The Truth About Black Friday iPhone Deals
Black Friday is coming. You want an iPhone. Cheaper than usual. You're scrolling through dozens of online stores, comparing prices, reading reviews. The perfect deal has to be out there somewhere. But here's what no one tells you: the best Black Friday iPhone deals are often not Black Friday deals at all.
The smartest shoppers know that refurbished iPhones offer better discounts year-round than those forced November promotions. While everyone else is fixated on that one Friday with "mega discounts" of 10 percent , with the right approach, you can easily score 30 to 40 percent off top models . No hassle with out-of-stock, fake discounts, or stressful shopping.
This article shows you how to really save money on your new iPhone. It includes five simple tips that most people overlook.
Useful links
- View all refurbished iPhone models
- Discover refurbished iPad deals
- Find suitable accessories for your iPhone
Why refurbished is the smartest choice during Black Friday
Most people think Black Friday is the perfect opportunity to snag a new iPhone at a great price. The reality? Discounts on new models often hover around 10 to 15 percent. For refurbished devices, it's a different story. Here, you'll typically find discounts of between 30 and 40 percent, regardless of the season.
For example, a refurbished iPhone 13 costs around €600, while the same new model might sell for €750 on Black Friday. That's a €150 difference. And the best part: you don't have to wait until that one Friday in November. These prices are valid year-round.
The 5 tips for scoring the best iPhone deal
Tip 1: Start your search two weeks in advance
Many online stores start offering special offers as early as the first half of November. By comparing prices early, you'll get a good idea of the regular prices. This way, you'll immediately recognize a real deal. Take screenshots of prices you find interesting. That way, you'll know for sure whether that "mega discount" is genuine.
Tip 2: compare new with refurbished prices
Compare the prices of new devices with those of refurbished models. A refurbished iPhone 14 Pro, for example, can be €400 cheaper than a new one. That's a bigger discount than any Black Friday deal. Always check the warranty terms. Reliable providers offer at least a one-year warranty on refurbished products.
Tip 3: Look beyond just the price
The cheapest deal isn't always the best. Keep these points in mind:
- Battery condition (at least 85% capacity for refurbished)
- Warranty period and return policy
- Including original accessories or not
- Condition of the screen and housing
- Delivery time and shipping costs
Tip 4: Consider an older model
An iPhone 12 or 13 will last most users for years to come. These models receive years of iOS updates and have excellent cameras. The price difference with the latest generation can be up to €500. For that money, you can buy an iPad, or simply save money for other things.
Tip 5: check stock with multiple suppliers
Popular models sell out quickly during Black Friday. So make a list of three or four reliable online stores. If your favorite model is sold out at one retailer, you can immediately switch to another. Refurbished retailers usually have more stable inventory because they're not dependent on a single delivery window.
Practical comparison: new versus refurbished
Let's make a concrete comparison. Suppose you want an iPhone 13 with 128GB of storage:
New iPhone 13 during Black Friday:
Normal price: 849 euros
With a 15% discount: 722 euros
Savings: 127 euros
Refurbished iPhone 13:
Price all year round: 549 euros
Savings compared to new: 300 euros
The difference is clear. Even with the best Black Friday deal, you'll save more with a refurbished device. And the quality is virtually the same. Refurbished devices have been thoroughly tested, cleaned, and fitted with new parts where necessary.
When is a new iPhone the better choice?
There are situations where a new device is preferable. For example, are you an early adopter who always wants the latest model? Then refurbished isn't an option, simply because the very latest models aren't yet available refurbished. Even if you use the device for business and can deduct the full purchase price, a new one can be more cost-effective.
For most users, however, a refurbished iPhone offers more bang for your buck. You get a device that technically functions like new, for a fraction of the price. It's also better for the environment because you're giving a second life to electronics that might otherwise be thrown away.
Making the smart choice
The hunt for the perfect Black Friday iPhone deal doesn't have to be stressful. While others are vying for temporary 10 percent discounts in November, you know better. With refurbished devices, you can score discounts of up to 40 percent all year round.
Compare prices, check the specs, and choose the model that suits you. Whether you choose a brand-new iPhone during Black Friday or a refurbished one, these tips will help you make a well-informed decision . And that €300 you save? You can use it for accessories or simply keep it in your pocket.
