When Is the Best Time to Buy a New Phone (2025 Guide)

Buying a new phone is exciting—but it can also be expensive. With flagship models from Apple, Samsung, and Google often costing as much as a laptop, it’s important to buy at the right time to get the most value for your money.

The “best” time to buy a new phone depends on several factors: product launch cycles, major sales events, and how urgently you need an upgrade. This guide explores all of these, including the best months and strategies to save big while getting the latest tech.

1. Understanding Smartphone Release Cycles

Before diving into the best shopping seasons, it helps to understand when new phones are typically released. Each major brand follows a predictable pattern:

Brand	Typical Launch Month	Example Models
Apple (iPhone)	September	iPhone 16 (2024), iPhone 15 (2023)
Samsung (Galaxy S)	January–February	Galaxy S24 (2024)
Google (Pixel)	October	Pixel 9 (2024), Pixel 8 (2023)
OnePlus	February–April	OnePlus 12 (2024)
Xiaomi	March–May	Xiaomi 14 series (2024)

Why this matters:
When a new model launches, the previous generation often drops in price—sometimes by as much as 20–30% within weeks. If you don’t need the latest and greatest, waiting until the next flagship is released is a smart move.

For example:

The iPhone 15’s release in September 2023 caused iPhone 14 prices to drop by around 100–150 USD.
When Samsung released the Galaxy S24, the S23 saw immediate markdowns on Amazon and carrier sites.

2. The Best Times of Year to Buy a Phone

Here are the best months and shopping events to consider when planning your purchase.

1. Black Friday & Cyber Monday (November)

Why it’s great: Historically, this is the best time for deals on both new and previous-generation phones.
What to expect: Discounts from major retailers (Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart) and mobile carriers offering trade-in bonuses or bundle deals.
Tip: Check online stores early—some start their Black Friday sales in mid-November.

2. Holiday Season (December)

Why it’s great: Many holiday promotions extend into December, with special gift bundles and accessories included.
What to expect: “Buy one, get one” (BOGO) deals from carriers, extra cashback, or gift cards with purchase.
Tip: Perfect for gifting or upgrading before the new year.

3. After New Model Releases (March–April for Android, September–October for iPhone)

Why it’s great: When a new phone launches, the previous model’s price drops significantly.
What to expect:
- Samsung Galaxy S deals appear after the latest model’s February launch.
- iPhone prices drop right after Apple’s September event.
Tip: If you don’t need the latest tech, buy last year’s model right after the new one arrives—it’s usually 90% as capable for much less money.

4. Amazon Prime Day (July)

Why it’s great: A mid-year sale with deep discounts on electronics.
What to expect: Flash sales on Samsung, Motorola, and mid-range Android phones.
Tip: Prime Day is especially good for unlocked phones and accessories.

5. Carrier Trade-In Promotions (Year-Round, but Peak at Launches)

Why it’s great: Carriers like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile (and their international equivalents) often give generous trade-in credit during or just after flagship launches.
What to expect: Discounts of up to $800 USD or even free phones with eligible trade-ins.
Tip: Make sure your old phone is in good working condition to qualify.

6. Back-to-School Sales (August)

Why it’s great: Aimed at students and parents, many brands offer phone discounts alongside laptops and tablets.
Tip: Check Apple’s and Samsung’s student discount stores—they often add gift cards or accessories.

3. Times to Avoid Buying a Phone

There are also times when not to buy a phone if you want maximum value:

A few weeks before a major launch – Prices are highest right before new models come out.
Immediately after a phone’s release – Early adopters pay the premium; wait a few months for discounts.
Outside of major sale seasons – Buying mid-spring or early summer often means missing out on deals.

4. Tips for Getting the Best Deal

Track Prices Online:
Use tools like CamelCamelCamel or Honey to monitor Amazon price drops.
Compare Retailers and Carriers:
Sometimes carriers offer better bundles, while unlocked models are cheaper online.
Consider Certified Refurbished Phones:
These can be 20–40% cheaper and often come with warranties (especially from Apple and Samsung).
Don’t Ignore Mid-Range Phones:
Phones like the Pixel 8a or Galaxy A55 offer flagship-level performance for half the cost.
Trade-In Wisely:
Keep your phone in good condition—no cracks, factory reset it, and back up data.

5. Is It Better to Buy or Lease Through a Carrier?

Carriers often advertise “$0 down” deals, but read the fine print.

Pros of Carrier Plans:
- Lower upfront cost.
- Monthly trade-in upgrade options.
- Bundled insurance or perks (e.g., streaming subscriptions).
Cons:
- Locked phones until the contract ends.
- Higher total cost over time.
- Harder to switch networks mid-plan.

If you prefer flexibility, buying unlocked is often better. But if you always stay with one carrier, trade-in programs can save a lot.

6. Best Times Based on Brand

Brand	Best Time to Buy	Why
Apple (iPhone)	After September launch (Sept–Nov)	Price drops on previous models
Samsung Galaxy	After February launch or Prime Day	Galaxy S series discounts
Google Pixel	November (Black Friday)	Massive discounts and bundles
OnePlus	Summer sales (June–July)	Competitive pricing + trade-ins
Xiaomi / Realme / Oppo	Around new model launches	Asian markets often discount older units

7. Final Thoughts

The best time to buy a new phone depends on what you want most—the latest tech or the best price.

If you want maximum savings, wait for Black Friday or after new model launches.
If you want the newest model, buy within a few weeks of release, but expect to pay more.
Always compare deals, trade-ins, and bundles before committing.

With a little patience and research, you can easily save hundreds while still getting a great device that fits your lifestyle.

FAQ

Q1: What month is best to buy an iPhone?
A: September or October—right after Apple releases the latest iPhone. That’s when previous models get big discounts.

Q2: When should I buy a Samsung Galaxy phone?
A: Wait until after the Galaxy S-series launch (usually February–March) or during Black Friday for the best prices.

Q3: Should I buy a phone during Prime Day or Black Friday?
A: Both are good, but Black Friday typically offers the steepest discounts and bundle deals.

Q4: Is it worth buying a refurbished phone?
A: Yes—if it’s certified by the manufacturer or a trusted retailer. You’ll get warranty coverage and major savings.

Q5: How long should I wait between phone upgrades?
A: Most users upgrade every 2–3 years. Unless your current phone is slow or unsupported, waiting longer saves money and reduces e-waste.