In 2025, smartphones continue to be one of the most essential tools in everyday life. Whether you’re upgrading for performance, better photography, or longer battery life, choosing the right phone within budget is key. A common question many Pakistani buyers face is: Should you buy a used iPhone or a brand-new Android phone?
This article breaks down the pros and cons of each to help you make an informed decision based on performance, longevity, resale value, and real-life usability.
1. Performance and Speed
- Used iPhone: Apple’s iPhones are known for their long-lasting performance. Even a 2–3-year-old iPhone (like iPhone 12 or iPhone 13) runs iOS 17 smoothly in 2025. Thanks to Apple’s optimization and strong A-series chips, you’ll rarely experience lag.
- New Android: If you opt for a brand-new Android like the Redmi Note 13, Infinix Zero 30, or Realme Narzo, you get decent performance out of the box, especially for casual use. However, budget Android phones may struggle under heavy apps or multitasking over time.
Verdict: Used iPhones often outperform entry-level and even mid-range Androids in raw performance.
2. Software Updates
- Used iPhone: Apple provides iOS updates for 5 to 6 years. An iPhone 12 launched in 2020 is still supported in 2025 and will likely receive updates until 2026–2027. That means your phone will stay secure and usable for longer.
- New Android: Most brands like Samsung, Xiaomi, and Realme offer 2–4 years of Android OS updates. Flagships like Samsung Galaxy S24 will get 7 years, but budget models will not. Brands like Infinix and Tecno typically provide 1–2 years of updates.
Verdict: iPhones have the clear edge in software longevity.
3. Camera Quality
- Used iPhone: Even an older iPhone 11 or 12 delivers great camera results, especially in video quality. Apple’s color accuracy, Smart HDR, and low-light performance remain strong points.
- New Android: Many Android phones in the Rs. 40,000–60,000 range now offer 108MP sensors, night modes, and AI filters. However, photo quality may look good on-screen but often lacks consistency, especially in video recording.
Verdict: iPhones win for reliable camera quality, especially video.
4. Battery and Charging
- Used iPhone: The biggest concern with any used phone is battery health. An iPhone that’s 2–3 years old may have a battery health around 80–90%, leading to faster drain. However, battery replacement is possible and relatively cheap in Pakistan.
- New Android: A new Android phone means a fresh battery with full health and support for fast charging (33W to 65W), which is missing in most older iPhones.
Verdict: New Android wins for battery freshness and fast charging support.
5. Build Quality and Design
- Used iPhone: Apple’s aluminum and glass design still feels premium, even in 2025. Face ID, haptics, and display quality are top-tier even in older models.
- New Android: Many budget Androids now offer slim designs, punch-hole displays, and even glass backs. But build quality can vary, and haptics are often poor.
Verdict: Used iPhone still feels more premium than most new Androids under Rs. 70,000.
6. App Experience and Ecosystem
- Used iPhone: iOS apps are better optimized and more stable. Whether it’s social media, banking apps, or video editing tools, iOS offers a smoother, cleaner experience. AirDrop, iMessage, and iCloud integration add value if you’re in the Apple ecosystem.
- New Android: Android offers more customization, dual apps, and better file handling, which appeals to advanced users. Google Assistant and native call recording are added benefits.
Verdict: iPhone for stability and performance, Android for flexibility and features.
7. Price and Resale Value
- Used iPhone: A used iPhone 12 or 13 in good condition may cost Rs. 80,000 to Rs. 110,000 in Pakistan. However, iPhones retain resale value far better than Android phones. You can often recover a large chunk of the cost if you resell it after a year.
- New Android: You can get a powerful new Android for Rs. 40,000 to Rs. 60,000, but its value may drop by 30–50% within a year.
Verdict: iPhone wins in long-term resale, Android wins in upfront affordability.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
Choose a used iPhone if:
- You value long-term performance and updates.
- You’re into content creation (especially video).
- You want a premium build and better resale.
- You’re okay replacing the battery if needed.
Choose a new Android if:
- You want fast charging, dual SIM, and new hardware.
- You’re on a tighter budget under Rs. 50,000.
- You need expandable storage or 3.5mm headphone jack.
- You’re a power user who prefers custom features.
For many buyers in Pakistan, a used iPhone 12 or 13 can still beat a new Android in overall value if you verify its condition. But if you want a new, warranty-backed device with fresh battery and latest hardware tricks, go for a new mid-range Android from Samsung, Xiaomi, or Infinix.
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