The Underappreciated iPhone Models You Might Have Forgotten, Apple’s iPhone lineup has long been a benchmark for innovation, style, and technology. While flagship models like the iPhone X or iPhone 14 Pro often steal the spotlight, several lesser-known or underappreciated models have quietly made significant contributions to the iPhone’s legacy. These devices, often overshadowed by their successors, offered unique features or marked pivotal moments in Apple’s journey. Let’s take a conversational stroll down memory lane and revisit some of these forgotten iPhone models that deserve a second look, tailored for tech enthusiasts who love uncovering hidden gems.
iPhone 5c: The Colorful Trailblazer (2013)
The iPhone 5c often gets dismissed as the “budget” iPhone, but it was a bold experiment for Apple. With its vibrant polycarbonate shell in five playful colors—blue, green, pink, yellow, and white—the 5c brought a fresh aesthetic to the typically sleek and metallic iPhone lineup. It was powered by the same A6 chip as the iPhone 5, ensuring solid performance, and its plastic build made it surprisingly durable.
Why it’s underappreciated: Many saw the 5c as a downgrade due to its plastic body, but it was a pioneer in making iPhones more accessible and expressive. It laid the groundwork for Apple’s later focus on personalization, like colorful cases and watch bands. Plus, its 8MP camera was no slouch, delivering crisp photos for its time.
Fun Fact: The “c” in 5c stood for “color,” not “cheap,” as many assumed. This model was Apple’s first step toward breaking its monochrome mold.
iPhone SE (1st Generation, 2016): The Compact Powerhouse
The original iPhone SE was a love letter to fans of smaller phones. Packing the guts of an iPhone 6s (A9 chip, 12MP camera) into the compact 4-inch body of the iPhone 5s, the SE was a beast in a tiny package. It was perfect for one-handed use and appealed to those who didn’t need the flashiest new design but craved top-tier performance.
Why it’s underappreciated: The SE flew under the radar because it reused an older design, but its blend of power and portability was unmatched. It was a favorite among those who disliked the trend toward larger phones and offered incredible value, especially for budget-conscious tech enthusiasts.
Did You Know? The SE remained in Apple’s lineup for years, proving its enduring appeal. It’s still a favorite for retro iPhone collectors.
iPhone 8 and 8 Plus (2017): The Last of the Home Button Era
Released alongside the revolutionary iPhone X, the iPhone 8 and 8 Plus were quickly overshadowed. Yet, these models introduced wireless charging and a glass back design while retaining the beloved home button and Touch ID. Powered by the A11 Bionic chip, they delivered stellar performance and supported early AR (augmented reality) features.
Why it’s underappreciated: The iPhone 8 series was seen as “boring” compared to the edge-to-edge iPhone X, but it was a reliable workhorse. Its familiar design appealed to users hesitant to embrace Face ID, and its camera improvements (like 4K video at 60fps) made it a creator’s dream.
Tech Tidbit: The iPhone 8 Plus was one of the last iPhones with a dual-camera system optimized for portrait mode, making it a favorite for mobile photographers on a budget.
iPhone XR (2018): The Budget Flagship
The iPhone XR was marketed as the affordable alternative to the iPhone XS, but it was far from a compromise. With a 6.1-inch Liquid Retina display, the powerful A12 Bionic chip, and a single-lens camera that rivaled its pricier siblings, the XR offered incredible value. Its array of colors—red, yellow, white, coral, black, and blue—echoed the 5c’s playful vibe.
Why it’s underappreciated: The XR’s LCD screen and single camera led some to overlook it, but its battery life was among the best in its class, and its portrait mode (achieved via software) was a technical marvel. It became a sleeper hit, outselling the XS in many markets.
Pro Tip: The XR’s durability and long software support make it a great pick for anyone hunting for a used iPhone today.
Why These Models Matter Today
These underappreciated iPhones remind us that innovation isn’t always about the shiniest new toy. The 5c brought color and accessibility, the SE championed compact power, the 8 series preserved a classic design, and the XR proved you don’t need to break the bank for a premium experience. For tech enthusiasts, these models are a testament to Apple’s ability to cater to diverse needs, even if they don’t always grab headlines.
If you’re a collector, a budget-conscious buyer, or just someone who appreciates the evolution of tech, these iPhones are worth revisiting. They’re not just relics—they’re milestones in Apple’s journey, each with a unique story to tell.
FAQs
Q: Are these older iPhone models still usable today?
A: Absolutely! Models like the iPhone 8, XR, and SE (1st gen) still receive iOS updates (as of 2025, check compatibility for iOS 18). They’re great for basic tasks, light gaming, or as backup devices. The 5c may struggle with modern apps due to its older hardware.
Q: Where can I find these iPhones now?
A: Check refurbished markets like Apple’s own refurbished store, eBay, or third-party retailers like Back Market. Always verify the condition and software support before buying.
Q: Why did Apple stop making smaller iPhones like the SE?
A: Market trends leaned toward larger screens, but Apple revived the SE line in 2020 and 2022, showing they haven’t fully abandoned compact phones. Demand for bigger displays and better battery life drives their focus.
Q: Which of these models is best for collectors?
A: The iPhone 5c stands out for its unique colorful design, while the iPhone 8 series is notable as the last with a home button. The SE is also a collector’s gem due to its cult following.
Q: Can these iPhones handle modern tasks like 5G or AR?
A: The iPhone 8 and XR support AR apps, but none of these models support 5G. For 5G, you’ll need an iPhone 12 or later. They’re still solid for everyday tasks like browsing, social media, and photography.