Where do you start when choosing an iPhone?
You want an iPhone. Understandable. But where do you start? Dozens of models, hundreds of offers, new versus refurbished. You're drowning in comparison websites, reviews, and specs. Your best friend says "buy the newest one," your colleague swears by refurbished. Yet you're missing the most important point.
The best deal isn't the cheapest iPhone. It's the iPhone that suits your needs. The one with enough storage for your photos. With a battery that lasts all day. With a screen you enjoy reading on. And yes, with the right accessories , and perhaps even AirPods , for the complete package.
That's why choosing wisely isn't about endlessly comparing prices. It's about knowing what you need . And then finding the best match.
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The right specifications for your use
When comparing iPhone deals, it's not just about price. It's mainly about what you do with the device. A photographer has different priorities than someone who primarily uses WhatsApp and email.
First, consider the storage capacity. Do you take a lot of photos and videos? Then 128 GB is the absolute minimum. Do you mainly stream music and use iCloud? Then 64 GB will also be sufficient. The price difference between storage options is often smaller than you think, especially with refurbished models.
The screen defines your daily experience. The Pro models have a 120Hz ProMotion display that makes scrolling smoother. Do you read a lot on your phone? Then this really makes a difference. For basic use, the standard 60Hz screen is perfectly sufficient.
New vs. refurbished: the real differences
A refurbished iPhone can save you hundreds of euros without compromising on quality. These devices have been professionally inspected, repaired where necessary, and come with a warranty. The battery is often replaced when it falls below 85% capacity.
New models do offer the longest update cycle. An iPhone 15 will likely get six more years of iOS updates, while an iPhone 12 has three to four more. For most users, that's more than enough.
The best deals are often found on models that are one to two years old. These still have years of updates ahead of them, but the price has already dropped significantly. A refurbished iPhone 13, for example, offers 90% of the features of an iPhone 15 for 60% of the price.
Timing is everything with iPhone deals
iPhone prices follow predictable patterns. In September, Apple introduces new models, followed immediately by the price drop of older versions. Black Friday in November and the January sales are traditionally good times.
But the best deals are often less obvious. Providers dump inventory when new subscription models arrive. Webshops hold flash sales to meet targets. Refurbished providers acquire customers after lease contracts.
Compare beyond just the purchase price
A cheap iPhone without accessories is more expensive than you think. A case (€20-40), screen protector (€15-25), and fast charger (€25-35) quickly add up. Some providers bundle these items, which reduces your total cost.
Also consider the trade-in value. iPhones retain their value better than Android devices. An iPhone that costs €200 more but is worth €150 more when traded in will only cost you €50 more net.
Specifications per user type
The basic user
Do you use your phone for WhatsApp, email, news, and social media? An iPhone SE or iPhone 11 is perfectly sufficient. These models have:
- Sufficient speed for daily tasks
- Good camera for snapshots
- Battery that lasts a workday
- Price between €300-500 refurbished
The content creator
Do you take a lot of photos and videos? Then consider the iPhone 12 Pro or later. It offers:
- Multiple cameras with night mode
- ProRAW for photo editing
- 4K video with stabilization
- Minimum 256 GB of storage
The power user
Do you use your iPhone as a mini-computer? Then the Pro Max models are interesting:
- Largest screen (6.7 inches)
- Longest battery life (two days)
- Most RAM for multitasking
- ProMotion display for smooth viewing
Hidden costs and savings tips
Insurance might seem unnecessary, but a screen repair can easily cost €200-400. Insurance for €8 per month can easily pay for itself. Do be mindful of the deductible; some insurers charge a €75 deductible for damage.
AppleCare+ is more expensive but offers more coverage. You get two incidental claims per year at a reduced rate. Often worth the investment for clumsy people or people with children.
Save on accessories by waiting for bundles. Many shops offer discount codes when purchasing an iPhone. These can be up to 30% off cases and chargers.
Provider versus separate device
An iPhone through your carrier seems cheaper because of the payment plan. But if you add up the monthly costs, you often pay €100-200 more than buying it separately. Carriers profit from the financing.
Buying separately offers freedom. You can switch to cheaper SIM-only deals. You're not tied to a network. And you can sell the device whenever you want.
However, a provider subscription can be interesting in case of:
- 0% financing (really 0%, no hidden costs)
- Free accessories or services
- Extra data or EU roaming
- Loyalty discount for existing customers
The best deals per price range
Budget: under €400
In this class, you'll find the refurbished iPhone SE 2020, iPhone XR, and iPhone 11. They're solid devices for everyday use. The SE has the smallest battery but will continue to receive updates for years to come. The XR has the largest screen. The 11 offers the best camera with night mode.
Mid-range: €400-700
Here are the sweet spot models: iPhone 12 (mini), iPhone 13, and refurbished 12 Pro models. These devices have 5G, MagSafe charging, and OLED screens. The difference with the latest models is negligible for most users.
Premium: above €700
The latest models and Pro versions. Only buy these if you really need the extra features: ProMotion display, telephoto lens, ProRAW photography, or the best battery life. For Instagram photos and Netflix, the difference compared to cheaper models is minimal.
Making the smartest choice
The perfect iPhone deal doesn't exist. What does exist is an iPhone that does exactly what you need, at a price that's right. So don't start comparing prices; think about your usage. A refurbished iPhone 12 for €500 might be a better buy than a new iPhone 15 for €900 if you primarily use apps and browse.
Check the timing (September and November are goldmines), factor in accessories, and seriously consider refurbished. This not only saves money, it's also more sustainable. Buying separately offers more freedom than through a provider, unless you're truly getting 0% financing. But more importantly: choose a model that will receive updates for at least three years . This way, you'll get the most out of your investment.
