Smartphones have become a necessity, but they’ve also become notoriously expensive. According to market research group Growth from Knowledge, the average price of a cell phone in 2017 was $319. Today, however, phones like the iPhone X and the Samsung Galaxy S9 are much higher, with the average cost of a new iPhone X reaching nearly $1,000.
While buying a new smartphone can be costly, it is possible for you to find a great deal on a new smartphone – if you know where to find them. Here are the best cell phone deals we’ve found for 2018.
Google Pixel 2 XL
Photography lovers everywhere want the new Google Pixel 2 XL smartphone because of its crisp, clear photographs. This phone allows you to take crystal-clear photos in any light, and it has free storage, a quick-charging battery, and Google Assistant built into the phone. The retail price of the Pixel 2 XL is $849.99.
To save hundreds of dollars on the Pixel 2 XL, you’ll need to purchase it from Best Buy and spread your payments over 24 months. When you purchase it at Best Buy, you’ll get an instant discount of $200 off. Activate the phone on a certain network, like Verizon, and you’ll receive an additional monthly bill credit of $12.50. Over the two-year period, this means you’ll effectively save about $500.
Samsung Galaxy S9
The Samsung Galaxy S9 is one of the most highly sought-after smartphones. This phone has front and rear cameras that can capture crystal-clear photos in both bright and dim light, along with features like super slow-motion video and the ability to create emojis with your face.
The retail price of the Samsung Galaxy S9 is $799.99. If you purchase your S9 at Best Buy, you’ll pay a total of just $492 for the phone over a two-year installment agreement. This deal does require you to activate your S9 on Sprint’s network, so make sure to read the fine print.
iPhone X
In the tech world, the iPhone still reigns as the king of smartphones. The latest offering from Apple is the iPhone X, which has a stunning OLED touch display and lightning-fast speeds. The phone also has a great camera and can be wirelessly charged. The retail price of the iPhone X is $999 from Apple. However, you can score yours for far less.
Despite the high cost of this flagship phone, there are deals available. If you buy your phone from Verizon and trade in an older phone, you can receive $300 off the price over an installment plan of 24 months. You won’t have to sign any contracts, either – just continue sticking with your wireless carrier to keep reaping the benefits of this deal for two years.
LG V30
The LG V30 is packed with features: a high-performing camera with 10-bit high definition technology to capture more colors, easy and adaptable zoom, and so much more. The phone is lightweight at 158 grams and also has terrific audio so you can listen to your favorite songs with great clarity.
The retail price of the LG V30 is $912. However, you can receive a 50 percent discount by purchasing your phone through Sprint’s 18-month flex lease program. It’s important to note that if you decide to change your wireless service before the 18 months are up, all of the remaining payments will be immediately due.
ZTE Axon M
The ZTE Axon M is a dual-screen smartphone that allows you to complete different tasks on each screen simultaneously. This uniquely foldable phone combines the features of a smartphone and tablet in one device. The ZTE Axon M allows you to simultaneously game, stream, and message and is a unique choice.
In the U.S., the Axon M is only available on the AT&T network. The retail price of the ZTE Axon M is $724.99. If you activate your phone on AT&T Next right now, you can get a second phone for free via bill credits spread out over 30 months.
Get a Cell Phone Deal of Your Own
Getting one of these flagship smartphones might seem out of reach if you look at their retail prices. However, there are deals available that equal deep discounts, making smartphones more affordable.
If you’re willing to shop around, you could receive as much as 50 percent off of the cost of your new phone. To learn more about the best deals available on these top-of-the-line smartphones, you might want to conduct further research online.
Like anything, it’s always a good idea to be aware of the latest research. We recommend comparing at least 3 or 4 options before making a final decision. Doing a search online is typically the quickest, most thorough way to discover all the pros and cons you need to keep in mind.