charging.
- Check the Maximum Capacity percentage, which indicates the battery’s health compared to when it was new.
If your refurbished iPhone’s battery health is below 80%, it may be time to replace the battery to ensure optimal performance.
What to Do If the Battery Life Is Poor?
If you find that the battery life of your refurbished iPhone is below expectations, there are a few steps you can take:
- Replace the Battery: Many refurbished iPhones come with a warranty, which may cover battery replacement. If the battery health is below par, it’s worth asking the seller if a replacement is included.
- Contact the Seller: If you purchased your refurbished iPhone from a reputable retailer, reach out to them to discuss the issue. They may offer a replacement or a refund if the device is faulty.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long does the battery last on a refurbished iPhone?
The battery life on a refurbished iPhone is typically comparable to a brand-new one if the battery has been replaced or is in good condition. However, the actual battery life will depend on the iPhone model and usage habits.
Can I replace the battery of a refurbished iPhone?
Yes, you can replace the battery of a refurbished iPhone if necessary. Many refurbished iPhones come with a warranty that covers battery replacement. If not, Apple offers battery replacement services.
What is a good battery health percentage for a refurbished iPhone?
A good battery health percentage is 80% or higher. If the battery health is below 80%, you may experience shorter battery life and should consider replacing the battery.
Conclusion
When purchasing a refurbished iPhone, it’s essential to consider the battery’s health and performance. With proper care and a little attention to battery management, your refurbished iPhone should provide reliable and long-lasting performance. At Used Mobiles 4 U, we ensure that all our refurbished iPhones are tested for battery health and functionality, giving you confidence in your purchase. If you’re looking for a refurbished iPhone with great battery life, explore our collection today!