Choosing the perfect iPhone 15 can feel overwhelming with four distinct models available. Each offers a unique set of features and specifications, making it crucial to understand the differences before making a decision. This comprehensive comparison breaks down the iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, and iPhone 15 Pro Max, highlighting their key distinctions to help you find the ideal iPhone to match your needs and budget.
Want to dive deeper into each phone? We’ve rigorously tested all four iPhone 15 models and have in-depth reviews available, providing firsthand insights into each device’s performance and capabilities.
iPhone 15 Models: Detailed Specs Comparison
| Feature | iPhone 15 | iPhone 15 Plus | iPhone 15 Pro | iPhone 15 Pro Max |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $799 | $899 | $999 | $1,199 |
| Display Size | 6.1 inches | 6.7 inches | 6.1 inches | 6.7 inches |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 60Hz | 120Hz (ProMotion) | 120Hz (ProMotion) |
| Chip | A16 Bionic | A16 Bionic | A17 Pro | A17 Pro |
| Base Storage | 128GB | 128GB | 128GB | 256GB |
| Main Camera | 48MP Main | 48MP Main | 48MP Main | 48MP Main |
| Ultrawide Camera | 12MP Ultrawide | 12MP Ultrawide | 12MP Ultrawide | 12MP Ultrawide |
| Telephoto Camera | None (2x Zoom via Main Sensor) | None (2x Zoom via Main Sensor) | 12MP 3x Telephoto | 12MP 5x Telephoto |
| Front Camera | 12MP | 12MP | 12MP | 12MP |
| Charging Port | USB-C | USB-C | USB-C (Fast Data Transfer) | USB-C (Fast Data Transfer) |
| Battery Size | 3,349 mAh (Rumored) | 4,383 mAh (Rumored) | 3,274mAh (Rumored) | 4,422mAh (Rumored) |
| Battery Life | 11 hrs 05 mins | 14 hrs 14 mins | 10 hrs 53 mins | 14 hrs 02 mins |
| Dimensions | 5.81 x 2.82 x 0.31 inches | 6.33 x 3.06 x 0.31 inches | 5.77 x 2.78 x 0.32 inches | 6.29 x 3.02 x 0.32 inches |
| Weight | 6.02 ounces (171 grams) | 7.09 ounces (201 grams) | 6.6 ounces (187 grams) | 7.81 ounces (221 grams) |
| Colors | Pink, Yellow, Blue, Black, Green | Pink, Yellow, Blue, Black, Green | Black Titanium, White Titanium, Blue Titanium, Natural Titanium | Black Titanium, White Titanium, Blue Titanium, Natural Titanium |
iPhone 15 Models: Price and Availability
All iPhone 15 models were released on September 22nd and are widely available for purchase. Price is a significant differentiating factor between the models.
The iPhone 15 is the most affordable option, starting at $799 for the 128GB version. The larger iPhone 15 Plus begins at $899. Stepping up to the Pro line, the iPhone 15 Pro starts at $999, while the top-of-the-line iPhone 15 Pro Max starts at $1,199, but comes with 256GB of base storage, double that of the other base models.
Explore iPhone 15 deals to potentially save on your chosen model. Be aware that iPhone 15 Pro models may experience shipping delays due to high demand.
Design and Display: Key Differences in iPhone 15 Lineup
Apple maintains the 6.1-inch and 6.7-inch screen sizes across the iPhone 15 series, but there are notable design and display variations between the standard and Pro models.
All iPhone 15 models feature a new contoured edge for a more comfortable in-hand feel, while retaining the flat-sided design.
The Pro models distinguish themselves with a premium titanium build, making them lighter yet equally durable compared to the aluminum frames of the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus.
Another key difference is the Action button, exclusive to the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max. This customizable button replaces the traditional mute switch and can be programmed for various functions like muting, launching apps, or turning on the flashlight. The standard iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus retain the classic mute switch.
All iPhone 15 models now feature a USB-C port, replacing the Lightning port. This change allows for universal charging and, for Pro models, faster data transfer speeds up to 10Gbp/s, significantly quicker than the 480Mb/s speed of the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus.
Display technology also differs. iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max boast ProMotion displays with a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate for smoother scrolling and visuals, along with Always-On display functionality. The iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus use 60Hz OLED displays.
However, all iPhone 15 versions benefit from the Dynamic Island, previously exclusive to the iPhone 14 Pro. This interactive pill-shaped cutout replaces the notch and provides access to alerts and background activities.
| Display Feature | iPhone 15 & 15 Plus | iPhone 15 Pro & Pro Max |
|---|---|---|
| Peak Brightness (nits) | ||
| iPhone 15 | 1,401 | |
| iPhone 15 Plus | 1,310 | |
| iPhone 15 Pro | 1,550 | |
| iPhone 15 Pro Max | 1,550 |
The iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus displays have received a brightness boost, matching the 2,000-nit peak brightness of the Pro models, ensuring excellent visibility in bright conditions.
Camera Capabilities: Comparing iPhone 15 Camera Systems
All iPhone 15 models feature a 48MP main rear camera, a significant upgrade from previous standard models. While aperture sizes differ slightly between standard and Pro models, all are capable of capturing detailed 24MP and 48MP photos. Pro models additionally offer ProRAW format for advanced editing.
Ultrawide cameras are standard across the range at 12MP, but iPhone 15 Pro models feature a macro-capable ultrawide lens. All models share the same 12MP front-facing camera.
The telephoto lens is where the most significant camera differences lie. The iPhone 15 Pro features a 12MP 3x telephoto camera, while the iPhone 15 Pro Max boasts an enhanced 12MP 5x telephoto zoom, offering greater zoom range. The iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus do not have a dedicated telephoto lens, but utilize the main sensor to provide 2x zoom photos.
Performance and Battery Life Across iPhone 15 Models
The iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus are powered by the A16 Bionic chip, a powerful processor from the iPhone 14 Pro series. However, the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max feature the cutting-edge A17 Pro chip, offering enhanced performance, particularly in graphics, thanks to an additional GPU core.
| Performance Benchmark | iPhone 15 & 15 Plus | iPhone 15 Pro & Pro Max |
|---|---|---|
| Geekbench (Single-core / Multi-core) | ||
| iPhone 15 | 2,518 / 6,179 | |
| iPhone 15 Plus | 2,551 / 6,280 | |
| iPhone 15 Pro | 2,890 / 7,194 | |
| iPhone 15 Pro Max | 2,783 / 6,945 | |
| 3DMark Wild Life Unlimited (fps) | ||
| iPhone 15 | 72 | |
| iPhone 15 Plus | 74 | |
| iPhone 15 Pro | 94 | |
| iPhone 15 Pro Max | 92 |
Storage options vary slightly. iPhone 15 and 15 Plus are available in 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB configurations. The iPhone 15 Pro adds a 1TB option, while the iPhone 15 Pro Max starts at 256GB and also offers 512GB and 1TB variants.
Battery life is impressive across the iPhone 15 range. Apple’s estimates for video playback are: iPhone 15 (20 hours), iPhone 15 Plus (26 hours), iPhone 15 Pro (23 hours), and iPhone 15 Pro Max (29 hours).
Real-world battery tests confirm excellent battery performance across all models.
| Battery Life Test (Hrs:Mins) | iPhone 15 | iPhone 15 Plus | iPhone 15 Pro | iPhone 15 Pro Max |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Battery Life | 11:05 | 14:14 | 10:53 | 14:02 |
In web browsing tests over cellular, all iPhone 15 models exceed the average smartphone battery life. The iPhone 15 Plus and iPhone 15 Pro Max particularly stand out, securing spots on lists of phones with the best battery life, lasting over 14 hours.
Charging speeds are consistent across the lineup, with Apple claiming a 50% charge in roughly 30-35 minutes using a 20W adapter.
Software and Unique Features of the iPhone 15 Series
All iPhone 15 models ship with iOS 17, Apple’s latest operating system, introducing features like StandBy mode, Messages Check-in, and offline Apple Maps.
Beyond iOS 17, the iPhone 15 series includes enhanced Ultra Wideband connectivity for more precise location tracking with AirTags and Find My devices. Emergency SOS via Satellite and Crash Detection are carried over from iPhone 14, with the addition of Roadside Assistance via satellite for help in areas without cellular coverage.
The iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max gain additional features, including faster Wi-Fi 6E for improved wireless performance and Thread network support for enhanced compatibility with future smart home devices.
Final Verdict: Which iPhone 15 Model Should You Choose?
The iPhone 15 lineup offers options for a range of users and budgets. The most significant differences lie between the Pro and non-Pro models. However, distinctions also exist between the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus, and the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max.
The iPhone 15 Pro Max delivers the most advanced features and improvements but at the highest price point. The iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus offer significant upgrades over previous standard models, inheriting features previously exclusive to Pro iPhones, making them compelling options. The iPhone 15 Pro provides many of the Pro Max features in a more compact and slightly more affordable form factor.
Ultimately, the best iPhone 15 model for you depends on your individual needs and priorities. Consider your budget, desired screen size, camera requirements, and performance expectations to make an informed decision.
