So you are ready to get a new iPhone. But with so many shops and websites, where’s the best place to buy one in Singapore?
“Best” can mean different things: the best experience, the best price or the most convenient. Here is a guide to your safest and most reliable options.
1. Official Apple Stores (Physical & Online)
This is the “straight from the source” option. You’re buying directly from Apple.
How To Buy
Buy your iPhone from the official store run by Apple, located at Orchard Road, Jewel Changi, or online at www.apple.com/sg.
Best for: The full “Apple experience.” You can explore curated products, get set up by a Specialist before you leave, or get technical support at the Genius Bar.
The Apple Online Store
If the idea of a crowded store isn’t for you, the Apple Online Store (apple.com/sg) is the perfect option.
The online store offers the complete range of iPhone models, from the newest iPhone 17 Pro down to the iPhone 16e. Its main advantage is pure, unadulterated convenience.
- Logistics: You get free standard delivery, and for eligible items, even two-hour delivery from a local store. You can also use the “easy pickup” option.
- Exclusive Perks: The online store is the only place you can get free engraving with a mix of emoji, names, and numbers.
- Payment & Financing Options: You can use the Apple Trade In program to get credit for your old device and access 0% interest-free installment plans for up to 24 months with eligible credit cards.
Pros Of Buying iPhone Direct From Apple
- Full range of all models, colours, and storage sizes.
- You’re guaranteed a genuine and brand new iPhone.
- Excellent customer service.
- You can trade in your old phone for a discount.
- The phone is “unlocked,” meaning you can use a SIM card from any telco (Singtel, StarHub, M1, etc.).
Cons Of Buying iPhone Direct From Apple
- Prices are fixed. You won’t find discounts on new models.
2. Apple Authorised Premium Resellers
You’ll find these stores in almost every major shopping mall.
How To Buy
Buy from official partners of Apple. Common names include iStudio, Challenger, Courts, Best Denki, and Harvey Norman.
Best for: Convenience and potential bundle deals.
An Important Tip
The only third-party stores you should consider are Authorized Resellers. This “safe list” includes big retailers like Challenger, Best Denki, Harvey Norman, and iStudio.
You will see other, smaller shops (especially at places like Sim Lim Square or Far East Plaza) offering iPhones, sometimes at tempting prices or when the official stores are sold out.
Buying from these “grey market” unauthorized dealers can be quite risky. Here’s why:
- Warranty: The one-year Apple warranty may already be activated, or it may not apply at all.
- Condition: The device may be second-hand or repackaged, even if it looks “sealed.”
- Origin: It might not be a genuine Singapore model, which can affect network compatibility.
- GST: For tourists, these shops may not charge the official GST, making it impossible for you to claim your tax refund at the airport.
With an iPhone easily costing more than $1000, the risk might not be worth it. However, third-party stores such as Mister Mobile accept CDC vouchers which make buying an iPhone from such stores even more attractive. Always read reviews and do your research before buying!
Pros Of Buying iPhone From Apple Authorized Resellers
- Very convenient, with many locations.
- You are guaranteed the same genuine, unlocked iPhones as the Apple Store.
- They offer their own promotions, like discounted prices, free accessories (a case, screen protector) or store vouchers.
Cons Of Buying iPhone From Apple Authorized Resellers
- Stock for new models might run out faster than at the main Apple Store.
3. Local Telcos (Singtel, StarHub, M1)
This is the most popular option if you also need a new mobile plan.
How To Buy
Buy from the main telco service providers (Singtel, StarHub, M1) in Singapore.
Best for: Getting a new iPhone at a lower upfront price along with a mobile plan.
Is It Actually Cheaper To Buy An iPhone From A Telco?
This is the most complex option, and it’s where most people get “stuck.” The temptation is powerful: walk in and get the latest iPhone for “$0 upfront”. It feels free.
But it’s not. That “$0” phone is bundled into a 2-year or 3-year Contract Plan. This locks you into a high-priced monthly plan that includes a hidden “phone installment.” It’s essentially a high-interest loan in disguise.
The Financially Smarter Way: Get SIM-Only + Buy iPhone Outright
There’s a cheaper, more flexible alternative: decouple the phone and the plan. This means buying your phone separately and signing up for a cheap, no-contract, SIM-only plan.
Pros Of Buying iPhone From A Telco
- The upfront cost of the iPhone is heavily subsidised (discounted).
- You can settle your phone and mobile plan in one go.
Cons Of Buying iPhone From A Telco
- You are locked into a contract for 24 months or longer.
- The total cost over two years (phone + plan) might be more than buying an unlocked phone.
- The contract option is only “best” if you cannot afford the upfront cost of the phone.
4. Official Online Marketplaces
This option is for savvy online shoppers who know what to look for.
How To Buy
Buy your iPhone from online marketplaces like Lazada and Shopee.
Best for: People who are comfortable shopping online and looking for voucher deals.
An Important Tip
You MUST only buy from the “Official Flagship Store” on these platforms. Look for the “LazMall” or “Shopee Mall” icon and check that the seller is “Apple” or an authorised reseller (like iStudio).
Pros Of Buying iPhone From Online Marketplaces
- Very convenient; delivered to your door.
- iPhone models might be available at discounted prices.
- You can sometimes use platform vouchers (like 11.11 or 12.12 sales) for a larger discount.
Cons Of Buying iPhone From Online Marketplaces
- You must be careful to buy only from the official flagship store to avoid fakes or non-local sets.
Conclusion
There’s no single “best” place. If you want an unlocked phone and the best service, go to the Apple Store. If you need a new mobile plan, consider getting your iPhone from a telco. If you want convenience and the best prices, check out an Authorised Reseller at your nearest mall or online.
