Even though there are many other Android smartphones that are highly competitive and have actually managed to still some of Apple’s dominance, there are still many users that swear their loyalty to iPhones. Some do it because they’ve had an amazing experience with their iPhones thus far, some do it because iPhone represents a certain status, some do it because they love Apple’s design, and so on. Why do you love iPhones so much?
Whatever the reason, one thing is definitely true, the latest iPhones are very expensive and high above the budget of many folks, thus it makes sense to devote some time to find a place and a way to get this reputable smartphone for the best possible price.
To make things super easy for you, we did extensive research to find all the best options. Herein you will learn where the best and cheapest place to buy an iPhone is. You will also learn how to go around this and what to keep in mind to come up on the winning end – owning an iPhone you want and not spending a fortune.
Are you ready? Let’s dig in.
What Is The Cheapest iPhone?
As you probably know, Apple releases several models of iPhones each year, sometimes more than once per year. There is always a flagship model and its larger or even enhanced variation, and lately, there are also some more affordable options.
Current Apple’s flagship model is iPhone 11, which also has Pro and Pro Max editions, which pack the most extreme performance capabilities.
The answer to ‘What is the cheapest iPhone?’ is not that simple. First, we must know if we are referring to used models, refurbished ones, or new ones. When it comes to used iPhones, the prices are definitely the lowest, however, we would suggest you limit your selection to refurbished (like-new) and new iPhones. That way you will get to experience their true quality performance.
Another variable that affects the price enormously is the place where you decide to buy an iPhone. Many wireless providers offer special deals on iPhones, however, that offers change constantly, thus it would be difficult to determine, which offers the cheapest iPhone.
Thus, the only legit way to look at the prices and answer ‘what is the cheapest iPhone?’ is by focusing on the official Apple Store, which limits its offer to new iPhones only. Currently, that makes the new iPhone SE (2nd generation) the cheapest new iPhone that you can purchase at the official Apple store. It can be yours for $399 or as little as $229 with trade-in.
Since Apple also offers an official refurbished iPhone, it seems only fair to have a look at that option as well. The cheapest refurbished iPhone at the official Apple store is currently iPhone 8 (currently out of stock).
NOTE: If you consider other retailers and phone carriers, you can get better deals sometimes. Moreover, older models tend to be available and those are obviously more affordable. iPhone 6 tends to be the most affordable option that is still available at many pre-paid carriers.
How To Get A Cheap iPhone?
Official Apple stores and their online store are the right places to look at the official prices of Apple’s phones, however, to get a cheap iPhone, you will need to steer into another direction.
Herein, we will have a look at some of the most common ways that are ought to get you a chance to get a cheap iPhone, in some cases even the cheapest.
Buy One, Get One Free
‘Buy one, get one’ deals are quite popular these days. Many leading wireless providers are running those kinds of offers on the latest smartphones, including the iPhone 11. This sort of deals are mostly limited to new clients or at least require you to add an additional line. Moreover, you will most likely need to choose the most expensive monthly plan and sign a contract. However, as a phone user you need to pay for your airtime anyway (unless you have special benefits), so you may as well get some benefits with that.
‘Buy one, get one’ deal will basically provide you with 2 iPhones at 50% discount, which is in our opinion a very good deal and definitely something you should consider.
NOTE: Check Metro Pcs by T-Mobile Free Phones, Boost Mobile Plans With Free Phones, AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, and Sprint for those kinds of deals.
Free iPhone From Cell Phone providers
Another type of offer that the leading wireless carriers tend to put on the table quite often is the ‘free iPhone’ offer.
As with the above one, you will need to take on a special monthly plan and in some case trade-in your existing phone, however, a free iPhone is still something quite impressive. These offers tend to be made for previous models but in some cases, even the latest iPhones can be part of those special deals.
NOTE: Check AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, and Sprint for those kinds of deals.
Cheapest iPhone with Low Cost from Cell Phone providers
What do we mean by the cheapest iPhone with low cost is the fact that it comes with a rather cheap monthly plan. If you can’t afford the limitless packages offered by the leading carriers, you should consider prepaid options. There you can get by with very low monthly expenses. Moreover, many offer iPhone 6 at super affordable prices.
Buy cheap used iPhones
Used iPhones, can be extremely cheap, however, as we mentioned above, we advise you against used models (unless you know the seller personally). Refurbished iPhones, are what we would suggest you take a look at. These can also be used iPhones but have been reconditioned to a new-like state. Refurbished iPhones should come in the original packaging, with both return and warranty policy set in place.
The best place for refurbished iPhones is without a doubt, an official Apple online store. However, due to their popularity, they tend to run out of stock rather fast and currently limit their offers to the iPhone 8 or newer.
There are other places to get refurbished phones; many wireless providers, Amazon, Walmart, Best Buy, Gazelle, and eBay just to name a few.
NOTE: If buying a refurbished iPhone, stick to the reputable sellers.
A refurbished iPhone 6 can be yours for under $100, while an iPhone 7 for about $150.
Where to Buy an iPhone
Herein we will list the most reputable sellers and carriers that sell a wide range of iPhones. We advise you to limit your focus on the ones listed below. If you do decide to go some other direction, make sure to do your own research and that the dealer is reputable and reliable. This is even more important if you are buying a refurbished iPhone.
Amazon – Best & Cheapest Place to Buy iPhone
As a world’s leading online retailer, Amazon has an extremely wide offer of new, refurbished, and even used iPhones. All iPhones bought from Amazon come unlocked, which means you can use them with any phone carrier.
The Apple Store – Best & Cheapest Place to Buy iPhone
Going directly to the source also makes sense. There are nearly 500 retail Apple stores, in which you can choose your new iPhone. They also have a beautiful website and an online store, where you can make all the necessary arrangements form the comfort of your home. They offer very good trade-in deals for previous iPhones and a great selection of Apple and iPhone accessories.
AT&T Stores – Best & Cheapest Place to Buy iPhone
AT&T is one of the leading wireless providers in the US and offers more than 2,200 local stores. This fact alone makes them a highly convenient place to purchase iPhones. They also have an online store for you to look at. Buying an iPhone at AT&T means that it is locked to their network (unless specifically said that it is unlocked), however, thanks to the new unlocking law, they have an unlocking policy set in place, which enables you to request your iPhone to be unlocked as soon the conditions are met.
You can check AT&T Deals for Existing Customers
Authorized Phone Company Sellers – Best & Cheapest Place to Buy iPhone
There are many authorized phone company sellers all across the country. Many also have online stores for your additional convenience. These businesses can offer great deals and can be a good place to purchase an iPhone. However, in reality, they find it rather difficult to match extreme deals provided by the leading carriers.
Best Buy – Best & Cheapest Place to Buy iPhone
Back in 2008, Best Buy became the first Apple-authorized seller aside from Apple and AT&T. Since then there are many others, however, Bust Bay continues to have a great selection of new and refurbished iPhones available in their local stores and especially online.
Craigslist/eBay – Best & Cheapest Place to Buy iPhone
Craigslist and eBay can generally help you out with any item you are looking to buy. However, basically, anyone can sell on these two places so make sure to pay extra attention to review and comments to determine whether the seller is reputable or not. Make sure you know what you’re buying, are buying from a highly rated dealer (on eBay, at least. Craigslist doesn’t offer ratings) and make smart purchases. Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true, and make sure you’re buying a new unit (unless you’re looking for used), or you could end up purchasing a subpar phone.
Pre-paid Carriers – Best & Cheapest Place to Buy iPhone
Various iPhone models are also available through several pre-paid phone companies in the U.S., including Boost Mobile, Straight Talk, Virgin, and Cricket. There are some potential trade-offs with pre-paid companies (including slightly less impressive coverage), but if you’re willing to make them, you’ll probably save some money on your monthly bill compared to the major phone companies.
Regional Carriers – Best & Cheapest Place to Buy iPhone
Similar to the above-pre-paid carriers, these smaller phone companies offer options that the major providers don’t: in this case, service to rural and remote areas, which may be something you are interested in. Phone prices are roughly the same as with the major carriers, though monthly plans differ.
Sprint – Best & Cheapest Place to Buy iPhone
Sprint has joined the T-Mobile’s family and will switch over to GSM as the older networks (2G and 3G) networks are put out of service. However, they continue to operate as a separate provider and offers some awesome deals. You can visit local Sprint stores or better yet, their official website to see what types of deals are currently available.
T-Mobile – Best & Cheapest Place to Buy iPhone
T-Mobile is another leading wireless carrier that deserves your attention. They provide great deals and very good coverage and also offer amazing iPhone deals regularly. Visit their official website or one of their local stores https://www.t-mobile.com/store-locator/locations-by-state .
Verizon – Best & Cheapest Place to Buy iPhone
Verizon has been voted for the best carrier and also has the best coverage among all wireless providers in the US. Moreover, they regularly offer high discounts (up to $700) on the latest smartphones, including iPhones, which can be super attractive for those willing to switch over to their services or add an additional line. Visit their official website to learn about their latest deals. or check Verizon Phone Deals for Existing Customers
Target – Best & Cheapest Place to Buy iPhone
Target offers AT&T and Verizon based phones in over 1,600 of their local stores. Furthermore, Target also offers iPhones compatible with those two networks. You can find a limited number of models in most local stores, however, for a greater selection, one should visit their website, where you’ll be able to see what is available, yet iPhone purchase is only possible locally.
Used/Refurbished Phone Resellers – Best & Cheapest Place to Buy iPhone
There is a great number of used/refurbished phone sellers both locally and online. Extreme caution is a need in these cases. We advise you to limit yourself to reputable retailers. In the case of refurbished phones, make sure phones have been manufacturer-refurbished and that come with return and warranty policies.
Walmart & Sam’s Club – Best & Cheapest Place to Buy iPhone
This large retailer began selling iPhones in 2009 and now offers the hardware along with the Straight Talk prepaid service. Occasionally, Walmart offers discounts on iPhones that you won’t see elsewhere, however, those great deals run out in minutes. Walmart gives you both options – to either buy locally or online. Its sibling company, Sam’s Club, also offers the iPhone.
Which iPhone Is Right For You?
Let us tell you straight away that this question doesn’t have a simple, straightforward answer. Your iPhone needs and expectations are completely up to you. However, in general, we can break iPhones into two categories – the latest models and the most affordable iPhones.
If you can afford the latest iPhone, that would be the most obvious way to get the best iPhone. Currently, the iPhone 11 Pro and iPhone 11 Pro Max are the two vary best iPhones. They pack the most amazing features and all the latest parts. They also have the highest grade of dust and waterproof housing, pro-grade camera sets, impressive processor, most advanced function, and more.
However, if you have a tight budget to consider or just don’t feel like spending $1000 on a mobile phone, then affordable iPhones should be on your list. Affordable iPhones include older models and refurbished iPhones. Currently, there are still many carriers offering iPhone 6 and iPhone 6s, which are the cheapest option. iPhone 7 and 8 are also highly affordable, especially if you consider the refurbished ones.
So, what are you interested in? The latest or the most affordable iPhone?
When Is The Best Time To Buy iPhone Deals?
If you focus on the leading wireless providers, you can get good iPhone deals all year round, however, the best chance for extra good deals is connected to the following events:
- Black Friday: This yearly mega sale can be the perfect time to get iPhone deals at highly affordable prices.
- Amazon Prime Day: Amazon offers this impressive sale for its Prime Subscribers. During this two day sale, we almost always see a load of cheap iPhones appear, as long as you don’t mind going SIM-free.
- New releases: This is a normal occurrence with all electronics brands; when a new model comes out we frequently see the other devices come down in price and Apple is no exception.
- EVERY DAY: like we said there are stores and carriers putting out special deals completely randomly. So any day can be a good day to find that special deal and get your new iPhone at a discounted rate.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an iPhone Deal
Herein we will cover some of the most important factors that you should have in mind and consider when purchasing an iPhone in order to get a deal that best suits you and your budget.
Number of lines
If you (and your family) need a greater number of lines, you can get better and more affordable deals. However, getting extra lines just to get a discount will leave you with high monthly expenses.
Moreover, some multi-line deals are nothing but a sales trick and are actually more expensive than single-line deals, as such, make sure to consider all the expenses and determine which offer is best for you and your family. Talk with an honest salesperson really helps.
Trading-In Your Existing Phone
Do you have a solid smartphone? Perhaps even an iPhone? If so, you can get a decent credit towards your new phone by trading it in. Not all carriers or sellers have that options, however, many do. Even the official Apple store has quite an impressive trade-in program and so do the leading carriers. Trading-in your phone can easily get you a $200 discount or even more.
Are you tight down?
You may be still tight down with your current deal. If that is the case, make sure to consider it before purchasing a new phone. In some cases, you are not allowed to buy a new phone until you have fully paid for the existing one. However, leading carriers tend to offer you to pay off your remaining due if you switch over to their services. Many are willing to pay your early termination fees of as high as $650 per line.
Do you want the latest iPhone all the time?
If you like to upgrade your iPhone as soon as a newer model is released, you may want to consider special lease plans offered by some leading carriers. For instance, Sprit has an ‘iPhone Forever’ plan, where you pay a monthly fee that enables you to always use the latest phone. These sorts of options can be way more affordable than purchasing new models as they come to the market.
Coverage Area
This aspect is no different for iPhones that for any other phones, however, having the best iPhone in combination with a bad coverage will turn it into a basic phone and cause a lot of frustration on your end. Thus make sure that the coverage in the area you plan to use your iPhone in is very good. Make sure that 4G LTE is available so you’ll be able to enjoy the functionality of your iPhone to the fullest.
Workplace Benefits
In some cases, you can get additional benefits through your employer. Your employer may reimburse part of the phone related costs, which can be of noticeable benefit for you.
Do you want the latest models?
Make sure to know whether you want the latest and most advanced iPhone or are you interested in an older, more affordable model, perhaps even refurbished one? In most cases, your budget will determine that.
FAQ
What is the best way to buy an iPhone?
There is no single best way to buy an iPhone. To make the best purchase for you, you must determine your needs, budget, and expectations. Use the above information to help you with that.
Where to buy unlocked iPhone?
The best options for unlocked iPhone purchases are Amazon and Apple.
What are the alternative options?
All carriers have unlocking policies set in place, so you will be able to request for your iPhone to be unlocked as soon as you meet the required condition with any carrier.
Are refurbished iPhone deals any good?
Yes, refurbished phones are new-like phones only discounted. As such, they can help you save money. Make sure you stick with reputable sellers.
Our Recommendation
We did our very best to present you with all the details regarding the best and cheapest place to buy the iPhone. You now see that there are many options and that there is no single best place to buy an iPhone. It all comes down to your needs, expectation, budget, and currently available special deals. Moreover, it is important to stick to reputable retailers to stay on the safe side. If you are willing to switch over to one of the main wireless providers or add an extra line you can get your hands on a free iPhone, which makes these options always worth investigating.
We hope you’ll make a successful purchase of your next iPhone.
If you want you can check out how to get government free phone
