You can use more affordable prepaid plans (like those from Mint Mobile or Visible ) that don't offer heavy phone subsidies.

If you cannot pay $800+ at once, carrier installment plans make high-end devices accessible via monthly payments.

You prefer a "stock" software experience without unremovable carrier apps. When to Buy from a Carrier

Whether it is better to buy an unlocked phone depends on whether you prioritize or long-term freedom .

Large carriers often offer significant trade-in credits or "buy-one-get-one" deals if you're already committed to their service for several years.