The best cheap iPhone you can buy in 2024
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The world of Apple is known to be quite the premium place to buy your new phone... or anything for that matter (remember that $19 polishing cloth?) However, the fact that the base iPhone 16 starts at $799 is not a reason for panic: believe it or not, cheaper iPhones exist!
Before you get your hopes too high though - the Cupertino company doesn't offer a dedicated budget-friendly or "affordable" iPhone, per se. Even the iPhone SE is not actually budget-friendly, but more like for "mid-range" money. The approach you should take if you want a relatively cheap iPhone in 2024 is to go for a slightly older model.
But that's not half as bad as you may be thinking right now! With iPhones, even if you go for a two or three-year old model, it will be up to date with the latest iOS version, and it will still be fast in 2024. This is because iPhones are supported for a minimum of 5 years after their release (and remain fast).
Well, you will have to compromise on some of the flagship features we see these days (like fancy camera lenses or cinematographic video features), but you can still get a reliable, fast and capable iPhone for less money.
We're here to help you with finding the best cheap iPhone that's available right now.
- iPhone 14 : lowest priced iPhone we can recommend right now
- iPhone 14 Plus: if you want a bigger screen for less money
- iPhone 16: best cheap iPhone with Apple Intelligence
- Bonus category: the best refurbished iPhone deal right now
iPhone 14
Best lower priced iPhone in 2024 overall
The iPhone 14 keeps the familiar design of its predecessor, the iPhone 13, but packs some meaningful upgrades under the hood. The phone has an improved camera system with a new 12MP front-facing camera and a larger main sensor for better low-light performance, thanks to Apple's Photonic Engine.
Although the iPhone 14 doesn't have fancy extras like a 120Hz display or telephoto lens, it is a reliable choice for you if you want a solid iPhone experience without breaking the bank. Its mix of performance, great cameras, and sleek design makes it a strong contender for the best value iPhone.
- Read more: iPhone 14 review
iPhone 14 Plus
If you want a bigger screen
Thanks to the premium materials, its gorgeous sleek design, and multiple color options, the iPhone 14 Plus feels just as high-end as pricier models. It's durable, water-resistant, and surprisingly light for its size. If you're after a budget-friendly big-screen iPhone, this one hits the sweet spot.
- Read more: iPhone 14 Plus review
iPhone 16
Best cheap iPhone with Apple Intelligence
The new Camera Control button makes taking photos and recording videos easier with quick access and haptic feedback. There's also a more powerful chip, the A18 Bionic, which boosts performance and efficiency. The camera system has seen improvements too, like macro photography and a better ultra-wide camera.
The iPhone 16 keeps up with the premium look and feel with its sleek design, new colors, and beautiful display. Battery life is solid, and charging is faster, especially with wireless charging. Overall, it's a great option for you if you want a relatively affordable iPhone with some exciting features - just keep in mind that some of the best AI tools are still on the way.
- Read more: iPhone 16 review
iPhone SE
It's better to wait until March for that oneRender of the upcoming iPhone SE 4. | Image Credit - Jon Prosser x Ian Zelbo
If you're looking for a cheap iPhone, you may be tempted to go for the iPhone SE from 2022. However, our best advice on this is not to do that. The iPhone SE is getting very outdated now, and its next generation is reportedly going to come in March. Basically, it would be better to go for an iPhone 14 or wait until March next year to get the new iPhone SE when it comes out.
Upgrades like a better camera system and improved display specs are also expected for the iPhone SE 4. It's possible that the battery will also get a major boost, and could nearby be double what the current iPhone SE rocks.
Best refurbished iPhone deal right now
Another way to get a cheap iPhone is to go for a refurbished model. Refurbished iPhones are used iPhones that have been renewed to look and work like new. Those are often found discounted at big retailers such as Amazon or Best Buy. Even without a deal, the refurbished iPhones' prices are usually lower anyway.
At the moment, Amazon is offering a renewed iPhone 15, fully unlocked. The device is covered by Amazon’s Renewed Guarantee, ensuring you have 90 days to return it and get a refund or replacement if you’re not satisfied.
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