One of the most common questions we get is: Is this a good time to buy an iPhone? If you need a new phone right now, then go ahead, we’re sure you’ll be happy with your purchase. If you don’t, there’s an easy rule: Apple typically releases new iPhones in September, so don’t buy a new iPhone shortly before that.
In September of 2022 Apple released the iPhone 14, but in typical Apple fashion it still sells the iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 mini at a $100 discount. Buying the last-gen model might make sense if you’re looking to save some money (or if you want the “mini” size Apple no longer makes).
Updated 01/31/23: Obviously, the iPhone 13 is the year-old model now that the iPhone 14 is out. If you want to save some money (or get a “mini” iPhone), now is a good time to buy.
iPhone 13: Pricing and specs
Released: September 2021
The iPhone 13 came in four varieties, just like the iPhone 12 did last year: iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13, iPhone 13 Pro, and iPhone 13 Pro Max. Now that the iPhone 14 has been released, Apple still sells the non-Pro models at a discount. We weren’t totally floored by the improvements in the regular iPhone 14 models, so you might want to get the older model to save money.
What’s more, the iPhone 13 is the last iPhone available in “mini” size. If that appeals to you, get it while you can!
iPhone 13: Why you should buy
If you’re uninterested in a “Pro” iPhone, you can save some money with the iPhone 13. Yes, there were some improvements in the iPhone 14, but they may not be worth the extra price to you. The iPhone 13 mini might be the last “mini” iPhone produced for quite a while, too.
iPhone 13: Why you should wait
There’s no real reason to avoid buying the iPhone 13 that doesn’t apply to every iPhone: Apple will release a new generation around September, and if you wait until then you can either get a better phone for the same money, or save money on the model you were going to buy.
Macworld recommends: BUY
With the iPhone 14 models on shelves the iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 mini have received $100 price cuts. If the modest improvements to the iPhone 14 aren’t worth that price to you, or if you want a “mini” size iPhone, now is a good time to buy the iPhone 13. It’s unclear if Apple will keep the iPhone 13 around when the iPhone 15 is released later in 2023.
Read our round up of the best iPhone deals to make sure you get the best price, or check the best prices below.
Although Apple no longer sells them, you still may find a deal on the iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max, take a look at the best prices below.
Author: Jason Cross, Senior Editor
I have written about technology for my entire professional life - over 25 years. I enjoy learning about how complicated technology works and explaining it in a way anyone can understand.