How Much Is an iPhone XR? The Definitive Pricing Guide

Alright, let’s cut right to the chase. You want to know how much an iPhone XR costs. The answer, like with many Apple products, isn’t a simple, static number. The price of an iPhone XR depends heavily on whether you’re buying new, used, or refurbished, its storage capacity, and the vendor you’re buying it from.

• New (if you can still find one): When originally released, the iPhone XR started at $749 for the 64GB model. Apple no longer sells the iPhone XR directly, so finding a brand new, sealed-in-box unit will likely involve paying a premium to collectors or specialized resellers. Expect to pay significantly more than the original MSRP.

• Refurbished: This is where you’ll find the most compelling balance of price and condition. Refurbished iPhone XRs from reputable sellers like Apple’s Certified Refurbished store (when available), Amazon Renewed, or other trusted retailers can range from $200 to $350. The price will fluctuate depending on the storage size (64GB, 128GB, or 256GB) and the cosmetic grade of the device. Higher grades mean fewer scratches and dents.

• Used: The used market is the Wild West of iPhone XR pricing. You can find devices on platforms like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, and Swappa for anywhere from $150 to $300, sometimes even lower. However, buyer beware! Condition varies wildly, and you’ll need to do your due diligence to avoid getting scammed or ending up with a device that has hidden issues.

So, to summarize, the price of an iPhone XR is highly variable. Realistically, you’re looking at a range of $150 to $350 for used or refurbished models, with the understanding that a ‘new’ unit is likely to cost considerably more due to its rarity. Now, let’s dive deeper into the nuances with some frequently asked questions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the iPhone XR

1. What factors affect the price of a used or refurbished iPhone XR?

The price of a used or refurbished iPhone XR is influenced by several factors:

• Storage Capacity: Models with 128GB or 256GB of storage command a higher price than the base 64GB version. This is because storage is a physical component and cannot be upgraded after purchase.

• Cosmetic Condition: The better the cosmetic condition, the higher the price. Refurbished devices are often graded (e.g., Grade A, Grade B, Grade C) based on the presence of scratches, dents, and other imperfections.

• Battery Health: A battery with low health will need replacement sooner rather than later, so XRs with excellent battery health will fetch a higher price. Check the battery health percentage in the iPhone’s settings.

• Unlock Status: A fully unlocked iPhone XR (meaning it can be used with any carrier) is worth more than one locked to a specific carrier.

• Seller Reputation: Buying from a reputable seller with a good return policy provides more peace of mind and may justify a slightly higher price.

• Included Accessories: The presence of original accessories (charger, headphones) and original packaging can also add value, although this is usually a minor factor.

2. Where is the best place to buy a refurbished iPhone XR?

There’s no single “best” place, but here are some excellent options to consider:

• Apple Certified Refurbished: When available, this is often the gold standard. Apple-certified refurbished iPhones come with a new battery and outer shell, a one-year warranty, and are thoroughly inspected. They are as close to new as you can get.

• Amazon Renewed: Amazon Renewed offers a wide selection of refurbished iPhones from various sellers. Amazon’s return policy provides a layer of protection. Carefully review seller ratings and product descriptions.

• Best Buy: Best Buy also offers certified refurbished iPhones, providing another reliable option with in-store support.

• Swappa: Swappa is a marketplace specifically for used electronics. They have strict listing requirements and verification processes, making it a safer option than Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace.

• Gazelle: Gazelle is a reputable online reseller of used electronics, including iPhones. They offer a 30-day return policy.

3. What is the difference between “used” and “refurbished”?

The key difference lies in the level of inspection and repair:

• Used: A used iPhone XR is simply a pre-owned device being sold as-is. It may or may not have been tested or repaired. The condition can vary widely.

• Refurbished: A refurbished iPhone XR has undergone a testing and repair process. It may have had parts replaced (like the battery or screen) and has been restored to a working condition. Refurbished devices often come with a warranty.

4. What are the benefits of buying a refurbished iPhone XR?

Buying a refurbished iPhone XR offers several advantages:

• Lower Price: You save money compared to buying a new model.
• Environmental Impact: Buying refurbished helps reduce electronic waste.
• Warranty: Refurbished devices often come with a warranty, providing peace of mind.
• Like-New Condition: Reputable sellers ensure the device is in good working order and may replace worn-out parts.

5. What should I look for when buying a used iPhone XR?

Thorough inspection is crucial:

• Physical Condition: Check for scratches, dents, and cracks on the screen and body.

• Screen Functionality: Test the touchscreen responsiveness in all areas. Look for dead pixels or discoloration.

• Battery Health: Go to Settings > Battery > Battery Health to check the maximum capacity. Anything below 80% is considered low and may require replacement soon.

• Button Functionality: Test all buttons (power, volume, mute).

• Camera Functionality: Take photos and videos with both front and rear cameras. Check the image quality and ensure autofocus is working.

• Microphone and Speakers: Make a phone call or record a voice memo to test the microphone and speakers.

• Connectivity: Test Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and cellular connectivity.

• Unlock Status: Verify that the iPhone is unlocked. If buying in person, insert your own SIM card to test.

• IMEI/Serial Number: Verify the IMEI/Serial number with Apple to ensure the device is not reported as lost or stolen.

6. What are the storage options for the iPhone XR, and how do they affect the price?

The iPhone XR was available in three storage options:

• 64GB: The base model, and therefore the least expensive.

• 128GB: A mid-range option that provides more storage for apps, photos, and videos. Expect to pay a premium for this model compared to the 64GB version.

• 256GB: The highest storage option, offering the most space for users with large media libraries. This will be the most expensive version on the used and refurbished market.

7. Is the iPhone XR still a good phone in [current year]?

Absolutely! The iPhone XR remains a capable and reliable smartphone. It features:

• A12 Bionic Chip: Still performs well for most tasks, including gaming and video editing.

• Excellent Camera: The single 12MP rear camera takes great photos and videos.

• Long Battery Life: The iPhone XR is known for its impressive battery life.

• iOS Support: It still receives iOS updates, ensuring compatibility with the latest apps and features.

For many users, the iPhone XR offers a fantastic balance of performance and affordability.

8. Does the iPhone XR support 5G?

No, the iPhone XR does not support 5G. It only supports 4G LTE. If 5G connectivity is a must-have feature, you’ll need to consider a newer iPhone model.

9. What colors was the iPhone XR available in?

The iPhone XR was known for its vibrant color options:

• Black
• White
• Blue
• Yellow
• Coral
• (PRODUCT)RED

10. What is the screen size and resolution of the iPhone XR?

The iPhone XR features a 6.1-inch Liquid Retina LCD display with a resolution of 1792 x 828 pixels at 326 ppi (pixels per inch).

11. What is the battery capacity of the iPhone XR?

The iPhone XR has a 2,942 mAh battery. As mentioned earlier, when buying used, always check the Battery Health to have a good understanding of how much it has degraded over time.

12. What kind of warranty should I expect on a refurbished iPhone XR?

The warranty coverage varies depending on the seller:

• Apple Certified Refurbished: One-year limited warranty.

• Amazon Renewed: Typically a 90-day warranty.

• Other Refurbishers: Warranty periods can range from 30 days to one year.

• Used iPhones (Private Sellers): Usually no warranty. It’s sold as-is.

Always carefully review the warranty terms before making a purchase. A longer warranty provides more protection against potential defects.

Hopefully, this comprehensive guide has answered all your questions about the price of an iPhone XR and what to consider when buying one. Happy shopping!