The Apple iPhone 13 is Apple's standard 2021 iPhone, now one of the cheapest ways into a still-supported iPhone. Its A15 chip and strong cameras have aged well, and with iOS updates still arriving it remains a sensible buy several years on.
iPhone 13: Display
The 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED has a 1170 x 2532 resolution and quotes 800 nits in high-brightness mode, with GSMArena measuring 802 nits and a 1,200-nit peak for HDR, protected by Ceramic Shield.
The clear limitation is the 60Hz refresh rate, which looks less fluid than the 120Hz screens on newer and Android rivals.
iPhone 13: Camera
The dual camera pairs a 12MP main sensor with sensor-shift OIS and a 12MP ultrawide, with a 12MP selfie camera. The main sensor produces reliable, natural photos helped by Apple's processing.
Video is a strength, up to 4K at 60fps with Dolby Vision, though there is no telephoto lens.
iPhone 13: Battery
The 3,240mAh battery earned a good endurance rating in GSMArena's test, a step up from the iPhone 12, with wired charging at 50% in 30 minutes plus 15W MagSafe wireless.
Wired charging is slow next to fast-charging Android rivals, the main weak point.
iPhone 13: Size, Weight and Build
At 146.7 x 71.5 x 7.7mm and 174g with an aluminium frame and IP68 sealing, the iPhone 13 is compact, light and well built, in colours including Blue, Pink and Green.
It uses the older Lightning port rather than USB-C, so it needs Apple's cable, and there is no microSD slot or headphone jack.
iPhone 13: Performance
The A15 Bionic with 4GB of RAM remains fast for everyday use and gaming, launched on iOS 15 and since updated, with years of iOS support still ahead.
The chip is older than current models but still feels quick and fluid in daily use.
iPhone 13: Who Should Buy
Buy the iPhone 13 at a low price if you want a compact, still-supported iPhone and do not mind a 60Hz screen and Lightning port. Buyers who want a bigger battery, crash detection and newer features should compare the iPhone 14. Buyers comparing contract terms will find current network pricing in the table above.