Best iPhone for seniors: how to choose one that is easy to use

Most lists of the best iPhone for older adults name one model and move on. The model changes every year, so the checks matter more than the name. Use the seven below, and you will pick well even when a new iPhone comes out.

1. Which model still gets software updates?

An iPhone that no longer gets updates stops getting security fixes, and apps eventually stop working. Apple lists iOS 27 as available for iPhone 11 and later, so an iPhone from that list is a safe floor today. A newer model will get updates for more years. Our iOS and Android updates tracker shows the current version.

2. What screen size can they read and hold?

• Bigger screen: easier to read and to tap, but heavier and harder to hold in one hand.
• Smaller screen: lighter and easier to hold, but the text is smaller unless you raise Text Size.
• Go to a store and let them hold the phone. This decides more than any spec.

3. Face ID or a Home button: which is easier?

Face ID unlocks the phone when you look at it, which many older adults find easier than a fingerprint. Some people prefer a Home button because it gives them a button to press when they feel lost. Models with a Home button are older designs, so check software support first.

4. How much battery life and storage do they need?

Buying used? Check Settings › Battery › Battery Health. Look for 85% or more, and see our guide to checking iPhone battery health. For storage, 128 GB is a comfortable minimum for photos of grandchildren. If the iPhone fills up, iCloud storage can help; see how much iCloud storage you need.

5. Which safety features help most?

• Emergency SOS and Medical ID work on every modern iPhone. See how to call for help on the lock screen.
• iPhone 14 and later add Crash Detection and Emergency SOS via satellite.
• Find My lets a family member see where the phone is, with permission.

Our guide to making an emergency call on iPhone covers the lock screen button, Medical ID and what happens after a call.

6. Should you buy new, refurbished or used?

New gives the longest support and a full warranty. A refurbished iPhone from Apple or a trusted seller is cheaper and still comes with a warranty. A used phone from a stranger is the riskiest: it can be locked to someone else's Apple Account or have a worn battery. Read our checklist for buying a secondhand phone. AppleCare+ is worth a look for anyone likely to drop the phone; see AppleCare+ and what it costs.

7. How do you set it up to be easy?

Our guide to iPhone display settings shows where text size, brightness and Auto-Lock are. For a first-time setup, see setting up a new iPhone.

Which features do older adults use most?

A few features matter more than the model. Emergency SOS lets the phone call for help, Medical ID shows allergies and contacts to responders, and Assistive Access gives a simplified Home Screen with large buttons. Larger Text, Bold Text and the Magnifier help with reading. Siri and voice dictation reduce typing. For hearing, ask about AirPods with hearing features, which Apple offers on some models in some regions. Many of these live in Settings › Accessibility.

What are the budget options and where should you buy?

A lower priced model such as the iPhone SE line or the iPhone 16e is often enough, and a recent refurbished iPhone from Apple or a carrier can save more. Avoid a very old used phone that no longer gets updates. When you compare, include the price of a case and a screen protector. Our guides on buying a secondhand phone and how to tell if an iPhone is refurbished help you avoid problems.

How do you set it up and keep it safe?

Set the phone up with them, not for them. Use how to set up a new iPhone for the steps, move their contacts, and add family numbers to Emergency Contacts. Turn on scam call protection, as covered in blocking spam calls on iPhone, and teach them to ignore texts that ask for money. If they are leaving a basic phone, see moving contacts from a Jitterbug.