Smartphone prices in Pakistan have climbed sharply in recent years, turning premium devices into luxury purchases. Even midrange smartphones now start from around Rs100,000, while flagship models can cost several times more.
In some cases, these phones are now priced higher than used cars, including sedans that are still widely available in the local market.
The iPhone 17 Pro Max sits at the centre of this shift. A PTA-approved version officially starts at around Rs565,000 and can go as high as Rs900,000. Some retailers are reportedly selling the 2TB variant for up to Rs920,000, depending on colour and availability.
With no official Apple Store operating in Pakistan, pricing is largely driven by importers and retailers, many of whom sell devices at their own rates rather than those suggested by distributors.
This has created a situation where buying a single smartphone can cost as much as, or more than, a functional sedan.
Why iPhone prices vary so widely
Unlike markets with official brand stores, Pakistan relies on private importers to bring in Apple devices. Retailers often adjust prices based on demand, stock levels and PTA approval charges.
As a result, the same iPhone model can be listed at different prices across the market, with premium variants crossing the Rs900,000 mark.
That figure puts the iPhone 17 Pro Max in direct competition with several used cars.
Suzuki Margalla and Toyota Corolla
One of the most affordable options is the Suzuki Margalla from the 1991 to 1999 period. A well-maintained unit can be found for around Rs520,000. This makes it roughly Rs380,000 cheaper than the iPhone 17 Pro Max 2TB, which costs close to Rs900,000.
The Toyota Corolla 1986 is another option. In Pakistan’s used car market, this model can sell for as low as Rs450,000. That places it around Rs206,000 cheaper than the iPhone 17 Pro Max 256GB, priced at about Rs656,000, and nearly Rs450,000 cheaper than the top-end 2TB variant.
Honda City and Civic under Rs900,000
Buyers with a slightly higher budget can consider the Honda City 2000, which is available for as low as Rs750,000. This still keeps it below the upper-end iPhone 17 Pro Max price range.
Similarly, the Honda Civic 1995 can be found in the used market for around Rs700,000, making it another sedan that costs less than Apple’s flagship phone.
These comparisons highlight how dramatically smartphone prices have risen in Pakistan. What was once the cost of a reliable used car is now being spent on a single device, forcing many buyers to rethink what value really means in today’s economy.
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