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Since it's release in 2020, the iPhone 12 has come down in price significantly. The iPhone 12 might be a great budget option for you - today you can find one in the price range of $200-$400+ depending on a few factors.
Today, you can find an iPhone 12 for around $200. However, the exact price will depend on the phone's storage, color, condition and carrier compatibility.
For example, you'll find refurbished smartphone sellers like Back Market grade an iPhone 12 based on the external condition of the device from Fair, Good, Excellent and Premium. Obviously, the higher the graded condition of the phone, the more expensive it will likely be and vice versa. Right now, the price for a Black 64GB Unlocked iPhone 12 on Back Market ranges from $255 to $350.*
Carrier compatibility will also affect the price. If you need an unlocked iPhone 12, prices on average are likely going to be a little higher. On Back Market, an unlocked iPhone 12 will cost in the range of $250-$550. If you opt for a phone that's locked to a carrier like AT&T, Verizon or T-Mobile, then you'll find a lower price range starting around $200.*
*Prices found on www.backmarket.com/en-us as of Aug 2024. Subject to change.
Apple's original retail price for the iPhone 12 started at $799 when it was released in October 2020. The iPhone 12 mini was the lowest cost model option at the time, with prices starting at $699. You could also find the iPhone 12 Pro and iPhone 12 Pro Max on Apple's website starting at $999 and $1,099 respectively when they were first released.
Of course, all of these models have since dropped in price over the years and you can find them more than $500 cheaper.
You can still find an iPhone 12 to purchase at most tech retailers like Amazon, eBay, Walmart and Best Buy. However, you should consider buying from a trusted and dedicated marketplace for refurbished electronics. Back Market, for example, specializes in verified refurbished tech, so average quality of the iPhones sold on site is much higher than general retailers.
Buying an iPhone 12 in Excellent or Premium condition from Back Market is like buying an iPhone 12 straight from the Apple Store back in 2020 (but without waiting in line).
Right now, the cheapest iPhone 12 on Back Market is $205 for a white 64GB AT&T locked phone, in Good condition.*
You also might be able to find a cheaper "used" iPhone 12, elsewhere. However, the small savings may not be worth it since these tend to be riskier purchases because the phone performance is not guaranteed and the condition of the phone is sold 'as-is'.
It's better to make sure you're finding comparable prices from a reputable refurbished seller, who has properly repaired, cleaned and tested the iPhone 12 to ensure proper function. Refurbished iPhones are also typically backed by a guarantee, so you can buy with peace of mind.
Back Market offers a 30-day money-back guarantee and a full 1-year warranty on all iPhone purchases.
*Price found on www.backmarket.com/en-us as of Aug 2024. Subject to change.
In addition to getting a quality used phone, buying from Back Market also helps decrease humanity’s footprint on the environment and foster the idea of a circular economy. We believe that people should spend less on new tech and more on the things that really matter.
You can also trade in your old iPhone to help keep electronic waste out of our landfills and give you a couple extra bucks to spend on your next smartphone.
Miguel is always looking for new ways to provide unique perspective on popular tech and has taken his writing to the refurbished industry to promote sustainability. Outside of creating content, you might find him travelling the globe, coaching a fitness class, or cheering on his favorite sports teams (Go Dolphins!)