// WIRED US/UK — MOBILE & WEB
What’s the Best iPhone to Buy or Avoid Right Now? (2026)
Apple sells seven iPhone models, from the $699 iPhone 17e to the $ 1,199 iPhone Duo, but which iPhone is best for you? This is a good time of the year to buy an iPhone if you need to upgrade, since Apple just released its flagship models. (We don't expect the more affordable iPhone 18 models until spring 2027.) We've tested nearly every model and outlined their strengths and weaknesses so you can get the right one for you. (The iPhone Duo is coming soon, but we have some initial hands-on details.)
Check out our other Apple buying guides, including Which iPhone 18 Models to Buy, Which iPhone 17 Model to Buy, Best iPhone 17 Cases, Best MagSafe Accessories, Best MagSafe Chargers, Best MagSafe Wallets, and Best Apple 3-in-1 Chargers. Wondering what's new in iOS 27? We have details on that, too.
Updated September 2026: We’ve added the iPhone 18 Pro, 18 Pro Max, and iPhone Duo, and the Apple Upgrade option that replaces the iPhone Upgrade Program. We’ve also added the latest features from recent iOS updates and updated pricing across the board due to Apple’s price hikes.
If you’re upgrading from an iPhone, you can trade it in 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 the process of selling your phone, and we generally recommend you use websites like Swappa, Gazelle, or Back Market.
We also have a handful of setup guides you should follow:
Most people in the US purchase iPhones from carriers, which means the devices are locked to that network. If you bought an iPhone from Verizon, you can't easily switch to another carrier without breaking a contract and paying extra fees. It also poses headaches for travelers who want to use international SIM cards or eSIMs.
The easier approach is to buy directly from Apple, though there are some things you should know:
Connect to any carrier later: Choose this option for the most hassle-free experience. You get an unlocked iPhone, then all you need to do is transfer the SIM card or eSIM from your old iPhone to the new one to get started. This might be painless, though you may need to contact your carrier if the iPhone can't complete the eSIM transfer. In the US, Apple hasn't included a SIM tray since 2022's iPhone 14.
Choose a carrier: If you choose a carrier through Apple.com, you will get an unlocked iPhone, no matter which carrier you choose (except if you purchase with AT&T on an installment plan). The downside is that Apple doesn't have the same offers as the carriers, so you may lose out on a deal. However, carrier offers often require new lines, trade-ins, or an upgraded plan, and the savings come in the form of bill credits, so these deals aren't as amazing as they may seem.
Finance: You can finance your iPhone either with Apple's credit card via monthly installments or as Apple iPhone Payments via a Citizens One loan. You need to choose a carrier here, but Apple confirmed these devices are all unlocked. You have to fill out a credit application to see if you qualify. If you opt to finance through a carrier on Apple.com, only the T-Mobile and Verizon models will be unlocked. The AT&T and Boost Mobile options are locked iPhones, so it's no different from buying it on an installment plan directly from those carriers.