The iPhone 13 once ruled the smartphone world with its perfect balance of performance, camera quality, and battery life. But now it’s 2025 — newer iPhones like the iPhone 14 and 15 have entered the scene.

Is the iPhone 13 still a smart buy today? Let’s find out everything you need to know.

Verdict

The iPhone 13 remains a powerful, reliable, and value-packed choice in 2025 — especially in Canada, where newer models come at steep premiums.

With its A15 Bionic chip, impressive battery life, and high-quality camera system, it’s still a strong performer that competes with many mid-range phones of 2025.

Price to Value Ratio in Canada

With new iPhones (like the iPhone 15 and 16) pushing $1300–$1600 CAD, the iPhone 13 (starting around $499–$599 CAD in 2025 refurbished or new-in-box) delivers premium performance for half the cost.

iPhone 13 Price in Canada (2025)

Prices for the iPhone 13 have finally dropped across Canada:

Where to find deals:

• Apple Certified Refurbished Store
• Mobile Klinik
• Best Buy Canada Refurbished
• Carrier stores (Bell, Rogers, Telus)

Pro Tip: Buying certified refurbished often comes with a 1-year warranty—safer than a random marketplace purchase.

Is Buying an iPhone 13 Still a Good Idea in 2025?

Short answer: Yes, but with conditions.

When It Makes Sense:

• You need a reliable phone under $600.
• You value stability over cutting-edge features.
• You want full iOS support without spending $1,200+.

When to Skip:

• You need the best cameras for pro-level photography.
• You want features like Dynamic Island or ultra-fast 5G speeds.

New vs. Refurbished iPhone 13: Which Should You Get?

New:

• More expensive (~$100–$150 more)
• 1-year Apple warranty

Refurbished (Certified Pre-Owned):

• Cheaper upfront
• Typically a 6–12 month warranty
• May have minor cosmetic flaws

Pro Tip: Certified refurbished phones from Apple or trusted Canadian resellers often look and feel like brand new.

iPhone 13 vs Newer Models: Worth the Upgrade?

Verdict: If you don’t need a 48MP camera or Dynamic Island, the iPhone 13 still offers outstanding value.

FAQ

How long will Apple support the iPhone 13?

Apple typically supports iPhones for 6+ years. The iPhone 13 should receive major updates until at least 2027–2028.

What’s the cheapest way to buy an iPhone 13 in Canada in 2025?

Buying refurbished from certified resellers like Mobile Klinik or Best Buy Refurbished often saves $100–$200 compared to new.

Is the iPhone 13 camera still good enough in 2025?

Yes! For everyday users, the iPhone 13 still produces excellent photos, although newer models have advanced in low-light and HDR photography.

Final Verdict: Should You Buy the iPhone 13 in 2025?

• If you want a reliable iPhone for under $600
• If you prioritize smooth performance and updates
• If you’re okay without the latest flashy features

The iPhone 13 remains a strong contender — even four years after launch.

iPhone 13 Review

Design and Build Quality 

• Sturdy Aluminum Frame: The iPhone 13 still feels premium and well-crafted, with a Ceramic Shield front that’s tougher than most mid-range Android phones even in 2025.

• Compact and Lightweight: Weighing only 174 grams, it’s perfect for one-handed use, unlike bulkier newer models.

• Color Options: Available in (Product) RED, Starlight, Midnight, Blue, Pink, and Green, offering vibrant choices that still look trendy today.

✅ Pro Tip: The (Product) RED version continues to donate a portion of profits to global health initiatives, a great choice if you want a phone with a cause.

Display and Screen Quality 

• 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED Display
• Brightness up to 800 nits (standard) and 1200 nits (HDR)
• Crisp Colors and Deep Blacks: Perfect for Netflix bingeing or TikTok scrolling.
• No 120Hz ProMotion: Unlike newer models, it’s capped at 60Hz refresh rate, but the smoothness still satisfies most users unless you’re a hardcore gamer.

Camera Performance 

• Dual 12MP Camera System (Wide and Ultra-Wide)
• Sensor-Shift Stabilization: Originally a “Pro-only” feature, it gives the iPhone 13 incredible steadiness even during motion shots.
• Photographic Styles and Cinematic Mode: Let users tweak tones and create movie-like videos — a standout even today.
• Low-Light Shots: Night Mode still outperforms many 2025 mid-range competitors.

Real-World Test:
Side-by-side with the Pixel 7a, the iPhone 13 holds its own, especially in video stabilization and portrait shots.

Performance and Speed

• Powered by A15 Bionic Chip:
  Still one of the fastest processors for everyday tasks, gaming, and multitasking in 2025.
• 5G Connectivity: Although not mmWave in Canada, the Sub-6 5G still offers fast streaming and downloads.
• iOS 17 and Beyond: Smooth software updates expected until 2027–2028, ensuring great long-term value.

Battery Life 

• All-Day Battery: Up to 19 hours of video playback, holding strong against many newer releases.
• 20W Fast Charging:
  50% charge in about 30 minutes (charger sold separately).
• MagSafe Support:
  Snap-on chargers, wallets, and accessories remain a plus.

iPhone 13 in 2025: Is It Still Worth It?

YES — if you want:

• A powerful camera system without breaking the bank
• A compact yet durable phone
• A device that still receives iOS updates for years

NO — if you want:

• 120Hz display (check iPhone 13 Pro or newer)
• The absolute latest camera tech (Dynamic Island, 5x Zoom)

iPhone 13 Software

In 2025, the iPhone 13 proudly runs iOS 17 — Apple’s latest and most refined software to date.

Thanks to the A15 Bionic chip and Apple’s optimization, the experience remains buttery-smooth, even when compared to newer phones.

Key Updates Available:

• Revamped Control Center for faster shortcuts
• Interactive Widgets on Home Screen
• Personalized Contact Posters in Phone app
• NameDrop for effortless AirDrop sharing
• StandBy Mode turning the phone into a smart display when charging

Pro Tip:
Even older models like the iPhone 13 now get full feature parity — no stripped-down updates like some Android rivals.

Speed and Longevity: Built to Last

The iPhone 13’s hardware and software synergy is still a standout.
Where most Androids struggle after 2–3 years, iPhone 13 remains responsive, lags less, and handles multitasking with ease even in its fourth year.

Why It Still Feels Fast:

• A15 Neural Engine keeps background processes efficient.
• RAM Optimization ensures apps stay open longer without reloads.
• Metal 3 Graphics API support for better gaming performance.

Security and Privacy

One of the biggest advantages of sticking with the iPhone 13 in 2025 is the ongoing commitment to security.

Latest Privacy Features:

• Mail Privacy Protection: Stops email trackers.
• App Tracking Transparency: Forces apps to ask before tracking your activity.
• iCloud Private Relay: Hides your internet activity from prying eyes (free for iCloud+ users).

Fun Fact:
iPhone 13 users still get Day One Security Patches, unlike many 2025 mid-range Android phones that receive updates months late.

App Ecosystem and Compatibility

• 100% Compatibility with the latest apps, games, banking platforms, and social media.
• Exclusive iOS 17 Features like Journal App and Health Enhancements work perfectly.
• Third-party apps like Instagram, TikTok, YouTube optimized better for iOS than Android.

New Tricks and Hidden Gems

Little-known but powerful features you can use:

• Haptic Feedback Keyboard: Typing feels snappier and more satisfying.
• Live Voicemail Transcription: See a transcript of voicemail as it’s being recorded.
• Offline Siri Commands: Perform basic tasks without needing internet access.

How Long Will the iPhone 13 Keep Getting Updates?

• Based on Apple’s history (e.g., iPhone 8 got 6 years of updates), the iPhone 13 is expected to receive iOS updates until at least 2027 or 2028.
• Security updates could extend even longer.

Bottom Line:
Buying or keeping an iPhone 13 in 2025 is a smart long-term move for users who value a stable, secure, and ever-evolving mobile experience.

iPhone 13 Known Problems (2025 Update)

Should You Worry About iPhone 13 Problems in 2025?

While the iPhone 13 is a fantastic device even today, it’s not without a few common issues — especially as it ages into 2025.

Knowing these problems can help you make a smarter decision (and know what to expect or how to fix it easily!).

1. Battery Health Degradation

• What Happens: Over time, the iPhone 13’s battery may degrade faster, especially for heavy users. You might see battery health dropping below 85% after two years.
• Impact: Shorter screen-on time, more frequent charging.
• Solution:
  • Apple offers battery replacements through official and third-party providers.
  • Cost in Canada: Around $119 CAD for a replacement at Apple Stores.

Pro Tip: Enable Optimized Battery Charging in settings to slow down battery aging.

2. Screen Responsiveness Issues

• Reported Problem: Some users experienced touchscreen delays or ghost touches, especially after major iOS updates.
• When It Happens:
  Often after installing a big software update or if the phone has minor water exposure (even though it’s IP68-rated).

• Solution:

  • Perform a hard reset or factory restore.
  • Update to the latest stable version of iOS (Apple typically patches these issues).

3. Face ID Failures 

• Problem: Face ID may stop working if the phone suffers even a minor drop — damaging tiny sensors underneath.
• Common Symptoms: “Face ID is not available” error.
• Solution:
  • Apple Service Repair is usually required (expensive if out of warranty).
  • Using screen protectors designed for Face ID can sometimes prevent misalignment issues.

4. Camera Lens Dust or Fogging 

• Reported Issue: Some iPhone 13 units show dust particles inside the camera lens or condensation under the lens glass.
• Impact: Blurry photos, especially in bright sunlight or flash usage.
• Solution:
  • Check if still under Apple’s Limited Warranty — defects like this may qualify for a free repair.
  • Use protective cases with sealed designs if you’re in dusty or humid environments.

5. Overheating During Heavy Use

• Problem: iPhone 13 can get warm during:
  • Long gaming sessions
  • Extended FaceTime calls
  • 5G downloads in weak signal areas
  • Impact: Temporary performance throttling to protect hardware.
• Solution:
  • Remove thick cases during gaming.
  • Close background apps.
  • Switch to Wi-Fi where possible to reduce 5G overheating.

6. No Charger in the Box

• Frustration:
  • iPhone 13 buyers still don’t get a charger included — only a USB-C to Lightning cable.
  • New buyers must spend extra on a 20W power adapter (~$25–30 CAD).

Pro Tip: Third-party certified (MFi) chargers are safe and cheaper.

7. Minor Bluetooth or Wi-Fi Connectivity Glitches

• Problem:
  • Occasional Bluetooth dropouts with headphones (AirPods) or slow Wi-Fi reconnections after sleep mode.
• Solution:
  • Reset network settings (Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset Network Settings).
  • Update firmware for accessories like AirPods.

Are These Problems Dealbreakers?

For most users, NO.

The iPhone 13’s problems are manageable and expected for its age, and many have software or simple repair solutions.

Knowing them upfront simply helps you plan smarter (like budgeting for a battery swap after 2–3 years).

If you want worry-free use:

• Buy from reputable sellers who offer extended warranties.
• Protect your device with quality cases, chargers, and screen protectors.