We are well into 2026, and the world of refurbished tech is moving faster than ever. As we look at what our customers are choosing this year, a few clear patterns are emerging. It seems that while everyone loves new technology, reliability and value are what truly drive decisions.
Here is a look at the iPhones that are capturing attention right now.
The iPhone 13 is the undisputed favourite
When looking at the devices our customers are adding to their baskets, one model stands head and shoulders above the rest. The iPhone 13 is currently the most popular choice among Swappie customers, and by a significant margin.
It is easy to see why. The iPhone 13 sits in that perfect sweet spot of performance and price. It offers a modern experience with a fantastic camera and battery life, but without the price tag of the very latest releases. For many, it represents the smartest way to upgrade.
Compact phones are making a comeback
There has been a lot of talk in the tech world about bigger screens, but our data tells a different story. We are seeing a massive amount of love for the “mini” models.
The iPhone 13 mini and iPhone 12 mini are both sitting high on our popularity lists, outperforming many larger and newer models. Since Apple stopped producing the mini line, the refurbished market has become the go-to place for people who want a powerful phone that still fits comfortably in one hand. It is proof that great things really do come in small packages.
Newer generations are catching up
While the iPhone 13 series reigns supreme, we are seeing a steady rise in the iPhone 14 and iPhone 15 families. As more of these devices enter the circular economy, more people are taking the opportunity to own recent tech for less. The standard iPhone 14 and iPhone 15 are quickly becoming crowd favourites for those who want that extra bit of longevity and the latest features.
Midnight and Blue are the colours of the year
When it comes to aesthetics, our customers are keeping it classic. Darker, neutral tones are dominating the trends this year.
“Midnight” is the top colour choice, followed closely by traditional Black. It seems the sleek, understated look is what most people are after. However, for those adding a splash of personality, Blue is the clear winner, ranking as the most popular non-neutral option. Starlight and Red are also making strong appearances, showing that while we love the classics, we still like to mix it up.
Why refurbished is the smart choice in 2026
Regardless of which model or colour trends, the biggest trend we are seeing is the shift towards refurbished tech. Choosing refurbished means you get a high-quality device that works like new, but you also make a positive impact on the planet.
At Swappie, we make sure you never have to compromise on quality.
- Expertly tested: Every single iPhone goes through a rigorous 52-step technical testing process by our own in-house experts.
- Guaranteed quality: We check everything from battery health to screen responsiveness to ensure it functions perfectly.
- Peace of mind: All our phones come with a comprehensive 12-month warranty and a 14-day right to return.
Whether you are looking for the popular iPhone 13, hunting for a rare mini, or eyeing the iPhone 15, we have you covered.
Ready to find your next phone? Explore our range of refurbished iPhones here
Here are the localized versions of the blog post, adapted for each market’s specific tone, terminology, and warranty conditions.