How Much Does an iPod Touch Cost?

6th generation iPod touch

Apple

by Sam Costello
Sam Costello has been writing about tech since 2000. His writing has appeared in publications such as CNN.com, PC World, InfoWord, and many others.
Updated November 01, 2018

The iPod touch is a great device because it offers many of the iPhone's best features but at a lower price and without a monthly phone plan. If you're in the market for a new mobile device, you need to know one crucial piece of information: How much does an iPod touch cost?

Getting the answer to that question is much easier than with the iPhone. The iPhone has multiple models, multiple payment options, and complex ​monthly service plans. To figure out how much you'll spend on an iPod touch, you only need to know which model you want.​

Two Models, Two Prices

There are two iPod touch models to choose from (for the latest generation, at least. If you look at older versions, you'll find a few other options). The only difference between them is the amount of storage capacity they offer.

Model Price
32 GB iPod touch $199
128 GB iPod touch $299

The latest model is the 6th generation iPod touch, which boosts the maximum storage option to 128 GB. All 6th gen. models include a new, faster processor and motion coprocessor, and improved cameras. 

You could consider an older version of the 6th generation iPod touch, which offers 64 GB of storage. Apple doesn't make this model anymore, but it's the same device as the 32 GB and 128 GB models, and you might find one used for an affordable price. 

Does the iPod touch Ever Go On Sale?

Speaking of lower prices, buying used isn't the only way to hunt for bargains. You may wonder if you should you wait for the iPod touch to go on sale to get a better price. Unfortunately, the answer is no.

Apple controls the pricing of its devices very tightly (and because they're so popular, it can get the prices it wants). It almost never has sales on iPods and iPhones. There are the annual holiday sale and back-to-school promotions, but you'll usually only save $10 or $20. You might occasionally find a retailer offering an iPod touch for $5 or $10 less than the competition, but don't count on saving much more than that.

Don't Buy the 16GB Model

If you do decide to buy a used iPod touch, don't even consider buying the 16 GB version of the touch, no matter what generation it is.

Just like you should always look to buy the latest model, you should buy as much storage as you can afford. The basic installation of the iOS and its built-in apps uses up 8-11 GB. That's 50-66% of the storage capacity of the 16 GB model. Add a bunch of songs, some apps, and games, and take some photos and videos and you'll be out of space fast. Avoid that by spending a little more to get at least the 32 GB version (but again, if you can afford more, get more. You'll use it).   

Others Costs When Buying an iPod touch

The price of the iPod touch model you want isn't the entire amount you should expect to spend. Depending on where you live, there may be sales tax. There are also a number of iPod accessories you may want to buy.