When planning to upgrade their iPhone in the near future, many users feel unsure about which series will still be suitable for use in the next few years. Not a few people also ask, will the old iPhone still be relevant and reliable next year? Choosing the right iPhone series is not just a matter of price, but also considering iOS updates, performance and device durability for long-term use.
Apple is known to regularly provide software updates to its iPhone line, including the older series. This is why many iPhone models remain viable, even several years after their release. The following are recommendations for iPhone models that are still very suitable as upgrade options now and in the next few years.
1. iPhone 11 remains reliable for daily needs
A Reddit user with the account @parasiticanatomy shared his experience using the iPhone 11 for more than two years. He stated that this cellphone was purchased at a fairly affordable price but was still satisfying. The daily performance of the iPhone 11 is still good, even though the chipset is not the newest.
The iPhone 11 battery can last a full day, even after updating to the latest iOS. Based on user recognition, with power saving mode active most of the time, battery capacity is still around 85 percent. For daily needs such as communication, video streaming, or connecting to Bluetooth devices, the iPhone 11 can still be relied on.
Prices for used iPhone 11s now start from IDR 3 million. With limited funds, users still get a stable cellphone, a good enough camera, and sufficient performance for social media content or work needs. However, for iOS support, the iPhone 11 is expected to stop receiving major updates starting in the next two years.
2. iPhone 12: Mid-Level Performance and Features
iPhone 12 is one of the main milestones in Apple’s product line. This series introduces 5G networking, MagSafe, and a more impact-resistant Ceramic Shield screen. Even though production has been stopped by Apple, the iPhone 12 is still easy to find in various cellphone shops and marketplaces in the second hand and refurbished categories.
iOS updates for the iPhone 12 are expected to last, even for the next four years. Security support and the latest application features make this phone future-proof. The performance of the A14 Bionic chipset on the iPhone 12 is also still very capable for gaming, multitasking and editing applications.
The superior battery life of the iPhone 12 is strengthened by the ability to play videos for 17 hours non-stop. Apart from that, the fast charging feature and MagSafe support are added value for efficient charging. Compared with the new series whose price is much higher, the iPhone 12 is still relevant if you want to upgrade your cellphone without spending a big budget.
3. iPhone 13: Combination of long-lasting battery and powerful camera
Introduced as an update to the previous series, the iPhone 13 brings many advantages. Starting from increased battery life, dual cameras with better results, and the performance of the A15 Bionic processor which provides a responsive usage experience. The battery capacity on the iPhone 13 is also larger, capable of playing videos for up to 19 hours.
The iPhone 13 series consists of regular, Mini, Pro and Pro Max variants. Each model offers certain advantages. The Pro and Pro Max versions are equipped with a three-camera system with a LiDAR scanner, supports professional photography features, and more optimal Augmented Reality performance.
Based on technical data, the A15 Bionic chip on the iPhone 13 offers an increase in CPU performance of up to 20 percent and GPU performance of up to 30 percent compared to the A14 on the iPhone 12. Apple’s software support ensures that this cellphone will continue to receive updates for the next few years, so there is no need to doubt the security and compatibility of applications.
Until now, the official price of the iPhone 13 (128 GB) has fallen and is now around IDR 7 million. For users who want to upgrade without having to waste their budget, this model is an attractive choice because it is still very relevant.
Quick Comparison Table of iPhone 11, 12, and 13
| Model | Chipset | Network | Camera | Battery Life | iOS Update Estimates | Used/Official Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| iPhone 11 | A13 Bionic | 4G | Dual | 17 hours of video playback | Until the next two years | Starting from IDR 3 million |
| iPhone 12 | A14 Bionic | 5G | Dual | 17 hours of video playback | Until the next four years | Starting from IDR 5-6 million |
| iPhone 13 | A15 Bionic | 5G | Dual/Triple Pro | 19 hours of video playback | Until the next five years | Rp. 7 million (new) |
Recommendations for Users: Choose According to Needs
If your main need is a cellphone for social media, communication, streaming and light work, the iPhone 11 can still be an economical choice. Even though it is nearing the end of update support, this iPhone is reliable and has no problems running popular apps.
For more active use such as gaming, photography, or if you want to experience the 5G network, it’s a good idea to choose the iPhone 12. With a more affordable price compared to the latest series, users get a combination of contemporary features and support for longer operating system updates.
Meanwhile, for those who want the highest performance with the longest-lasting battery and the best camera, the iPhone 13 is the superior alternative in the lower middle price class. The Pro variant is suitable for content creators or mobile photography enthusiasts, because it offers a more complete camera and sensor system.
Tips before buying a second hand or refurbished iPhone
- Make sure to buy from an official shop or trusted seller.
- Check the warranty period and service history of the device.
- Check battery health in the iPhone settings menu.
- Avoid transactions without seeing the physical unit directly, especially for cheap prices below market.
By considering your needs, budget and desired features, the iPhone upgrade process will feel safer and more satisfying. The right choice doesn’t always have to be the latest series, because older iPhones that are still supported by Apple still provide optimal user experience and stable resale value.
