Flagship smartphones from Apple, Samsung, and Google now come with flagship prices — often well over $1,000. But Verity News cuts through the hype: you don’t have to chase the newest model to get premium performance. In fact, a top-tier phone from a year or two ago can still beat many of today’s brand-new mid-range options and save you hundreds.
Buying used is not just a budget-friendly move; it’s smart. You get better performance, better screens, and better cameras, all at a fraction of the cost. And with longer software support from major brands, these devices still have years of life left in them.
One of the best options right now is the Google Pixel 8 Pro, which offers seven full years of updates, unmatched by most brands. It delivers clean software, brilliant cameras, a stunning display, and Google’s powerful AI features. Unless you’re gaming or editing video all day, it handles everything effortlessly.
Then there’s the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra, two years old but still a beast. Its edge-to-edge display remains one of the best on any phone, even compared to 2025 models. It also includes the S Pen, which newer models like the Galaxy S25 Ultra have done away with. A 200MP camera, 10x zoom lens, and all-day battery life make it a flagship through and through, available used for about $500.
For iPhone loyalists, both the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro are excellent used buys. The regular iPhone 15 might miss out on Apple’s latest AI features, but it’s still a fast, reliable device with great battery life and a compact form factor. The iPhone 15 Pro, on the other hand, does support Apple Intelligence, and adds premium touches like a smoother display and extra camera features, perfect for power users who don’t want to pay iPhone 16 prices.
Gamers and power users should look at the OnePlus 12. It’s one of the most powerful Android phones on the market today, even as a used model. With the latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, a massive battery, and super-fast charging, it’s a true endurance champ. OxygenOS has also matured into one of the cleanest and smoothest Android experiences out there. At under $500, the OnePlus 12 might just be the best value phone on this list.
The bottom line is, you don’t need to go broke for a great phone. Whether you are after performance, longevity, camera quality, or simply a good deal, these used models prove that yesterday’s flagships are today’s smartest buys.