4 mins read
Key points
- Tariff options for iPhones include contract, pay-as-you-go, or SIM-only deals, giving you flexibility to choose
- Contract deals can provide stability, often including a brand-new iPhone as part of the deal
- While the latest iPhones are top-tier, they come with a premium price tag. Make sure to consider older models like the iPhone SE and iPhone 13 for more affordable options
About Apple
Apple, founded in 1976 by Steve Jobs, Steve Wozniak, and Ronald Wayne, revolutionised technology with products like the iPod (2001), iPhone (2007), and iPad (2010).
Apple’s iPhones run on iOS, offering features like wireless charging, biometric recognition, OLED screens, and advanced cameras. If you’re choosing between devices, check out our iOS vs Android guide to help you decide which operating system works best for you.
iPhone on contract
When you opt for an iPhone on contract, you’ll sign up for a fixed-term agreement (usually 12, 24, or 36 months) with a set monthly cost.
The more expensive the iPhone and data package, the higher the monthly payments. By comparing mobile phone deals, you might find deals with lower monthly costs by paying an upfront fee.
Be aware that mobile contracts often come with a minimum term. If you cancel early, you could face an additional fee. You’ll also need to pass a credit check since the iPhone isn’t fully yours until the contract ends and the phone is paid off.
Pay as you go
If you prefer flexibility, a Pay as You Go (PAYG) plan might be a better fit. With PAYG, you simply top up your iPhone with credit as needed for calls, texts, and data.
This is a good option for light phone users, but if you’re on your phone a lot, a PAYG plan might not be the most cost-effective. Some providers offer PAYG bundles or SIM-only tariffs, which might be worth exploring.
SIM only tariffs
With a SIM-only tariff, you pay for a monthly package of minutes, texts, and data, but you don’t receive a new iPhone. This option is ideal if you already own an iPhone and just need a new SIM deal. You can compare various tariffs to find one that fits your budget and data needs.
iPhone 16 prices
Apple's latest iPhone 16 series offers a range of models to suit different preferences and budgets. Here's a quick overview of the current UK pricing:
|
Model |
Storage Options |
Starting Price (SIM-Free) |
|---|---|---|
|
128GB, 256GB, 512GB |
£799 |
|
|
128GB, 256GB, 512GB |
£899 |
|
|
128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB |
£999 |
|
|
256GB, 512GB, 1TB |
£1,099 |
The iPhone 15 range has seen some price adjustments. The standard iPhone 15 now starts at £699, which is a price drop of £100 compared to its launch price.
If you’re considering upgrading or switching, there are likely to be bargains available, especially as retailers continue to offer discounts on contract plans.
Of course, if you’re keeping your current phone, a SIM-only deal can save you money. You’ll pay only for data, calls, and texts, without the cost of a new handset. Plus, with monthly rolling contracts, you have the flexibility to switch after 30 days.
Which is the best iPhone?
Apple’s iPhone 17 series offers a range of options, each suited for different needs. Here's a quick guide to help you decide which model is right for you.
|
Model |
Key Features |
Best For |
|---|---|---|
|
Big battery and gorgeous display |
Taking and storing as many stunning photos as you want |
|
|
Tough exterior and top-of-the-range camera |
Those who want the best performance and camera |
|
|
Slimmest ever iPhone Best |
Fitting into your pocket |
|
|
ProMotion display and improved selfie camera |
Flawless selfies and long-lasting battery |
|
|
Pro camera, long-lasting battery, larger screen |
Anyone who wants an all-round premium iPhone |
|
|
Pro-level features, Dynamic Island |
Power users with a smaller screen preference |
|
|
Big screen, great for media |
Movie/game lovers with the need for a larger screen |
|
|
Dynamic Island, fast performance |
Balanced all-rounder, good camera and power |
|
|
Periscope zoom, pro-level camera |
Premium camera lovers, gaming, and streaming |
|
|
Dynamic Island, powerful camera |
Power users who want a smaller screen |
|
|
Great screen for media |
Big screen, solid performance at a lower cost |
|
|
Dynamic Island, improved camera |
Everyday users who need a solid camera and speed |
|
|
Dynamic Island, Pro camera, long battery life |
Size and battery life enthusiasts |
|
|
Dynamic Island, great performance |
Power and camera lovers on a slightly lower budget |
|
|
Large screen, solid camera |
People who want a big screen, not pro features |
|
|
Improved camera, Dynamic Island |
Affordable upgrade from older iPhones |
|
|
ProMotion screen, solid performance |
Those who want a large screen at a discount |
|
|
Pro camera, ProMotion screen |
People who want power in a compact size |
|
|
Great camera, fast enough for everyday use |
Casual users, good camera and performance |
|
|
Compact size, good performance |
Small phone lovers, budget-conscious users |
|
|
iPhone 12 Pro Max |
Solid camera, Super Retina XDR screen |
People who want a big screen without the price |
|
iPhone 12 Pro |
Great power and camera in a compact design |
Those who want power without a huge screen |
|
iPhone 12 |
Solid performance, budget-friendly |
Users who want an affordable iPhone |
|
iPhone 12 Mini |
Compact size, great performance |
Small phone lovers, budget-friendly users |
|
iPhone SE (3rd Gen) |
Affordable, fingerprint ID, older camera tech |
Budget-conscious users, small size preference |