in April 2026 is through the , where prices for the third-generation (2022) model have dropped significantly following its discontinuation by Apple in early 2025. 1. Refurbished and Used Market (Best Direct Savings)
: New customers at prepaid carriers like Metro by T-Mobile can often get budget iPhones (like the iPhone 16e ) for free when porting a number. cheapest way to buy iphone se
is no longer a flagship budget focus, carriers often use older stock or "budget" replacements like the to attract new customers. in April 2026 is through the , where
: Be cautious with "free" offers from major carriers like AT&T or Verizon . They typically require a 24–36 month commitment to a high-cost unlimited plan, which can result in a higher total cost than buying an unlocked refurbished device and using a budget MVNO (like Visible). 3. Trade-In Strategies is no longer a flagship budget focus, carriers
: Retailers like Amazon offer trade-in rebates that are issued as gift cards for immediate use on a replacement device. Summary of Cheapest Options (April 2026) Estimated Price Recommended Source iPhone SE (3rd Gen) Refurbished ~$129 - $138 Amazon, Best Buy , UpTrade iPhone SE (2nd Gen) Go to product viewer dialog for this item. Refurbished ~$87 - $105 Walmart, eBay iPhone 16e (Budget Alt) New (Carrier) $0 (with plan) Metro by T-Mobile