Should you replace your iPhone battery or get an upgrade?

If your iPhone isn’t holding a charge like it used to, you’ve probably asked yourself: Should I replace the battery, or is it time to upgrade the phone? The answer depends on your iPhone’s age, condition, and how much you’re willing to spend—whether that’s on a battery replacement or trading in for a newer device.

Let’s weigh up your options and look at why a high-quality refurbished iPhone from Swappie might be a smart move.

Check your iPhone’s battery health

Before making any decisions, take a look at your battery health. On your iPhone, go to Settings > Battery > Battery Health & Charging. Look at the Maximum Capacity percentage. Apple recommends replacing the battery when this number falls below 80%, as performance may begin to decline.

If the battery health is still above 85% and the phone is running well, you may not need a replacement just yet.

When trading in or upgrading makes more sense

If your iPhone is several years old or has other issues like a sluggish processor, screen damage, or is no longer supported with iOS updates, trading in or upgrading could offer better value than just replacing the battery.

Why Swappie is a trusted choice for refurbished iPhones

Not all refurbished devices are created equal. What sets Swappie apart is its dedication to quality, safety, and transparency. Every iPhone sold by Swappie goes through:

  • A 52-step inspection and testing process
  • Repairs carried out only by Swappie’s in-house technicians
  • Battery health of at least 86% across all phones, or 100% with an upgrade
  • A warranty and a 14-day free return policy
  • Verified replacement components that meet Apple’s standards.

Swappie never outsources repairs or cuts corners. You’ll get a phone that looks, feels, and works like new—without the risks that come with other refurbished sellers.

Environmental impact: Replace, refurbish, or recycle

If you’re environmentally conscious, replacing your battery is already a greener option than buying a brand-new phone. But purchasing a high-quality refurbished iPhone is just as sustainable, if not more so. According to Apple’s 2023 Environmental Progress Report, most of a device’s carbon footprint comes from its production. Keeping phones in use for longer helps reduce this impact.

That’s exactly what Swappie is here for, to keep high-quality iPhones in circulation and out of landfills. Find out how you can trade-in your iPhone for a high-quality Swappie refurbished iPhone today.