Which iPhone Should You Buy (or Avoid) Right Now?

Apple sells eight iPhone models, from the $429 iPhone SE (2022) to the $1,199 iPhone 15 Pro Max. In September, certain models will disappear in favor of the iPhone 16 lineup. I’m here to help you find the best iPhone, even if that means warning you that now is the worst time to buy a new Apple handset. But if you absolutely need a device right now, I separate the marketing slogans from reality—I’ve tested every iPhone model and outlined their strengths and weaknesses so you can get the best bang for your buck.

Check out our other buying guides, including the Best MagSafe Accessories, Best iPhone 15 Cases, Best iPhone 14 Cases, Best iPhone 13 Cases, Best iPhone SE Cases, and Best Apple 3-in-1 Chargers. Wondering what’s new in iOS 18? We have details on that too.

Updated August 2024: We’ve added rumors on the iPhone 16 and iPhone SE expected in 2025.

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But First, Sell That Old iPhone!

If you’re upgrading from an iPhone, you can trade it to Apple for a small discount. Before you do that, check whether you can sell it elsewhere for more money. iPhones hold their value incredibly well, particularly if they’re in mint or good condition. We have a guide that runs through a few websites you can use.

Don’t forget to back up your old iPhone before you switch to a newer model, which will help you transfer everything without losing any data. Remember to factory reset your old iPhone before selling it. You might find our guides on setting up a new iPhone and how to fix it helpful. And if you don’t want to sell it, we have some ideas on how to repurpose your old device.