From significant camera upgrades to enhanced performance and battery life, the iPhone 16 series delivers a comprehensive set of improvements across the board. It’s becoming increasingly challenging to differentiate the standard iPhone 16 from its more premium counterparts, blurring the lines between Apple’s flagship and entry-level offerings.
While the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max naturally boast their own exclusive advancements, Apple has notably focused on elevating the standard iPhone 16 model this year. This results in a compelling lineup where multiple iPhone 16 models secure positions on our best phones list, even outperforming some of the best Android phones evaluated in the past year.
With four distinct models available – the iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max – choosing the ideal iPhone can feel overwhelming. To simplify your decision, we’ve conducted a detailed comparison of each model, delving into their specifications, analyzing their pros and cons, and drawing upon our extensive hands-on testing and review experiences with these new Apple devices.
Here’s a comprehensive iPhone 16 vs. iPhone 16 Plus vs. iPhone 16 Pro vs. iPhone 16 Pro Max comparison to guide you in selecting the perfect iPhone 16 for your individual needs and preferences.
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: Detailed Specifications Breakdown
The iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus share a fundamental similarity, primarily differing in display and battery dimensions. In essence, the core user experience remains consistent between the iPhone 16 vs. iPhone 16 Plus, with size being the main differentiating factor.
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| Feature | iPhone 16 | iPhone 16 Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $799 / £799 / AU$1,399 | $899 / £899 / AU$1,599 |
| Display Size | 6.1-inch | 6.7-inch |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 60Hz |
| Processor | A18 Chip | A18 Chip |
| RAM | 8GB | 8GB |
| Storage Options | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB |
| Rear Camera System | 48MP Main (f/1.6) with 2x Optical Quality Zoom, 12MP Ultra-wide (f/2.2) | 48MP Main (f/1.6) with 2x Optical Quality Zoom, 12MP Ultra-wide (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 Performance (Web Surfing) | 12 hours 43 minutes | 16 hours 29 minutes |
| Dimensions | 5.8 x 2.8 x 0.31 inches (147.6 x 71.6 x 7.8mm) | 6.3 x 3.1 x 0.31 inches (160.9 x 77.8 x 7.8mm) |
| Weight | 6 ounces (170 grams) | 7 ounces (199 grams) |
| Available Colors | Black, White, Pink, Teal, Ultramarine | Black, White, Pink, Teal, Ultramarine |
Similarly, the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max are closely related, with screen dimensions and battery capacity serving as the primary distinctions. This marks a slight departure from the previous iPhone 15 Pro generation where the iPhone 15 Pro Max boasted a superior telephoto lens. For a more in-depth comparison between the current Pro models, refer to our dedicated iPhone 16 Pro vs. iPhone 16 Pro Max comparison.
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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 |
| Display Size & Resolution | 6.3-inch (2622 x 1206) | 6.9-inch (2868 x 1320) |
| Refresh Rate Technology | Adaptive 1 – 120Hz | Adaptive 1 – 120Hz |
| Processor | A18 Pro Chip | A18 Pro Chip |
| RAM | 8GB | 8GB |
| Storage Options | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB | 256GB, 512GB, 1TB |
| Rear Camera System | 48MP Main (f/1.78), 48MP Ultra-wide (f/2.2), 12MP Telephoto (5x Optical Zoom, f/2.8) | 48MP Main (f/1.78), 48MP Ultra-wide (f/2.2), 12MP Telephoto (5x Optical Zoom, f/2.8) |
| Front Camera | 12MP (f/1.9) | 12MP (f/1.9) |
| Video Recording Capabilities | 4K Dolby Vision up to 120fps | 4K Dolby Vision up to 120fps |
| Battery Capacity | 3,582 mAh | 4,685 mAh |
| Battery Performance (Web Surfing) | 14 hours 7 minutes | 18 hours 6 minutes |
| Color Finishes | Black Titanium, White Titanium, Desert Titanium, Natural Titanium | Black Titanium, White Titanium, 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 further model-specific comparisons, explore our detailed iPhone 16 vs. iPhone 16 Pro comparison.
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 Analysis
Following the $100 price increase for the iPhone 15 Pro Max in the previous year, Apple has maintained consistent pricing across the iPhone 16 lineup, mirroring the launch prices of their iPhone 15 predecessors.
The standard iPhone 16 begins at $799 for the 128GB configuration. The pricing structure increases by $100 increments, with the iPhone 16 Plus priced at $899 and the iPhone 16 Pro starting at $999.
The iPhone 16 Pro Max distinguishes itself by offering double the base storage at 256GB and starts at $1,199.
Upgrading the storage from 128GB to 256GB incurs an additional $100 across all iPhone 16 models. The 512GB variant represents a $300 premium over the base models of the iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, and iPhone 16 Pro. The 512GB iPhone 16 Pro Max is priced at $1,399.
For users requiring maximum storage, both Pro models offer a 1TB option. This top-tier storage configuration is priced at $1,499 for the iPhone 16 Pro and $1,599 for the iPhone 16 Pro Max.
To discover potential savings across the lineup, refer to our comprehensive guide to the best iPhone 16 deals, providing up-to-date information on promotions and discounts for each model.
iPhone 16 vs iPhone 16 Plus vs iPhone 16 Pro vs iPhone Pro Max: Design and Build
(Image credit: Future)
The iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max models exhibit a larger physical footprint compared to previous Pro iterations, accommodating their expanded displays. Consistent with previous generations, the iPhone 16 Pro models utilize premium titanium frames, while the standard iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus employ aerospace-grade aluminum. The titanium construction of the Pro models is expected to provide enhanced durability and a more robust feel.
All four iPhone 16 models are equipped with the latest iteration of Apple’s Ceramic Shield front cover. This advanced glass is engineered to be 50% tougher than its predecessor, although supplementary protection, such as the best iPhone 16 cases or best iPhone 16 Pro cases, remains a prudent recommendation to safeguard your investment.
A universal design enhancement across the iPhone 16 series is the introduction of the new Action button. This customizable button streamlines launching the Camera app and initiating photo capture. Furthermore, the Action button facilitates mode switching and zoom functionality, with the latter proving particularly advantageous on the Pro models equipped with dedicated telephoto lenses. The iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus also inherit the Action button, previously exclusive to the iPhone 15 Pro models, enhancing user control and accessibility.
All four iPhone 16 models retain the USB-C port for charging and data transfer. Notably, the Pro models maintain support for faster USB 3 connectivity, enabling data transfer speeds up to 10GB/s, catering to users who require rapid file transfers.
iPhone 16 Pro (Image credit: Tom’s Guide)
Apple continues to differentiate color options between the standard iPhone 16 models and the Pro series. The Pro models offer a palette of muted, metallic finishes, including White Titanium, Black Titanium, and Natural Titanium. The new Desert Titanium, a sophisticated rosy gold hue, appears to be a particularly popular choice.
Conversely, the standard iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus cater to users who prefer more vibrant and playful aesthetics, offering color options such as Ultramarine (light blue), Teal, Pink, White, and Black.
iPhone 16 vs iPhone 16 Plus vs iPhone 16 Pro vs iPhone Pro Max: Display Technology and Quality
iPhone 16 Pro Max and iPhone 16 Pro (Image credit: Future)
The most significant display advancements are reserved for the iPhone 16 Pro models. Both the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max benefit from reduced bezel sizes, resulting in larger and more immersive screens. The iPhone 16 Pro now features a 6.3-inch display, while the iPhone 16 Pro Max boasts the largest display ever incorporated into an iPhone, measuring an expansive 6.9 inches.
The iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus retain the display dimensions of their predecessors, maintaining 6.1-inch and 6.7-inch screens, respectively.
The increased screen real estate on the Pro models enhances productivity tasks, video streaming, and gaming experiences. However, the expansive display of the iPhone 16 Pro Max may present challenges for comfortable one-handed operation 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 Color Gamut Coverage (%) | 112.2 / 79.5 | 112.1 / 79.4 | 113.5 / 80.4 | 114.1 / 80.9 |
| Color Accuracy (Delta-E) | 0.27 | 0.25 | 0.24 | 0.26 |
A key distinction in display technology persists within the iPhone 16 family. The iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus continue to utilize 60Hz refresh rate displays. In contrast, the Pro models feature adaptive refresh rate technology, scaling up to 120Hz for smoother scrolling, enhanced responsiveness, and more fluid gaming visuals. Gaming experiences, particularly in titles supporting higher refresh rates, are notably more immersive and visually engaging on the iPhone 16 Pro models compared to the standard iPhone 16.
Brightness capabilities remain consistent with the previous generation. All iPhone 16 models claim a peak brightness of 1,600 nits and 2,000 nits in outdoor conditions, mirroring the specifications of the iPhone 15 series.
In objective display testing, the iPhone 16 models exhibit remarkably consistent performance. All four phones demonstrate comparable coverage of the sRGB and DCI-P3 color spectrums, with minimal variations in Delta-E color accuracy ratings. Notably, the iPhone 16 Pro demonstrates the highest degree of color accuracy among the lineup.
Measured peak brightness levels ranged from 1,348 nits (iPhone 16) to 1,553 nits (iPhone 16 Pro), ensuring excellent outdoor visibility across all four models.
iPhone 16 vs iPhone 16 Plus vs iPhone 16 Pro vs iPhone Pro Max: Camera System Advancements
iPhone 16 Pro Max vs Galaxy S24 Ultra | Here’s the Winner – YouTube
As previously mentioned, all iPhone 16 models incorporate the new Action button, enhancing camera operation. Our initial testing indicates a learning curve associated with mastering the pressure sensitivity of the button and fully utilizing its swipe and press functionalities. However, the streamlined mode-switching capability offered by the Action button is a valuable enhancement to the camera interface.
Significant camera upgrades are primarily concentrated within the Pro models.
The iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max both receive an upgraded 48MP sensor for their ultra-wide cameras, and the main camera benefits from a faster shutter speed compared to previous generations. The iPhone 16 Pro now adopts the tetraprism telephoto lens previously exclusive to the Pro Max, enabling 5x optical zoom capabilities on both Pro models, enhancing their zoom range parity.
Apple has focused hardware enhancements for the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus on the ultra-wide camera. This lens now captures more light, resulting in improved image quality, particularly in low-light conditions. The enhanced ultra-wide lens on these models also introduces a new macro mode that demonstrated impressive performance in our testing.
iPhone 16 Plus (Image credit: Future)
A redesigned rear camera array layout for the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus unlocks a new feature for these models. The vertical arrangement of the main and ultra-wide lenses now enables spatial photo and video capture on the standard iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus, a feature previously exclusive to the Pro models, expanding creative possibilities for users.
The iPhone 16 Pro models gain advanced video recording capabilities with support for 4K video capture at 120 fps. The iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus are capped at 4K video recording at 60 fps. All four models are equipped with four microphones to enhance audio isolation during recording, but the Pro versions feature “studio-quality” microphones, promising superior audio fidelity.
Due to its advanced video features and dedicated telephoto lens, the iPhone 16 Pro is recognized as a leading best camera phone in the market. However, the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus also deliver high-quality photographic performance, particularly within their respective price segments.
iPhone 16 vs iPhone 16 Plus vs iPhone 16 Pro vs iPhone Pro Max: Performance and Benchmarks
iPhone 16 Pro Max (Image credit: Tom’s Guide)
In contrast to the iPhone 14 and iPhone 15 generations, where Apple employed different chipsets for standard and Pro models, the iPhone 16 series adopts a unified approach. All four iPhone 16 models are powered by variations of the cutting-edge A18 system-on-chip.
The iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus utilize the standard A18 chip, representing a substantial performance leap compared to the A16 Bionic chip in the iPhone 15. The iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max models are equipped with the A18 Pro chip, distinguished by an additional GPU core (six cores in the A18 Pro versus five in the standard A18).
Otherwise, both A18 chipsets share a 6-core CPU and a 16-core Neural Engine, facilitating efficient processing of AI-driven features and machine learning tasks.
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| Benchmark | iPhone 16 | iPhone 16 Plus | iPhone 16 Pro | iPhone 16 Pro Max |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Geekbench 6 (Single-core/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 Video Transcode (Seconds) | 22.4 | 22.4 | 21 | 21 |
In benchmark testing, all iPhone 16 models exhibited comparable Geekbench 6 single-core scores. However, the Pro models demonstrated a slight performance advantage in multi-core tests.
The Adobe Premiere Rush video transcoding test, which measures video editing performance, also indicated a marginal edge for the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max, completing the task approximately 1.5 seconds faster than the standard iPhone 16 models.
The most pronounced performance divergence emerges in graphics benchmarks. The iPhone 16 Pro models achieved significantly higher frames-per-second results in the 3DMark Wild Life Unlimited test, attributable to the additional GPU core in the A18 Pro chip.
In summary, the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus offer robust performance for everyday use and demanding tasks. However, for users prioritizing peak performance, particularly in graphics-intensive applications and gaming, the iPhone 16 Pro models represent the pinnacle of Apple’s mobile processing prowess.
iPhone 16 vs iPhone 16 Plus vs iPhone 16 Pro vs iPhone Pro Max: Battery Life and Charging
iPhone 16 (Image credit: Future)
Official battery capacity figures for the iPhone 16 models are not yet disclosed. Apple has confirmed that the iPhone 16 series incorporates larger batteries compared to the iPhone 15 generation.
Through regulatory filings and iPhone 16 teardowns, estimated battery capacities have emerged. As anticipated, the larger iPhone 16 Plus and iPhone 16 Pro Max models feature higher capacity batteries, commensurate with their physical dimensions.
Whether attributed to increased battery capacity or the enhanced efficiency of the A18 chip, all four iPhone 16 models demonstrated improved battery life compared to their iPhone 15 counterparts in our testing. In certain cases, the battery life gains were substantial.
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| Model | Battery Capacity (mAh – Rumored) | Percentage Change vs iPhone 15 | Battery Life (Hours:Minutes – Web Surfing) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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 we have tested to date, exceeding 18 hours in our web surfing battery drain test. This exceptional battery performance places the iPhone 16 Pro Max among the top contenders on our best phone battery life rankings, currently holding third position.
The iPhone 16 Plus also secures a place on our list of long-lasting phones, delivering nearly 16.5 hours of battery life in our tests.
The more compact iPhone 16 Pro also exhibits impressive battery endurance, improving upon its predecessor by 4 hours, achieving a runtime of 14 hours and 7 minutes.
While the iPhone 16 has the shortest battery life within the new lineup, its result of 12 hours and 43 minutes remains commendable, representing a nearly 2-hour improvement over the iPhone 15.
Charging speeds are largely consistent across all iPhone 16 models. Using a wired connection, each model achieved a 55% to 57% charge level after 30 minutes of charging.
iPhone 16 vs iPhone 16 Plus vs iPhone 16 Pro vs iPhone Pro Max: Software and Features
(Image credit: Tom’s Guide)
Software features are uniform across the iPhone 16 lineup. All four models ship with iOS 18 pre-installed and will support the comprehensive suite of Apple Intelligence features upon their release with the iOS 18.1 update in October. Users interested in early access can explore the iOS 18.1 public beta to experience writing tools, Memory Movies, and the revamped Siri powered by Apple Intelligence.
This software parity is a notable advantage for the more affordable iPhone 16 models. Opting for the standard iPhone 16 grants access to the same Apple Intelligence capabilities as the premium iPhone 16 Pro models, representing significant cost savings without compromising on core software features.
iPhone 16 vs iPhone 16 Plus vs iPhone 16 Pro vs iPhone Pro Max: Final Verdict and Recommendations
Selecting the optimal iPhone 16 model hinges on individual user priorities and requirements. Fortunately, the iPhone 16 series offers compelling enhancements across all models, ensuring a suitable option for a wide range of users.
While the Pro iPhones excel in graphics performance and feature 120Hz displays ideal for demanding gaming, all iPhone 16 models deliver comparable general performance and benefit from the advancements of Apple Intelligence.
The larger iPhone 16 Plus and iPhone 16 Pro Max offer expansive displays, which can be advantageous for media consumption and productivity, although the Pro Max’s size might be excessive for some users. Their larger form factors also accommodate higher capacity batteries, resulting in superior battery life compared to the smaller models.
However, the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro still provide above-average smartphone battery performance, easily lasting a full day on a single charge for most users. If compact size is a priority, these models remain excellent choices.
The camera system represents the most significant differentiator favoring the iPhone 16 Pro models. Beyond the dedicated telephoto lens, they offer more sophisticated video recording features and enhanced microphones. While the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus offer a respectable 2x optical quality zoom, they cannot match the dedicated optical zoom capabilities of the iPhone 16 Pro models for distant subjects.
Ultimately, display size preference, camera feature requirements, and budget considerations will likely be the primary determinants in your iPhone 16 purchasing decision. By carefully evaluating these factors, you can confidently select the iPhone 16 model that best aligns with your individual needs and usage patterns.
