Best Cheap iPhone 2026: Discounted Picks Under $700
Apple iPhones are never truly cheap, but in 2026 you can get a current-design iPhone for $499–$699 — including some that won at MKBHD's Smartphone Awards. Here are the picks worth your money.
Updated · 4 picks · Rankings reflect MKBHD Smartphone Awards outcomes.
How we picked
Currently-available iPhones priced below $700 (new, refurbished, or carrier deals) ranked by long-term value. Apple Intelligence support weighted heavily.
- #1
Won Best Small Phone at MKBHD's 2024 Smartphone Awards. Now $599–$699 (down from $799 launch). Full Apple Intelligence support and 5+ years of iOS updates remaining. The smartest discounted iPhone in 2026.
Pros
- MKBHD's 2024 Best Small Phone
- Full Apple Intelligence support
- Five+ years of iOS updates
Cons
- 60Hz display
- No telephoto camera
- #2
Won Best Camera at MKBHD's 2023 Smartphone Awards. Now $599–$699 refurbished — supports Apple Intelligence and has 4+ years of iOS updates remaining. The cheapest iPhone Pro with Apple Intelligence.
Pros
- MKBHD's 2023 Best Camera winner
- Refurbished pricing $599–$699
- Apple Intelligence supported
Cons
- 8GB RAM constrains heavy AI
- Older A17 Pro chip
- #3
Now $499–$599 refurbished. USB-C, 48MP main camera, 5+ years of iOS support — but does NOT support Apple Intelligence. The cheapest path into iOS in 2026.
Pros
- Cheapest USB-C iPhone in 2026
- Five+ years of iOS support
Cons
- No Apple Intelligence
- 60Hz display
- #4
Refurbished at $799–$899. First Pro Max with 5x telephoto, titanium build, and USB-C. Supports Apple Intelligence with 4+ years of iOS updates remaining.
Pros
- First 5x telephoto iPhone
- Apple Intelligence supported
- Refurbished pricing $799–$899
Cons
- 8GB RAM is tight for AI
- Two generations behind on chipset
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the cheapest iPhone with Apple Intelligence in 2026?
iPhone 15 Pro refurbished at $599–$699. The base iPhone 15 does NOT support Apple Intelligence.
iPhone 16 vs iPhone 15 Pro refurbished — which to buy?
iPhone 16 (new, $599) for compact form and longer support runway. iPhone 15 Pro (refurbished, $599–$699) for telephoto camera and ProRes video.
Is buying a refurbished iPhone safe in 2026?
Yes from Apple Certified Refurbished (1-year warranty) or major retailers (Amazon Renewed, Best Buy Open Box) with at least 90-day warranty. Avoid sub-$300 deals from unknown sellers.
About this list
We index every phone that won or placed in MKBHD's annual Smartphone Awards (2014–2025) and surface the strongest matches for this category. Award badges link to the full award history. We earn a commission on purchases via our retailer links — at no extra cost to you.