The sweet spot for value is a phone that is exactly two generations old. For example, when the iPhone 16 drops, the iPhone 14 hits its peak price-to-performance ratio. You still get modern software support and great cameras without the "new release" tax.
You already plan on staying with that carrier for 36 months. You are on an unlimited plan anyway.
If you must buy brand new, wait for these three windows: Black Friday: The best time for unlocked Android devices. cheapest way to buy a phone
Always check the trade-in value of your current phone on third-party sites before handing it to a carrier. Sometimes a direct sale on Swappa gives you more cash than a carrier credit.
Note: If you have a cheap prepaid plan, switching to a major carrier just for a "free" phone usually costs you more in monthly fees over time. The sweet spot for value is a phone
Buying a new phone doesn't have to mean dropping $1,000 upfront. If you’re looking for the absolute cheapest path to an upgrade, here is the hierarchy of savings:
Retailers clear out old inventory at steep discounts. You already plan on staying with that carrier for 36 months
Don't overlook the budget lines. The Google Pixel "A" series and the iPhone SE use the same high-end processors as their expensive siblings but save money on screen tech and materials. You get the speed and camera quality for roughly half the price.