Buying tips
InformationalRefurbished iPhone Battery Health: What to Expect and How to Check It
Battery health is the single most important thing to check on any refurbished iPhone. Here's exactly how.
Battery health is one of the biggest concerns when buying refurbished. Understanding what to expect and how to check it helps you make a confident purchase.
What is battery health?
Battery health refers to a battery's maximum charge capacity compared to when it was new. A new iPhone starts at 100% and gradually degrades over years of use.
What to expect from refurbished batteries
Reputable sellers refuse to ship phones with battery health below 85%. Many test at 90% or higher, with batteries replaced where needed.
How to check iPhone battery health
Go to Settings > Battery > Battery Health & Charging. The maximum capacity percentage tells you exactly where your battery stands.
How long will the battery last?
At 85% health, expect 2-3 years of useful life before noticeable degradation. Above 90%, you may get 4+ years.
When to replace the battery
Once below 80%, performance may slow. Battery replacements are covered under our warranty during the warranty period.
How to maintain battery life
Avoid extreme temperatures, don't constantly drain to 0%, and use Optimised Battery Charging in iPhone settings.
Frequently asked questions
Can I request a phone with a higher battery percentage?
Yes — get in touch through our contact page for specific battery requests.
Will battery health drop quickly after buying?
Normal use causes gradual decline — typically 1-3% per year with good charging habits.
James Holloway
Technical Editor
Part of the Second Hand Phones editorial team — writing honest, useful guides for UK shoppers buying second-hand smartphones.
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