The favored iPhone 6S is showing its age and the first-generation iPhone SE is close behind. It seems likely to me that both of these models, released 5+ years ago, will lose support for the latest software this year.

While these devices may continue to work fine for many users, especially with replacement batteries, folks who prefer to stay up to date will want to start seeking alternatives. Here are some choices to consider.

Size

You’ve got a first-gen iPhone SE. You love its small body that’s easy to hold in your hand. You can even reach all corners of the screen with the thumb of that same hand. Is there any hope? Only one iPhone since then offers a similar experience: iPhone 12 mini.

Released in fall 2020, this iPhone’s body is just a smidge bigger than your beloved SE. In fact, you might find that a bare iPhone 12 mini is the same size as iPhone SE in a case. Starting price: $700.

If you’ve been addicted to your iPhone 6S all these years and you like its size, you’ll get a nearly identical experience with a second-generation iPhone SE. Released in spring 2020, this iPhone has the body of an iPhone 8 and the performance of an iPhone 11. Starting price: $400.

[Update: As of late 2023, Apple no longer sells iPhones mini but these are still available used/refurbished by third parties. The current iPhone SE is the 3rd generation, released in 2022, for the same price and has the innards of an iPhone 13.]

Security

If you’re a senior whose fingerprints are wearing out or no longer present, you’ll want to consider iPhone X, 11, or 12 for the advent of Face ID. Though not as flexible as Touch ID because it requires looking directly at the phone, Face ID is just as fast to respond and works with that thing on the front of your head that won’t disappear.

I’ve found Face ID easy to get used to, except for the need to drop my mask below my nose. The ability to allow my Apple Watch to unlock my iPhone while wearing a mask (as of iOS 14.5) is a major boon. I think this update might arrive this week.

[Update: iOS 15 on iPhone 12 or later gained Face ID with a Mask, which captures more detail around the eyes to authenticate while wearing a mask.]

Budget

If you’re trying to save a buck and don’t mind eschewing Apple’s premium warranty, you can probably find iPhone SE #2 on Swappa for under $300. Other recent models are consistently 30–70% below retail on this site.

On the flip side, if you have money to burn and you always loved your plus-sized phone, you have some choices. The Plus versions of iPhone 6 through 8 had a 5.5″ screen, which is about the same as iPhone 12 mini’s 5.4″ panel, though lower quality.

Bigger iPhones of recent vintage have screens measuring 5.8–6.7″. They also have bigger batteries and better cameras.

In November, I replaced my iPhone SE of 4.5 years with an iPhone 12 mini. I was one of those holdouts who remembered when Apple advertised the feature of being able to use an iPhone one-handed. I can still almost do so without losing my grip.

Meanwhile, the performance improvement is stellar and the battery life suits me, too. I remain more efficient for most tasks using my Mac — including making phone calls — and my battery consistently lasts all day long.

What about you? What’s got you thinking it’s time for something new(er)? For more help comparing models, Apple’s tool is pretty capable and it includes that original iPhone SE.