According to recent estimates, over one billion people globally own an iPhone, which shows just how incredibly popular the device has become since its initial release in 2007. Since more than 40 iPhones have hit the market since then, it can be challenging to know which one is best for your needs and budget.
If you’re shopping for your first cell phone or want to switch to an Apple device, you might be researching the various models, colors and features that iPhones have, along with their prices. As with any smartphone, iPhones constantly change in price as new models emerge — and in 2025 and 2026, pricing has become an even hotter topic due to ongoing tariff pressures. Apple CEO Tim Cook has warned that tariffs could add as much as $900 million to Apple’s costs in a single quarter, and analysts at Wedbush Securities estimate that moving just 10% of Apple’s supply chain to the U.S. would cost roughly $30 billion and take up to three years. These factors make understanding iPhone pricing more important than ever. In this article, we’ll discuss the different prices of iPhones on the market and the factors influencing their costs.
How Much an iPhone Costs
Every iPhone has a different price that depends on a range of factors, so there’s no standard or fixed price. For more budget-friendly options, the iPhone 16E starts at around $599 for a brand-new device. For the latest flagship models, such as the iPhone 17 Pro Max, you could spend well over $1,000.
Each iPhone has many storage capacities, colors, and features, which can affect its out-of-the-box price. Over time, the cost of a new iPhone has increased significantly, from $499 when it was released in 2007 to $1,199 or more for the latest iPhone 17 Pro Max. That’s over a 140% price increase, and as Apple continues releasing new devices, consumers will likely see this trend continue.
It’s also worth noting that where you live plays a major role in what you’ll pay. According to Deutsche Bank, an iPhone 16 Pro costs around $2,182 in Türkiye and $1,835 in Brazil — roughly 70% more than in the U.S. — making America one of the most affordable places in the world to buy an iPhone.
Looking ahead, prices could climb even further due to tariff pressures. Apple CEO Tim Cook has acknowledged that tariffs could add as much as $900 million to Apple’s costs in a single quarter, with analysts at Wedbush Securities estimating that moving just 10% of Apple’s supply chain to the U.S. would cost approximately $30 billion and take around three years. Those added costs could ultimately be passed on to consumers.
For those who tend to buy each new iPhone as it comes out to get their hands on the latest features, this can easily add up to thousands of dollars over time. If you’re weighing whether a new release is truly necessary, it helps to think carefully about whether you need the newest model before committing to the upgrade.
The Cost to Make an iPhone vs. Retail Price
One of the most common things consumers consider is how much it costs to make an iPhone compared to its market price. Let’s look at some of the newest and most popular iPhones and what it costs to create them.
iPhone X
The iPhone X, also known as the iPhone 10, was released in 2017. This device was revolutionary because it was the first Apple phone to introduce Face ID and Face Recognition instead of Touch ID, which enabled Apple to remove the Home Button. Instead of an aluminum backing, the iPhone X features a glass casing to accommodate the wireless charging feature.
Adding up all of the new features of the iPhone X, plus the cameras, processor, battery pack, sensors, display and other materials, gives us an estimate of about $370 to create one phone. When the iPhone X first launched, its retail price was $999 for 64GB and up to $1,149 for 256GB, which is nearly a 170% markup.
iPhone 11
The iPhone 11 is considered a more budget-friendly smartphone with a revamped dual-camera system, updated A13 Bionic chip and larger battery capacity than the iPhone X models. This device was the first Apple cell phone to introduce the slow motion feature for the front-facing camera. It enables users to take portrait mode images without relying on face detection.
Here’s a breakdown of the material costs for the iPhone 11:
- Screen: $66.50
- Battery: $10.50
- Triple camera: $73.50
- Processor, modems and memory: $159
- Sensors, holding material and assembly: $181
This leaves us with an estimated $500 manufacturing cost, while its original retail price was $699 – a roughly 40% markup. This price was significantly cheaper than the iPhone X at launch. For a deeper look at what the iPhone 11 offers, check out our full review of the iPhone 11’s specs and features.
iPhone 12
The iPhone 12 was released in 2020 and was praised for having the most variation between color and screen size compared to previous iPhones.
This device provides increased water resistance, allowing it to be submerged for up to 30 minutes within 6 meters of water. Additionally, the iPhone 12 comes equipped with a ceramic shield display, which Apple says improves drop protection up to four times compared to older models.
The estimated cost for the iPhone 12 model starts at around $548, and its original retail price was $749 for the base model – a markup of about 36%.
iPhone 13
The iPhone 13 was released in 2021 and offers various screen sizes and new colors for consumers. As with all iPhone models, it comes equipped with updated front and rear cameras for taking enhanced images and videos.
This device offers many other features, including:
- High storage capacity
- Performance upgrades due to the A15 Bionic processor
- Improved Cinematic Mode
- Enhanced MagSafe capabilities
- Dual eSIM support
Due to the improved camera, ProMotion displays, large battery and A15 Bionic chip, the iPhone 13 models cost about $570 to build. Upon its initial release, the iPhone 13 had a retail price of $799 – a markup of roughly 40%.
iPhone 14
The iPhone 14, released in September 2022, was available in four different versions: the iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max. Notable features introduced with this generation included:
- Always-on display
- Dynamic Island for improved interaction and multi-tasking
- Improved low-light camera performance
- Enhanced video stabilization
- Car crash detection
The estimated manufacturing cost for iPhone 14 models was around $600-$650, while retail prices ranged from $799 to $1,599 depending on the model and storage tier – representing a significant markup. If you’re weighing your options within this lineup, our iPhone 14 Plus vs. iPhone 14 Pro Max comparison breaks down the key differences.
iPhone 16 and Beyond
As of 2025 and into 2026, Apple’s current lineup has pushed pricing further. The iPhone 16E starts at $599, making it the most accessible entry point in the current generation. The iPhone 16 Pro is priced at $1,079 in the U.S., while the anticipated iPhone 17 Pro Max is expected to retail at approximately $1,199.99.
Globally, pricing varies dramatically. According to Deutsche Bank’s 2025 analysis of 41 countries, an iPhone 16 Pro costs $2,182 in Türkiye – the highest price worldwide – and $1,835 in Brazil, roughly 70% more than the U.S. price. Interestingly, South Korea is the only country where the iPhone is cheaper than in the U.S., coming in at $1,063 – just 1% less.
It’s also worth noting that manufacturing cost pressures are growing. Apple CEO Tim Cook has stated that U.S. tariffs could add as much as $900 million to Apple’s costs in a single quarter. Analysts at Wedbush Securities estimate that moving just 10% of Apple’s supply chain to the United States would cost approximately $30 billion and take three years to execute – underscoring why the gap between manufacturing cost and retail price remains a complex and evolving story. Features like Apple Intelligence also factor into whether the higher price tags on newer models are justified for everyday consumers.
Factors That Affect the Cost of an iPhone
Several factors impact the price tag of an iPhone, including manufacturing costs. Let’s review some of the top reasons for price fluctuations for these Apple devices.
Model
Newer iPhones tend to cost more than their predecessors because Apple consistently provides upgrades to the processor, camera, battery life and several other components. These updates usually make the newer models more expensive to manufacture, which leads to a higher retail price.
However, as new models come out, older models typically decline in sales as more consumers are focused on purchasing the latest release, so many iPhone models decrease in price as the years go on.
Features
When consumers hear that a new iPhone will be released, one of the first things they want to know – aside from the price tag – is what new or upgraded features the device will have. Newer iPhone models tend to come with more advanced features, which tend to drive up demand and create a high retail cost.
Some of the features consumers care most about include:
- Camera quality
- Charging/wireless capabilities
- Customization
- iOS updates and speed
- Battery life
- Processor speed
- Random access memory (RAM) – required for running various apps and processes
- Security features
Storage
The storage capacity of your iPhone is one of the most influential factors regarding price – the more storage you have, the more pictures, videos, apps and music you can hold on your phone without purchasing extra cloud storage or deleting data to free up memory.
Apple’s current lineup reflects how significantly storage affects pricing. For example, the iPhone 16E starts at $599 for its base storage tier, while the iPhone 16 Pro starts at $1,079 and scales higher with additional storage. At the top end of the market, the iPhone 17 Pro Max starts at $1,199.99 new – and storage upgrades push that figure even higher.
As a general rule of thumb across the iPhone lineup:
- Base storage tiers offer the lowest entry price for a given model
- Mid-tier storage options (typically 256GB-512GB) represent a moderate price increase
- Pro and Pro Max models now offer up to 1TB of storage, which commands a significant premium
If you’re shopping on a budget, opting for a lower storage tier and supplementing with iCloud storage is often the most cost-effective approach.
Tariffs and Supply Chain Costs
An increasingly important factor in iPhone pricing is the global trade environment. Because Apple manufactures the vast majority of its iPhones in China, U.S. tariff policies can have a direct impact on what consumers pay at checkout.
Apple CEO Tim Cook has stated that tariffs could add approximately $900 million to Apple’s costs in a single quarter. Meanwhile, analysts at Wedbush Securities estimate that moving just 10% of Apple’s supply chain to the United States would cost around $30 billion and take roughly three years to execute – meaning meaningful price relief from domestic manufacturing is not on the near-term horizon.
These pressures make it likely that tariff developments will continue to influence iPhone pricing in the coming years.
Where You Live
iPhone prices vary dramatically depending on the country you’re purchasing in. According to Deutsche Bank’s 2025 global pricing analysis across 41 countries, the United States remains one of the most affordable places in the world to buy an iPhone. For context, an iPhone 16 Pro costs:
- Türkiye: $2,182 – the most expensive country surveyed
- Brazil: $1,835 – approximately 70% more than in the U.S.
- United States: $1,079
- South Korea: $1,063 – the only country surveyed that is cheaper than the U.S., by roughly 1%
Factors like local taxes, import duties and currency exchange rates all contribute to these differences.
Provider Deals
Wireless providers often sell refurbished phones at discounted prices to attract new customers. These provider deals may also offer the option for you to trade in your used iPhone for credit toward a new one. This makes buying a new iPhone more budget-friendly. For example, the iPhone 17 Pro Max is available through certain carriers at $20.99/month with trade-in financing. However, these discounted offers or specials come with strings attached, such as locking you into a new family plan or cell phone contract with that carrier. You may also want to explore lease-to-own and rental phone plans as an alternative.
Locked or Unlocked
If you decide to buy a refurbished or pre-owned device, you’ll likely see locked and unlocked versions.
The difference between the two is that a locked phone comes with a software code that prevents users from activating it outside a specific network. On the other hand, an unlocked phone has no software code, meaning you can add in a new SIM card and get service through your wireless provider.
Carriers usually lock phones to ensure users don’t switch to another carrier for lower prices. Generally, locked phones will be less expensive than unlocked phones, so if you’re on a tighter budget, a locked iPhone may be the perfect fit for you.
Additional iPhone Costs
There are other accessories iPhone users may want or need to protect their cell phone or upgrade it with various accessories, including:
- Screen protectors: Keeping your iPhone free from scratches or damage is essential for its longevity and potential trade-in or resale value down the road. Screen protectors keep your phone’s glass screen safe from shattering. Apple currently sells screen protectors ranging from $19-$49, though third-party options are widely available for less.
- Cases: It’s uncommon to see anyone with an iPhone, particularly a brand new one, with no protective case. You can buy a case anywhere that sells tech and gadget accessories. Cases can range anywhere from a few dollars – though they may not be as protective or high-quality – to $50-$70 for Apple’s official cases, which now focus primarily on silicone and FineWoven options following the discontinuation of leather cases.
- Cables: While iPhones come with a USB-C cable (all models from iPhone 15 onward use USB-C, replacing the older Lightning connector), cables can easily become damaged or lost over time. Buying a new USB-C cable from Apple costs around $19-$29, but you can also find MFi-certified alternatives for less from third-party retailers.
- Adapters: If you have an older Lightning-based iPhone but want to use newer USB-C accessories – or vice versa – you may need an adapter. Adapters from Apple retail from around $9-$50, depending on your specific needs.
- AirPods: Since iPhones no longer include a headphone jack, many consumers choose to purchase Apple AirPods rather than use an adapter for wired headphones. As of 2026, AirPods are available across several tiers: standard AirPods start at $129, AirPods Pro at $249, and AirPods Max at $549, giving buyers options at various price points.
As you can see, it’s easy to spend hundreds over your budget just by purchasing accessories for your iPhone, so it’s important to know where you can save. It’s also worth noting that ongoing tariff pressures may push iPhone and accessory prices higher in the near future – Apple CEO Tim Cook has indicated that tariffs could add as much as $900 million to Apple’s costs in a single quarter, costs that could ultimately be passed on to consumers.
What to Do to Reduce the Cost of an iPhone
Fortunately, you don’t have to pay the relatively high retail prices of brand-new iPhones. Here are some tips to consider that can help you pay less out of pocket.
- Choose a smaller phone or storage capacity: Larger iPhones, and those that offer more storage, are more expensive. Instead of going for the maximum storage capacity and largest display size, opt for less storage and you may save hundreds. For example, the iPhone 17 Pro Max starts at $1,199.99, while entry-level options like the iPhone 16E start at just $599 — a difference of $600 for those who don’t need the premium experience.
- Buy an older model: It’s no secret that the newest iPhone models are often the most popular and costly. However, as new models are released, older ones are often discounted as sales decrease. Instead of paying over $1,000 for the latest Pro model, consider a previous-generation iPhone and you could save several hundred dollars without sacrificing much in day-to-day performance.
- Wait for a special offer or promotion: Many cell phone carriers provide iPhone discounts and deals during the holidays, such as on Black Friday. Depending on your carrier, you might also be able to get a special offer on newer iPhone models with your family plan or trade-in options. With prices rising due to ongoing tariff pressures — Apple has noted tariffs could add as much as $900 million to its costs in a single quarter — catching a well-timed promotion matters more than ever.
- Opt for a payment plan: Every major carrier for iPhones, including Apple, offers payment plans with monthly installments. This means you don’t have to pay the full retail price upfront. For example, the iPhone 17 Pro Max is available for as low as $20.99 per month with trade-in financing, making even premium models more accessible.
- Buy a pre-owned model: If you want a lot of storage and a newer iPhone model without paying top dollar, one of the most budget-friendly solutions is buying a certified pre-owned device. When purchased from a trustworthy seller, such as Gazelle, you can access hundreds of carrier-compatible, affordable iPhones in good condition. This is especially worth considering given that U.S. retail prices are among the lowest in the world — shoppers in Brazil, for instance, pay roughly 70% more for the same iPhone 16 Pro than American consumers do.
Buy a Pre-Owned iPhone From Gazelle Today
Many consumers believe they need to pay the highest price on the market to have a reliable iPhone with the latest features and top-quality displays. Luckily, you don’t need to pay such a hefty price for the model and features you want. At Gazelle, we carry an extensive line of Apple smartphones, from the iPhone 7 to the iPhone 13 Pro Max.
With new iPhones now ranging from $599 for the iPhone 16e all the way up to $1,199.99 for the iPhone 17 Pro Max — and ongoing tariff pressures that could push prices even higher — buying certified pre-owned has never made more financial sense. Apple CEO Tim Cook has acknowledged that tariffs alone could add $900 million to Apple’s costs in a single quarter, meaning new iPhone prices aren’t likely to come down anytime soon.
Our certified pre-owned phones come in many different colors, storage capacities and price ranges, making it easier and more affordable for you to get the iPhone you’ve been eyeing — without breaking the bank. If you’re not sure which model is right for you, check out our guide to the best iPhone to buy. If you want to save money, browse our used iPhones online, sell your used phone to us or contact us for more information on our 30-day return policy and Gazelle guarantee.
