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Apple

Unboxing the iPhone 13, 13 mini, 13 Pro, and 13 Pro Max: What’s in the Box?

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Every iPhone 13 model comes with the phone, a USB-C-to-Lightning cable, and documentation. None includes a wall charger, EarPods, case, screen protector, or MagSafe charger. The phones share that pared-back box, but differ noticeably in size, weight, materials, cameras, and display features. These are 2021 models, so in 2026 a listing described as “new” may be old stock, open-box, or resealed; verify the device as well as its packaging.

What comes in every iPhone 13 box?

The standard iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13 Pro, and iPhone 13 Pro Max share the same basic package:

  • The iPhone model named on the box.
  • A USB-C-to-Lightning cable.
  • Documentation.

Apple’s specifications list the phone and cable, and explain that the cable connects to a USB-C power adapter or computer port. The iPhone itself has a Lightning port, not USB-C. See Apple’s iPhone 13 technical specifications.

A SIM-eject tool may be included where the regional model and packaging use a physical SIM tray, but do not assume it is present in every market’s box. Check the specific regional package. Documentation and other packaging details can also vary by market.

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#1 Best Overall
Apple iPhone 13, 128GB, Midnight - Unlocked (Renewed)
  • This pre-owned product is not Apple certified, but has been professionally inspected, tested and cleaned by Amazon-qualified suppliers.
  • There will be no visible cosmetic imperfections when held at an arm’s length.
  • This product is eligible for a replacement or refund within 90 days of receipt if you are not satisfied.
  • Product may come in generic Box.

What is not included

There is no wall power adapter, EarPods or other headphones, Lightning-to-3.5-mm adapter, case, screen protector, or MagSafe charger. Do not count on stickers unless you have verified the exact regional package. The lack of a charger is part of Apple’s retail packaging, not by itself a sign that a genuine box has had an item removed.

Apple also removed the outer plastic wrap from this packaging and used paper pull tabs. That is a packaging change, not a change to the phone; a package’s precise appearance can depend on region and condition. Apple described the iPhone 13 packaging change in its launch material.

How the four phones differ in hand

The 13 and 13 mini have aluminum frames and glass backs, with two rear cameras. The Pro models use stainless-steel frames, textured matte-glass backs, a larger camera system, and ProMotion displays with adaptive refresh rates up to 120Hz. Those differences are easy to notice once the phones are out of the box: the Pro models feel more substantial, and their camera bumps take up more space.

Rank #2
Apple iPhone 13, 128GB, Starlight - Unlocked (Renewed)
  • 6.1" Super Retina XDR display. 5G Superfast downloads, high quality streaming
  • Cinematic mode in 1080p at 30 fps. Dolby Vision HDR video recording up to 4K at 60 fps. 2X Optical zoom range
  • A15 Bionic chip. New 6-core CPU with 2 performance and 4 efficiency cores. New 4-core GPU. New 16-core Neural Engine
  • Up to 19 hours video playback. Face ID. Ceramic Shield front. Aerospace-grade aluminum
Model Display Materials Rear cameras Storage at launch U.S. launch price
iPhone 13 mini 5.4-inch Aluminum frame, glass back Dual 12MP 128GB, 256GB, 512GB $699
iPhone 13 6.1-inch Aluminum frame, glass back Dual 12MP 128GB, 256GB, 512GB $799
iPhone 13 Pro 6.1-inch Stainless-steel frame, textured matte-glass back Triple 12MP plus LiDAR 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB $999
iPhone 13 Pro Max 6.7-inch Stainless-steel frame, textured matte-glass back Triple 12MP plus LiDAR 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB $1,099

Prices in the table are the U.S. launch prices announced in September 2021, before tax; they are not current 2026 prices. Apple’s iPhone 13 and 13 mini launch announcement and lineup announcement describe launch configurations and availability. The Pro models add telephoto and LiDAR camera hardware as well as ProMotion; they are not simply larger versions of the standard phones.

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iPhone 13 mini: smallest, lightest, and easiest to pocket

The 5.4-inch mini is the most compact option and suits people who value one-handed use. It has the same general aluminum-and-glass construction and dual-camera approach as the standard iPhone 13. The trade-off is a smaller display and battery than the other three models. Apple’s model identification page lists the mini’s 5.4-inch display, aluminum frame, and dual 12MP cameras.

iPhone 13: the middle-size standard model

At 6.1 inches, the iPhone 13 gives more screen room than the mini without the Pro models’ heavier stainless-steel construction. Its two rear cameras are arranged diagonally. It is the straightforward choice if you want a conventional-size iPhone 13 and do not need ProMotion or the Pro camera features.

Rank #3
Apple iPhone 13, 128GB, Blue - Unlocked (Renewed)
  • 6.1" Super Retina XDR display. 5G Superfast downloads, high?quality streaming
  • Cinematic mode in 1080p at 30 fps. Dolby Vision HDR video recording up to 4K at 60 fps. 2X Optical zoom range
  • A15 Bionic chip. New 6-core CPU with 2 performance and 4 efficiency cores. New 4-core GPU. New 16-core Neural Engine
  • Up to 19 hours video playback. Face ID. Ceramic Shield front. Aerospace-grade aluminum

iPhone 13 Pro: Pro features in a 6.1-inch body

The Pro keeps the 6.1-inch screen size but changes the experience with ProMotion, a triple-camera system that includes telephoto, LiDAR, and a stainless-steel frame. It is heavier and more premium-feeling than the standard 13. Choose it for those display and camera capabilities rather than simply because “Pro” sounds like a general upgrade.

iPhone 13 Pro Max: largest screen and body

The 6.7-inch Pro Max has the biggest screen and body in the family, with the same general Pro camera and display feature set as the Pro. Its size is a benefit for screen area and battery capacity, but a drawback for small hands or one-handed use. Apple’s lineup coverage describes the Pro displays and ProMotion features; its 2022 color announcement also identifies the 6.7-inch Pro Max.

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Why the box feels unusually empty

Apple removed the wall adapter and EarPods, leaving a smaller package than many buyers expect. That creates a practical mismatch for anyone whose charger has only a USB-A port: the included cable’s charger end is USB-C. Apple said it was reducing packaging size and materials as part of its packaging changes. A missing power brick in an otherwise legitimate retail package is expected.

Rank #4
Apple iPhone 12, 64GB, Black - Unlocked (Renewed)
  • Fully unlocked and compatible with any carrier of choice (e.g. AT&T, T-Mobile, Sprint, Verizon, US-Cellular, Cricket, Metro, etc.).
  • Inspected and guaranteed to have minimal cosmetic damage, which is not noticeable when the device is held at arm's length.
  • Successfully passed a full diagnostic test which ensures like-new functionality and removal of any prior-user personal information.
  • The device does not come with headphones or a SIM card. It does include a charging cable that may be generic.
  • Tested for battery health and guaranteed to have a minimum battery capacity of 80%.

Which charger and accessories do you need?

Using a USB-C charger

Connect the included cable to a compatible USB-C power adapter or computer port. If you already have a suitable USB-C adapter, you do not need to buy another cable or charger just to set up the phone.

Using an older USB-A adapter

A USB-A wall adapter can charge an iPhone 13, but the included USB-C-to-Lightning cable will not plug into it. Use an existing USB-A-to-Lightning cable, or get a USB-C adapter. Do not buy a duplicate cable unless you need a spare. Charging speed and performance depend on the adapter and conditions; not every third-party adapter performs identically.

Wireless charging, cases, and screen protection

MagSafe and Qi wireless charging are optional, and neither charger is in the box. A case or screen protector is optional too. Match any case to the exact model: the iPhone 13 and 13 Pro are both 6.1 inches, but their body and camera layouts differ, so a case advertised only by screen size may not fit. The mini and Pro Max each need their own model-specific case. Choose a screen protector made for the exact model rather than one intended for a different iPhone generation or screen cutout.

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Best Value
Apple iPhone 13, 128GB, Pink - Unlocked (Renewed)
  • 6.1" Super Retina XDR display. 5G Superfast downloads, high?quality streaming
  • Cinematic mode in 1080p at 30 fps. Dolby Vision HDR video recording up to 4K at 60 fps. 2X Optical zoom range
  • A15 Bionic chip. New 6-core CPU with 2 performance and 4 efficiency cores. New 4-core GPU. New 16-core Neural Engine
  • Up to 19 hours video playback. Face ID. Ceramic Shield front. Aerospace-grade aluminum
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

First setup after unboxing

Setup wording can shift between iOS versions, but the sequence is broadly similar. If buying used, do not proceed past an “iPhone Locked to Owner” screen: the previous owner must remove Activation Lock.

  1. Inspect the device. Before removing any protective material, look over the display, camera lenses, buttons, and frame for damage.
  2. Prepare cellular service. Insert a SIM if your regional model uses a physical SIM tray, or have your eSIM details ready. SIM configuration varies by market.
  3. Power on. Hold the side button until the Apple logo appears.
  4. Choose language and region. Follow the on-screen setup prompts.
  5. Connect to Wi-Fi or cellular service. A network connection is normally needed to complete activation and continue setup.
  6. Transfer or set up fresh. Use Quick Start with an existing iPhone, or choose manual setup. Restore from iCloud or transfer directly from the old phone if appropriate.
  7. Sign in and secure the phone. Sign in with an Apple Account, configure Face ID and a passcode, and set up Apple Pay and cellular service as needed.
  8. Confirm the model and capacity. Open Settings > General > About and compare the model and storage information with the seller’s description and box label.
  9. Check status before updating. Once you have verified the device is genuine and setup is complete, install any available iOS update.

What to check when buying new, open-box, or refurbished

In 2026, a new-in-box iPhone 13 may be old retail stock rather than a model Apple currently sells broadly. Apple’s certified-refurbished inventory changes over time; its iPhone refurbished page has prominently featured newer generations, so availability of each iPhone 13 variant—especially the mini and Pro—is inventory-dependent. “Refurbished” on a marketplace listing is not the same as Apple Certified Refurbished. Apple says its certified-refurbished products receive full functional testing and include a one-year warranty; see its program information.

  • Match device and box. Compare the model name and storage shown in Settings > General > About with the box label. A mismatch needs an explanation.
  • Check serial number and IMEI. Use Apple’s official coverage or support tools and compare the device information with the seller’s records. A valid lookup alone does not prove the phone is new or that a box belongs to it.
  • Confirm Activation Lock is off. If setup says “iPhone Locked to Owner,” stop and return it. Only the legitimate previous owner can remove the lock; do not try workarounds.
  • Review warranty and service details. Check Settings > General > AppleCare & Warranty and Settings > General > About > Parts and Service History, where available.
  • Inspect battery condition. Open Settings > Battery > Battery Health & Charging. A prior cycle count, signs of activation, or degraded health does not match an unexplained claim that the phone is unused and new.
  • Test essential functions. Try Face ID, all cameras, speakers, microphones, charging, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and cellular service.
  • Check carrier status. In Settings > General > About > Carrier Lock, verify whether it is locked or says there are no SIM restrictions. Whether a phone can be unlocked depends on the carrier and its terms.
  • Inspect packaging cautiously. A missing cable, mismatched documentation, or replacement-looking box may indicate used, resealed, or replacement packaging. For a second-hand phone, device identity, condition, and activation status matter more than whether a cable looks original.
  • Be wary of unusually low sealed-box prices. Ask for proof of purchase and a clear return policy; a seal alone is not proof that the phone is genuine, unused, or free of Activation Lock.

Regional model numbers, physical SIM trays, cellular-band support, mmWave availability, warranty, and AppleCare eligibility vary by market and purchase channel. AppleCare+ terms and enrollment windows can change. Launch prices are historical U.S. figures, and resale prices vary by seller and condition; compare the actual offer with newer iPhone options rather than treating the launch price as a current benchmark.

Which iPhone 13 model should you choose?

  • Choose the iPhone 13 mini if compact size and one-handed use matter more than having a larger screen or battery.
  • Choose the iPhone 13 if you want a lighter 6.1-inch phone and do not need ProMotion or telephoto photography.
  • Choose the iPhone 13 Pro if you want ProMotion and the Pro camera features in a 6.1-inch body, and accept the extra weight.
  • Choose the iPhone 13 Pro Max if screen area and battery capacity are priorities and you are comfortable carrying the largest, heaviest model.

The mini is the least expensive model at its original U.S. launch price, but compactness comes with a smaller screen and battery. Likewise, the Pro models’ extra hardware is useful only if you value the higher-refresh-rate display, telephoto, LiDAR, and related camera features. The family was announced on September 14, 2021; preorders began September 17, and the models went on sale in initial markets September 24. Apple added green finishes to the standard models and Alpine Green to the Pro models in March 2022, so color alone does not identify a newer generation. See Apple’s announcement and color update.

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Quick Recap

Bestseller No. 1
Apple iPhone 13, 128GB, Midnight - Unlocked (Renewed)
Apple iPhone 13, 128GB, Midnight - Unlocked (Renewed)
There will be no visible cosmetic imperfections when held at an arm’s length.; Product may come in generic Box.
$262.00
Bestseller No. 2
Apple iPhone 13, 128GB, Starlight - Unlocked (Renewed)
Apple iPhone 13, 128GB, Starlight - Unlocked (Renewed)
6.1" Super Retina XDR display. 5G Superfast downloads, high quality streaming; Up to 19 hours video playback. Face ID. Ceramic Shield front. Aerospace-grade aluminum
$283.70
Bestseller No. 3
Apple iPhone 13, 128GB, Blue - Unlocked (Renewed)
Apple iPhone 13, 128GB, Blue - Unlocked (Renewed)
6.1" Super Retina XDR display. 5G Superfast downloads, high?quality streaming; Up to 19 hours video playback. Face ID. Ceramic Shield front. Aerospace-grade aluminum
$265.00
Bestseller No. 4
Apple iPhone 12, 64GB, Black - Unlocked (Renewed)
Apple iPhone 12, 64GB, Black - Unlocked (Renewed)
Tested for battery health and guaranteed to have a minimum battery capacity of 80%.
$188.94
Bestseller No. 5
Apple iPhone 13, 128GB, Pink - Unlocked (Renewed)
Apple iPhone 13, 128GB, Pink - Unlocked (Renewed)
6.1" Super Retina XDR display. 5G Superfast downloads, high?quality streaming; Up to 19 hours video playback. Face ID. Ceramic Shield front. Aerospace-grade aluminum
$286.87

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

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