The iPhone 17 is currently facing a “wait for a deal” scenario, according to an analysis of market trends. While a solid piece of technology, the timing isn’t ideal for consumers looking to maximize value, particularly given where it sits in its product lifecycle.
The base model iPhone 17 officially retails for €959 (Apple Store), but a street price of €929 or less is considered reasonable. A purchase is only recommended if found below €899, or if a consumer’s current device is non-functional. Historically, prices tend to dip further in April, coinciding with spring sales events.
The current situation reflects a mid-cycle lull – roughly five months into a twelve-month cycle – lacking the initial excitement of launch or the clearance discounts seen later in the year. The post-holiday stabilization of prices, combined with stable supply chains, means retailers are likely to offer only sporadic “flash sales” to move inventory before the spring. The impending launch of Samsung’s Galaxy S26 on February 25th could also put downward pressure on iPhone 17 pricing as retailers compete for market share.
A key piece of advice for potential buyers: avoid purchasing directly from the Apple Store within the first three months of launch. Apple tends to maintain its original pricing while other retailers adjust to the prevailing “street price,” which declines over time.
Looking at historical pricing data for the iPhone 16, a similar pattern emerges. February typically sees a flat price curve, with more significant discounts appearing in April. The iPhone 17 is currently decreasing in price at a slower rate than its predecessor, the iPhone 16.
Currently, substantial deals are limited. Reconditioned models offer some savings, but significant discounts on new devices are scarce.
Looking ahead, the iPhone 18 is anticipated to launch in September 2026, though rumors suggest a potential split release, with Pro models arriving in September and the base model following in March/April 2027. This would represent a departure from Apple’s traditional launch schedule. The announcement of the iPhone 18 will likely trigger a price drop on the iPhone 17, creating a further opportunity for savings.
Is the iPhone 17 right for you now?
✅ Buy it today if:
- Your current phone is broken or has a severely degraded battery.
- You find a deal for €879 or less.
- You are upgrading from an iPhone 12 or older.
⛔ Do not buy it if:
- You already own an iPhone 15 or 16.
- You are paying the full retail price of €959.
- You can wait until September for the latest models.
Alternatives to consider:
For those hesitant about the iPhone 17, several alternatives warrant consideration. A reconditioned iPhone 16 Pro, available for under €700, offers a superior camera system (with 5x optical zoom) and a ProMotion 120Hz display. Given the 60Hz refresh rate of the iPhone 17’s base model, this difference is becoming increasingly noticeable. The Google Pixel 10 Pro also presents a compelling option, boasting a top-tier camera, a clean Android experience and competitive performance. Finally, the upcoming iPhone 17e, expected to launch in March, could offer a more affordable entry point into the Apple ecosystem.
while the iPhone 17 is a capable device, the current market conditions don’t favor immediate purchase. A “yellow” rating is assigned, indicating a cautious approach. Monitoring for deals below €890 or waiting for potential price drops in April or with the announcement of the iPhone 18 are recommended strategies.
