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Finding a deal on an iPhone can be tricky. Apple rarely reduces prices on its hardware like other brands. But that doesn’t mean they are non-existent. With Black Friday just around the corner, carriers are offering big discounts on iPhones, although you have to overcome some obstacles to get them. We’ve listed them here in case you’re looking for an update.
Be sure to check out our The best iPhone guide to see which model is right for you and if you’re shopping the new iPhone 15 range, we’ve got a breakdown of all models here. (Remember hook a case!)
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Unlocked versus locked
Before moving on to the deals, it’s essential to understand the differences between unlocked and locked iPhones before making a purchase.
An unlocked iPhone is not tied to any specific telecom carrier. This gives you the freedom to choose any service provider and the flexibility to switch as you wish, often without additional charges. In contrast, a locked iPhone is typically tied to a carrier for the duration of the contract or until it is cancelled, restricting the device to one network. That’s why we recommend buying your unlocked phone, but it’s harder to find price reductions on those models. You can ask your carrier to unlock your iPhone, but it’s not the easiest process.
Deals on unlocked iPhones
If you are looking for an unlocked iPhone, your best bet is to buy it directly from Apple. However, they are rarely for sale. Apple has lowered the prices of older models by $100 (the The iPhone 14 now starts at $699, for example, and the iPhone 14 Plus at $799), but they are not exactly offers. Fortunately, you can find some deals at big box retailers like Best Buy.
If you wish, you can activate your AT&T, T-Mobile or Verizon service. directly through Apple when purchasing your new phone. Apple says it will come unlocked, except “when you purchase an iPhone with an AT&T installment plan. “It will be locked to AT&T and will only work on the AT&T network during the term of your installment plan agreement.”
Here are some unlocked iPhone deals we’ve found:
This offer allows you to activate the device whenever you want with a $50 discount. If you have Verizon, Google Fi, or AT&T, you can activate it immediately through Best Buy for a bigger discount of $730 ($70 off). This iPhone has a large screen and excellent battery life. We have more details about this in our guide on choose an iPhone 14 model.
This is the same offer as the previous iPhone 14 Plus, so you can activate it later on the network of your choice. You can also get an unlocked model if you activate it at Best Buy for even less ($630), but only if you have Verizon, Google Fi, or AT&T. Our iPhone 14 review have more information and be sure to read our Guide to the best iPhone 14 cases for accessories.
Deals on Unlocked Used iPhones
If you are willing to buy a used iPhone (it is better for the environment!), here are some sales from Amazon’s Renewed Store. These are discounted, but be sure to check out other sites like exchange and Gazelle to see if you are getting the best bang for your buck.
Deals on network-locked iPhones
Despite our recommendation to opt for an unlocked phone, you may want to purchase it through a network provider due to the various promotions and payment plans they offer. Keep in mind that these usually require you to sign up for a contract and any discounts usually come in the form of monthly bill credits. Normally you have to open a new line.
Many carriers also require an eligible device trade-in, the definition of which varies depending on the phone you want to purchase and the carrier you choose, and is subject to change at any time. For AT&T, for example, the trade-in phone must be “in good working condition” and shipped within 30 days of activating your plan to get an iPhone 15. This trade-in can include everything from iPhone 12 models or newer up to several Samsung. Galaxy models, Google Pixel 6 Pro, Google Pixel 7 and Google Pixel 7 Pro, as well as OnePlus 10 Pro. See offer details or additional terms on each carrier’s iPhone product page for the full list of eligible devices for exchange.
