Every year, Apple gives people another reason to consider changing their phones. But as newer iPhones become more expensive and the differences between generations grow less obvious to everyday users, finding the best iPhones to buy in 2026 and upgrading isn’t as straightforward as it used to be.
The conversation around the iPhone 18 series has also raised a bigger question: do you really need the latest iPhone, or would an older model give you almost everything you need for less?
For many buyers, especially those shopping in Nigeria, an older iPhone can offer most of what they need at a much better price. So we asked iPhone users and vendors which models are actually worth spending money on in 2026.
Here are the 10 iPhones that made the cut, ranked from best value for money to least.
1. iPhone 17 Pro Max – ₦1.7m – ₦2.7m
Why it’s worth your money: It has the full package: excellent cameras, strong battery life, a big display and enough power to handle pretty much anything. If you’re spending serious money on an iPhone, this is one of the few that can justify the price.
Best for: Content creators, heavy users and people who want the best iPhone without jumping to the newer 18 series.
2. iPhone 17 Pro – ₦1.8m – ₦2.2m
Why it’s worth your money: You get most of what makes the 17 Pro Max great, but in a smaller phone. It’s a good option if you want premium cameras and performance without paying for the biggest iPhone.
Best for: People who want a Pro iPhone but prefer a smaller phone.
3. iPhone 16 Pro – ₦950,000 – ₦1.1m
Why it’s worth your money: It’s no longer the newest Pro model, which is exactly why it’s worth considering. You get a premium camera system, great performance and a high-end display without paying current-generation prices.
Best for: People who want Pro features but don’t want to spend 17 Pro money.
4. iPhone 15 Pro Max – ₦800,000 – ₦950,000
Why it’s worth your money: The 15 Pro Max still has the big screen, strong cameras and performance you’d expect from a Pro Max. Its age also means you can find it at a much more attractive price than newer Pro Max models.
Best for: Content creators and buyers who want a Pro Max without paying top dollar.
5. iPhone 16 – ₦770,000 – ₦900,000
Why it’s worth your money: You don’t need a Pro to have a great iPhone. The 16 handles everyday use comfortably and gives you a newer phone without the extra cost of Pro features.
Best for: Everyday users who want a modern iPhone without spending too much.
6. iPhone 15 – ₦600,000 – ₦700,000
Why it’s worth your money: The iPhone 15 is still a solid everyday phone, especially if you find it at a good price. It gives you a capable camera, USB-C and enough performance for most people’s needs.
Best for: People who want a reliable iPhone on a tighter budget.
7. iPhone 14 Pro Max – ₦630,000 – ₦850,000
Why it’s worth your money: You can get the Pro Max experience for considerably less than you’d pay for a newer model. Its big display, Pro camera system and premium design still hold up.
Best for: Buyers who want a Pro Max but don’t have the budget for a newer one.
8. iPhone 14 Pro – ₦600,000 – ₦770,000
Why it’s worth your money: It packs many of the features people love about the Pro Max into a smaller phone. If you’re not bothered about having the latest model, it can be a great deal at the right price.
Best for: People who want Pro features without the Pro Max size or price.
9. iPhone 14 Plus – ₦450,000 – 570,000
Why it’s worth your money: If your priorities are a big screen and good battery life, you don’t necessarily need to pay for a Pro Max. The 14 Plus gives you both without the extra Pro premium.
Best for: People who care more about screen size and battery than camera features.
10. iPhone 13 – ₦385,000 – ₦450,000
Why it’s worth your money: The iPhone 13 is an affordable way to get into the iPhone ecosystem without spending a fortune. It’s still capable of handling everyday tasks, social media, photography and streaming.
Best for: Students, first-time iPhone buyers, and people on a smaller budget.
So, which one should you buy?
If money isn’t the biggest concern, the 17 Pro Max is the clear pick. But if you’re more interested in getting the most out of every naira, there are plenty of older iPhones that still make sense in 2026.
The trick is to figure out what you actually need from your phone, then spend accordingly.
NEXT READ: The iPhone 18 Pro is Expensive. Here Are 10 Cheaper Phones with Similar Specs
