Apple’s iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max reach US stores on September 18, 2026, with preorders already open. If you are comparing an upgrade with a cheaper older iPhone, start with the full purchase price and the condition of the phone—not the monthly figure in an advertisement. Apple’s launch update
How much do the new iPhones cost?
| Model | US starting price | Starting storage |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone 18 Pro | $1,199 | 256GB |
| iPhone 18 Pro Max | $1,299 | 256GB |
These are Apple’s announced starting prices, before any trade-in or carrier offer. Higher storage configurations cost more. The available finishes are black, silver, glacier and burgundy. Apple’s announcement
What actually changes?
The headline camera change is a 48MP main camera with variable aperture: the lens can change its opening to control incoming light and depth of field. Both phones also gain A20 Pro and a smaller Dynamic Island. These are announced features; PMCODE has not tested either phone. Apple’s announcement
For an upgrade decision, ask which limitation you want to fix. A camera feature matters more if you regularly take photos that your current phone struggles with. If your main problem is storage or battery condition, price those needs separately before choosing a flagship.
Compare the complete offer
Put the purchase options side by side: total device cost, required mobile plan, trade-in value and any remaining payment commitment. A low monthly payment alone does not tell you which offer costs less.
Apple lists US models as eSIM-only. Check activation with your carrier before ordering, especially when comparing a US phone with an imported version. Apple’s announcement
Considering an older iPhone on AliExpress?
PMCODE may earn a commission when you buy through our links.
An older option to compare is this refurbished iPhone 16 Pro — Desert 128GB Grade 1 from Unineed US Wireless Store. This was the available option reported during our September 16 listing check. The headline describes a 256GB White Titanium phone, so check the selected variant carefully before paying.
The supplied checkout screenshots recorded the following result with FSUS70:
| Checkout item | Recorded amount |
|---|---|
| Subtotal | $894.59 |
| FSUS70 coupon | −$70.00 |
| Price after coupon, before additional charges | $824.59 |
| Shipping | Free |
| Additional charges | $51.54 |
| Checkout total | $876.13 |
The coupon panel lists $70 off eligible single orders over $499, ending September 20, 2026, at 20:59:59 PT. This is one recorded checkout result, not a guaranteed price for every address or account; additional charges and availability may change.
The listing advertised free shipping from the United States and free returns within 15 days. Battery health and the meaning of “Grade 1” were not shown in the supplied details. Compare those conditions with other offers before deciding whether the lower purchase price is worthwhile.
Check this refurbished iPhone 16 Pro on AliExpress →
An older model is worth comparing only when the listing makes the condition clear. Before paying, check:
- The exact model, storage and region.
- Whether the phone is new, used or refurbished.
- Carrier-unlock status, battery condition and any disclosed replacement parts.
- Delivery to your US address, the checkout total and the seller’s return terms.
For accessories, select your exact phone model in the variant menu before comparing prices. A broad listing title is not enough to establish fit.
If you plan to use a marketplace discount, our AliExpress coupon guide explains how to check the offer at checkout. Compare the final totals for equivalent products before deciding whether an older phone is the better buy.
Information checked September 16, 2026. Availability and delivery dates can vary by configuration and destination.