Apple’s phones aren’t cheap in the UK. Of the three new iPhones announced in autumn 2019, the comparatively affordable iPhone 11 starts at £729 (last year’s equivalent, the XR started at £749). While the costliest edition of the iPhone 11 Pro Max tops out at £1,499. That’s a lot of money, so it’s only natural you’ll want to find the best deal.
But maybe the best deal isn’t in the UK at all. Maybe the best deal is found across the pond, in America. US prices appear to be significantly lower than UK prices when you consider the conversion rate, so what have you got to lose?
In this article we explore whether it’s really cheaper to buy iPhones in the US and import them back into the UK.
Are US prices cheaper?
On the surface, yes – but once you take taxes and shipping into account the savings are likely to disappear.
Here are comparisons of the three starting models, bought direct from Apple in the US and UK. Currency comparisons are correct at time of writing and sourced from the XE app..
(We’ve focused on upfront prices, because buying the iPhone abroad is enough of a headache without also having to unlock it from a US network and you definitely don’t want to be signing up for a contract.)
| Price | iPhone 11 64GB | iPhone 11 Pro 64GB | iPhone 11 Pro Max 64GB |
| UK price | £729 | £1,049 | £1,149 |
| US price | $699 | $999 | $1,099 |
| US price in £ | £567 | £812 | £892 |
| Difference | £162 | £237 | £257 |
The differences listed above sound impressive, but US pricing does not take into account local taxes, which vary between states. In New York sales tax is 8.875 percent, for example.
You might be able to buy it without local tax – or have that amount refunded – when you are on holiday in the States. However, on return to the UK you could be hit with an even larger tax bill to pay for your new phone.
For example, you will have to pay the 20 percent VAT on your new iPhone once you arrive in the UK. Which brings the price to £680, which it getting close to the UK price – and doesn’t allow much for your flight.
If rather than flying out the States yourself you were to order the iPhone and have it shipped here you could be hit with Customs duty, and you wouldn’t be able to receive your phone until you’d paid it.
These two factors alone are enough to negate your saving. And by the time you’ve added delivery or transport costs, you’re sorely out-of-pocket.
For other models, or when buying from other parts of the US, or from a different supplier, you may find that there is a saving, but it won’t be as much as you expect.
How to buy a US iPhone and import it to the UK
If you’ve worked out the taxes and currency conversions for a specific model, from a specific supplier, and decided the saving is worth the effort, your next question will be how you can import a US iPhone into the UK.
The best option is to combine your purchase of the iPhone with a pre-planned visit to the US, or if you haven’t got a holiday in the US coming up then to find a friend who has. Assuming you do things above board and pay your taxes, you could make a small saving.
Another option is to use a shopping concierge website that specialises in buying products in the US where they are cheaper and shipping them to the UK. One such site is Big Apple Buddy.
But while it is useful for sourcing products you can’t buy in the UK, knowing that you’ll have to pay a little extra for the privilege, by the time you’ve paid the site’s service charge and delivery fees you won’t save any money on the iPhone.
Is it cheaper to fly out to the US to buy an iPhone?
We think by now you probably already know the answer to this question: you will not get a return flight to the US and be able to buy the iPhone out there for a combined total of less than what it costs in the UK.
This tweet from Skyscanner caught our eye a couple of years back:
iPhone X in UK: £1,149iPhone X in US: $1,149Difference: £283Flights UK to US: £213 https://t.co/ntC1O3FUqV SAVING: £70 See you there ??
— Skyscanner (@Skyscanner) September 13, 2017
It’s worth pointing out that this tweet did not take into account either sales tax or VAT, and we’d like to know where they found that return flight so cheap.
We did our own search using the Skyscanner’s flight engine, looking for a return flight on 20 September 2019 (the date the new iPhone goes on sale) from anywhere in the UK to anywhere in the US, and at any time.
The cheapest deal we could find at the time of writing flies from Manchester to JFK at leaving 13:50 (UK time) and arriving back in the UK at 7:15am the following morning – that’s about 17-hour round trip that costs £317.
Although you might not get caught if you don’t pay the taxes on your return to the UK, we are not about to advise anyone to break the law. However, even ignoring the taxes, paying £317 for flights and the equivalent of £567 for the iPhone 11 (currency conversion at the time of writing) results in a combined total of £884.
So, significantly more than £729. But you do get to go to the US. Briefly. (There’s just over two and a half hours in between those flights, all of which would be spent at the airport.)
Will a US iPhone work in the UK?
By now we’re assuming you’ve got this crazy idea out of your head, and that you will buy your iPhone in the UK as Apple intended. But if you are going to be in the US anyway, it is just about possible you could save a little money. So, next question: will it work?
Something most people will overlook is the frequencies used by cellular networks. In the UK, for example, mobile operators use a combination of bands 3, 7 and 20 for LTE. We also use a combination of GSM/EDGE and UMTS/HSPA+/DC-HSDPA bands for calls and texts.
Apple lists various iPhone models, all of which will work in both the UK and the US.
So yes, a US-bought iPhone will work in the UK – provided it isn’t locked to a US network. Be sure to buy a SIM-free version if you do buy abroad.
You should also take into account warranty considerations, however, and should anything go wrong it will cost you a lot more to send it back to the US for repair. Is losing your warranty really worth a saving of a few quid?
Here’s a link to buy the iPhone 11; you could also check this article for the latest iPhone 11 deals.
FAQs
The iPhone 14 price in the US is the cheapest when compared to the rest of the world, but we would suggest not buying this year's iPhones from the US. Now, that's simply because the iPhone 14 series models in the US come without a SIM tray and only support eSIM.
Which state is the cheapest to buy an iPhone? ›
Delaware has no sales tax, which makes buying an iPhone in the nation's first state cheaper than it is in others. The Christiana Mall is also situated just off of I-95, the main highway connecting the East Coast states.
Is there any tax to buy iPhone in USA? ›
Apple iPhone 14 price in the US starts from $799 (Rs 63,920 approx) for the 128GB variant. You also have to pay an additional tax ranging from around 8.5 per cent to 13 per cent, based on which state you are buying the iPhone 14 or the iPhone 14 Pro from.
Which country is the cheapest for iPhone? ›
Is it cheaper to buy iPhone 13 in USA? ›
Even if you include state taxes, which are as low as 7 per cent in Florida, one can buy iPhone 13 Pro Max at about Rs 90,000 in the US, which would be cheaper by Rs 40,000 compared to Indian prices.
In which country iPhone is most expensive? ›
The iPhone 14 Plus starts at 128GB Rs 89,900, 256GB variant is priced at Rs 99,900 whereas the 512GB is priced at Rs 1,19,900.
...
In Short
- Not India but Turkey sells the most expensive iPhones.
- The iPhone 14 Pro is priced at Rs 1,74,000 in Turkey.
- Brazil is the second most expensive country for iPhones.
To place an order on behalf of a tax-exempt organization or individual, please call an Apple Store Specialist at 1‑800‑MY‑APPLE. You will need to provide proof of state tax-exempt status for the state where the product is being shipped.
How much iPhone you can bring from USA? ›
Carrying one sealed box of iPhone might not be an issue but if you are carrying 3-4 devices, you will have to show the receipts of your purchases and might even have to pay a customs duty.
Which state in USA is tax free? ›
Nine states — Alaska, Florida, Nevada, New Hampshire, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington and Wyoming — have no income taxes. New Hampshire, however, taxes interest and dividends, according to the Tax Foundation. It has passed legislation to begin phasing out that tax starting in 2024 and ending in 2027.
Will I get warranty if I buy iPhone from USA? ›
Warranty in India. Apple's iPhones are sold with global warranty, so unlike some other restrictions, this will not be an issue. You can claim the warranty on an iPhone 14-series device purchased in the US in India as well.
The new phone boasts upgraded cameras and screen sizes for certain models. But along with the new phone came changes to how Apple is selling last year's iPhone 13 across stores, including its own. The iPhone 13 base model is now $699 (down from $799) and the iPhone 13 Mini is also $100 less.
Are Apple products cheaper in America? ›
A comparative list of the prices of the new iPhones in various countries has now come up. Unsurprisingly, the list shows that the U.S. is the cheapest place to purchase any model of the iPhone 13 series.
Which country is the best iPhone to buy? ›
In fact, many people consider any phone assembled or made in China to be the best-designed and well-made phone option available on the market. That said, good iPhones can come from just about anywhere in the world but China is Apple's favorite.
Will the iPhone 13 price drop in 2022? ›
How much does an iPhone 13 cost? iPhone 13 prices start at $459 and cost $650 on average as of December 2022. iPhone 13 prices will continue to get cheaper over time. Apple phones hold their value well, but prices will continue to drop as time passes and new models are announced.
Can I buy iPhone 13 in USA and use in Europe? ›
Virtually all modern smartphones (iPhone 7 and newer) are compatible with Europe's mobile infrastructure and every major US carrier has international data plans — so your smartphone should automatically work once you arrive in Europe because the major US carriers have partnerships with local European carriers.
How much is iPhone 14 in america? ›
Apple iPhone 14 Price. Despite the rumors for a price hike across the board, Apple kept the iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Plus starting prices at $799 and $899, respectively, while the iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max didn't score any price increases either, starting at $999 and $1099.
Why are iPhones more expensive outside the US? ›
Some countries charge Apple a percentage value of the retail price as an import tax. We saw the example earlier of Turkey, where the same base iPhone 14 costs the equivalent of $1,700, or more than double the US price. But, again, most of the difference is tax.
Which iPhone is the best in the world? ›
What is the best iPhone? After weighing all the available models and options, the iPhone 14 Pro Max stands tall as the best iPhone overall. It features the latest A16 Bionic processor, the best iPhone camera system to date, and a dynamic design that laps even last year's lineup.
Why is iPhone so expensive outside US? ›
That is because Indian manufacturing plants of Foxconn and Wistron only get to assemble the iPhones, while most components are imported from outside. Hence, import duties on components are applicable, which adds to the overall cost.
Which state has no tax on iPhone? ›
Only five states don't impose any sales tax: Alaska, Delaware, Montana, New Hampshire, and Oregon.
No, you cannot.
Can I claim my iPhone purchase on tax? ›
If you purchased a smartphone, tablet or other electronic device outright, you can also claim a deduction for a percentage of the cost based on your work-related usage. If the item cost less than $300, you can claim an immediate deduction.
Can I carry 3 phones on a plane? ›
Yes. Nobody cares how many devices you have. Nobody at airport security or the airline cares how many phones you have, as long as you can power them all up if requested by security. But, depending on where you're going (assuming it's outside the US), their Customs might question the gift phone.
Can I buy an iPhone in America and bring it back to UK? ›
So yes, a US-bought iPhone will work in the UK – provided it isn't locked to a US network. Be sure to buy a SIM-free version if you do buy abroad. You should also take into account warranty considerations, however, and should anything go wrong it will cost you a lot more to send it back to the US for repair.
How much can I bring into the US without paying duty? ›
Mailing and Shipping Goods - Customs Duty Guidance
Up to $1,600 in goods will be duty-free under your personal exemption if the merchandise is from an IP. Up to $800 in goods will be duty-free if it is from a CBI or Andean country. Any additional amount, up to $1,000, in goods will be dutiable at a flat rate (3%).
What 3 states have no income tax? ›
Eight states have no personal income tax, including Alaska, Florida, Nevada, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, and Wyoming.
Who pays the most taxes in the US? ›
Key Takeaways
- The top one percent paid the most in federal income taxes in 2019.
- Your overall tax rate won't go up if your salary goes up, since higher tax rates only affect part of your income.
- The United States tax system is progressive, which means that those who earn more money pay a higher percentage in taxes.
States with smallest tax burdens
- Alaska. Alaska has the lowest tax burden throughout the entire U.S. It's one of nine states currently with no state income tax. ...
- Tennessee. Tennessee comes in second on the list. ...
- Wyoming. Wyoming comes in with the third lowest tax burden among the 50 states. ...
- Delaware. ...
- New Hampshire.
The answer is yes, the US based iPhone variants will work in India. Apple has dropped the physical SIM card slot in the iPhone 14 series in the US. This means that the US variants of iPhone 14 series will not come with a physical tray to insert the sim cards. Instead, the iPhone 14 series phone will only support eSIMS.
Can I buy iPhone in US without carrier? ›
An unlocked iPhone (one without any carrier contract) can be picked up by the purchaser or a designated pickup contact. To pick up your iPhone in an Apple Store, the primary account holder or the authorized user will need to bring the following: Card used for payment or Order Number.
No. While Apple is considered one of the biggest cell phone manufacturers in the USA, its phones are actually assembled and manufactured in other countries. That's the same story for Google which is an American-based company but one that outsources its manufacturing.
How much is the iPhone 13 with tax? ›
iPhone 13
| iPhone 13 | AT&T | Verizon |
|---|
| Base Price | $799 | $799 |
| Trade-in Value (iPhone 11) | $800 | $800 |
| Device cost at checkout = tax (4.5%) | $35.96 | $35.96 |
| Activation Fee | $30 | $35 |
7 more rowsSep 24, 2021
The 6.1-inch iPhone 14 Pro starts at $999 (£1,099, AU$1,749) and the 6.7-inch 14 Pro Max at $1,099 -- which are the same prices as 2019's iPhone 11 Pro and 11 Pro Max.
Is there a big difference between iPhone 13 and 14? ›
The big difference between the two iPhones is the improved camera capabilities in the iPhone 14, which include better (faster) low light photography and the Action Mode. The Action Mode is definitely the marquee feature and one many people are likely to use, unlike the Cinematic Mode that arrived with the iPhone 13.
Which country gets cheapest Apple products? ›
One of the primary reasons for these insanely lower prices is the Sales Tax in Japan. Since the Japanese market is significant to Apple, the prices are very low.
How much is an iPhone in the USA? ›
iPhone 11 (2019) — $599. iPhone 12 Mini (2020) — $729. iPhone 12 (2020) — $829. iPhone 12 Pro (2020) — $999.
Is iPhone price same in every country? ›
The pricing of four models of the iPhone 14 series varies in 11 different countries like India, the US, Australia, the UK, the UAE, Canada, Japan, China, Malaysia and Singapore and Hong Kong.
How much is iPhone 13 Pro Max in usa? ›
Best deals in USD, GBP, INR
| 128GB 6GB RAM | 256GB 6GB RAM | 1TB 6GB RAM |
|---|
| $ 1,099.00 | $ 1,199.00 | $ 1,599.00 |
| $ 775.00 | $ 1,069.00 | |
| $ 1,099.99 | $ 1,199.99 | $ 1,599.99 |
| $ 842.00 | $ 939.00 | |
The iPhone and some parts of AppleCare plus are not necessarily international in nature. That doesn't mean you won't get service, but you could be denied or could have to get the device back to the country of purchase on your dime to get service.
Is it cheaper to buy Apple products in USA or Europe? ›
No, because taxes and tariffs are much higher in most European countries than they are in the U.S., so you will always end up paying higher prices in those countries. Additionally favorable exchange rates in the U.S. makes a difference, but not as much as you'd think.
Virtually all modern smartphones (iPhone 7 and newer) are compatible with Europe's mobile infrastructure and every major US carrier has international data plans — so your smartphone should automatically work once you arrive in Europe because the major US carriers have partnerships with local European carriers.
Is iPhone cheaper in US than Europe? ›
Even leaving aside taxes, Apple products tend to be a little more expensive in Europe than the US. The main reason for this is to protect Apple against currency fluctuations, which could expose the company to reduced (or even potentially eliminated) margins.
What is the best country to buy Apple? ›
As of early 2020, the best countries to purchase Apple products from are Australia and Japan. When purchasing a laptop from another country, always ask questions about keyboards, language settings, and other possible differences. On smaller Apple accessories, it's not worth waiting until you get to a cheaper country.
Why are iPhones so expensive outside US? ›
Some countries charge Apple a percentage value of the retail price as an import tax. We saw the example earlier of Turkey, where the same base iPhone 14 costs the equivalent of $1,700, or more than double the US price. But, again, most of the difference is tax.
How much is iPhone 13 in usa 2022? ›
Today, on December 2022, iPhone 13 Price in USA starts from $ 699 approx. The Smartphone comes with a Dual SIM card that accepts Nano SIM.
How much is iPhone 12 in usa 2022? ›
How much does an iPhone 12 cost? iPhone 12 prices start at $264 and cost $451 on average as of December 2022.
Can I buy an iPhone in the US and use it in Germany? ›
GSM and the SIM Card
Newer iPhone models have a SIM card slot and can be used in Europe. But be aware! Make sure your iPhone is a multi-band model that will work overseas if you travel a lot. Expats or world travelers who buy a smartphone in the US should make sure it is a multi-band, GSM-capable device.
Can I buy iPhone 14 Pro in USA and use in Europe? ›
If you purchased an iPhone 14 model in the United States but will use it while living in a different country or region. You can activate an unlocked iPhone 14 model that you purchased in the United States with over 400 carriers in 100 markets all over the world that support eSIM on iPhone.
Can you use the A iPhone from US to an outside country? ›
Make Sure your iPhone is Unlocked
If your iPhone is currently locked, Apple recommends that you contact your carrier to have them unlock it. Often, explaining that you'll be traveling abroad and need to get a local phone number should be enough. However, if they refuse, plenty of third-party options exist.
Can I buy a phone in the US and use it in Europe? ›
Almost all modern mobile devices are compatible with European cellular networks, so you should be able to use your phone in European countries without interruption. So yes, you can buy a phone in the US and use it in Europe.
In fact, many people consider any phone assembled or made in China to be the best-designed and well-made phone option available on the market. That said, good iPhones can come from just about anywhere in the world but China is Apple's favorite.
Can you buy iPhone in duty free? ›
Re: Iphone. Can u buy at duty free at airport? iPhones are Tax Free not Duty Free, this means there is only the local sales tax to be paid... not Excise Duty.
