How Long Do iPhone Batteries Normally Last?
Battery life is one of the biggest things iPhone users care about — especially as devices age or when you’re deciding whether it’s time for an upgrade. But how long does an iPhone battery actually last in everyday use, and how long should it last before you notice any decline?
Here’s everything you need to know about iPhone battery lifespan, performance and when it might be time to consider a replacement.
If you're thinking about upgrading to something with a fresher battery, check out our refurbished iPhone range.
How Long Does an iPhone Battery Last Per Charge?
The daily battery life of an iPhone depends on the model and how you use it. As a general guide:
- Older models (iPhone 7–X): 6–10 hours of typical use
- Mid-range models (iPhone XR–12): 10–14 hours of typical use
- Newer models (iPhone 13–16): 15–20+ hours of typical use
Apple designs each new generation to improve energy efficiency, so newer devices naturally hold their charge longer — even with more powerful features.
How Long Does an iPhone Battery Last Before It Degrades?
An iPhone battery is expected to maintain 80% of its original capacity for about two years under normal use. Apple uses Lithium-Ion batteries, which naturally degrade over time as they go through charging cycles.
A “charging cycle” is one full charge from 0%–100%. Most users hit around 300–500 cycles per year, depending on habits.
What Is iPhone Battery Health?
Battery Health is found under Settings → Battery → Battery Health & Charging. It shows the current maximum capacity your battery can hold compared to when it was new.
- 100%–90% — Excellent health
- 89%–80% — Normal for iPhones 1–2 years old
- Below 80% — You may notice faster draining and slower performance
When Battery Health drops below 80%, Apple may show a message recommending a battery replacement.
Signs Your Battery Is Wearing Out
- Your phone dies faster than it used to
- You need to charge multiple times a day
- Battery percentage jumps or drops unexpectedly
- Apps feel slower when the battery is low
- Phone heats up easily
If you're seeing several of these signs, it may be time to replace your battery — or switch to a newer iPhone.
How to Make Your iPhone Battery Last Longer
A few simple habits can help slow down battery aging:
- Avoid letting your phone drop below 20% regularly
- Try not to charge to 100% overnight every night
- Use Low Power Mode when you're out and about
- Turn off Background App Refresh for unused apps
- Keep your iPhone out of extreme heat or cold
Newer models also have Optimised Battery Charging, which learns your routine to avoid sitting at 100% for long periods.
Is It Worth Replacing Your Battery?
If your iPhone is still fast, takes great photos and works for your needs, replacing the battery can extend its life for years. But if your phone is older, slow or lacking modern features, upgrading may offer better value.
You can explore great-value replacements in our refurbished iPhone collection — all fully tested, with a 90-point check and 12-month warranty.
Understanding your iPhone battery’s lifespan helps you make smarter upgrade decisions and get the most from your device — whether you choose a replacement or treat yourself to something newer.
