Refurbished iPhone 13 Pro Max: Which Storage Size?
By The iOutlet | Published: 2026-10-26
Category: Buying Guides
Compare 128GB, 256GB, and 1TB refurbished iPhone 13 Pro Max models. Find the right storage for your needs and budget.
Quick Answer
Choose 128GB if you stream most content and take occasional photos. Pick 256GB for a balanced mix of apps, photos, and offline media. Go 1TB only if you shoot ProRes video or keep extensive offline libraries.
How Much Storage Do You Actually Need?
The iPhone 13 Pro Max supports ProRes video recording, which consumes about 6GB per minute at 4K 30fps. That alone can fill a 128GB model quickly if you shoot regularly. Most users, however, don't need that much—streaming and cloud storage reduce local space requirements.
Consider your current phone usage: if you often hit storage limits or delete apps to make room, step up a tier. If you've never come close to filling your current phone, 128GB is likely sufficient.
Price vs. Storage: Where's the Sweet Spot?
Refurbished prices for the iPhone 13 Pro Max vary by storage and condition. The 256GB model typically offers the best balance between cost and capacity for most users. The 1TB model costs more but provides the most headroom for heavy users.
Remember that storage is not expandable on iPhones, so you can't add more later. Paying a bit more upfront can save you from frustration down the line.
Condition Grades: What They Mean for You
Refurbished iPhones come in different condition grades. Grade A+ pristine models show minimal signs of wear, while Grade B models may have light scratches or scuffs. If you're buying a higher-storage model to keep for years, a pristine grade might be worth the extra cost. If you plan to use a case and screen protector, Grade B can be a smart budget choice.
All refurbished units at The iOutlet come in a generic box, so don't expect original packaging. Focus on the phone's condition and functionality instead.
Decision Rules for Choosing Storage
- Choose 128GB if...: You stream music and video, use cloud storage for photos, and rarely download large files. You're comfortable managing storage with occasional cleanups.
- Choose 256GB if...: You take a moderate number of photos and videos, download some offline maps or playlists, and want room to grow without paying a huge premium. For most people, 256GB is the sweet spot.
- Choose 1TB if...: You shoot ProRes video, edit on the go, or keep an extensive offline media library. You prefer never to think about storage limits. Only pay for 1TB if you have a specific need.
Storage Options at a Glance
- iPhone 13 Pro Max – 128GB – Alpine Green – Grade A+ Pristine: 128GB in Alpine Green, Grade A+ Pristine condition, priced at $299.99. This is the most affordable entry point and ideal if you stream content and don't store large files locally.
iPhone 13 Pro Max – 128GB – Alpine Green – Grade A+ Pristine - iPhone 13 Pro Max – 256GB – Graphite – Grade B: 256GB in Graphite, Grade B condition, priced at $229.39. This offers the best value for most users, providing ample space for apps, photos, and offline media without the premium price.
iPhone 13 Pro Max – 256GB – Graphite – Grade B - iPhone 13 Pro Max – 1TB – Sierra Blue – Grade B: 1TB in Sierra Blue, Grade B condition, priced at $243.99. This is the maximum storage option, perfect for ProRes video recording and extensive offline libraries.
Who Should Buy Which?
Best for
- Budget-conscious users who stream content and use cloud services
- Photographers and videographers who shoot ProRes or store large media libraries
Not for
- Users who need maximum storage but are on a tight budget—consider 256GB instead
- Those who prefer the latest iPhone models and don't need the older 13 Pro Max
