Thinking about making the switch and wondering, “Should I upgrade to a used iPhone 11?” You’re not alone. Many are turning to refurbished or pre-owned iPhones as a smart way to save money while still enjoying powerful tech. In this article, we’ll break down whether the upgrade to iPhone 11 is worth it in 2025.

From performance and hardware with the A13 Bionic chip, to the dual-lens camera with Night Mode, we’ll also look at software updates, user experience, and the price-to-value ratio compared to newer models. We’ll even touch on how this choice benefits the environment by reducing e-waste.

With expert insight and a sprinkle of personal experience, this deep dive into the used iPhone 11 upgrade review will help you decide if this is the right move for you.

My Experience of Upgrade to iPhone 11

A few years ago, I found myself stuck between wanting the latest iPhone and not wanting to spend a small fortune. I’ve worked in the mobile phone industry for years, and at iRepair Mobiles UK, we see all kinds of devices come through.

When I finally settled on a used iPhone 11, I was skeptical. But after using it daily—running heavy apps, editing photos, syncing with my Mac—I found myself surprisingly satisfied. Here’s everything I’ve learned along the way.

Performance and Hardware – Still Packs a Punch

The iPhone 11 features Apple’s A13 Bionic chip, which, even by today’s standards, performs beautifully. Whether you’re multitasking between work apps, streaming Netflix, or playing games like COD Mobile, the speed and responsiveness remain consistently impressive.

Thanks to 4GB RAM, the iPhone 11 handles multitasking smoothly. Its battery life is solid too—I often get a full day on moderate use. And yes, wireless charging is supported, which adds convenience.

The build quality is premium, with glass front and back, aluminum frame, and that all-important IP68 rating—resistant to dust and water, great for day-to-day durability.

User Experience – Simple, Smooth, Comfortable

The iPhone 11’s 6.1-inch Liquid Retina LCD display might not be OLED, but it’s crisp and color-accurate enough for most users. The True Tone technology adjusts brightness and color balance automatically depending on ambient lighting, making long screen time easier on the eyes.

At 194g, it feels balanced—not too heavy, not too light. The haptic feedback is subtle yet effective, and the gesture navigation system is fluid, making the overall experience intuitive and enjoyable.

Software & Updates – Still Very Much in the Game

One of the main reasons to stick with Apple is iOS longevity. The iPhone 11 still receives iOS updates, and Apple tends to support devices for about 5–6 years. As of now, the 11 runs the latest iOS version, with regular security patches, privacy enhancements, and new features like widgets, App Library, and Focus Modes.

Apple’s ecosystem is a major benefit—AirDrop, iCloud, and Continuity features with iPadOS and macOS still work perfectly.

Camera Capabilities – Dual Lenses, Night Mode, 4K

I was genuinely surprised at how good the camera is. You get 12MP wide and ultra-wide lenses, Smart HDR, and Night Mode—which is a game changer for low-light shots. It lacks a telephoto lens, but I didn’t miss it much.

Video capabilities are solid—4K at 60fps, slow-motion at 1080p 240fps, and excellent stabilization make it great for everyday video shooting.

If you’re a casual photographer or enjoy documenting your life in videos, this setup won’t disappoint.

Price & Value – Smart Money Move

Let’s talk money. The iPhone 11 has seen significant depreciation, which works in your favor. A used iPhone 11 in good condition is affordable, often half the price of a new iPhone.

The iPhone 11 offers an excellent price-to-performance ratio, especially when bought refurbished or certified pre-owned from a trusted seller like iRepair Mobiles UK. It’s a smart choice for students, professionals, and even tech-savvy users on a budget.

Environmental Impact – A Greener Upgrade

Buying used tech isn’t just good for your wallet—it’s good for the planet. Choosing a refurbished iPhone 11 helps cut down on e-waste, reduces carbon footprint, and encourages the reuse of valuable materials. Apple has already shifted toward eco-friendly manufacturing, and extending a phone’s lifecycle means fewer resources are consumed.

So if sustainability is important to you, this upgrade helps you consume more responsibly.

Final Thoughts – Should You Upgrade to a Used iPhone 11?

Absolutely—if you’re looking for a dependable, affordable smartphone, the upgrade to iPhone 11 is still a very smart choice in 2025. You’re getting great performance, a reliable camera, long-term software support, and a better environmental footprint, all at a fraction of the price of newer models.

At iRepair Mobiles UK, we regularly recommend the used iPhone 11 to customers who want flagship-like features without the flagship cost. So, if you’ve been on the fence asking, “Should I upgrade to a used iPhone 11?”, consider this your expert-backed go-ahead.