The iPhone 16 lineup has arrived, bringing a suite of upgrades across all models. It’s now more challenging than ever to differentiate the standard iPhone 16 from its more premium siblings, the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max. Apple has ensured that the entire range benefits from significant enhancements, making the decision process for consumers more nuanced.
While the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max naturally boast their own exclusive features, the standard iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus have also received considerable attention from Apple, closing the gap in capabilities. This results in a compelling range of iPhones, each vying for a spot on the best phones list and challenging the dominance of top Android phones.
Navigating these choices can be overwhelming. With four distinct models – the iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max – the question isn’t just whether to buy an iPhone 16, but which iPhone 16 best suits your individual needs and preferences. To help you decide, we’ve put together a comprehensive comparison of each model, delving into their specifications, advantages, disadvantages, and our hands-on experiences from in-depth testing and reviews.
Here’s a detailed Iphone 16 Compare Models breakdown: iPhone 16 vs. iPhone 16 Plus vs. iPhone 16 Pro vs. iPhone 16 Pro Max.
iPhone 16 Pro & Pro Max EXPERT Review: Worth the Upgrade? – YouTube
iPhone 16 vs iPhone 16 Plus vs iPhone 16 Pro vs iPhone Pro Max: Specifications
The iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus share a fundamental similarity, primarily differing in screen real estate and battery capacity. Choosing between the iPhone 16 vs. iPhone 16 Plus largely boils down to your preference for size and battery life, as the core user experience remains consistent across both.
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| Feature | iPhone 16 | iPhone 16 Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $799 / £799 / AU$1,399 | $899 / £899 / AU$1,599 |
| Screen Size | 6.1 inches | 6.7 inches |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 60Hz |
| Processor | A18 | A18 |
| RAM | 8GB | 8GB |
| Storage Options | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB |
| Rear Cameras | 48MP Main (f/1.6), 12MP Ultrawide (f/2.2) | 48MP Main (f/1.6), 12MP Ultrawide (f/2.2) |
| Front Camera | 12MP (f/1.9) | 12MP (f/1.9) |
| Video Recording | 4K Dolby Vision up to 24fps | 4K Dolby Vision up to 24fps |
| Battery Capacity | 3,561 mAh | 4,674 mAh |
| Battery Life | 12 hours 43 minutes | 16 hours 29 minutes |
| Dimensions | 5.8 x 2.8 x 0.31 inches | 6.3 x 3.1 x 0.31 inches |
| Weight | 6 ounces (170 grams) | 7 ounces (199 grams) |
| Colors | Black, White, Pink, Teal, Ultramarine | Black, White, Pink, Teal, Ultramarine |
Similarly, the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max also exhibit significant common ground, with screen size and battery capacity acting as the primary distinguishing factors. This represents a shift from the previous iPhone 15 Pro generation, where the iPhone 15 Pro Max boasted a more advanced telephoto camera compared to the iPhone 15 Pro. For a more granular comparison between these top-tier models, our dedicated iPhone 16 Pro vs. iPhone 16 Pro Max comparison provides an in-depth analysis.
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| Feature | iPhone 16 Pro | iPhone 16 Pro Max |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $999 / £999 / AU$1,799 | $1,199 / £1,199 / AU$2,149 |
| Screen Size | 6.3 inches (2622 x 1206) | 6.9 inches (2868 x 1320) |
| Refresh Rate | Adaptive 1 – 120Hz | Adaptive 1 – 120Hz |
| Processor | A18 Pro | A18 Pro |
| RAM | 8GB | 8GB |
| Storage Options | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB | 256GB, 512GB, 1TB |
| Rear Cameras | 48MP Main (f/1.78), 48MP Ultrawide (f/2.2), 12MP Telephoto (5x, f/2.8) | 48MP Main (f/1.78), 48MP Ultrawide (f/2.2), 12MP Telephoto (5x, f/2.8) |
| Front Camera | 12MP (f/1.9) | 12MP (f/1.9) |
| Video Recording | 4K Dolby Vision up to 120fps | 4K Dolby Vision up to 120fps |
| Battery Capacity | 3,582 mAh | 4685 mAh |
| Battery Life | 14 hours 7 minutes | 18 hours 6 minutes |
| Colors | Black, White, Desert Titanium, Natural Titanium | Black, White, Desert Titanium, Natural Titanium |
| Dimensions | 5.89 x 2.81 x 0.32 inches | 6.42 x 3.06 x 0.32 inches |
| Weight | 7 ounces | 8 ounces |
For a more targeted comparison, our iPhone 16 vs. iPhone 16 Pro detailed analysis highlights the core distinctions between the standard and professional models.
iPhone 16 vs iPhone 16 Pro: Biggest Differences Explained! – YouTube
iPhone 16 vs iPhone 16 Plus vs iPhone 16 Pro vs iPhone Pro Max: Price
Despite expectations of price increases, Apple has maintained the starting prices across the iPhone 16 lineup, mirroring the pricing structure of the iPhone 15 series. This price stability makes the iPhone 16 models even more appealing.
The iPhone 16 starts at $799 for the 128GB base model. Stepping up in the range, the iPhone 16 Plus is priced at $899, and the iPhone 16 Pro begins at $999. The iPhone 16 Pro Max, with its doubled base storage of 256GB, starts at $1,199.
Upgrading storage within each model range follows a consistent $100 increment for each tier increase up to 512GB. For the Pro models, a 1TB storage option is available, priced at $1,499 for the iPhone 16 Pro and $1,599 for the iPhone 16 Pro Max.
To find the best deals and potential savings, explore our curated list of the best iPhone 16 deals, which is continuously updated with the latest offers across different retailers and carriers.
iPhone 16 vs iPhone 16 Plus vs iPhone 16 Pro vs iPhone Pro Max: Design
(Image credit: Future)
The iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max models are physically larger than their predecessors, primarily to accommodate their expanded displays. The Pro models retain the premium titanium build, offering enhanced durability, while the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus utilize aerospace-grade aluminum. The titanium frame contributes to the Pro models’ robust feel and premium aesthetic.
All four iPhone 16 models are equipped with the latest iteration of Apple’s Ceramic Shield front cover. This enhanced Ceramic Shield is advertised to be 50% tougher than previous versions, providing improved scratch and drop resistance. However, for optimal protection, especially in demanding environments, investing in a quality case from the best iPhone 16 cases or best iPhone 16 Pro cases is still advisable.
A universal design addition across the iPhone 16 series is the new Camera Control button. This dedicated button simplifies launching the Camera app and capturing photos and videos. The Camera Control button offers tactile control over zoom and mode switching, particularly beneficial on the Pro models with their advanced camera systems. The iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus adopt the Action button, initially introduced on the iPhone 15 Pro, offering customizable quick access to various functions.
Continuing the trend, all iPhone 16 models feature a USB-C port for charging and data transfer. The Pro models maintain an advantage with support for faster USB 3 transfer speeds, reaching up to 10GB/s, facilitating quicker data handling for professionals and content creators.
iPhone 16 Pro (Image credit: Tom’s Guide)
Apple differentiates the color palettes between the standard and Pro iPhone 16 models. The Pro models are available in more subdued, metallic finishes, including White Titanium, Black Titanium, Natural Titanium, and the new Desert Titanium, a sophisticated rosy gold hue. Desert Titanium appears to be a particularly popular choice.
For users preferring more vibrant color options, the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus are offered in Ultramarine (light blue), Teal, Pink, White, and Black, providing a range of friendly and expressive tones.
iPhone 16 vs iPhone 16 Plus vs iPhone 16 Pro vs iPhone Pro Max: Display
iPhone 16 Pro Max and iPhone 16 Pro (Image credit: Future)
Display enhancements are most notable on the iPhone 16 Pro models. Both the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max feature reduced bezel sizes, resulting in larger overall screen areas within similar physical dimensions. The iPhone 16 Pro now sports a 6.3-inch display, while the iPhone 16 Pro Max boasts the largest iPhone display to date at 6.9 inches.
The iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus retain the same screen sizes as their predecessors, at 6.1 inches and 6.7 inches respectively.
The increased screen size on the Pro models offers a more immersive experience for productivity tasks, video streaming, and gaming. However, the expansive display of the iPhone 16 Pro Max can make one-handed operation challenging for some users.
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| Display Metric | iPhone 16 | iPhone 16 Plus | iPhone 16 Pro | iPhone 16 Pro Max |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brightness (Nits) | 1,348 | 1,458 | 1,553 | 1,510 |
| sRGB/DCI-P3 (%) | 112.2 / 79.5 | 112.1 / 79.4 | 113.5 / 80.4 | 114.1 / 80.9 |
| Delta-E | 0.27 | 0.25 | 0.24 | 0.26 |
A key differentiator in display technology remains the refresh rate. The iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus continue to utilize a 60Hz refresh rate, while the Pro models feature adaptive refresh rates up to 120Hz. This ProMotion technology on the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max dynamically adjusts the refresh rate for smoother scrolling, enhanced responsiveness, and more fluid gaming experiences in supported titles. The difference in visual smoothness is particularly noticeable in fast-paced games and during rapid scrolling.
Peak brightness ratings are consistent with the iPhone 15 generation, with all iPhone 16 models claiming 1,600 nits of typical peak brightness and 2,000 nits peak brightness for outdoor visibility.
Display testing reveals consistent performance across the iPhone 16 lineup in color reproduction and accuracy. All four models exhibit comparable coverage of the sRGB and DCI-P3 color gamuts, with very similar Delta-E values indicating excellent color accuracy. The iPhone 16 Pro demonstrates marginally superior color accuracy in these tests. Measured brightness peaks ranged from 1,348 nits (iPhone 16) to 1,553 nits (iPhone 16 Pro), ensuring good outdoor visibility for all models.
iPhone 16 vs iPhone 16 Plus vs iPhone 16 Pro vs iPhone Pro Max: Cameras
iPhone 16 Pro Max vs Galaxy S24 Ultra | Here’s the Winner – YouTube
The Camera Control button, standard across all iPhone 16 models, marks a significant usability improvement. While there is a learning curve to mastering the button’s pressure sensitivity and gesture controls, initial testing indicates that it streamlines camera operation, particularly mode switching and zoom adjustments.
Camera enhancements are primarily concentrated in the Pro models. The iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max both receive a larger 48MP sensor for the ultrawide camera and an improved main camera with a faster shutter. Notably, the iPhone 16 Pro now incorporates the tetraprism telephoto lens previously exclusive to the Pro Max, enabling 5x optical zoom on both Pro models.
For the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus, camera upgrades are focused on the ultrawide lens, which now captures more light for improved low-light performance. The enhanced ultrawide lens also enables a new macro mode, delivering impressive close-up detail in testing.
iPhone 16 Plus (Image credit: Future)
A redesigned rear camera layout on the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus, with vertically stacked lenses, unlocks spatial photo and video capture capabilities. This feature, previously limited to Pro models, is now accessible on the standard iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus, adding a new dimension to creative photography and videography.
Video recording capabilities are enhanced on the iPhone 16 Pro models with support for 4K video capture at 120fps. The iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus are capped at 4K 60fps. All four models feature a four-microphone array for improved audio recording, with the Pro models boasting “studio-quality” microphones for professional-grade audio capture.
Due to its advanced video features and dedicated telephoto lens, the iPhone 16 Pro is recognized as a top-tier camera phone. However, the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus also deliver excellent image quality, especially within their respective price brackets, making them strong contenders for everyday photography needs.
iPhone 16 vs iPhone 16 Plus vs iPhone 16 Pro vs iPhone Pro Max: Performance
iPhone 16 Pro Max (Image credit: Tom’s Guide)
Breaking from previous generations, the entire iPhone 16 lineup is powered by variations of the A18 system-on-chip. The iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus utilize the standard A18 chip, representing a significant performance leap over the A16 Bionic in the iPhone 15. The iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max are equipped with the A18 Pro, featuring an additional GPU core (six cores vs. five in the standard A18).
Both A18 chip variants share a 6-core CPU and a 16-core Neural Engine for accelerating AI-driven features.
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| Benchmark | iPhone 16 | iPhone 16 Plus | iPhone 16 Pro | iPhone 16 Pro Max |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Geekbench (Single/Multi-core) | 3301 / 8033 | 3302 / 8042 | 3400 / 8301 | 3386 / 8306 |
| 3DMark Wild Life Unlimited (fps) | 98.2 | 98.1 | 109.3 | 107.5 |
| Adobe Premiere Rush (Seconds) | 22.4 | 22.4 | 21 | 21 |
Benchmark testing reveals comparable single-core performance across all iPhone 16 models in Geekbench 6. However, the Pro models demonstrate a slight edge in multi-core performance. The Adobe Premiere Rush video transcoding test also shows a marginal advantage for the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max, completing the task approximately 1.5 seconds faster than the standard models.
The most pronounced performance difference emerges in graphics benchmarks, with the iPhone 16 Pro models achieving significantly higher frame rates in the 3DMark Wild Life Unlimited test. This performance gap is attributed to the additional GPU core in the A18 Pro chip.
In summary, the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus deliver robust performance suitable for most users. However, the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max offer a noticeable performance uplift, particularly in graphics-intensive tasks and demanding applications, making them the preferred choice for power users and mobile gamers.
iPhone 16 vs iPhone 16 Plus vs iPhone 16 Pro vs iPhone Pro Max: Battery Life
iPhone 16 (Image credit: Future)
Official battery capacities for the iPhone 16 models are not explicitly disclosed by Apple, but they are confirmed to be larger than those in the iPhone 15 series. Unofficial sources, including regulatory filings and teardowns, provide insights into the battery capacities, indicating larger batteries in the iPhone 16 Plus and iPhone 16 Pro Max, commensurate with their larger sizes.
Across the board, the iPhone 16 models exhibit improved battery life compared to their iPhone 15 counterparts. This enhancement is likely attributable to a combination of increased battery capacities and the energy efficiency of the A18 chipsets. In some cases, battery life improvements are substantial.
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| Model | Battery Capacity (mAh – Rumored) | % Change from iPhone 15 | Battery Life (Hours:Minutes) |
|---|---|---|---|
| iPhone 16 | 3561 | 6.3% | 12:43 |
| iPhone 16 Plus | 4674 | 6.6% | 16:29 |
| iPhone 16 Pro | 3582 | 9.4% | 14:07 |
| iPhone 16 Pro Max | 4685 | 6% | 18:06 |
The iPhone 16 Pro Max achieves the longest battery life of any iPhone tested to date, exceeding 18 hours in web browsing tests over cellular. This exceptional battery performance places the iPhone 16 Pro Max among the top contenders on best phone battery life rankings.
The iPhone 16 Plus also delivers impressive battery longevity, approaching 16.5 hours in the same test, securing its position on long-lasting phone lists.
The more compact iPhone 16 Pro also shows significant battery life gains, outperforming the iPhone 15 Pro by approximately 4 hours, reaching 14 hours and 7 minutes.
While the iPhone 16 offers the shortest battery life within the new lineup, its result of 12 hours and 43 minutes still represents a nearly 2-hour improvement over its predecessor, offering all-day battery for typical usage.
Charging speeds are comparable across all iPhone 16 models. Wired charging tests indicate that all models reach approximately 55% to 57% charge capacity within 30 minutes using a compatible fast charger.
iPhone 16 vs iPhone 16 Plus vs iPhone 16 Pro vs iPhone Pro Max: Software
(Image credit: Tom’s Guide)
Software features are consistent across the entire iPhone 16 range. All models ship with iOS 18 pre-installed and are slated to support the same Apple Intelligence features upon their release with iOS 18.1 in October. Users can currently preview some Apple Intelligence functionalities through the iOS 18.1 public beta, including enhanced writing tools, Memory Movies, and the revamped Siri.
This software parity is a significant advantage for the standard iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus. Users opting for these more affordable models gain access to the same core software experience and Apple Intelligence features as those on the premium iPhone 16 Pro models, narrowing the functional gap and enhancing the value proposition of the standard iPhones.
iPhone 16 vs iPhone 16 Plus vs iPhone 16 Pro vs iPhone Pro Max: Outlook
Choosing the right iPhone 16 model hinges on your individual priorities and usage patterns. Fortunately, the iPhone 16 lineup offers compelling improvements across all models, catering to a diverse range of needs and preferences.
While the Pro iPhones deliver superior graphics performance and 120Hz ProMotion displays, enhancing gaming and visual experiences, core performance is highly comparable across the entire iPhone 16 family. All models benefit from Apple Intelligence, ensuring access to the latest AI-powered features regardless of model choice.
The larger iPhone 16 Plus and iPhone 16 Pro Max offer benefits of expansive displays, appealing to users who prioritize screen size for media consumption and productivity. Their larger physical dimensions also accommodate larger batteries, resulting in class-leading battery life. However, the iPhone 16 Pro Max’s size may be cumbersome for some users.
The iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro, while more compact, still deliver above-average battery performance, easily lasting a full day for most users. Users prioritizing pocketability and one-handed usability may find these models more appealing.
Camera capabilities represent the most significant differentiation point favoring the iPhone 16 Pro models. The dedicated telephoto lens, advanced video features, and enhanced microphones offer a clear advantage for photography and videography enthusiasts. While the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus offer a 2x “optical quality zoom,” it does not match the optical zoom capabilities of the Pro models.
Ultimately, the key decision factors in selecting your ideal iPhone 16 model are screen size preference, camera requirements, and budget. By carefully considering these aspects, you can confidently choose the iPhone 16 that best aligns with your individual needs and enhances your mobile experience.
