The iPhone 16 Pro Max has arrived as Apple’s largest iPhone yet, boasting the longest battery life ever seen in an iPhone. With this impressive size and battery comes a premium price, starting at $1,199. For some, the sheer size of the Pro Max models has always been a deterrent, and this year’s increased screen size might further solidify that stance. However, after a year with a smaller iPhone, I personally find myself drawn back to the expansive display and enduring battery of the largest iPhone. This review dives into a comparison of the iPhone 16 Pro Max and its predecessor, the iPhone 15 Pro Max, to help you decide if the upgrade is worthwhile.
For years, larger iPhones have been my preferred choice, dating back to the iPhone 6 Plus in 2014. Battery life has consistently been a top priority, and I also benefit from the larger screen and enhanced speaker for accessibility features like Braille Screen Input. While I briefly ventured to smaller devices like the iPhone 13 mini (which I admired but returned due to battery concerns) and last year’s iPhone 15 Pro, I ultimately missed the advantages of a larger phone. The iPhone 15 Pro was appealing for its smaller size and improved battery efficiency, and indeed, battery life was never an issue. However, something was missing.
Truthfully, my decision to choose the iPhone 15 Pro over the Pro Max last year was primarily driven by price. Apple eliminated the 128GB storage option for the Pro Max, increasing its starting price by $200 compared to the Pro. The idea of spending $1,199 on a phone felt extravagant. However, my year with the iPhone 15 Pro underscored what truly matters most to me in a smartphone: dependable battery life and the peace of mind it provides.
The entire iPhone 16 lineup, including the Pro Max, brings compelling upgrades: Apple Intelligence integration, the innovative Camera Control Button, and across-the-board battery life improvements. Notably, the standard iPhone 16 models are now closer in feature parity to the Pro versions, making advanced technology more accessible to a wider range of users.
Initially intended as a personal review of the iPhone 16 Pro Max, this analysis evolved into a broader comparison of Apple’s current iPhone offerings for various user needs. Consider this less of a simple user experience review of the “largest iPhone ever known to man” (a phrase I had to include!) and more of a practical comparison to assist you in choosing the right iPhone.
Source Information
Technical specifications for all iPhone 16 models are readily available on Apple’s official website:
Unless explicitly stated otherwise, technical details referenced in this comparison are sourced from Apple’s website.
Size, Weight, and Handling
While Apple increased screen sizes for the iPhone 16 Pro models in 2024, the iPhone 16 Pro Max doesn’t feel dramatically larger in hand compared to previous Pro Max iterations, including the iPhone 15 Pro Max. It measures 6.42 inches (163.3 millimeters) in height, 3.06 inches (77.6 millimeters) in width, and weighs 7.99 ounces (227 grams). For context, the iPhone 15 Pro Max is only marginally smaller at 6.29 inches (159.9 millimeters) tall, 3.02 inches (76.7 millimeters) wide and weighs 7.81 ounces (221 grams). The difference is negligible in daily use.
Screen sizes, measured diagonally, are 6.9 inches for the iPhone 16 Pro Max and 6.7 inches for the iPhone 15 Pro Max. This slight increase contributes to a more immersive viewing experience but doesn’t drastically alter the phone’s overall footprint.
Anecdotally, the iPhone 16 Pro Max feels lighter than my memory of the iPhone 14 Pro Max, which was the last large phone I used extensively before the iPhone 15 Pro. Research confirmed this perception: the iPhone 14 Pro Max weighs 8.47 ounces, making the 16 Pro Max noticeably lighter.
Stepping up to the iPhone 16 Pro Max from the smaller iPhone 15 Pro, the size difference was immediately noticeable, especially when placing it in my pocket. I recall being impressed by the compact nature of the iPhone 15 Pro initially. Perhaps the slightly larger dimensions of the iPhone 16 Pro Max amplify this sensation. Regardless, the iPhone 16 Pro Max is undeniably a substantial phone, particularly if you’re transitioning from a smaller model or are new to the Pro Max/Plus size category.
Performance Enhancements
My primary metric for device performance is the responsiveness of VoiceOver, Apple’s built-in screen reader, alongside general app and screen loading speeds. Both the iPhone 16 Pro Max and iPhone 15 Pro Max are incredibly fast, but the 16 Pro Max does offer some under-the-hood improvements.
A significant advancement in the iPhone 16 lineup is the unified processor and RAM across all models. For the first time in recent years, all iPhone 16 models boast the same-generation processor and 8GB of RAM. While previous non-Pro iPhones used the prior year’s Pro processors, the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus feature the A18 chip, while the Pro models get the even more powerful A18 Pro. The iPhone 15 Pro Max, in comparison, features the A17 Pro chip. While both are incredibly powerful, the A18 Pro in the 16 Pro Max offers a performance edge, especially for demanding tasks and future software updates. Both phones have 8GB of RAM, ensuring smooth multitasking.
In practical terms, this means users can expect exceptional performance across the entire iPhone 16 range. For everyday use, the difference between the A17 Pro and A18 Pro might be subtle, but the 16 Pro Max is future-proofed for more intensive applications and iOS advancements.
Regarding software updates, Apple has made strides in optimizing performance with each iOS iteration. Comparing my iPhone 15 Pro on various iOS 17 versions to the iPhone 16 Pro Max on iOS 18, the 16 Pro Max exhibits a marginal increase in responsiveness. However, unless you’re upgrading from an older iPhone (iPhone 14 Pro Max or earlier), the performance jump might not be dramatically noticeable in typical usage between the 15 Pro Max and 16 Pro Max.
Audio and Speaker Quality
If I were to pinpoint a minor drawback of the iPhone 16 Pro Max compared to the iPhone 15 Pro Max, it would be the speaker quality.
The iPhone 16 Pro Max speakers are capable of producing rich and impressive sound, but this isn’t consistently the case. At lower volumes, the audio lacks bass and high-end frequencies, resulting in a somewhat flat and uninspired sound profile, especially considering the phone’s size. The iPhone 15 Pro Max, conversely, delivered impressive bass even at lower volumes.
Increasing the volume on the 16 Pro Max improves the sound profile, introducing more bass and treble, but the mid-range frequencies become less pronounced. Additionally, there’s a subtle “fluttering” effect between the top and bottom speakers, most noticeable in landscape orientation. Occasionally, the mid-range frequencies will momentarily become fuller at higher volumes before reverting to the previous sound profile. The iPhone 15 Pro Max did not exhibit this audio behavior.
Interestingly, speakerphone calls on the iPhone 16 Pro Max produce consistently full and robust sound across all frequencies, showcasing the speakers’ true potential, similar to the iPhone 15 Pro Max’s speakerphone quality. This suggests that software-based audio processing might be influencing the non-speakerphone audio output on the 16 Pro Max. While most users may not perceive or be bothered by these nuances, the audio inconsistencies are present. It’s possible Apple could address this through software updates if they prioritize it.
Battery Longevity
For users prioritizing battery life, especially those who rely heavily on their iPhones throughout the day, the iPhone 16 Pro Max is a clear winner over the iPhone 15 Pro Max. The 16 Pro Max boasts the longest iPhone battery life ever, and real-world usage confirms this.
In my daily use, with screen brightness at 0%, Screen Curtain enabled, and Auto Brightness disabled, the iPhone 16 Pro Max consistently ended the day with over 50% battery remaining, even after heavy usage. Even with brightness at 50% and Screen Curtain off, battery performance remained exceptional. The iPhone 15 Pro Max, while offering excellent battery life, would typically finish the day in the 30-40% range under similar usage conditions.
Apple’s official battery life estimates further highlight the 16 Pro Max’s advantage. It’s rated for up to 33 hours of video playback, 29 hours of streamed video, and 105 hours of audio playback. The iPhone 15 Pro Max is rated for up to 29 hours of video playback, 25 hours of streamed video, and 95 hours of audio playback. While both phones offer all-day battery life for most users, the iPhone 16 Pro Max provides a significant margin for power users or those who simply want maximum battery reassurance.
Camera Control Button
The Camera Control button is a new hardware addition to all iPhone 16 models, offering a dedicated physical button for capturing photos and accessing camera functions, a feature absent in the iPhone 15 Pro Max. Located on the right side below the power button, it provides customizable functionality and settings.
While I’m not a photography expert, the Camera Control button presents intriguing possibilities, especially for accessibility. Its integration with third-party apps, such as Be My Eyes, demonstrates its potential. Being able to quickly activate image description within the Be My Eyes app with a physical button press is a significant convenience for visually impaired users. Hopefully, more developers will incorporate Camera Control support for enhanced accessibility and streamlined workflows. The iPhone 15 Pro Max relies solely on on-screen controls for camera operation.
For photographers, the iPhone 16 Pro / Pro Max camera review by Chris Niccolls at PetaPixel provides a detailed analysis of the camera advancements in the 16 Pro models. The iPhone 16 Pro Max boasts improved telephoto capabilities and sensor enhancements compared to the iPhone 15 Pro Max, making it a compelling upgrade for mobile photography enthusiasts.
Apple Intelligence: A Future Feature
Apple Intelligence, the suite of AI-powered features, is a headline feature for the iPhone 16 lineup, including the Pro Max. It promises Notification Summaries, enhanced Siri capabilities, Writing Tools, Visual Intelligence, and integrated ChatGPT functionality. However, these features were not available at launch and are expected to roll out later. The iPhone 15 Pro Max will also receive Apple Intelligence features in a future update.
While some reviews criticized the iPhone 16 launch without Apple Intelligence, I believe Apple’s cautious approach is justified. AI features require careful development and testing to ensure reliability and address potential pitfalls. Rushing AI to market can lead to inaccuracies and user frustration. Apple’s decision to prioritize refinement over immediate release is understandable.
Despite my general reservations about AI, Apple Intelligence holds significant potential to revolutionize how users interact with their Apple devices, including both the iPhone 16 Pro Max and, eventually, the iPhone 15 Pro Max. Its availability on a range of devices, including older Pro models, Macs, and iPads, indicates Apple’s commitment to broad accessibility of these features.
Choosing Your iPhone: 16 Pro Max or 15 Pro Max?
For those considering an iPhone upgrade, particularly between the iPhone 15 Pro Max and iPhone 16 Pro Max, here’s a summary to guide your decision.
Upgrade to iPhone 16 Pro Max if:
- Battery Life is Paramount: If you demand the absolute longest battery life available in an iPhone, the 16 Pro Max is the clear choice. It significantly surpasses the already excellent battery of the 15 Pro Max.
- Larger Screen is Desired: The slightly larger 6.9-inch display of the 16 Pro Max offers a more immersive viewing experience for media consumption and productivity.
- Camera Control Button Appeals: The dedicated Camera Control button offers physical camera access and potential for enhanced accessibility and third-party app integration.
- Future-Proof Performance is Key: The A18 Pro chip in the 16 Pro Max provides a performance edge and ensures optimal performance for future iOS updates and demanding applications.
- Latest and Greatest is a Must: If you always want the newest technology and top-of-the-line features, the iPhone 16 Pro Max is the ultimate iPhone experience.
Stick with iPhone 15 Pro Max (or consider it if price is a major factor) if:
- Battery Life is Already Sufficient: The iPhone 15 Pro Max already offers excellent all-day battery life for most users. If you’re satisfied with its battery performance, the 16 Pro Max’s improvement might not be a necessity.
- Size is a Concern: While not drastically larger, the iPhone 16 Pro Max is the biggest iPhone yet. If you prefer a slightly more compact large phone, the 15 Pro Max remains a great option.
- Speaker Quality is a Priority: While subjective, some users might prefer the more consistent low-volume speaker performance of the iPhone 15 Pro Max.
- Camera Control Button is Not Essential: If you primarily use on-screen camera controls, the Camera Control button might not be a significant draw.
- Cost Savings are Important: The iPhone 15 Pro Max will likely see price reductions, making it a more budget-friendly option while still offering flagship-level performance and features.
General Upgrade Considerations:
- USB-C Transition: Both the iPhone 16 Pro Max and iPhone 15 Pro Max feature USB-C ports. If you’re upgrading from an older Lightning-based iPhone, be prepared for the USB-C ecosystem.
- No Power Adapter: Neither phone includes a power adapter in the box. You’ll need to use an existing USB-C adapter or purchase one separately.
- Quick Start Setup: Apple’s Quick Start feature simplifies the process of transferring data from your old iPhone to a new one.
The iPhone 16 Pro Max and iPhone 15 Pro Max are both exceptional smartphones. The 16 Pro Max offers incremental improvements in battery life, performance, and camera features, along with the new Camera Control button. However, the iPhone 15 Pro Max remains a top-tier device, especially if you can find it at a reduced price. Your choice ultimately depends on your individual priorities and budget.
What are your thoughts on the iPhone 16 Pro Max and iPhone 15 Pro Max? Are you considering an upgrade? Let me know in the comments!
