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Best Apple iPhone Prices

2012.01.24

Short link: http://bit.ly/16ejkD

iPhone

Apple announced the iPhone 4S on October 4, 2011, and it looks just like last year's model. The new iPhone supports both GSM and CDMA networks, making it a true world phone that will be compatible with most carriers around the world. The 4S moves to a dual-core A5 processor, which doubles computing power and vastly improves graphics performance. It also supports 14.4 Mbps on 3G GSM networks, which unfortunately does not include AT&T. The camera has a new lens and image sensor that has a higher resolution and is more sensitive, which should make for better low-light photos. Prices are $199 with 16 GB of memory, $299 with 32 GB, and $399 with 64 GB, an amount new with the 4S.

For the first time, Sprint is offering iPhones, including the iPhone 4 and 4S.

The iPhone 4 remains in the line. It uses the single-core A4 processor, has a 5 megapixel camera, and introduced the FaceTime camera and Retina Display. The 2011 iPhone 4 has 8 GB of memory and comes in separate CDMA and GSM versions. Way down on the low end is the 8 GB iPhone 3GS, which remains an AT&T exclusive and is now 99¢ with a two-year contract.

iOS 4.3.x remains available for the iPhone 3G, and all of the newer models are compatible with iOS 5, which became available on October 12, 2011.

Prices are for the iPhone with a two-year service contract.

Be sure you look at the whole picture, not just the cost of the iPhone. First, check coverage in your area - you don't want to order from a carrier that doesn't offer service where you live and/or work. Verizon has the broadest coverage, but there are areas one or more of these carriers doesn't have service.

Then look at the monthly cost of the calling, data, and texting combination you want. There's a $45/month difference between the most affordable Sprint and Verizon plans, but there are real differences between those plans as well.

If you want the fastest 3G network for your iPhone, that's AT&T this year, and AT&T is the only US carrier with GSM service, which means you can talk on your iPhone while also using the data connection. You can't do that with Sprint or Verizon.

If you're a heavy Internet user, only Sprint offers an unlimited data plan.

Ordering your iPhone through any of the links below helps Low End Mac.

Amazon.com has a wide selection of iPhone accessories.

Apple Store US

Apple collects sales tax on orders shipped to almost all states. Free ground shipping.

3GS/8 GB, free - AT&T only
4/8 GB, $99 - separate GSM (AT&T) and CDMA (Verizon/Sprint) versions
4S/16 GB, $199
4S/32 GB, $299
4S/64 GB, $399

Apple Store Canada

Prices are for unlocked iPhone with no contract. iPhones can also be purchased at a local Bell, Fido, Koodo, MTS, Rogers, SaskTel, Telus, or Virgin Mobile location, which may discount with a service contract.

3GS/8 GB, C$375
4/8 GB, C$549
4S/16 GB, C$649
4S/32 GB, C$749
4S/64 GB, C$849

AT&T

Based on 2011 testing, AT&T has the fastest 3G network for iPhone users. Only AT&T offers GSM service for simultaneous voice and data. Lowest cost plan offers 450 minute and 200 MB data for $64.99

3GS/8 GB, 99¢
4/8 GB, $99.99
4/16 GB, black, white, $199
4/32 GB, black, white, $299

Sprint

Only Sprint offers unlimited data plans. Unlimited data prices start at $69.99. Lowest cost plan offers 200 minutes plus data for $44.99.

4/8 GB, $99.99
4S/16 GB, $199
4S/32 GB, $299
4S/64 GB, $399

Verizon Wireless

Largest 3G network. Lowest cost plan offers 450 minutes and 300 MB data, $79.99.

4/8 GB, $99.99
4S/16 GB, $199.99
4S/32 GB, $299.99
4S/64 GB, $399.99

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