Navigating Apple Hardware: iPhone and iPad Guide
Choose an iPhone or iPad by storage, remaining software support, battery condition and the devices you already use. When buying abroad or second hand, check carrier locks, Activation Lock, SIM options and regional warranty coverage before comparing prices.
Last reviewed: 27 October 2026
Regional models, carrier locks and listing terms
| Term | What it usually means | Risk |
|---|---|---|
| Authorised regional stock | Model sold for your market | Confirm warranty and carrier compatibility |
| Imported stock | Model intended for another market | Check bands, SIM hardware, duties and warranty |
| Factory unlocked | Not tied to a single carrier | Still check supported bands and blacklist status |
| Carrier locked | Restricted to a particular carrier | Confirm official unlock eligibility before buying |
| eSIM-only models | Some newer US models have no physical SIM tray | Check eSIM support with your carrier |
Verify, don't trust
Compare the IMEI in Settings > General > About with the device listing and packaging. Ask your carrier to check compatibility and any blacklist status, and verify that Activation Lock has been removed before paying.
Choosing an iPhone model
Apple supports iPhones with iOS updates for many years, but older models eventually lose support, which affects banking apps. When comparing a newer base model with an older Pro, consider the remaining years of updates as part of the value.
Current-generation base iPhone
- •Longest remaining iOS support
- •Fresh battery and warranty
- •Highest upfront cost
Best for: Keeping a phone four years or more
Previous-generation iPhone
- •Lower price after new launches
- •Still years of support
- •Check stock is genuinely new
Best for: Value-minded new buyers
Used / refurbished iPhone
- •Biggest savings
- •Battery health and parts history matter
- •Check carrier and account locks
Best for: Careful buyers who can inspect in person
iPad
- •Wi-Fi models do not need a mobile data plan
- •Cellular models need compatible bands and a supported SIM or eSIM
- •Check Apple Pencil compatibility
Best for: Students, note-taking, media
Checking a used iPhone
- 1
Battery health
Settings > Battery > Battery Health. Below about 80% usually means a replacement is due soon.
- 2
Parts and service history
On recent iOS versions, Settings > General > About shows whether the battery, display or camera are genuine Apple parts or unknown.
- 3
Activation Lock
Make sure the seller signs out of their Apple ID and that Find My is switched off. A locked phone cannot be used.
- 4
Face ID / Touch ID and True Tone
Test both. Faulty Face ID or missing True Tone often indicates a repair.
- 5
Carrier and device status
Ask your carrier to check the IMEI and confirm that the phone is unlocked and not reported lost or stolen before paying.
Storage and accessories
iPhones do not have memory card slots. If you shoot a lot of video, 128 GB fills quickly; 256 GB is a safer long-term choice. Recent iPhones use USB-C, while older models use Lightning. Buy certified cables and chargers, as cheap ones can damage the battery.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a carrier-locked iPhone on Wi-Fi only?
Wi-Fi apps may work on a carrier-locked phone, but Activation Lock or an account lock can prevent setup entirely. Do not buy a locked device without understanding its restrictions.
What does importing an iPhone cost?
Import costs depend on your destination, customs valuation, shipping and applicable taxes. Check your customs authority's current guidance and include handling fees. Our import cost tool provides a simple estimate using figures you enter.
Is an iPad cellular model worth it?
Only if you need mobile data without a hotspot and your carrier supports that model's bands and SIM options. Compare the extra device cost and data plan with Wi-Fi plus phone tethering.
Considering an imported iPhone?
Estimate import costs