If you’ve recently broken your iPhone and don’t have insurance or AppleCare, you can save yourself some money and purchase a refurbished iPhone directly from Apple.
As MacRumors reported, Apple recently added iPhones to its refurbished storefront for the first time. In the past, Apple has used the same website to sell refurbished Macs, iPads, iPods, Apple TVs, and accessories.
The listings are currently limited to 16 GB or 64 GB iPhone 6S models, all of which are unlocked and will work on nearly any wireless carrier.
When purchasing a refurbished device instead of brand new, your overall savings depend on the model and storage.
Apple no longer sells a 16 GB or 64 GB model of either size iPhone 6S, making it tough to do direct price comparisons. However, you most certainly will save money by going the refurbished route if a 64 GB phone will work for you.
For example, you can buy a refurbished iPhone 6S Plus with 64 GB of storage for $589, or a brand new iPhone 6S Plus with 32 GB of storage for $649.
One of the biggest advantages of buying a refurbished phone from Apple is the fact the company thoroughly tests each device, and guarantees it with a full one-year warranty from the date you purchase it. Apple also replaces all outer shells and batteries on refurbished devices, to make the device feel and function as a brand new phone would.
Purchasing a refurbished device from Apple may still be more expensive than buying a used phone off Craigslist or eBay, but at least you have the peace of mind in knowing it has been checked, repaired and certified by Apple.