New iPhone 16 can be expensive. The base model starts at $799while the Pro Max rings in $1,199. Add in options like more storage and AppleCare+, and the price skyrockets from there. Okay, that’s normal. But for phone buyers, the cost doesn’t necessarily stop there.
After upgrading to the new iPhone 16 Pro from my old iPhone 14 Pro, I had to get a many accessories to go with my equipment. Here’s what I bought and how you can budget for the extra costs.
Also: We’ve used every iPhone 16 model and here’s our best buying advice for 2024
First, I bought the iPhone 16 Pro with 512GB of storage. I canceled AppleCare+ right now, although I can always change my mind within 60 days. I didn’t want to trade in my iPhone 14 because my wife would get custody of my old phones. That cost me a total of $1,299 plus tax. Okay, but I’m not done yet.
The iPhone 16 and 15 series use USB-C connector as opposed to Lightning connector on iPhone 14 and earlier phones. While I have a few spare USB-C cables and power adapters, the iPhone 16 has a larger battery and offers faster charging speeds.
None of my current cables and adapters would take advantage of the better charging capabilities, so I picked up a new charger. On my nightstand, I like to use MagSafe Charger on which i put my phone. i spent money to buy a new charger with cable and new converter with two USB-C connections. Total price: $98 plus tax.
Am I done? No, not yet.
While some people prefer to go caseless, I like to protect my expensive iPhones with a good, sturdy case. I already have an existing case for my iPhone 14 Pro. But because the 16 Pro is taller and has a physical camera button built in, the old case won’t work.
Also: How iOS 18 changes the way you charge your iPhone
Here I picked up iPhone 16 Pro Clear Case with MagSafe for $49 at the Apple Store. With a transparent hard shell design, this product also has a new camera button.
Is that all? Oh, no, there’s more.
I also like to add a screen protector to protect against scratches and other marks. I had an old screen protector from my previous phone, but it didn’t fit, so it was time to replace it.
For this product I went to the ZAGG booth near the Apple Store. I have used ZAGG screen protectors before and have been very satisfied. The price is reasonable and the people at the booth know how to apply it properly. I chose anti-glare glass screen it cost me 45 dollars
Also: 4 Ways I Reuse My Old iPhones Instead of Trading Them In — Including With Robots
I’m finally ready, right?
To keep my phone charged on the go, I like to use a power bank, especially one from Anker. They use MagSafe to stick to the back of the iPhone to charge the battery inside. I prefer a power bank to a battery case that I have to take apart and put on my phone.
I had a power bank for my iPhone 14 Pro that served me well. But when I tried it with my iPhone 16 Pro, the charging time was so slow and long that the power bank actually ran out of battery before the phone was fully charged. That made me go to Amazon to buy a new one Anker Power Bank for iPhone 16 Pro. This version works well and is thinner than the previous one, so the phone fits better in my hand. Price? $70.
Also: The Best iPhone Accessories You Can Buy: Tested by Experts
Luckily, that’s where my iPhone shopping spree ends — at least for now. My phone is happy. I’m happy. My wallet? Not so happy. Certainly not after a total price tag of $1,600 plus tax. And keep in mind that the initial cost could be higher. If I had opted for the maximum storage of 1TB — another $200 — and two years of AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss Protection for $259, the total damage would have been $2,000.
Whatever your budget, let this be a reminder to all intrepid iPhone buyers that the cost of the phone is only part of the equation. Want to protect and charge your expensive device with the right accessories? Then prepare for an extra dose of price shock.
