Why an iPhone 15 in 2026 costs more than a newer iPhone 17e — and loses to it

Three years after its release, the iPhone 15 is still available for purchase from retailers and carriers, often at a discounted price. But despite its seemingly attractive price tag, buying it in 2026 is not a smart move.

Apple continues to support older models: the upcoming iOS 27 will work with iPhones as old as the iPhone 11 and the second-generation iPhone SE. This means the iPhone 15, which is already two generations behind the latest models, will still receive several years of software updates. However, when compared to newer alternatives, it falls short.

The main competitor is the iPhone 17e, which costs roughly the same as the iPhone 15. In some cases, such as with carrier T-Mobile, the iPhone 15 is even more expensive than the iPhone 17e. And the iPhone 17e outperforms the older model in nearly every relevant area. The only notable difference is the camera: the iPhone 15 has a dual-camera system, while the iPhone 17e has a single rear camera. For casual social media snapshots, this difference is negligible.

The iPhone 15 is still available brand-new, but it is more commonly found refurbished or pre-owned. In 2026, its purchase is not justified: for the same money, you can get a more modern iPhone 17e, which offers better performance, a newer chip, and more up-to-date features. The iPhone 15, despite its decent specs and cameras, is simply not the value proposition it once was.