Apple Upgrade vs. Verizon deals: which saves you the most money on an iPhone?
Apple’s Upgrade programme offers iPhone leasing with the option to buy the handset at the end, while Verizon promotes heavily discounted or “free” phones tied to long-term mobile plans. The article argues that the cheapest option depends largely on whether a buyer already wants Verizon’s required service plan, as the apparent handset savings can be outweighed by higher monthly plan costs and a three-year commitment.
Apple Upgrade leases iPhones for 12 to 24 months, starting at $18 per month for an iPhone 17e, and does not include AppleCare. For a 256GB iPhone 17 Pro, a 24-month lease costs $768, followed by a $331 payment to own it outright; Verizon charges $2.77 monthly for the handset over 36 months but requires its $95-per-month Unlimited Ultimate plan, taking the combined total to about $3,520. Verizon’s offers may also require a new line and credits can be lost if that line is cancelled or transferred.
- Verizon’s cheap phones require costly, lengthy plan commitments.
- Apple Upgrade offers shorter-term leasing and eventual ownership.
- Best value depends on your existing mobile plan needs.
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Apple and Verizon offer different ways to pay for an iPhone. Apple’s Upgrade programme spreads the handset cost over a lease, with the option to pay more at the end to keep it; Verizon discounts the phone in return for signing up to one of its mobile plans.
The key comparison is the total cost of the phone and service together. Verizon’s lowest handset prices can depend on taking a particular plan, keeping a line active for several years and meeting other offer conditions, while Apple’s lease does not include AppleCare. These offers matter most to people weighing a lower upfront phone price against ongoing bills and a longer commitment.
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The case for
Verizon’s offers can be the better-value choice for someone who already wants its Unlimited Ultimate plan and is comfortable staying for the full three years. The handset credits then reduce the upfront phone cost substantially, and spreading payments over a longer period can make monthly costs easier to manage.
The case against
Apple Upgrade may suit buyers who want more flexibility or would otherwise choose a cheaper mobile plan. Its lease and end-of-term purchase price are clear, while Verizon’s phone discount depends on maintaining an eligible plan and line; for someone who would pay extra for that service or might leave early, the higher plan costs and lost credits can outweigh the handset saving.