Apple iPhone 15 MTLV3LL/A Review

The renewed iPhone 15 is a value-packed way to get a recent Apple phone. You get the powerful A16 Bionic chip and a great display for about $390, though camera performance and the 60Hz screen are its main compromises compared to newer rivals. It's a smart buy for iOS fans on a budget.

Looking for a renewed iPhone 15? You're not alone. This unlocked 128GB model is one of the most searched-for phones in our database, and for good reason. It's the sweet spot for anyone who wants modern Apple features without the flagship price tag. You're getting the 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display, the A16 Bionic chip, and that Dynamic Island notch everyone talks about. For around $390, it's a solid entry point into the iOS ecosystem. Just remember, this is a renewed unit, so condition can vary, but the specs are the same as a brand new one.

It's a standard iPhone 15, so you get the aluminum frame, color-infused glass back, and the classic Ring/Silent switch. The camera system is the advanced dual setup with a 48MP main sensor, and it supports all the latest iOS features like Emergency SOS via satellite. If you're wondering if a renewed iPhone 15 is a good deal, the short answer is: often, yes. But let's dig into the data to see where it shines and where you might want to look elsewhere.

The A16 Bionic chip is no slouch. In our performance benchmarks, it lands in the 96th percentile for phones in this category. That means it's still incredibly fast for everyday tasks, social media, and most games. The 8GB of RAM helps keep apps running smoothly in the background. For gaming, it scores a 54.2 out of 100 in our system, which is decent but not class-leading. You can play most titles on high settings, but hardcore mobile gamers might want a phone with a higher refresh rate display. The 60Hz screen here is fine, but it's not the buttery-smooth 120Hz you get on some Android flagships or the iPhone 15 Pro. In practice, apps open instantly, and the overall experience feels snappy and responsive, which is exactly what you want from an iPhone.

At around $390 for a renewed model, the iPhone 15 sits in a interesting spot. It's not a budget phone, but it's also half the price of a new iPhone 16 Pro. You're paying for that Apple ecosystem, software support, and resale value. The main alternatives at this price are Android phones like the Google Pixel 10 or Samsung Galaxy S25 FE, which often offer better cameras or higher refresh rate screens for the money. But if you're invested in iOS or just prefer it, this is one of the most cost-effective ways to get a recent iPhone with a powerful chip.

Let's name names. The Samsung Galaxy S25 FE is probably its biggest rival. You'll likely get a better main camera and a 120Hz screen for a similar renewed price, but you lose iOS and that long-term software support Apple is known for. The Google Pixel 10 is another strong contender, especially for camera purists, with computational photography that often beats the iPhone 15's dual-camera system. Then there's the OnePlus 15, which typically offers faster charging and a smoother screen. But none of them have the A16 Bionic's raw performance or the social proof—this iPhone scores in the 98th percentile for that, meaning it's wildly popular and well-regarded. If you're considering the iPhone 16e, know that it's a newer budget model; the 15 has a more premium build and a better processor.

Skip this phone if you're a photography enthusiast who wants the best possible camera—look at a Google Pixel 10 or iPhone 15 Pro instead. Also, avoid it if you need a super-rugged device for tough environments; its build scores low for durability. And if you're a mobile gamer who craves the smoothest visuals, the 60Hz screen will feel like a step down from higher-refresh-rate options. For those users, the Samsung Galaxy S25 FE is a better fit.

So, should you buy the renewed iPhone 15? If you want a fast, modern iPhone and don't mind a possible scratch or two to save several hundred dollars, this is a fantastic buy. The core experience—the speed, the display, the software—is intact. We'd recommend buying from a seller with a good return policy and clear condition description. But if your top priorities are the absolute best mobile photography or a super-smooth gaming display, you can get more for your money with an Android flagship like the Pixel 10. For everyone else, especially those upgrading from an iPhone 11 or 12, this is a sensible and powerful upgrade that won't break the bank.