The pros and cons of the iPhone 6 when sold as a contracted model are continually being weighed in by users and critics alike.

While the iPhone 6 that comes with a contract from mobile carriers have often been deemed as a practical solution, others have asserted that an 'unlocked' smartphone that does not require any contractual restraints is more advisable.

Looking into the prices of the iPhone 6 units that come with a contract, Apple has stated that a16 GB model would typically cost $199. Meanwhile, the 64 GB and the 128 GB variants are priced at $299 and $399, respectively.

However, ZDNet has reported that customers who have gotten their hands on the iPhone 6 typically pay up for excessive fees, or hidden charges, which mobile carriers do not include in their advertised prices. These costs can include the network's usage plans and fees for activation.

In addition, customers further pay for their monthly installment in order to acquire the actual handset. On the other hand, an unlocked iPhone 6, or an iPhone 6 that does not come with a contract, have been priced at around $649 for a 16 GB model.

Considering the other costs associated with iPhones that come with a contract, it has been reported that customers are likely to pay up around $560 to $800 at AT&T. Purchasing the said device with a contract at Verizon will require a total cost between $470 and $830, whereas Sprint is offering the contracted iPhone 6 at $680 to $920. Those seeking for a contract with T-Mobile may also be required to pay a sum of at least $660.

Taking these prices into consideration, the contract-based pricing of the iPhone 6 with major mobile carriers are similar to those of the unlocked versions of the said device being offered by Apple and its official retailers.