Best iPhone deals for May 2024: free devices, trade-ins, and cheapest unlocked prices (2024)

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  • Today's best iPhone deals
  • Specific pages
  • iPhone deals FAQ

You'll find all of this week's best iPhone deals on everything from the latest models to more affordable options right here on this page. We've rounded up all the top value options on our favorite models here at TechRadar and we've got plenty of tips to share if you're looking to save some cash. Alongside huge discounts on the iPhone 15, you'll also find plenty of decent options for slightly older models here, which we'd still highly recommend.

iPhone deals: jump links

Best iPhone deals for May 2024: free devices, trade-ins, and cheapest unlocked prices (1)

1. This week's best iPhone deals
2. Pages for specific models
3. Tips and FAQ

First up, if you're looking for the very latest and greatest iPhone deals on the newest range, then the good news is you'll find superb options on the iPhone 15 Plus,iPhone 15 Pro,andiPhone 15 Pro Max available right now.Don't skip out on iPhone deals on the older models, however, as they are increasingly good value and these models still hold up great in 2024.

Generally speaking, the best iPhone deals tend to be from big-name carriers like AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile, where 'free devices' are often commonplace. We put free in quotation marks here because the larger networks nearly always require you to sign up for a lengthy (and pricey) unlimited data plan and often require you to trade-in an old device too. If you're eligible for the various criteria, however, then you can often get huge savings of up to $1,000 on the latest devices.

A good option if you want to skip out on the pricey unlimited plans is to trade in an old device at Apple itself, which is the sole retailer for unlocked iPhone deals. If you're not looking to trade, then Boost Infinity's latest promotion is well worth considering since it allows you to throw in a shiny new iPhone 15 alongside an unlimited plan for just $60.

With such long-lasting popularity and premium features, these phones often come with higher price tags than cell phone deals on their Android rivals. Luckily, there are iPhone deals everywhere if you know where to look, and if you're willing to do a little bit of legwork in comparing retailers, you'll also find some surprisingly affordable prices on even the best iPhones of 2024.

This week's best iPhone deals at a glance

  1. iPhone 15: free with an unlimited data plan (no trade) at Verizon
  2. iPhone 15 Pro: free with a trade-in and plan at Verizon
  3. iPhone 15 Pro: $1,000 off with a trade at AT&T
  4. iPhone 15 Pro: device plus unlimited plan for $60/mo at Boost Infinite
  5. iPhone 13: $799 $599, plus up to $650 off with a trade-in at Apple
  6. iPhone 12: $599.99 $199.99 at Boost Mobile
  7. iPhone SE 2022:$379.99 $99.99 with a plan at Straight Talk

Today's best iPhone deals

1. Best deal on the iPhone 15 series

Best iPhone deals for May 2024: free devices, trade-ins, and cheapest unlocked prices (2)

Apple iPhone 15 Pro: $820 off with a new line, or up to $1,000 off with a trade-in at Verizon
Verizon's been offering exceptional deals on the latest iPhone 15 series for a while now and right now we'd recommend the Pro model specifically. You can currently either get a trade-in rebate of up to $1,000 (which can waive the entire device cost) or a $820 discount over 36 months with a new line. Both these are great choices and relatively flexible in regard to eligibility - just note that you will need a line on one of the pricier premium unlimited plans here to be eligible for either saving. In addition to the savings on devices here you can also get $280 off an iPad (enough to cover the cost of the basic model), and an Apple Watch SE for just $5 per month. These are great 'freebies' but note that you'll need to pay for additional cellular lines if you claim them.

Buy it if:
✅ You want the best possible deal on a new iPhone
✅ You're eligible for a new unlimited line

2. Best deal on the iPhone 14 series

Best iPhone deals for May 2024: free devices, trade-ins, and cheapest unlocked prices (3)

Apple iPhone 14 Plus: free with an unlimited data plan,plus free iPad at Verizon
Don't mind going for an older device? We'd also recommend this week's iPhone deals at Verizon for the 14-series. Right now, the iPhone 14 Plus is particularly a good choice since you can get it for free alongside a new unlimited data line. Unlike with the deals on the latest iPhone 15 series, the plan criteria needed for this deal is a little looser - meaning you can still be eligible if you opt for one of Verizon's cheaper unlimited plans. You can also throw in a free iPad right now, although note that you will need to pay for additional cellular lines separately. AT&T also has a really strong option on the iPhone 14 right now, with the device sitting at just $6 per month with an unlimited plan (no trades needed).


Buy it if:

✅ You still want a higher-end device
✅ But... you want to save a bit of cash

3. A great all-inclusive iPhone deal

Best iPhone deals for May 2024: free devices, trade-ins, and cheapest unlocked prices (4)

Apple iPhone 15 Pro: device plus unlimited plan for $65/mo at Boost Infinite
Another compelling iPhone deal right now is Boost Infinite's 'Infinite Access' promotion, which allows you to bundle an iPhone 15 and unlimited data plan together for as little as $60 per month over two years. At the baseline price of $60 you can get the iPhone 15 but we'd probably recommend going for the Pro model here since it's just a $5 per month upcharge. It's worth noting that this particular debuted at $60 per month for the Pro model. However, we'd still highly recommend it at this slightly higher price since it's still cheaper than some standalone unlimited plans at certain carriers. Being on the Infinite Access plan also entitles you to a free upgrade when the next generation of devices launch - which is usually around September.

Buy it if:
✅ You want the latest device
✅ You want to skip the trade-in

4. Best unlocked iPhone deal

Best iPhone deals for May 2024: free devices, trade-ins, and cheapest unlocked prices (5)

Apple iPhone 13: $799 $599, plus up to $650 off with a trade-in at Apple
One of the best things about a new iPhone release is that Apple continues to sell older models at discounted prices. Take the iPhone 13 for example. This model is still a great buy in 2024 despite its age and it's currently available for a relatively mid-range price of just $599 at Apple thanks to the release of two subsequent generations. Even better still, Apple will still let you trade-in an older device for a trade in rebate on the iPhone 13, which could see you getting this flagship device for a very low price indeed.

Buy it if:
✅ You're fine with an older model
✅ You haven't decided on a plan

5. Best budget iPhone deal

Best iPhone deals for May 2024: free devices, trade-ins, and cheapest unlocked prices (6)

Apple iPhone SE 2022 (unlocked): $429, plus up to $620 off with a trade-in at Apple
Looking for a cheap iPhone deal? Here's what we recommend. Firstly, either buy the iPhone SE 2022 outright at Apple itself or trade-in for an additional discount on this excellent budget iOS device. Secondly, we'd recommend pairing up your device with one of the best prepaid plans on the market. We'd particularly recommend Mint Mobile or Visible as great options thanks to their super cheap plans ranging from $15 to $45 per month on average currently. While you'll have to pay quite a bit for your device upfront here, this is a good route if you're aiming to save as much cash in the long run - and you won't be tied down for a two or three-year plan at a major carrier.

Buy it if:
✅ You're looking for flexibility and value
✅ You don't mind paying upfront

6. Another great cheap iPhone deal

Best iPhone deals for May 2024: free devices, trade-ins, and cheapest unlocked prices (7)

Apple iPhone SE 2022:$379.99 $149.99 with a plan at Straight Talk
What makes the perfect pairing with a cheap prepaid plan? It's the affordable (but extremely capable) iPhone SE 2022. Right now, one of the best options is over at the carrier Straight Talk, which is offering the device for just $149 upfront when you bring your number over from a carrier. Straight Talk has plans for as little as $35 per month so it's a fantastic choice if you want to keep those bills as low as possible. Note that another great alternative to this Straight Talk deal is iPhone SE 2022 at Total By Verizon for $99. By comparison, Total has slightly higher-priced plans - but some may prefer to be on the Verizon network for coverage reasons.

Buy it if:
✅ You want a cheap all-in-one option
✅ Don't mind going for a prepaid carrier

More iPhone deals

iPhone 15 deals / iPhone 15 Plus deals
Looking for the latest and greatest from Apple? We've got pages specifically handling this week's best promotions on the iPhone 15 and 15 Plus. These 'standard' models are fantastic buys thanks to their refreshed design, new chipsets, and hand-me-down features from the previous year's flagship Pro models. Put simply, they're excellent options and great if you don't want to splurge on the higher-end options.

iPhone 15 Pro deals / iPhone 15 Pro Max deals
For those who want the best of the best - consider our pages on the stunning iPhone 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max. These outstanding devices carry the lion's share of upgrades for 2023 and bring a new chipset, 5x camera zoom, and a titanium chassis to the table as the main features. In a nutshell, these are extremely pricey devices but worth every penny - especially if you can line up a great trade-in deal.

iPhone 14 deals / iPhone 14 Plus deals
The iPhone 14 may not be the latest device in the range now the iPhone 15 has been released but it's still a fantastic choice. Now $100 cheaper upfront at Apple, carriers are also offering some superb deals on this older device now - including ones that don't need the usual trade-in rebate.

iPhone 14 Pro deals / iPhone 14 Pro Max deals
The best iPhones from the previous generation, the vast majority of the 14-series upgrades were been consolidated on the stunning 14 Pro and 14 Pro Max. These lavish devices feature a heavily upgraded camera system and novel 'Dynamic Island' - a unique feature that hides that pesky front camera bump with a combination of interesting software integrations.

iPhone 13 deals / iPhone 13 mini deals
The iPhone 13 and 13 mini are the Apple flagship devices from 2021, although they're still really great today. Not only are the chipsets inside and cameras decent, but they share a design that is outwardly identical to the latest iPhone 14. If you're looking to save a bit of cash, these ones are definitely recommended.

iPhone 12 deals
Currently the oldest device you can buy new at the Apple store, the iPhone 12 is essentially now a 'budget' option from the brand. Despite not being the speediest iPhone around, the iPhone 12 still holds up surprisingly well for 2023 thanks to its modern design, display, and chipset that's sufficient enough for most tasks.

iPhone SE 2022 deals
Apple's latest budget-focused device is here and 2022's iteration of the iPhone SE brings a number of welcome updates. Above all else, the A15 Bionic chip in this device gives it superb power to cost and enough grunt to easily zip through nearly any task. It is, however, rocking an oldschool design - one that's essentially based on the iPhone 8 from way back in 2017. Is this the right device for you? Check out our standalone piece for a full breakdown of this budget pick.

iPhone deals FAQ

Best iPhone deals for May 2024: free devices, trade-ins, and cheapest unlocked prices (15)

What is the best iPhone for the lowest price?

Tough question, and it depends on whether you're looking to pick up a device via a larger carrier or via Apple itself.

For a carrier device, we'd recommend shopping around to see which iPhones you can get for free alongside a plan and going with the most recent model. For context, the iPhone 14 Plus has been given away with a new unlimited data line at Verizon these past few months, which is by far the best iPhone yet to be made available for free at a big carrier.

For unlocked devices, we'd probably recommend older the iPhone 12 and iPhone 13 mini as the best options right now. The iPhone SE 2022 is technically cheaper than both, but not by much - and it doesn't feature the gorgeous modern design of the other two. Another great option is to check out the Apple certified refurbished store if you don't mind opting for a second-hand device.

Which company is offering free iPhones?

As of writing, most of the major carriers are offering free iPhones with unlimited data plans if you're willing to trade-in your current device.

For example, both AT&T and Verizon are currently offering up to $1,000 off a shiny new iPhone 14 Pro right now, which is more than enough to cover the entire cost of the device. For those not looking to trade, Verizon also offers the iPhone 14 Plus for free with an unlimited data plan - an awesome deal that's not tied to the usual trade-in either.

When is the best time to buy iPhone deals?

Like a lot of the other questions here, there isn't an exact answer but there are certain times that can offer better prices on Apple's phones.

- New releases: Like all other phones, when a new iPhone comes out we frequently see the other devices in Apple's arsenal come down in price. Apple generally releases phones in the August to October time window, so that's often a good time to upgrade.

- Black Friday: The yearly mega sale, Black Friday, can be the perfect time to get iPhone deals. Every year we see phones come crashing down in price and we'll be shouting out the best offers to grab when the time comes this year.

- Amazon Prime Day: Amazon's impressive sale for Prime Subscribers, we almost always see a load of cheap iPhones appear during this two day sale - as long as you're looking for an unlocked or prepaid device.

- Absolutely any day: Realistically, there isn't any specific time or place that is best for getting a new iPhone deal. There are price cuts, promotions and major discounts every day and you just have to catch them as they happen. Luckily, our iPhone deals round-up is here, freshly updated and aims to offer all the best from across the web.

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Best iPhone deals for May 2024: free devices, trade-ins, and cheapest unlocked prices (16)

Alex Whitelock

Deals Editor

Alex is deals editor at TechRadar. With over three years of experience on-site and eight years working in e-commerce, Alex has made it his personal mission to share all his favorite tips, bargains, and deals with our readers here at TechRadar. At work, he specializes in computing, phones, and covering huge sales events like Black Friday and Amazon Prime Day. Outside of work, you'll find him indulging his keen love of photography and PC gaming, or down at the local climbing gym hanging off boulders far too difficult for his abilities. His editorial bylines also include contributions to T3 and GamesRadar.

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Best iPhone deals for May 2024: free devices, trade-ins, and cheapest unlocked prices (2024)

FAQs

Which iPhone is worth buying in 2024? ›

iPhone 15 Pro Max

If you want the very best iPhone money can buy right now, then the iPhone 15 Pro Max is the phone for you. Versus the iPhone 14 Pro Max, Apple's latest flagship comes with a refined design in the form of UBC-C connectivity, and a new titanium chassis that's lightweight and lovely to the touch.

What is the best iPhone for the lowest price? ›

If you want the most affordable iPhone, you're going to be looking at the iPhone SE (at least when it comes to brand-new phones, that is). Updated in 2022, the third-generation iPhone SE maintains the overall design of the iPhone 8, which will be familiar to a lot of iPhone buyers.

What is the cheapest way to get an iPhone? ›

Generally speaking, the best iPhone deals tend to be from big-name carriers like AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile, where 'free devices' are often commonplace.

What iPhones will stop working in 2024? ›

Which iPhones are Vintage and Obsolete in 2024?
  • iPhone SE (1st generation)
  • iPhone 6s.
  • iPhone 6s Plus (except for 32GB model)
  • iPhone 7.
  • iPhone 7 Plus.
  • iPhone 8.
  • iPhone 8 Plus.
Apr 2, 2024

Is the iPhone 15 worth buying in 2024? ›

The iPhone 15 is the best option for most people. Besides being one of the latest models you can buy, it's a big update over the iPhone 14 in features and performance. It uses the A16 Bionic chipset and Dynamic Island feature, which were introduced in the iPhone 14 Pro.

Should I buy an iPhone 14 or 15? ›

So if you're cost conscious, you will not regret buying the iPhone 14. But you really should buy the 15. Apple has made it clear that the Dynamic Island and USB-C are the way of the future for the company, and it will only continue to expand those capabilities year in and year out.

Which iPhone is the most value for money? ›

iPhone 13. The iPhone 13 is still an excellent phone. If you're considering buying an older iPhone to save money, the iPhone 13 is the best choice for most people. It has a lot in common with the iPhone 14, considering both phones run on the same A15 Bionic processor and have a 12-megapixel camera system.

What will be the price of iPhone 14 Pro in 2024? ›

iPhone 14 Pro price in India starts from ₹ 120,999. The lowest price of iPhone 14 Pro is ₹ 120,999 at Flipkart on 19th May 2024.

What is the cheapest iPhone to buy outright? ›

The SE (2022) is the cheapest iPhone that Apple makes at the moment. Prices start at £449 for the 64GB variant, with the 128GB model currently selling for £499 and the 256GB iPhone SE costing £609.

What carrier is giving free iPhones? ›

T-Mobile iPhone 15 deal: Free iPhone 15

Activate a new line with T-Mobile's Go5G Next or Go5G Plus plan, trade in an old device, and get up to $830 off the iPhone 15, making the phone free.

Is there any benefit to buying an iPhone from the Apple Store? ›

Greater availability: The stockrooms in Apple Stores are flush with iPhones, so you have a better chance of finding the model you want in your choice of color and storage capacity. And, if not, you can have it shipped to you for free. Depending on your location, you might even be able to get 2-hour delivery.

What is the smartest way to buy a new iPhone? ›

Here are a few tips.
  • Choose the smaller model. Bigger iPhones with better features cost more. ...
  • Buy last year's model. One of the best times to buy an iPhone is in the fall when new models are typically announced and older ones are discounted. ...
  • Buy a pre-owned iPhone. ...
  • Wait for a promotion. ...
  • Pick a payment plan.
Aug 2, 2023

Which iPhone is the cheapest and how much? ›

Shop iPhone Range
  • iPhone 11. As low as R 10 999.
  • iPhone 12. As low as R 12 999.
  • iPhone 13. As low as R 13 999.
  • iPhone SE. As low as R 12 499.
  • iPhone 14. As low as R 17 999.
  • iPhone 14 Pro. As low as R 33 999.
  • iPhone 14 Pro Max. As low as R 39 999.
  • iPhone 15. As low as R 19 999.

Can you just buy iPhone without plan? ›

An unlocked iPhone (one without any carrier contract) can be picked up by the purchaser or a designated pickup contact. To pick up your iPhone in an Apple Store, the primary account holder or the authorized user will need to bring the following: Card used for payment or Order Number. Valid photo ID.

Will the iPhone 11 still be good in 2024? ›

Even in 2024, the iPhone 11 remains a high-quality device thanks to its very capable processor, durable design, and 12MP camera.

What iPhones will stop working in 2025? ›

How long will my iPhone be supported?
ModelRelease dateSupported
iPhone XS / XS MaxSep 21, 2018Yes – Until 2025
iPhone XROct 26, 2018Yes – Until 2025
iPhone 11Sep 20, 2019Yes – Until 2026
iPhone 11 Pro / 11 Pro MaxSep 20, 2019Yes – Until 2026
28 more rows
Apr 9, 2024

Is 12 Pro Max still good in 2024? ›

Yes, buying an iPhone 12 Pro in 2024 can still be a smart choice. Despite being one of the older models, it retains a fresh feel with its sleek design, OLED display, 5G capability, and reliable camera system, which contribute to its timeless appeal.

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