Many people want to get the latest iPhone 16/15 at the lowest possible price! This article will thoroughly explain how to get a good deal on an iPhone 16/15 in Japan. Which is cheaper: a carrier contract or the Apple Store? How can you get the best deal? Shop smart and get the latest iPhone at a great price!

Why can you buy cheap iPhones in Japan?

Apple sets iPhone prices based on each country's economic situation and tax system, and prices for the same model can vary greatly between countries. For example:

• America : Because it is home to Apple's headquarters, iPhone prices are relatively low and there are plenty of sales and trade-in programs.

• China : Competition is fierce, with many discount campaigns at the official Apple store and e-commerce site.

• Europe (Germany, France, etc.) : VAT (value-added tax) is high and prices tend to be relatively expensive.

• Japan : Due to the weak yen and carrier-specific discount systems, it is possible to purchase phones at a lower price depending on the conditions.

Globally, Japan is one of the countries where you can buy an iPhone at a relatively good price. Here are the reasons why:

Carrier discount programs: Major carriers such as Docomo, au, Softbank, and Rakuten Mobile offer MNP (mobile number portability) discounts and trade-in programs that can significantly reduce the price of your device. In particular, you can reduce the total amount you pay by using an "installment payment and return plan," which allows you to return the device after a set period of time.

Point rewards at electronics retailers When you purchase at electronics retailers such as Yodobashi Camera and Bic Camera, you may be eligible for point rewards. For example, if you receive 10% points, you may actually save more than 10,000 yen.

Japan has a well-developed second-hand smartphone market, offering the chance to purchase nearly new, unused, or mint condition smartphones at bargain prices. Apple-certified refurbished smartphones are also available, and can be purchased at a lower price than new ones.

In Japan, you can get an iPhone 16/15 for less than buying a new one by taking advantage of carrier discounts, point rewards, the second-hand market, etc.

Is it cheaper to buy an iPhone 16/15 from a carrier or from Apple?

Generally speaking, purchasing from a carrier can help keep initial costs down, but you're bound by a specific communication plan, while purchasing from the Apple Store offers more flexibility but fewer discounts. Let's compare the two to see which is truly the best deal.

Advantages and disadvantages of purchasing an iPhone 16/15 through a carrier

Benefits (advantages of purchasing from a carrier)

✔ Large MNP (mobile number portability) discounts

If you switch from another company (MNP), you may be eligible for a discount of up to 40,000 yen.

For example, by taking advantage of "MNP special price campaigns" and "new contract discounts," you can get a price significantly lower than the list price.

✔Return program reduces the actual price

By using Docomo's "Kaedoki Program Anytime" or Softbank's "Shin Tokusuru Support," you can reduce the cost to less than half, provided you return the phone after two years.

For example, even if the iPhone 16 Pro Max normally costs 180,000 yen, the actual cost over two years may be around 90,000 yen.

✔A wide range of carrier-specific points and discount campaigns

Additional discounts may be applied depending on the conditions, such as "family discount," "student discount," and "fiber optic line set discount."

You may also receive rewards such as "PayPay Bonus," "d Points," and "au PAY Points," making it easy to reduce total costs.

Disadvantages (Points to note when purchasing a carrier)

Telecommunication charges may be high

When you buy an iPhone from a carrier, you have to sign up for a specific plan to get a discount.

For example, the difference between a major carrier's 5G plan (7,000 to 9,000 yen per month) and a low-cost SIM (1,500 to 2,000 yen per month) can be more than 100,000 yen over two years.

There is a contractual obligation

There are many conditions that put you at a disadvantage if you cancel midway, such as "If you do not return the device after two years, additional fees will be incurred."

Carrier smartphones may be SIM-locked, meaning you may not be able to immediately switch to another carrier's SIM card (note: SIM locks can be removed, but procedures are required).

Advantages and disadvantages of purchasing an iPhone 16/15 at the Apple Store

Benefits (purchasing from the Apple Store)

SIM-free so you can use it freely

iPhones purchased from the Apple Store are SIM-free devices, so you can freely choose your preferred carrier (such as a low-cost SIM).

For example, by combining low-cost SIM cards such as ahamo (2,970 yen/month), povo (basic fee 0 yen), and Rakuten Mobile (from 1,078 yen), you can significantly reduce your communication costs.

You can use Apple's official trade-in program (Apple Trade In)

If you trade in your old iPhone to Apple, you can get up to 50,000 yen off.

For example, if you trade in your iPhone 14 Pro, you can get a discount of approximately 40,000 yen, which will reduce the cost of purchasing an iPhone 16.

Installment payments are also possible (Apple Loan)

By using Apple's official **"Apple Loan (Shopping Loan)"**, you can make installment payments with 0% interest (depending on the campaign period).

This will reduce the burden of paying in one lump sum.

Disadvantages (Points to note when purchasing from the Apple Store)

MNP discounts are not applied

Since there are no MNP (mobile number portability) benefits like those offered by carriers, initial costs are high.

For example, the iPhone 16 Pro is being sold at the Apple Store for the list price of 180,000 yen, but if you switch carriers, you can sometimes get it for less than 150,000 yen.

If you use installment payments, a credit check is required.

If you use Apple Loan (Orico), you will not be able to make installment payments unless you pass the screening.

Those who do not have a credit card or have credit problems may be at a disadvantage.

Which is the best deal? The best option for each case

How to use after purchase	Recommended purchasing methods
Replace every two years	Carrier return program (effectively lower price)
Long-term use (3 years or more)	SIM-free version from the Apple Store + low-cost SIM (low communication costs)
I want to reduce communication costs	Apple Store + Low-cost SIM (save over 5,000 yen per month compared to carriers)
Buy together as a family	Take advantage of carrier family and student discounts
I'm considering switching	Use your carrier's MNP discount (up to 40,000 yen discount)

✅If you are replacing your device in a short period of time → Carrier return program (reduces costs)

✅ If you plan to use it for more than 2 years → SIM-free version + cheap SIM at the Apple Store (total cost is low)

✅ If you are switching carriers → Take advantage of carrier switching discounts (reduce initial costs)

It's important to think about the total cost, including communication fees, rather than just thinking "cheapest" as "cheapest"!

In the next chapter, we will explain in detail how to get the iPhone 16/15 at the lowest price!

Can I use an iPhone purchased overseas in Japan?

It is possible to use an iPhone purchased overseas in Japan, but you should be aware of the following points.

Confirmation of Technical Standards Conformity Certificate (Giteki)

To use wireless communication devices in Japan, they must have a Technical Standards Conformity Certificate (Giteki) from the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications. If an iPhone purchased overseas does not have the Giteki mark, using it in Japan may be a violation of the law. However, iPhones often support the communication standards of each country and may display the Giteki mark. It is important to check before purchasing.

Checking supported frequency bands

Different iPhone models support different frequency bands. It is important to check whether your phone is compatible with the frequency bands used by Japan's major carriers (NTT Docomo, au, Softbank). If your phone is not compatible, you may experience slower communication speeds or poor connection.

Check SIM lock

If an iPhone purchased overseas is SIM-locked, you may not be able to use a SIM card from a Japanese carrier. It is important to purchase a SIM-free iPhone or check whether the SIM lock can be removed.

Warranty and after-sales service

iPhones purchased overseas may not be covered by warranty or after-sales service in Japan, so you need to consider what to do if a malfunction or problem occurs.

With the above points in mind, when purchasing an iPhone overseas, it is important to gather and confirm sufficient information in advance.

Recommended accessories to have with your iPhone! How to buy them at a bargain price

If you've got the latest iPhone, you'll want some handy and practical accessories. Here, we'll introduce four carefully selected items that combine functionality and design!

1. Ostand R Fitness Multifunctional 360 Degree Rotating Stand Case

The greatest feature of this case is its freely adjustable 360° rotating stand. It not only provides comfort when watching videos or using your phone one-handed, but also reduces strain on your little finger and wrist when using your phone for long periods of time. In addition to its stylish design, the case also features an anti-slip function to reduce the risk of the case slipping out of your hand. The case's unique RUNWAY striped airbag structure provides excellent impact resistance and provides reliable protection for your precious iPhone.

2. Ostand Spin Fusion Wind-Up Stand Case

This case features a spring-loaded stand that can stand upright in either portrait or landscape orientation at a 90° angle, making taking photos or video calls with the front camera more comfortable. Additionally, the case's design is optimized for the iPhone 16 series, allowing for smooth camera operation even while the case is attached. MagSafe compatibility and powerful magnetic fields ensure excellent stability during wireless charging. The rugged design, which has passed drop tests, provides excellent protection for your iPhone while ensuring comfortable operation.

3. PocketVolt Lipstick Mobile Battery (5000mAh)

Despite its ultra-compact size of just 7.6cm, it packs a 5000mAh battery. It fits easily into a pouch or pocket, making it easy to carry on the go. The built-in Type-C cable eliminates the need to carry a separate cable and allows for instant charging. Its 22.5W fast charging speed allows it to fully charge an iPhone 16 in approximately two hours. It also features a pass-through function, which automatically switches to charging the power bank itself after prioritizing smartphone charging. Its design combines convenience and safety.

4. TORRAS FlexLine Retractable Charging Cable

This charging cable features an automatic retraction system that eliminates tangles and allows you to freely adjust the length, allowing for neat storage in your bag. With a maximum output of 40W, it's compatible with iPhones, tablets, and laptops. It complies with the PD3.0 fast charging standard, allowing you to charge your iPhone up to 60% in just 30 minutes. It also supports multiple voltages (100V-240V), making it safe for use overseas travel and business trips. It also complies with international safety standards, ensuring safe charging.

Incorporate these items into your iPhone life to make it even more comfortable!

To purchase the iPhone 16/15 at the lowest price, it's important to compare prices, choose a carrier and Apple Store, take advantage of discounts, and consider SIM-free options.

Also, check out the convenient accessories for comfortable use!

TORRAS' iPhone 16 and iPhone 15 cases are also excellent choices for both impact resistance and design. Enjoy a more comfortable smartphone life by pairing your iPhone with your favorite accessories!