The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Your Perfect iPhone

Your Guide to buying the best iphones

Overview

Navigating the world of smartphones can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to choosing a device as popular as the iPhone. With a multitude of models on the market, each with their own unique features and specifications, it becomes essential to have a complete understanding before making your purchase. This comprehensive iPhone buying guide will assist you in making an educated decision, detailing everything from understanding the various iPhone models, to considering factors such as storage capacity, screen size, and budget. Whether you're a first-time iPhone buyer or looking to upgrade your current device, this guide has you covered.

Key features

  1. Model: Consider the specific model you want based on your needs and preferences. Newer models like the iPhone 12 or iPhone 11 have more advanced features but are costlier.
  2. Storage Capacity: iPhones come in different storage sizes (64GB, 128GB, 256GB, 512GB) depending on the model. More storage allows for more apps, photos, and videos.
  3. Screen Size: iPhones vary in screen sizes. Some people prefer larger screens for better visuals, while others prefer smaller for easy handling.
  4. Battery Life: The battery life of the iPhone varies by model. If you use your phone heavily throughout the day, prioritize models known for long-lasting battery life.
  5. Camera Quality: If photography is important to you, consider models with advanced camera features like the iPhone 12 Pro.
  6. Processor: The speed and efficiency of the iPhone depend on its processor. Newer models have faster processors.
  7. Price: iPhones are premium devices and often carry a high price tag. Decide on a budget before you start shopping.
  8. Operating System: All iPhones come with iOS, but the version may differ. Newer models will have the latest iOS version.
  9. Color and Design: iPhones come in various colors and designs. Choose one that best fits your personal style.
  10. Carrier Compatibility: Make sure the iPhone model you choose is compatible with your mobile carrier.

See the most popular iphones on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • High Quality Hardware: iPhones are known for their superior build quality. They offer robust and durable hardware that ensures a long lifespan.
  • Smooth and Fast UI: iPhones run on iOS, which is renowned for providing a fast and smooth user interface, leading to an impressive performance.
  • Regular Updates: Apple provides regular software updates, even for older iPhone models, making sure your device always stays up-to-date.
  • Excellent Customer Service: Apple offers excellent customer service and support. If you encounter any issues, Apple's customer service is always ready to help.
  • Strong Security: iPhones are considered one of the most secure phones available, thanks to Apple's strong focus on privacy and security.
  • High Resale Value: Compared to other brands, iPhones retain a high resale value. So, even after a couple of years, if you decide to sell your iPhone, you can still get a good price for it.
  • Ecosystem Integration: If you own other Apple devices like the iPad or MacBook, having an iPhone allows for smooth integration and seamless connectivity across all your devices.

Cons

  • Price: iPhones are generally more expensive than other smartphones on the market. This high cost can be a significant deterrent for some potential buyers.
  • Battery Life: While Apple has made strides in improving battery life, many models of iPhones still fall short compared to their Android counterparts.
  • Non-expandable storage: Unlike some smartphones, iPhones do not offer the option to expand storage with a microSD card.
  • Limited Customization: iPhones do not offer as much customization as Android phones, which may be a drawback for some users.
  • Exclusive Ecosystem: iPhones operate within Apple’s exclusive ecosystem, meaning they work best with other Apple devices and services.
  • No universal USB-C: iPhones still use Apple’s proprietary Lightning connector rather than the more universal USB-C.

Best alternatives

  1. Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra: A high-end smartphone with a high-resolution display, powerful processor, and advanced camera setup.
  2. Google Pixel 6 Pro: Known for its clean Android experience and superior camera capabilities.
  3. OnePlus 9 Pro: Offers a balance of premium features at a slightly lower price point, with a high-refresh-rate screen and fast charging.
  4. Motorola Edge 20 Pro: A more budget-friendly option with decent specs for its price range.
  5. Xiaomi Mi 11 Ultra: A high-spec device popular in Asian markets, offering a large battery and high-resolution camera.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

  • iPhone Case - A protective cover for iPhones that can prevent damage from minor falls or scratches.
  • Screen Protector - A thin, see-through film that can protect the iPhone screen from scratches and cracks.
  • Charger and Cable - Used to power up the iPhone's battery, can come in a variety of forms including wall, car, and portable chargers.
  • Earbuds or Headphones - Allow for private listening of music, videos, and calls.
  • iPhone Dock - A stand or station where an iPhone can be charged, sometimes includes speakers for playing media.
  • Portable Battery - A mobile power source that can be used to charge an iPhone when a wall outlet is not available.
  • Cleaning Kit - Includes microfiber cloths and cleaning solutions to keep an iPhone screen clean and smudge-free.
  • Car Mount - A device that allows an iPhone to be securely viewed and accessed in a car, ideal for GPS usage.

Common questions

  1. What is the latest model of iPhone?
    The latest model of the iPhone is the iPhone 13, which was released in September 2021.
  2. What are the differences between the various models of iPhones?
    Different iPhone models have different features such as screen size, processing speed, camera quality, battery life, and more. Newer models typically include updated technology and features.
  3. How much does an iPhone usually cost?
    The cost of an iPhone can vary widely depending on the model and storage capacity. The price can range from $399 for an iPhone SE up to $1,399 for an iPhone 13 Pro Max with the highest storage capacity.
  4. What should I consider when choosing an iPhone model?
    When choosing an iPhone model, consider your budget, the features that are important to you (such as camera quality, battery life, or screen size), and whether the latest model is necessary for your needs.
  5. Is it better to buy an iPhone from a carrier or from Apple directly?
    Buying an iPhone directly from Apple can provide more flexibility as the phone will not be locked to a specific carrier. However, buying from a carrier can often include deals or discounts, especially when signing a new contract.
  6. Should I buy a new iPhone or a used one?
    This depends on your budget and needs. A new iPhone will come with a warranty and the latest features, but it will be more expensive. A used or refurbished iPhone can be a more budget-friendly option, but make sure it's from a reliable source.

Trivia

When the iPhone was being developed in utmost secrecy, the team at Apple gave it a codename to keep its development under wraps. The team decided to call it "Project Purple". There was no significant reason behind selecting 'Purple' other than it was the favorite color of a few members in the team. Additionally, to keep things even more secret, the area where the iPhone was being developed was fondly called the "Purple Dorm" by the team, mimicking the dorm-like work culture with people working and sleeping in the office to get the first iPhone ready. The team even had a 'Fight Club' style first rule about the Purple Dorm: "The first rule of the Purple Project is you do NOT talk about Purple Project." This was a fun and clever way for the team to maintain the project's confidentiality, taking inspiration from the popular movie "Fight Club". (Source: The Atlantic)

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.