If you’re hunting for an "iPhone S," you’ve probably realized by now that Apple’s naming conventions are a bit of a moving target. We haven't seen a literal "S" branded flagship since the iPhone XS hit the shelves back in 2018. But honestly, most people asking about the iphone s cost are actually looking for one of two things: the budget-friendly iPhone SE (the spiritual successor to the 'S' line) or a classic refurbished model like the iPhone XS or 6s.
Prices are all over the place this year. You could drop $50 on a beat-up vintage unit or nearly $600 on the latest entry-level tech. It really depends on whether you want a nostalgic brick or something that can actually run iOS 19 without bursting into flames.
The Modern "S": iPhone SE and the New iPhone 16e
Apple basically swapped the "S" suffix for "SE" (Special Edition) and, more recently, the "e" branding. If you want a brand-new phone with that compact, punchy vibe, these are your primary targets.
Right now, the big news is the iPhone 16e. It’s basically the entry point for 2026. If you walk into an Apple Store today, you’re looking at a starting price of $599. That’s for the 128GB model. It’s got the Apple Intelligence features everyone is talking about, which is why it costs a bit more than the older SE models.
But what about the actual SE? The iPhone SE (3rd Gen) is still kicking around. You can find it refurbished or at some discount retailers for anywhere between $144 and $299. If you want it brand new—if you can even find a sealed box at this point—it usually hovers around $379 to $429.
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A Quick Reality Check on Pricing
- iPhone 16e (New): $599
- iPhone SE 3rd Gen (Refurbished): $150 – $220
- iPhone SE 3rd Gen (New Old Stock): $369+
It's a weird gap. You're either paying for the "Intelligence" era or you're buying a home button for nostalgia's sake.
The Old School S Models: XS and 6s
Maybe you’re looking for the actual S models. The ones from the era when Phil Schiller would stand on stage and talk about "the most powerful S yet."
The iPhone XS is a fascinating case study in tech depreciation. When it launched, it was a $999 luxury item. In 2026, it’s basically the price of a nice dinner for two. On the used market, a "Good" condition iPhone XS is currently trading for about $96 to $151. If you want the Max version, you might have to cough up **$206** for a pristine 512GB unit. It’s wild to think you can get that much screen for under two hundred bucks, but keep in mind that software support is the looming shadow here.
Then there’s the iPhone 6s. This thing is a relic, yet people still buy them for kids or as backup "music" phones. You can grab one of these for roughly $67. Yeah, sixty-seven dollars. It’s basically the price of a tank of gas. It doesn't run the latest apps, and the battery life is probably measured in minutes rather than hours, but it’s the cheapest way to own a piece of the "S" legacy.
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Why the iPhone S Cost Varies So Much
Why is a phone from 2018 still $150 while a phone from 2015 is $60? It’s not just the age. It’s the "floor."
There is a certain price floor for Apple products because of the trade-in ecosystem. Even if a phone is cracked and barely works, companies like Back Market or Gazelle will give you a baseline value for the parts.
Condition is everything. A "Fair" condition iPhone SE might save you $50, but it’ll arrive with scratches that look like a cat used it as a whetstone. If you’re looking at the iphone s cost on sites like eBay, always check the "Battery Health" percentage. Anything below 80% means you’re going to be tethered to a wall charger. Replacing an iPhone battery in 2026 usually costs between $69 and $99 at an authorized shop, so factor that into your "cheap" find.
What Most People Get Wrong About "Cheap" iPhones
Everyone thinks the cheapest price is the best deal. It’s usually a trap.
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If you buy an iPhone XS for $90, you're getting a phone that likely won't receive the next major iOS update. That means your banking apps might stop working in 12 months. Security is the real cost.
The "sweet spot" in 2026 is actually the iPhone SE (3rd Gen). It supports 5G, has a decent enough chip (the A15), and is still getting security patches. You’re paying more upfront—maybe $180 for a good refurbished one—but you won't have to replace it by Christmas.
How to Get the Best Price Right Now
- Skip the Carriers: Unless you're adding a new line, T-Mobile and AT&T aren't going to give you a deal on an "S" model. They want you on the $1,000 iPhone 17.
- Check "Excellent" Refurbished: Stores like Best Buy and specialized refurbishers often have "Excellent" condition SEs for under $250.
- The 64GB Trap: Avoid 64GB models. Seriously. Between system files and "Apple Intelligence" data, you’ll have about 30GB of actual space left. It’s not enough for 2026.
Moving Forward with Your Purchase
If you need a phone today and budget is the only thing that matters, look for a refurbished iPhone SE (2022) for around $199. It bridges the gap between the old-school "S" feel and modern functionality.
For those who just want a cheap "S" model for the sake of it, the iPhone XS at $130 is the most beautiful hardware you can get for that price. Just don't expect it to be your forever phone.
To get started, browse reputable refurbished marketplaces and specifically filter for "Battery Health 85%+" to ensure your low-cost iPhone doesn't turn into a paperweight within a week.