The Simple Trick Frugal Americans Use To Save Hundreds on Their iPhone
Written by
Laura Bogart
Edited by
Kristen Mae
Commitment to Our Readers
GOBankingRates' editorial team is committed to bringing you unbiased reviews and information. We use data-driven methodologies to evaluate financial products and services - our reviews and ratings are not influenced by advertisers. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and our products and services review methodology.
20 Years
Helping You Live Richer
Reviewed
by Experts
Trusted by
Millions of Readers
Like many Americans, you’ve probably lived under the assumption that having the latest iPhone on the market means having the greatest iPhone on the market. Yet it’s a sizable investment — hundreds or even thousands of dollars — only to have a younger, supposedly sleeker model hit the market the following year.
If you’re looking to get off the treadmill of always shopping for the next upgrade, you’re in luck. Savvy shoppers know how to get the features you want from an iPhone without paying the full price. And their tricks are simpler than you might think.
Buy Older iPhone Models
If the thought of buying older tech makes you grimace, take a moment. You don’t have to go back to the stone ages of the iPhone to save money. Choosing an iPhone that’s a model or two behind can still get you a high-quality smartphone with the latest features, but at a much lower price.
For example, at Boost Mobile, an Apple iPhone 15 currently retails for $399.99, while you can get an iPhone 14 for around $17.50 a month on a payment plan. Compare that to the Apple iPhone 16, priced at $929.99, or the Apple iPhone 16 Pro, which starts at $999.99.
Look Into Refurbished Models
Though the word “refurbished” might conjure up images of someone else’s discarded phone, it’s actually a smart way to save money on tech. When you buy a refurbished phone, you’re getting an iPhone that functions like new for far less money.
Refurbishing a phone involves cleaning, repairing, and testing it to restore it to its original factory settings, wiping all data from the previous owner. You can shop directly through Apple’s Certified Refurbished section, which features products inspected and restored by Apple experts. Through this option, you can save $400 on an iPhone 13 Pro Max 1TB, which originally retailed for $1,499 and now sells for $1,099.
Big-box retailers like Best Buy and Amazon also offer refurbished products, often with warranties. You can also explore sites like Reebelo, which specialize in refurbished tech.
One important caveat: If you’re with a specific carrier, you’ll need to make sure the phone is compatible with that network. Some refurbished models are “carrier-locked,” meaning they only work with a specific provider. Alternatively, you can buy an unlocked phone, allowing you the flexibility to switch carriers or use it with prepaid plans.
Find Special Deals or Sales
Some times are simply better than others to buy an iPhone. Retailers often offer holiday discounts or tie sales to new releases. If you’re determined to get the newest model, trade-in offers are a good option. Many retailers will take your older phone, provided it’s in good condition, and give you a discount on the latest release.
More From GOBankingRates
