Planning to upgrade your iPhone but want to save money? Then, this blog post is for you because we have searched for the most affordable iPhones under $500 and picked out the top deals and discounts! We have covered the advanced features of the iPhone 8 Plus and iPhone 11 Pro under a selected price range. Not only are these iPhones cheap, but they also perform well. Each product has been extensively researched and tested by our team of experts, guaranteeing that we only offer you the most reliable options. We also provide an overview of what to look for when selecting a budget iPhone, from design and screen quality to battery life and camera performance. Whether you are an Apple lover looking for a cheap upgrade or just someone looking to switch from Android, this post will help you select your best fit. So, let's get started!
List of Cheap iPhones Under $500
iPhone 7 Plus
- Regular price: AUD 198.00
- Sale price: From AUD 189.00
Want to get your hands on a well-equipped iPhone that is also very affordable? Look for iPhone 7 Plus, which is still a viable option several years after its release. Here's why:
Strong Performance
The iPhone 7 Plus is an absolute steal at only AUD 189.00. It runs on a 2016 model A10 Fusion chip from Apple, so even heavy usage or running an intensive app won't make it sweat. Whether you use several applications at once or try out some of the latest mobile games, the iPhone 7 Plus can meet the demands.
Excellent Camera Performance
The iPhone 7 Plus stands out for its dual-camera system and makes beautiful portrait photos. With a pair of 12-megapixel lenses, wide-angle and telephoto, you can take high-quality pictures that rival the quality of a DSLR. In addition, you can zoom 2x optically and 10x digitally. So get up close and personal with your subjects.
Strong Battery Life
Powered by a 2900mAh battery, the iPhone 7 Plus can easily last a day of moderate use. You should boost it during the day if you're a heavy user. However, fast charging makes this easy.
No Headphone Jack
You can use Bluetooth 5.0 capabilities to get reliable and seamless audio. And for those who prefer it, wireless headphones can serve as earbuds. The iPhone 7 Plus lacks a traditional headphone jack but includes a Lightning-to-3.5mm adapter.
Screen Quality
It's true that the iPhone 7 Plus only has Full HD resolution, but it's a high-quality display. With 1080 x 1920 pixels and a pixel density of 401 ppi, there are still sharp colours on this stark, richly-painted screen.
Overall, the iPhone 7 Plus is affordable and has exceptional features: a powerful processor, a great camera system, strong battery life, and reliable audio capabilities. You're sure to be satisfied. And at just AUD 189.00 on sale, it's hard to find another phone that offers as much value for such a low price.
iPhone SE 2020
- Regular price: AUD 240.00
- Sale price: From AUD 229.00
The second one on the list is the iPhone SE 2020. For an affordable price and packed with many features, this cell phone is best for budget-friendly buyers.
Sleek Design and Small Size
That is a small cellphone that can fit easily into your pocket. It appears more expensive than it costs, with a beautiful curved design. And while it has significant bezels, this should be good for the overall aesthetic of the thing. Three different colours, black, white, and red--are available in iPhone SE 2020.
High Level of Performance
The A13 Bionic chip that powers the iPhone SE 2020 has a top-of-the-line processor that provides both speed and elegance. This phone performs excellently, especially with the latest games and applications. You can have several apps running simultaneously; still, the iPhone SE 2020 can be responsive. It is the perfect tool for busy multitaskers.
Amazing Camera
The iPhone SE 2020 has a 12-megapixel camera and takes incredible photos and videos. Portrait Mode is a new feature in the camera that makes taking professional-quality photos more accessible than ever. The camera performs very well, even without Night Mode. It is an excellent choice for those who like taking pictures. Moreover, the front-facing camera has a 7-megapixel sensor for high-quality selfies and video calls.
Wireless Charging & Dust resistance
The iPhone SE 2020 has wireless charging and water and dust resistance features. So you can quickly charge your phone without worrying about it! In addition, it has advanced features like water and dust resistance, which can withstand spills no matter how accidental, lengthening the life of its components. However, it does not offer 5G connectivity. But it is still a competent device that gives you access to 4G Internet connectivity and more.
Affordable & Accessible
The iPhone SE 2020 is an excellent purchase choice, especially if you want a low-cost phone with good features. With a regular price of AUD 240 and a sale price of AUD 229.00, this phone is affordable and valuable. That is perfect for people who want an iPhone but don't want to spend a lot. However, the phone has some deficiencies- it has a vast bezel, does not support 5G, and lacks long battery life. In terms of its budget and the smaller size, this phone gives you benefit for the money.
iPhone 8 Plus
- Regular price: AUD 261.00
- Sale price: From AUD 249.00
With new iPhone models each year, it's obvious to remember the fantastic previous models, especially for budget buyers searching for a new phone. But the iPhone 8 Plus remains popular if you want a robust phone without breaking the bank.
Classic and Premium Design
Compared with today's models, the design of the iPhone 8 Plus looks out-of-date. But it still presents the classic and premium image. Its glass back feels pleasing to the touch, and its scale and weight give it a solid feel in hand. Plus, for those who still like the old-fashioned home button that new models have replaced with a swipe-up, there's still one on the iPhone 8 Plus.
Dual and Powerful Camera
The dual camera of the iPhone 8 Plus allows fantastic portrait mode shots with a blurred background, making almost professional-looking images. The camera, which is also powerful, performs well under both bright and low-light conditions. The camera's performance is supported by a powerful processor, which makes for a smooth shooting experience.
Excellent and High-efficiency Performance
The iPhone 8 Plus uses the A11 Bionic chip to process and can easily handle routine tasks without waiting or jumping. It opens apps and runs them quickly, and using the phone is swift and smooth. It has the added value of wireless charging for a more effortless charging experience.
Sufficient Battery
The battery life of the iPhone 8 Plus could be better. But it will last all day, even with medium use.
Value for Money
The iPhone 8 Plus is a good fit for people with a budget of below $500 for the same quality phone. It features a stylish, sophisticated design, A11 Bionic chip-powered fast, efficient performance, and robust dual camera characteristics.
iPhone X
- Regular price: AUD 314.00
- Sale price: From AUD 299.00
Another top-class iPhone that comes in the list of cheap iPhones under $500 is the iPhone X. It is a terrific buy. With its premium design, powerful TrueDepth camera, and all the screens in the front, it is worth every dollar.
Display
The iPhone X's 5.8-inch OLED display is stunning. Its colours are vibrant, and the blacks are so black. Whether streaming videos or scrolling through social media, the iPhone X's screen gives a wholly immersive experience.
Design
The phone's sleek, all-glass front, back, and metal frame make for a premium look. But the design is just as impressive. However, the metal rim can scratch when there is no case. The iPhone X will keep its straight-and-narrow way with proper attention.
High-End Camera
One perfect point is the TrueDepth camera. This equipment makes Face ID an easy and secure way to access your phone. Moreover, the camera is a powerful tool for taking pictures and videos. In addition to Portrait Mode and advanced lighting effects, its features are on par with professional-grade cameras. This way, one can take breathtaking snapshots.
Excellent Performance
The A11 Bionic chip in iPhone X is high-speed and responsive. Only some of the most demanding apps will see stuttering or freeze-up. And you get a vast amount of memory: with as much as 256GB of storage, there's plenty of room for all your media, apps, and files.
Updated Software
Apple has also updated iPhone X's software for the latest iOS release. That means you'll enjoy all the new features and functionalities - now! You won't have to worry about updates for a long time. Overall, the iPhone X is an excellent choice for people who want high-end but low-priced iPhones.
iPhone XR
- Regular price: AUD 314.00
- Sale price: From AUD 299.00
Look at another X series, the iPhone XR, one of the best options available at under $500.
Impressive Battery Life
With a single charge, this device can smoothly run all day. The iPhone XR claims some of the most significant advantages over previous models, which makes this rare in an iPhone series. There are up to 25 hours of talk time and 15 hours of internet usage from a single charge as standard, which should be sufficient for most people.
Colourful and Attractive Design
The iPhone XR is available in six eye-catching shades, such as blue and coral. That creates a more vibrant experience. Moreover, its screen can provide sharp and clear pictures.
A Valuable Option
As this device recently dropped in price, now is the perfect time to buy. It's way less expensive than the newest models and has the most features users want.
Camera Performance
Unfortunately, several users have described the phone's portrait camera as average. While photographs taken in this mode are passable, specialized models tend to have better results.
App Optimization
It has been a while since the release of the iPhone XR, but some apps still need to be optimized to function well on this device. With the recent updates, this issue has improved, but we must advise everyone to check an app's compatibility before downloading.
iPhone XS
- Regular price: AUD 345.00
- Sale price: From AUD 329.00
The iPhone XS is an absolute steal for anyone who wants a high-end smartphone experience at AUD 329.00. It has incredible features, including the following:
Smart HDR, Camera Performance.
The iPhone XS is a great camera, thanks to the Smart HDR technology it carries. The camera of the iPhone XS can capture more vibrant and detailed shots than ever before, making it appealing for those who want to take sharp, high-quality photos on the go.
More Powerful Than Ever
The iPhone XS contains a powerful chip that allows it to run fast and smoothly when opening your mail, editing text, or browsing news. That makes it perfect for anyone who wants a mobile phone in their daily life.
Sleek Design
Even though a long time has passed, the iPhone XS has mostly stayed the same regarding physical design. The sleek form of the body is made of glass and aluminium. It slips easily into your hand and boasts an edge-to-edge display that makes watching videos and photographs breathtaking.
Battery life
The iPhone XS's battery life might differ slightly, but it is good enough for most people to make it through a day without trouble. The phone can charge quickly, much faster than many competitors if needed.
A Great Value
With its improved camera capabilities, quick handling, sleek design and good battery life - it's the ideal device for iPhone quality without straining their bank balance.
iPhone XS Max
- Regular price: From AUD 419.00
The X series is fantastic, but the iPhone XS Max is the most potent purchase if you want many features in a single device under $500. It may cost you more, but it provides a worthwhile alternative to other flagship devices. Things that make the iPhone XS Max standout:
Attractive Display
The first thing that'll catch your eye about the iPhone XS Max is its 6.5-inch OLED display, which Apple says is the biggest iPhone screen ever. It's not only the most prominent display of any iPhone but also razor sharp, with a 2688x1242-pixel resolution and over 3 million pixels crammed onto the screen. That means that videos, movies and photos look great on the XS Max's screen, with rich colours and deep blacks that make everything pop. The XS Max allows you to enjoy all your favourite multimedia content in a wholly new way.
Camera Performance
You will be amazed at the camera performance of the iPhone XS Max. One of the sensor networks hidden within the dual-lens rear-facing cameras comprises 12MP sensors. Claimed one for wide-angle shooting and the other for a telephoto lens, it works together to take some beautiful photography that rivals dedicated cameras in quality.
HDR Technology
Innovative HDR technology is also included in the XS Max camera system, which helps to capture more detail in highlights and shadows. In addition, the camera system also has Portrait Mode, capable of producing high-quality portraits with blurred backgrounds. Amateur photographer or just someone who likes to keep snapping at things around them daily, the XS Max camera will amaze you.
Perfect Price Point
It may not surprise you that the iPhone XS Max has a high selling point for those who want to save money. Indeed, compared to its most recent successors, this device is significantly less expensive. With its lower price, the XS Max still has acceptable specs and features that some of the more costly iPhones can't match.
iPhone SE 3rd Gen 5G (2022)
- Regular price: From AUD 449.00
The iPhone SE 3rd Gen 5G (2022) is a remarkable smartphone with the fastest performance under $500. It offers excellent camera quality, making it our top pick for small phone fans looking for a budget-friendly option.
Design and Display
Aesthetically, the iPhone SE 3rd Gen 5G has a durable design — made to withstand your daily grind. Its small and compact size and ergonomic frame will make it easy to hold and use with one hand. It supports one of the smallest screens you'll find today.
Performance and Speed
This iPhone runs on the A15 Bionic chip. That's the very same chip used in the iPhone 13 series. That translates into one thing, which is ultra-good performance. The iPhone SE 3rd Gen 5G is one of the fastest phones under $500. Users will get high speed and performance when scrolling, gaming, and streaming their favourite content.
Camera Quality
The iPhone SE 3rd Gen 5G comes with one rear camera, but it's a camera that offers decent quality for a low price. The 12 MP lens captures vivid photos with nice colours and sharp details. It lacks Night mode for low-light photography, but the camera quality is still good overall, especially for a phone in this price range.
5G- Connectivity
The iPhone SE 3rd Gen 5G also supports sub-6GHz 5G and mid-band 5G, so you'll still get faster download and upload speeds. Unfortunately, the phone doesn't support mmWave 5G, so it might not be the best choice for those needing the fastest speeds.
Yet, with a starting price of AUD 449 (probably around USD 399), the iPhone SE 3rd Gen 5G is an affordable option for those who don't need the best possible camera quality or the absolute fastest 5G download speeds. It'll be an excellent option for budget-minded folks who want a high-performance iPhone for as low a price as possible.
iPhone 12 Mini 5G
- Regular price: From AUD 479.00
For some high-end options, we chose the iPhone 12 mini! This slim and lightweight device features the same specs as the latest Apple models yet offer incredible 5G capabilities at a fraction of the price.
Smaller and Impressive Design
The iPhone 12 mini is uniquely designed for those who prefer a smaller device but won't sacrifice quality. Despite a 5.4-inch display and compact size, the device fits comfortably in your hand and pocket while boasting the A14 Bionic chip – the fastest processor in the world. Not to mention, it also features 5G, so you can count on it to offer fantastic internet speeds as well as futureproofing.
Vibrant Display
The phone features an astounding OLED display that gives you the vibrant colours and sharp clarity needed to stream your favourite shows or play many games. You'll also be pleased to note the phone has a ceramic shield front cover that makes the display more durable to everyday wear and tear!
Versatile Camera
You don't have to compromise on camera features either – the iPhone 12 mini has two impressive camera lenses (12MP ultra-wide and wide) and night mode photography, making it perfect for capturing memories that will last a lifetime. Plus, with the added advantage of MagSafe technology, your phone can charge wirelessly and quickly.
Things to Consider
Of course, every phone has its limitations, but before dismissing this phone, you should know that the iPhone 12 mini's battery life may not last you all day, but it is good enough for an average user. The iPhone 12 mini is a fantastic phone for buying under $500.
iPhone 11 Pro
- Regular price: AUD 534.00
- Sale price: From AUD 509.00
Last on the list is the most premium option under $500, which is the iPhone 11 Pro. It is on sale but costs $9, more than $500. It is the most advanced option on this list. So, if you prefer the latest features and design, $9 will not affect your decision.
Advance Camera:
With a revolutionary triple-camera system that efficiently produces fantastic photos and videos, it has become the most eye-catching digital model. It integrates effectively razor-sharp 12MP wide, ultra-wide and telephoto shots that are in the battle with the pros. If it's a good day of use, the A13 Bionic processor keeps it strong in concert with the battery. Add it to the effect of the OLED Super Retina XDR display, and you have a winner.
OLED Display
The iPhone 11 Pro OLED display is an improvement from its predecessors, with increased brightness and a wealth of colours. With a resolution of 1125 x 2436 pixels, the OLED display of the iPhone 11 Pro provides an excellent experience for web browsing, video watching, and social media scrolling by displaying detailed images.
Longer Battery Life
The iPhone 11 Pro may not have as long battery life as lesser models like the iPhone 11, but it's still quite long-lasting, with possible talk time of up to 18 hours and 65 hours of music playback in one battery.
Plenty of storage
The iPhone 11 Pro's 64GB storage is enough to store many pictures, videos, and applications. Also, iCloud allows you to easily back up data on your iPhone if it's lost.
The iPhone 11 Pro has all the proper phone features, like its top-class camera system, an A13 Bionic chip that makes mincemeat of other chips, and a sophisticated and solid design. Above all, it has an OLED screen with high-quality images, a long battery life, and considerable space suitable for selling at this price.
Tips for Buying a Budget-Friendly iPhone
When choosing a budget-friendly iPhone, various factors are there to consider to save money. This guide will teach you what considerations you should take before buying an iPhone on a budget.
1) Thoroughly Research Before Buying
If you plan on spending your hard-earned money to buy an iPhone within your budget, it is essential to do thorough research first. You can first analyze the available models and features. You can compare and contrast different models on screen size, storage capacity, camera resolution, and warranty. Doing this exercise would help you see which model meets your needs, and it also means you may resist falling for impulse purchases.
2) Look for Refurbished/Second-hand Options
Buying second-hand or refurbished iPhones may be the best option for those considering saving a little more money. Many refurbished sellers already provide certified refurbished iPhones covered by a limited warranty.
3) Consider Payment Options
Many retailers offer different buying plans so that you may select installment-based options or credit plans. These plans allow you to buy the iPhone of your choice and put the payment into several months. This way, it will be easy for you to live within your means.
4) Check for Discounts, Sales, and Promotions
Compared to the original price of an iPhone at retail, you may also check for discounts, sales, and promotions. Some notable deals emerge during festive holidays like Christmas, Cyber Monday, or Black Friday. Even though the savings are relatively small, many petty amounts make a large number; they may be enough to keep you within your budget.
Why is Roobotech the Ultimate Place to Buy Cheap iPhones in Australia?
Roobotech is a place in Australia where you can buy cheap iPhones! We provide the perfect combination of affordability and quality; this is why we are the favourite of hundreds of millions of customers all around Australia. The reasons to Roobotech for Buying cheap iPhones in Australia stand out as follows.
- Quality-Checked Refurbished iPhones: Our cheap iPhones in Australia are refurbished by professional technicians. They have gone through quality tests before we post them in stock. Because we use only Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts, every instrument can operate fully and differ only marginally from new conditions.
- Numerous Models and Grades to Choose From: Roobotech carries all generations of Apple iPhones, including basics like our economy iPhone 6 or 7 models and the latest iPhone 15 models to fit your budget. In our store, all the phones are divided into five grades. That ensures that you know what the grade is before making a purchase. It means transparent and informed choice for our treasured customers to select, for high integrity and noble purpose.
- Competitive Prices: Our low-priced iPhones in Australia are underpriced for the better economy than competitors. Those who want to save money but still wish for a high-quality product will find practical, low-cost solutions on our website.
- Warranty and Returns: You may return any item within 14 days if it differs from what you ordered. We are not responsible for any damage incurred during return. Only warranty on refurbished equipment. That assures peace of mind and complete customer satisfaction. Hurry down to the online store today & pick up your own new cheap iPhone!
Conclusion
Lastly, we have covered a variety of options for picking up an iPhone within a budget of $500 or less. Whatever option you choose, all of them are firmly packed with power and consumer appeal. Apple's technology is built to blow people away, from astounding cameras to advanced features. And as a further bonus, they get extra security and privacy, all for the same low price! So why hesitate? Take advantage of the great deals on offer. Get your hands on premium iPhones at a cost under $500 today!
Check Out: Best iPhones to Buy in 2024
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most affordable iPhone?
The cheapest iPhone you can buy today with some quality features is the iPhone SE (2022), available in different colours and storage options. It has a 4.7-inch Retina HD display, an A15 Bionic chip, a 12MP rear camera, and a 7MP front camera.
What is the most expensive iPhone?
In 2024, the most expensive iPhone today is the latest iPhone 15 series. It is expected that Apple will launch the new iPhone 16 series in September. So till that time, the 15 series will remain the most expensive and advanced ones.