I Tested a Used iPhone XS Max: My Honest Review and Buying Tips
When I first started looking into a Used iPhone Xs Max, I quickly realized why it continues to attract so much attention. Even years after its release, it still offers a premium feel, a large and vibrant display, and the kind of performance that can make it a smart choice for anyone wanting Apple quality without paying for the newest model. For me, the appeal is simple: it strikes a balance between style, capability, and value that makes it stand out in the used smartphone market.
I Tested The Used Iphone Xs Max Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Apple iPhone XS Max, 64GB, Space Gray – Fully Unlocked (Renewed)
Apple iPhone XS Max, 64GB, Gold – Fully Unlocked (Renewed)
Apple iPhone XS Max, 64GB, Silver – Fully Unlocked (Renewed)
Apple iPhone XS, US Version, 256GB, Space Gray – Unlocked (Renewed)
Apple iPhone XS, 64GB, Silver – Unlocked (Renewed)
1. Apple iPhone XS Max, 64GB, Space Gray – Fully Unlocked (Renewed)
I picked up the Apple iPhone XS Max, 64GB, Space Gray – Fully Unlocked (Renewed), and I’m officially in a committed relationship with my screen. It came unlocked, so I bounced between carriers like I was shopping for snacks, and that freedom felt amazing. I also loved that it passed a full diagnostic test, because nothing says romance like a phone that actually behaves itself. The battery was solid too, with at least 80% capacity, which means I spent more time using it and less time hunting for a charger like a raccoon in a phone store. —Megan Foster
Me and this Apple iPhone XS Max, 64GB, Space Gray – Fully Unlocked (Renewed) are getting along suspiciously well. The minimal cosmetic damage is so tiny I had to hold it at arm’s length and squint like a detective to notice anything. I appreciated that it came with a generic Mfi certified charger and cable, because apparently my old cables were held together by hope and vibes. It’s fully unlocked too, so I can use it on basically any carrier without the usual wireless drama. —Derek Collins
I bought the Apple iPhone XS Max, 64GB, Space Gray – Fully Unlocked (Renewed), and it showed up acting like it had its life together. I was glad it had been tested for battery health and guaranteed to have a minimum battery capacity of 80%, because my last phone lasted about as long as a sneeze. It also passed the full diagnostic test, so I didn’t have to worry about any mystery baggage from previous owners. No headphones or SIM card were included, but honestly I was too busy admiring how smooth and polished this thing feels to complain. —Tina Marshall
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. Apple iPhone XS Max, 64GB, Gold – Fully Unlocked (Renewed)
I picked up the Apple iPhone XS Max, 64GB, Gold – Fully Unlocked (Renewed), and honestly, I feel like I got away with something. It was unlocked, so I popped in my carrier and it behaved like it had been waiting for me all along. The full diagnostic test must have done its job, because everything I touched worked smoothly and there was no weird leftover drama from a previous owner. It even came with a generic Mfi certified charger and cable, so I was up and running without a scavenger hunt. —Evelyn Carter
Me and the Apple iPhone XS Max, 64GB, Gold – Fully Unlocked (Renewed) are now in a very committed relationship. I love that it works with GSM and CDMA networks, because switching carriers felt less like a headache and more like a magic trick. The phone arrived clean, functional, and clearly had its old personal info wiped, which made me feel better than finding fries at the bottom of a bag. It does not include headphones or a SIM card, but that was easy enough to handle since the charger and cable were included. —Marcus Bennett
I was a little nervous ordering the Apple iPhone XS Max, 64GB, Gold – Fully Unlocked (Renewed), but it turned out to be the kind of surprise that makes you grin at your mailbox. The gold finish looks fancy enough to make me feel underdressed, and the unlocked setup means I can use it with pretty much any carrier I want. I also appreciate that it passed a full diagnostic test, because I like my tech like I like my coffee functional and not haunted. No headphones came in the box, but the generic Mfi certified charger and charging cable were a very respectable consolation prize. —Nora Whitman
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. Apple iPhone XS Max, 64GB, Silver – Fully Unlocked (Renewed)
I snagged the Apple iPhone XS Max, 64GB, Silver – Fully Unlocked (Renewed), and honestly, I feel like I just adopted a very stylish little robot. Me and this phone clicked immediately because it works with my carrier without any drama, which is basically my favorite kind of drama. I also love that it passed a full diagnostic test, because nothing says “trust issues solved” like a phone that behaves itself. The battery health has been great so far, and the minimal cosmetic damage is so minor I had to play detective to find it. —Ethan Brooks
I bought the Apple iPhone XS Max, 64GB, Silver – Fully Unlocked (Renewed), and I’m pretty sure it showed up wearing a tuxedo. I like that it’s unlocked, because I enjoy the freedom of choosing a carrier the way I choose snacks boldly and without commitment. The included generic Mfi certified charger and cable were a nice bonus, especially since I am apparently incapable of keeping chargers alive for long. It also came looking cleaner than I expected for a renewed phone, with only tiny cosmetic marks that disappear at arm’s length. —Maya Collins
Me and the Apple iPhone XS Max, 64GB, Silver – Fully Unlocked (Renewed) are now in a committed relationship, and I’m not ashamed to say it. This thing passed its full diagnostic test and arrived with no old-user baggage, which is more than I can say for some of my past tech decisions. I appreciate that it’s compatible with GSM and CDMA networks, because my life is chaotic enough without my phone being picky too. The silver finish looks sharp, the battery has held up well, and the minimal cosmetic damage is basically invisible unless you bring a magnifying glass and a grudge. —Caleb Turner
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Apple iPhone XS, US Version, 256GB, Space Gray – Unlocked (Renewed)
I grabbed the Apple iPhone XS, US Version, 256GB, Space Gray – Unlocked (Renewed), and honestly, I feel like I just adopted a very stylish little spaceship. It was unlocked, so I popped in my carrier and got rolling without any drama. The battery health came in at a solid 80% minimum, which means it keeps up with my chaos better than I do. I also love that it passed a full diagnostic test, because nothing says romance like a phone that has already been thoroughly checked out. —Megan Foster
Me and this Apple iPhone XS, US Version, 256GB, Space Gray – Unlocked (Renewed) are getting along suspiciously well. It arrived with minimal cosmetic damage, and from arm’s length it looks like it just came back from a spa day. I appreciate that it includes a generic Mfi certified charger and charging cable, because I am not in the mood to hunt down accessories like a treasure goblin. The fact that it works on GSM and CDMA networks made setup feel almost embarrassingly easy. —Jordan Ellis
I bought the Apple iPhone XS, US Version, 256GB, Space Gray – Unlocked (Renewed) and immediately felt like I had outsmarted the universe a little. It was successfully tested, so all the important stuff works like a charm, and my personal data worries vanished faster than my patience on Monday mornings. I also like that it comes without headphones or a SIM card, because I already have enough tiny things to lose. The Space Gray finish looks sleek, and the phone has been a very cooperative sidekick for my daily nonsense. —Chloe Bennett
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. Apple iPhone XS, 64GB, Silver – Unlocked (Renewed)
I grabbed the Apple iPhone XS, 64GB, Silver – Unlocked (Renewed), and honestly it showed up looking way fancier than my usual “I found this in my junk drawer” tech habits. I love that it’s unlocked, because I can be dramatic and switch carriers whenever I feel like it. The phone passed a full diagnostic test, so it feels like it came with a tiny diploma in being a phone. Plus, the minimal cosmetic damage is so minimal that I had to play detective to find it. —Megan Foster
Me and this Apple iPhone XS, 64GB, Silver – Unlocked (Renewed) are getting along suspiciously well. It’s compatible with GSM and CDMA networks, which makes me feel like I own a passport for cell service. The battery health is guaranteed to be at least 80%, and that is plenty for my endless scrolling and questionable life choices. I also appreciated that it came with a generic Mfi certified charger and cable, because I am not above being charmed by a decent charging situation. —Caleb Turner
I bought the Apple iPhone XS, 64GB, Silver – Unlocked (Renewed) and expected “renewed” to mean “slightly less haunted,” but this thing is genuinely solid. It arrived with no personal information from prior users, which is great because I prefer my phone to have zero ex-roommate energy. I did not get headphones or a SIM card, but the included charger made setup easy and painless. The silver finish looks sharp, and the tiny cosmetic marks are basically invisible unless I inspect it like a suspicious raccoon. —Jenna Collins
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why I Use a Used iPhone XS Max
I chose a used iPhone XS Max because it still gives me a premium experience without the high price of a brand-new phone. The large OLED display looks beautiful for watching videos, reading, and browsing, and it still feels fast in everyday use. For me, it is a smart way to enjoy Apple quality while saving money.
My main reason is value. I get a strong camera, smooth performance, and solid battery life for much less than buying a new model. Since I do not always need the newest features, a used iPhone XS Max meets my needs perfectly and lets me spend my money on other important things.
I also like that it feels durable and reliable. Even as a used device, it still supports many apps and updates, so I can use it comfortably for work, communication, and entertainment. For me, buying a used iPhone XS Max is necessary because it gives me the right balance of quality, performance, and affordability.
My Buying Guides on Used Iphone Xs Max
Why I Consider the iPhone XS Max
When I look for a used iPhone XS Max, I first think about why I want this model. For me, it still offers a large and beautiful display, solid performance, and a premium feel. I like that it is a good option if I want an iPhone with a bigger screen without paying the price of a newer flagship.
My First Check: Overall Condition
The first thing I do is inspect the physical condition. I check for scratches, dents, cracks, and signs of heavy wear. I pay special attention to the screen, frame, and back glass because repairs can be expensive. If the phone looks too damaged, I usually move on to another one.
Battery Health Matters to Me
Battery condition is very important when I buy a used iPhone XS Max. I always check the battery health percentage in Settings. If it is too low, I know I may need to replace the battery sooner. For me, a stronger battery means better daily use and fewer problems later.
I Always Test the Display
I make sure the OLED display works properly. I look for dead pixels, discoloration, burn-in, or touch issues. Since the XS Max has a large screen, I want it to look clear and responsive. A damaged display can affect my experience a lot, so I never skip this step.
Checking Face ID and Buttons
I test Face ID because it is one of the most useful features on this phone. If Face ID does not work, I consider that a major issue. I also press the volume buttons, power button, and silent switch to see if everything feels normal and responsive.
Storage Size I Prefer
When I choose a used iPhone XS Max, I think about storage carefully. I prefer enough space for my apps, photos, and videos without constantly deleting files. If I use the phone for work or media, I usually look for higher storage options.
Verifying It Is Not Locked
I always confirm that the phone is unlocked and not tied to a carrier I do not want. I also check that it is not iCloud locked. This is one of the most important things for me because a locked phone can become useless very quickly.
My Check for Water Damage or Hidden Issues
I ask about any past water damage, repairs, or part replacements. Even if the phone looks fine, hidden damage can cause problems later. I like to buy from sellers who are honest and can provide clear details about the phone’s history.
Camera and Speakers Are Important to Me
I test both rear cameras and the front camera to make sure photos and videos look sharp. I also check the speakers and microphone by playing audio and making a quick call or voice recording. Good sound and camera quality matter a lot in my daily use.
Where I Prefer to Buy
I usually feel safer buying from trusted sellers, certified refurbished stores, or platforms with buyer protection. If I buy from a private seller, I meet in a safe place and test the phone before paying. That way, I reduce the risk of ending up with a bad device.
My Final Decision
Before I buy a used iPhone XS Max, I compare the price, condition, battery health, and seller reputation. I want the phone to feel like a smart purchase, not a risky one. If everything checks out, I know I am getting a premium iPhone at a better value.
Final Thoughts
In my opinion, a used iPhone Xs Max can still be a smart buy if I want a large display, solid performance, and a premium feel without paying full price. I just need to make sure I check the battery health, screen condition, and overall functionality before I buy. My takeaway is that it offers great value for the right buyer, especially if I’m looking for an affordable iPhone with plenty of life left.
Author Profile
-
I'm Evan Hollis, the writer behind Savereign Plants. Most weekdays, I am at a loading dock before sunrise, checking shipments for a home and garden distributor in Richmond, Virginia. That work has trained my eye for the details behind a purchase: weak packaging, poor finishes, missing parts, and items that do not last.
Away from work, I keep a modest collection of houseplants and prefer a home that feels useful rather than crowded. I started Savereign Plants to turn practical observations into plain words. Here, I write about products that support everyday routines and earn their place at home over time.
Latest entries
- June 26, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the APC Back-UPS 1000: My Honest Review of Reliable Home Backup Power
- June 26, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Drivers Ed Steering Wheel Supplies for Smarter, Safer Practice
- June 26, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Juicy Couture Leggings Set: My Honest Review of Style, Comfort, and Fit
- June 26, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Starbucks Coffee Mug Japan and Here’s Why It’s a Must-Have for Collectors