Yes, it’s real. You can get the iPhone 13 (128GB, Midnight) for just $49 from Cricket Wireless—but only if you meet the conditions.
To qualify, you must bring your number from another provider and purchase three months of Cricket’s $60/month unlimited plan in advance (that’s $180 upfront for service). This deal is only for new customers starting a new account with Cricket Nation.
If you meet those terms, this is one of the best ways to get a premium iPhone at a fraction of the price—no trade-in or credit check required.
⚠️ What’s the Catch? Understanding the Fine Print
Before jumping in, here’s what you absolutely need to know to qualify for the $49 iPhone 13 deal:
- New customers only.
This offer is strictly for those opening a new account—upgrades or existing customers don’t qualify - Must port in your number.
You’re required to bring your own phone number from another carrier—Cricket-to-Cricket transfers won’t cut it - Prepay 3 months of service.
Purchasing three months of the $60/month unlimited voice plan upfront is mandatory when ordering online. In-store, only one month’s payment is required—but you’ll still get charged activation and possible taxes/fees - Limited-time, while supplies last.
- Inventory is limited. The offer (especially for the Midnight color) often shows “out of stock,” so timing may be key .
- Available both online and in-store.
- Online: Requires 3-month prepayment of service
- In-store: You can get it by paying just 1 month of service, plus activation (~$25) and taxes/fees
In short, it’s real—but to claim it, you’ve got to:
- Be new to Cricket.
- Port your existing number.
- Prepay at least one month (in-store) or three months (online) of service.
- Catch the offer before stock runs out.
Also read: Get a Free iPhone 13 Pro Max Government Phone
📱 How to Get the iPhone 13 for $49 at Cricket
Getting your hands on the iPhone 13 for just $49 is easy—as long as you follow the steps and meet the eligibility rules. Here’s a simple guide to walk you through the process:
✅ Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
- You must be a new Cricket customer
- You need to bring your number from a different carrier (no existing Cricket numbers or upgrades allowed)
🛒 Step 2: Visit Cricket Online or In-Store
- Online: Go to Cricket’s official iPhone 13 page
- In-store: Find your nearest Cricket Wireless store if you prefer face-to-face help
📦 Step 3: Select the iPhone 13 Offer
- Look for the iPhone 13 (128GB, Midnight) model listed for $49
- Make sure the promo is still active and the phone is in stock
📶 Step 4: Choose the $60 Unlimited Plan
- Select the $60/mo. Unlimited + 15GB Hotspot plan
- This is the required service to qualify for the offer
💳 Step 5: Pay for Service and the Phone
- Online: Pay $180 upfront for 3 months of service + $49 for the phone
- In-store: You may only need to pay for 1 month upfront, but additional activation and sales tax fees may apply
🔓 Step 6: Activate and Enjoy!
- Once you receive the phone and SIM, activate it online or in-store
- Start enjoying your new iPhone 13 with unlimited talk, text, and high-speed data
What You Get: iPhone 13 + Cricket’s $60 Plan
A. iPhone 13 Features Recap (128 GB, Midnight)
Here’s a quick overview of what the iPhone 13 delivers:
- 6.1″ Super Retina XDR display – crisp and vibrant visuals
- A15 Bionic chip – powerful performance and energy efficiency
- Dual 12 MP camera system – wide and ultra‑wide lenses ready for stunning photos
- 5G capable – faster downloads and smoother streaming
- iOS 17 ready – latest software with new features and security updates
B. What’s Included in the $60/month Unlimited Plan
When you pair the iPhone 13 with Cricket’s $60/mo plan, here’s what you unlock:
- Unlimited talk, text & data — enjoy full access; data may slow only after heavy use during network congestion
- 15 GB mobile hotspot — share your connection with laptops or tablets
- Nationwide 5G coverage — available wherever Cricket’s 5G network reaches
- Unlimited Mexico & Canada usage — calls, texts, and data included in your plan
- Max Basic with Ads (formerly HBO Max) — ad-supported streaming service included (~$120 annual value)
🎁 Additional Perks Worth Mentioning
- 150 GB cloud storage – back up files and photos securely
- Acorns investing – optional micro‑investing feature to grow your savings
Summary
Paired with the $49 iPhone 13 deal, Cricket’s $60/mo plan delivers:
- A powerful premium phone
- Unlimited usage with high-speed data and hotspot
- 5G access, roaming in Canada/Mexico
- Free streaming content, cloud storage, and optional investing perks
It’s a comprehensive package that brings both a top-tier device and rich service value, perfect for new customers seeking maximum bang for their buck.
Also read: Get an iPhone 15 Pro for Free with Special Offers
💰 Why This Deal is Better Than Buying iPhone 13 Unlocked
If you’re shopping smart, here’s why getting the iPhone 13 through Cricket Wireless beats buying it unlocked at full price:
🔓 Unlocked iPhone 13 Retail Price: Around $599+
- Whether from Apple or a major retailer, an unlocked iPhone 13 (128GB) still sells for $599 or more in 2025.
- That doesn’t include any service—you’ll pay for the phone and the monthly plan separately.
📱 Cricket’s Deal: Just $49 for the Phone
- You’ll pay $49 for the iPhone 13 when you port your number to Cricket and prepay 3 months of the $60/month plan.
- That’s $49 + $180 = $229 total for 3 months of unlimited service and a brand-new iPhone 13.
💸 That’s Over $300 in Instant Savings
- Compared to the full $599 retail price, this deal saves you $300+ upfront.
- You’re getting both the phone and premium wireless service for less than half the price of the unlocked device alone.
✅ Ideal for Smart Switchers
- Already thinking about switching carriers?
- This offer rewards you just for bringing your number—no trade-in, no credit check, no long-term contracts.
This deal is a win for budget-conscious shoppers who want top-tier tech without the full price tag. Want to see how it stacks up against Metro, Verizon, or T-Mobile? I can add a comparison chart next.
🔑 Important Things to Know Before You Buy
Before you jump in, here are the key caveats and policies to be aware of:
1. Is the Phone Locked?
- Yes — Cricket locks the iPhone 13 to its network for at least 6 months of active service before allowing an unlock request
- Users report the process takes around 180 days, after which the unlock can be requested via Cricket’s Device Unlock portal or chat .
2. Can I Use It on Other Carriers Later?
- After the 6-month lock period is completed and you meet the criteria (good standing, no fraud, active service), you can unlock the phone
- Once unlocked, the iPhone 13 can be used with other GSM-compatible networks.
3. What Happens If I Cancel Early?
- Cricket is a true prepaid provider — no contracts or cancellation penalties
- However, no refunds or credits are offered for unused service if you cancel mid-cycle — you’ll lose any remaining paid time
- To cancel, simply stop autopay or let the line lapse before the next billing cycle
4. Offer Not Available for Upgrades
- This deal is only for new customers — you must be bringing in a number from another carrier.
- Existing Cricket customers or those upgrading within Cricket are not eligible for the $49 iPhone 13 deal
✅ Quick Recap
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Is the phone locked? | Yes—locked to Cricket for 6 months. |
| Can I unlock it? | Yes, after 6 months with eligible service. |
| Can I cancel early? | Yes, but no refunds on unused service. |
| Can existing customers get it? | No—only new port-in customers qualify. |
👥 Real-World Scenarios: Who Should Grab This Deal
This iPhone 13 for $49 offer isn’t for everyone—but if you fit into one of these categories, it’s a total no-brainer:
✅ 1. People Switching from Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, or MVNOs
If you’re already planning to switch carriers, this deal rewards you just for bringing your number. You’ll save hundreds upfront without needing a trade-in or contract. It’s especially appealing if your current carrier charges more for similar service.
👨👩👧 2. Families Adding a Line for a Teen or Senior
Need a phone for your high schooler or a parent who’s new to smartphones? Instead of spending $600+ on a new device, get a reliable, fast iPhone 13 for just $49 and include unlimited service for 3 months. It’s affordable, powerful, and future-ready.
💎 3. Users Who Want a Premium iPhone Without Paying Full Price
Let’s face it—iPhones are expensive. If you want the Apple experience without the Apple price tag, this deal lets you enjoy a top-tier iPhone at a fraction of the cost, bundled with service.
⏱️ 4. Temporary Users or Short-Term Plans
Need a phone for just a few months while you’re visiting the U.S., in between contracts, or trying out prepaid? This $49 iPhone 13 offer paired with 3 months of unlimited service gives you flexibility with no long-term commitment.
How This Deal Compares to Other iPhone Offers
Here’s a refreshed comparison based on the latest 2025 promotions from Cricket and competitors:
| Provider | Offer | Requirements | Final Cost Estimate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cricket Wireless | iPhone 13 for $49.99 | Port-in + prepay 3 months of $60 plan online (or 1 mo in-store) | $229 total ($49.99 + $180 service) |
| Verizon | Free iPhone 13 with trade-in | Must trade eligible device + sign up for 36-mo plan | Often locked; long-term contract |
| Metro by T-Mobile | iPhone 13 for $49.99 | Port-in + Metro Flex Unlimited or Plus plan (min. $55 first month) | $49.99 upfront + $55+ monthly |
| Straight Talk | ~$199–$249 upfront; no trade-in | New line/port-in + Gold Unlimited plan or higher | About $199–$249 for phone |
✅ What Makes Cricket’s Deal Stand Out
- Lowest Upfront Cost: Just $49.99 online (plus service), significantly less than competitors.
- Total Bundle Value: For $229, you get the phone plus three months of service—less than the price of the unlocked phone alone.
- Simplicity: No trade-in needed. Just port your number — ideal for a quick, easy switch.
🧩 Comparing the Details
- Verizon: Gives away the iPhone with trade-in—but you’ll be locked into a 36-month contract, and any early cancellation may impact your savings
- Metro by T-Mobile: Matches Cricket’s $49.99 price but requires a $55+ Flex plan and pushes perks like a virtual prepaid Mastercard after several months
- Straight Talk: Offers the iPhone starting at ~$199 with a top-tier prepaid plan—no trade-ins—but costs are higher, and phones stay locked to their network .
🔁 Can You Keep Your Current Number?
Yes, and in fact—you must. Porting in your current number is not only allowed, it’s required to unlock the $49 iPhone 13 deal from Cricket Wireless.
🔐 Why Porting is Required
This special pricing is only for new customers bringing a number from another carrier. It’s Cricket’s way of encouraging you to switch—and rewarding you for it.
📋 What You’ll Need to Port Your Number
To successfully transfer your number to Cricket, make sure you have:
- Your current carrier account number
- Your account PIN or password
- The phone number you want to transfer
- The ZIP code tied to your current billing address
These details can usually be found in your online account, or by calling your current provider’s customer service.
⏱️ How Long Does Number Porting Take?
- In most cases, porting takes just a few minutes to a couple of hours
- Landline numbers or accounts with special restrictions may take up to 24 hours
- You’ll get a text or email confirmation once the port is complete
Don’t cancel your current phone plan before porting—Cricket needs your number to still be active to initiate the transfer.
What If You’re Not Eligible for the Deal?
Don’t worry—if you don’t qualify for the $49 iPhone 13 offer, Cricket still has plenty of other good options:
Already a Cricket Customer?
If you’re already a Cricket subscriber, you can’t get the $49 deal, but you have other perks:
- BYOD (Bring Your Own Device): Keep your current phone and save with multi-month plan discounts—for example, $25/month for 3 months with the $75 prepaid option
- Device Trade-In Program: Trade in your old phone for service credits—easy via Asurion, credit applies toward your monthly plan
👥 No Number to Port or No New Line?
You still have alternatives:
Certified Pre‑Owned Phones
- Cricket’s Certified Pre‑Owned (CPO) devices undergo testing, come with a 90-day warranty, and are budget-friendly
- Retailers like Best Buy and Plug.tech also sell refurbished Cricket-compatible phones at 70% off retail
Family Plan & Multi-Line Discounts
Add a line to your existing plan and receive multi-line savings, auto-pay credits, and Refer-A-Friend bonuses
BYOD + eSIM Rewards
Bring your own unlocked GSM phone and score up to 3 months prepaid discount, plus 14-day trial via tryCricket—perfect for globe-trotters or flexible users.
How to Choose the Best Path
| Scenario | Most Suitable Option |
|---|---|
| Already a Cricket customer | BYOD + plan discounts, trade-in program |
| Want a phone with warranty | Certified Pre‑Owned (Cricket CPO) |
| Looking for multi-line savings | Family plan & Refer-A-Friend credits |
| Own an unlocked phone, want flexibility | BYOD with eSIM trial |
Even if the $49 deal isn’t for you, Cricket Wireless still offers plenty of value—from certified pre-owned phones to versatile BYOD plans and family bundle discounts. Want help picking the best option for your situation?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is the iPhone 13 unlocked?
A: No, the phone is locked to Cricket Wireless for 6 months. After that period, you can request an unlock if your account meets the eligibility requirements.
Q: Can I use this deal if I’m an existing Cricket user?
A: Unfortunately, no. This offer is only for new customers who bring their number from another carrier and activate a new line.
Q: Do I need good credit to qualify?
A: No credit check is required. Cricket Wireless is a prepaid service, so you don’t need to worry about contracts, financing, or credit scores.
Q: What happens after the 3 months are over?
A: You can continue paying $60/month for the same unlimited plan, or switch to a different Cricket plan if you want to save money or reduce features.
Q: Can I use eSIM with this iPhone on Cricket?
A: Yes. The iPhone 13 supports eSIM, and Cricket Wireless fully supports eSIM activation on compatible devices.
Final Thoughts: Is the $49 iPhone 13 from Cricket Worth It?
Absolutely—if you’re a new customer bringing your number, this is one of the best iPhone 13 deals in 2025.
For just $49, plus three months of unlimited service ($180), you get a premium Apple device with all the features most people want—5G, amazing cameras, a beautiful display, and long-term iOS support. That alone usually costs $600+ unlocked.
But it’s not just about the phone. You also get:
- Unlimited talk, text, and high-speed data
- 15GB mobile hotspot
- Access to streaming perks
- Coverage in Mexico and Canada
- No credit check or contract
Of course, it comes with some strings—you’ll need to keep the phone on Cricket for 6 months, and the deal isn’t available to current customers. But for anyone looking to switch carriers, avoid long contracts, or get a reliable phone without breaking the bank, this offer is a no-brainer.
