How to Buy an iPhone on a Low Budget in India: Practical Tips

Buy an iPhone on a Low Budget

Owning an iPhone is a dream for many people in India, but the high price often stops them. However, if you plan wisely, you can buy an iPhone on a low budget without compromising on quality or performance. In this post, you’ll learn real, practical, and budget-friendly strategies to own your favorite iPhone — whether it’s a new, used, or refurbished model.

1. Choose an Older iPhone Model

Apple supports iPhones for many years with software updates. So, buying an older model like the iPhone 12, iPhone 13, or iPhone SE (2022) can be a smart move.
These models offer excellent performance, good cameras, and long-term updates at almost 40–50% lower prices than the latest model.

Pro Tip:
Avoid buying models older than iPhone 11, as they may stop getting updates soon.

2. Buy a Refurbished or Pre-owned iPhone

If you’re on a strict budget, buying a refurbished iPhone is the best value-for-money option. Refurbished phones are professionally tested, repaired (if needed), and certified before resale.

Where to buy safely:

• Apple Certified Refurbished Store (if available in your region)

• Amazon Renewed

• Cashify, Flipkart Refurbished, or OLX Autos

Always check:

• Battery health (above 85%)

• Warranty period

• IMEI verification on Apple’s official website

Example: A refurbished iPhone 12 (128GB) can cost ₹35,000–₹40,000 instead of ₹60,000+ for a new one.

3. Use Exchange Offers

Most online stores like Flipkart and Amazon allow you to exchange your old smartphone for an instant discount when purchasing a new iPhone.

Example:
If your old phone’s exchange value is ₹10,000 and you’re buying an iPhone worth ₹55,000, you’ll only need to pay ₹45,000.

Bonus Tip: Clean your old phone, keep the box and accessories ready, and update it before exchange — it increases its value.

4. Wait for Seasonal Sales and Bank Offers

If you can wait a little, timing matters the most. Major sales like:

• Flipkart Big Billion Days

• Amazon Great Indian Festival

• Republic Day or Diwali Offers

During these events, you can get flat discounts up to ₹10,000–₹15,000 and extra cashback on HDFC, SBI, or ICICI credit cards.

Example:
iPhone 13 (128GB) may drop from ₹59,999 to ₹48,999 during a big sale.

5. Choose EMI or No-Cost EMI Options

Most e-commerce platforms offer No-Cost EMI, meaning you can pay in monthly installments without extra interest.
This is perfect for students or salaried people who don’t want to spend a large amount at once.

Platforms offering No-Cost EMI:

• Amazon & Flipkart

• Apple Store Online (HDFC, Axis, ICICI Cards)

• Bajaj Finserv EMI Card

6. Explore the iPhone SE Models

The iPhone SE (2022) is Apple’s most affordable new model.
It looks simple but has the same A15 Bionic chip as the iPhone 13 — meaning top-notch performance at almost half the cost.

Price Range (2025): Around ₹35,000–₹40,000 (new)

If you want iPhone performance and iOS features at the lowest possible cost, this is the best option.

7. Consider Buying from Abroad (If Possible)

If you or a friend is visiting Dubai, the US, or Singapore, you can save 15–30% due to lower taxes.
Just make sure:

• The model supports Indian network bands

• It’s factory unlocked

• You get the original bill and box

8. Trade-in or Buy from Apple’s Official Store

Apple’s official online store in India also runs trade-in programs and student discounts occasionally.
You can trade your old device directly with Apple and buy a new one with a verified warranty and EMI plan.

9. Avoid Scams and Fake Deals

When buying second-hand or from local sellers:

• Check the IMEI number on https://checkcoverage.apple.com

• Avoid deals that sound “too good to be true”

• Always ask for the original bill and box

• Meet in safe public places if buying offline

Conclusion

Buying an iPhone on a low budget is absolutely possible — if you follow the right approach.
By choosing an older or refurbished model, waiting for seasonal discounts, using exchange offers, or going for EMI plans, you can easily enjoy the Apple experience without breaking your wallet.

Quick Summary: Best Ways to Buy iPhone on a Low Budget