Introduction: The iPhone 11’s Legacy in the Pricing Landscape
When Apple first launched the iPhone 11 back in September 2019, it was positioned as the sweet spot between flagship glamour and everyday affordability. Fast forward to 2025, and you’ll be surprised to see how the device still holds its own in a market flooded with newer models, 5G upgrades, and ever‑rising price tags. In this deep‑dive, we’ll explore the current price of the iPhone 11 across various retailers, why its cost structure remains compelling, and how you can gauge whether it’s still a smart buy for you.
Current Retail Prices: A Snapshot Across Major Channels
Apple’s official website no longer lists the iPhone 11 as a brand‑new product, but you can still snag it through Apple’s refurbished program, authorized resellers, and a handful of online marketplaces. Below is a quick snapshot of typical price ranges you’ll encounter in Australia as of November 2025:
- Apple Refurbished Store: AU$749 – AU$849 (depending on storage)
- Major Carriers (Telstra, Optus, Vodafone): AU$799 – AU$999 (often bundled with a 12‑month contract)
- Online Retailers (e.g., TheAustralianStore.com.au): AU$699 – AU$899 (new or open‑box condition)
- Second‑Hand Marketplaces (eBay, Gumtree): AU$550 – AU$750 (varies by condition and warranty)
These figures illustrate a surprisingly tight price band, especially when you compare the iPhone 11 to newer models like the iPhone 14 or iPhone 15, which start at AU$1,299 and AU$1,449 respectively.
Why the iPhone 11’s Price Remains Competitive
Three core factors keep the iPhone 11’s price attractive even six years after its debut:
- Hardware That Still Holds Up: The A13 Bionic chip, while not the newest silicon, still delivers smooth performance for everyday tasks, gaming, and photography.
- Camera System That Beats Many Mid‑Range Phones: Dual‑camera setup (12MP wide + 12MP ultra‑wide) with Night mode, Deep Fusion, and 4K video at 60fps.
- Software Longevity: Apple typically supports iPhones with iOS updates for 5‑6 years. The iPhone 11 is slated to receive iOS 18, meaning you’ll stay current for at least another year or two.
Because the device still checks the boxes for performance, photography, and software updates, retailers can price it competitively without sacrificing profit margins.
Breakdown of Cost Components: What You’re Actually Paying For
Understanding where the price comes from helps you decide if the iPhone 11 offers value for you. Below is a simplified cost breakdown for a brand‑new unit sold through an online retailer in Australia:
- Bill of Materials (BOM): Approximately AU$300 – includes the display, chipset, camera modules, and housing.
- R&D Amortisation: Roughly AU$150 – Apple spreads its research costs over many units.
- Logistics & Distribution: Around AU$30 – shipping, warehousing, and handling.
- Retail Margin: Typically 15‑20% of the final price, covering marketing and store overhead.
- Taxes & Duties: GST (10%) and any import duties, baked into the final sticker price.
When you add those pieces together, you see why a price tag in the AU$700‑AU$900 range makes sense for a premium‑brand smartphone that still feels modern.
Comparing the iPhone 11 to Its Siblings: Value‑For‑Money Analysis
Let’s put the iPhone 11 side‑by‑side with a few of its close relatives to illustrate the value proposition.
| Model | Launch Year | Base Storage | Current Avg. Price (AU$) | Key Specs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| iPhone 11 | 2019 | 64GB | 699 – 849 | A13 Bionic, Dual‑camera, 6.1″ LCD |
| iPhone 12 | 2020 | 64GB | 849 – 999 | A14 Bionic, Dual‑camera, 6.1″ OLED |
| iPhone 13 | 2021 | 128GB | 999 – 1,149 | A15 Bionic, Dual‑camera, 6.1″ OLED |
| iPhone 14 | 2022 | 128GB | 1,299 – 1,449 | A16 Bionic, Dual‑camera, 6.1″ OLED |
Notice how the iPhone 11’s price is roughly 30‑40% lower than the iPhone 12, yet the performance gap is not as dramatic as the price gap suggests. For many users, that extra $200‑$300 won’t translate into a noticeably better everyday experience.
Who Should Consider Buying an iPhone 11 in 2025?
Not every smartphone buyer will find the iPhone 11 the perfect fit. Here are the top three buyer personas that can truly benefit from the current pricing:
- First‑Time Smartphone Users: If you’re upgrading from a feature phone or an older Android, the iPhone 11 offers a seamless entry point into the Apple ecosystem without a hefty price tag.
- Budget‑Conscious Creators: Hobby photographers, vloggers, or social‑media enthusiasts will appreciate the solid camera system and 4K video capabilities without paying premium rates.
- Students & Young Professionals: The iPhone 11’s price aligns well with a student budget, especially when bundled with carrier contracts that spread the cost over 12‑24 months.
If you fall into any of these categories, the iPhone 11 remains a compelling choice.
How to Spot a Good Deal: Tips for Buying the iPhone 11 Smartly
With the market saturated with deals, here’s a quick cheat‑sheet to help you avoid overpaying:
- Check Apple’s Refurbished Store First: Certified refurbished units come with a one‑year warranty and are often the cheapest “new‑ish” option.
- Look for Carrier Promotions: Many carriers run “buy one, get one free” or discounted upgrade offers that can shave off AU$200 or more.
- Verify the Device’s Condition: For second‑hand purchases, request high‑resolution photos, battery health stats (aim for 80%+), and a short test video.
- Consider Open‑Box Deals: Retailers like TheAustralianStore.com.au sometimes list open‑box units at a 10‑15% discount, still covered by a limited warranty.
- Watch Out for Hidden Fees: Some listings add “shipping & handling” that inflates the price. Always calculate the final cost before clicking “Buy”.
Impact of Currency Fluctuations and Import Duties on Pricing
Australia’s dollar strength relative to the US dollar can sway the iPhone 11’s price by up to ±AU$30. When the AUD weakens, import duties and GST can push the retail price upward, especially for non‑refurbished units sourced directly from overseas warehouses.
For the most stable pricing, aim to purchase from local authorized retailers who have already accounted for these fluctuations in their pricing strategy.
Future Outlook: How Long Will the iPhone 11 Remain Viable?
Apple typically supports iPhones with major iOS updates for around five to six years. The iPhone 11, released in 2019, is expected to receive iOS 18 in 2025 and possibly iOS 19 in 2026. After that, security patches may continue for a year or two, but you’ll start to see performance slowdowns with newer apps that demand more processing power.
In practical terms, the iPhone 11 should comfortably serve most users for the next 2‑3 years, especially if you keep the OS updated and replace the battery when health dips below 80%.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Is the iPhone 11 still eligible for AppleCare+? Yes. AppleCare+ can be purchased within 60 days of the original purchase date, even for refurbished units.
- Can I get 5G on an iPhone 11? No. The iPhone 11 supports only LTE‑Advanced, but its fast‑lane speeds are still more than adequate for streaming and browsing.
- What’s the battery life like after three years? With average usage, you can expect around 10‑12 hours of mixed‑use screen‑on time. A battery replacement costs about AU$149.
- Does the iPhone 11 have a headphone jack? No, but it includes a Lightning‑to‑3.5mm adapter in the box for those who still prefer wired earbuds.
- Is the iPhone 11 water‑resistant? Yes, it carries an IP68 rating, meaning it can survive up to 2 meters of water for 30 minutes.
Conclusion: Is the iPhone 11’s Price Worth It?
Bottom line: The iPhone 11’s price in 2025 offers a rare blend of premium brand perception, solid performance, and a price point that undercuts many newer flagships. If you value a reliable camera, smooth day‑to‑day operation, and the security of Apple’s ecosystem without breaking the bank, the iPhone 11 remains a smart purchase.
Whether you’re buying new, refurbished, or second‑hand, keep an eye on the factors we’ve outlined—carrier bundles, refurbished warranties, and battery health—to ensure you get the best bang for your buck.
Ready to snag a deal? Head over to your favourite retailer, compare the options, and enjoy the confidence that comes with owning a timeless Apple device.