The iPhone 16 series has officially landed, and it’s clear that Apple has once again raised the bar with its latest lineup. Our first impressions of the iPhone 16 models highlight a wealth of upgrades, from the lightning-fast A18 chip to the enhanced camera systems and the highly anticipated satellite communication capabilities. These new devices were built from the ground up to take full advantage of Apple Intelligence, the brand’s advanced AI and machine learning technology that powers everything from personalized user experiences to smarter battery management.
The base models iPhone 16 and 16 Plus share most of the same core features, with the Plus model providing a larger display and more robust battery life. Meanwhile, the 16 Pro and 16 Pro Max pack in even more power, with the Pro Max boasting a larger screen and superior battery performance.
Overall, the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus are great options for everyday users, while the iPhone 16 Pros are a strong choice for content creators and gaming power users who don't mind throwing down some extra cash for the best specs and features.
iPhone 16 models comparison
iPhone 16 vs. 16 Plus vs. 16 Pro vs. 16 Pro Max
| iPhone 16 | 16 Plus | iPhone 16 Pro | iPhone 16 Pro Max | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Display | 6.1” 60Hz |
6.7” 60Hz |
6.3” 120Hz |
6.9” 120Hz |
| Starting price | $799 | $899 | $999 | $1,199 |
| Processor | A18 | A18 | A18 Pro | A18 Pro |
| Cameras | 48MP wide/12MP 2X Telephoto 12MP ultra-wide 12MP selfie |
48MP wide/12MP 2X Telephoto 12MP ultra-wide 12MP selfie |
48MP wide 48MP ultra-wide 12MP 5x telephoto 12MP selfie |
48MP wide 48MP ultra-wide 12MP 5x telephoto 12MP selfie |
| Storage | 128GB 256GB 512GB |
128GB 256GB 512GB |
128GB 256GB 512GB 1TB |
256GB 512GB 1TB |
| Colors | Black White Pink Teal Ultramarine |
Black White Pink Teal Ultramarine |
Black titanium White titanium Natural titanium Desert titanium |
Black titanium White titanium Natural titanium Desert titanium |
| Battery capacity | Up to 22 hours of video playback 18 hours of streaming video 80 hours of audio playback |
Up to 27 hours of video playback 24 hours of streaming video 100 hours of audio playback |
Up to 27 hours of video playback 22 hours of streaming video 85 hours of audio playback |
Up to 33 hours of video playback 29 hours of streaming video 105 hours of audio playback |
| Learn more | View details | View details | View details | View details |
iPhone 16 pricing
Pricing is a significant factor when choosing between the iPhone 16 models. The base iPhone 16 starts at $1,129, making it the most affordable option, while the iPhone 16 Plus is priced starting at $1,279, offering a larger screen and battery. The Pro models start at $1.449 for the iPhone 16 Pro, with the iPhone 16 Pro Max beginning at $1.749 due to its expanded features like advanced camera systems and a larger display.
iPhone 16 design and display
The iPhone 16 and 16 Plus share many features, with the key differences being display size and battery capacity. The iPhone 16 has a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display, while the 16 Plus offers a larger 6.7-inch screen. Both have a 60Hz refresh rate.
Meanwhile, the Pro models elevate the experience with ProMotion OLED displays—6.3 inches for the 16 Pro and 6.9 inches for the 16 Pro Max—featuring a faster 120Hz refresh rate for smoother scrolling, enhanced gameplay, and a more responsive feel overall.
Credit: Apple
iPhone 16 Colors:
- iPhone 16/16 Plus: Black, White, Pink, Teal, Ultramarine.
- iPhone 16 Pro/Pro Max: Black Titanium, White Titanium, Natural Titanium, Desert Titanium.
The standard iPhone 16 models feature an aerospace-grade aluminum chassis with color-infused back glass, while the Pro models boast a premium Grade 5 Titanium frame that’s lightweight yet durable.
The Action Button (introduced with the iPhone 15 Pros) is new to the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus. It replaces the traditional mute switch and allows customizable shortcuts for launching apps, toggling settings, and more.
iPhone 16 storage
The iPhone 16, 16 Plus, and 16 Pro all start with 128GB of storage, while the flagship iPhone 16 Pro Max begins at 256GB. Storage options go up to 512GB for the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus, and up to 1TB for the 16 Pro and Pro Max:
- iPhone 16/16 Plus: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB
- iPhone 16 Pro: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB
- iPhone 16 Pro Max: 256GB, 512GB, 1TB
Most users will find 128GB or 256GB sufficient for daily use, but those needing more space for apps, games, and media should consider 512GB or 1TB. The iPhone 16 and 16 Plus include 6GB of RAM, while the Pro models pack 8GB, offering extra power for multitasking and demanding applications.
iPhone 16 cameras
The iPhone 16 series introduces significant upgrades to its camera systems across all models. Both the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus feature a 48MP main camera with advanced fusion technology for enhanced detail and color accuracy. They also come with a 12MP ultra-wide lens for capturing more expansive shots and a 12MP selfie camera with improved low-light performance.
Credit: Apple
The Pro models take it further with a second-generation 48MP Ultra-Wide camera, a 5x telephoto lens exclusive to the 16 Pro Max, and more sophisticated camera controls. These cameras are designed to harness Apple Intelligence, allowing for new photographic styles and features, such as custom settings that can be adjusted even after capturing the photo. The advanced sensors also support higher frame rates for video, with the Pro models offering up to 4K at 120fps and Pro-Res recording.
The iPhone 16 series introduces a powerful new feature called Camera Control, a button that enhances the photography experience with more intuitive and precise controls. Camera Control allows users to adjust settings with simple gestures: a light press shows a preview for better focus and framing, while a quick slide lets you switch between various modes like portrait, depth of field, or zoom.
The feature provides tactile feedback similar to a mechanical camera shutter, giving users a more responsive and immersive shooting experience, all while maintaining easy access to advanced photographic settings.
Overall, the iPhone 16 camera systems represent a significant leap forward, providing greater control, detail, and creative possibilities for users at every level.
Video recording
The iPhone 16 series takes video recording to new heights, especially with the Pro models. While the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus offer solid video capabilities, including 4K recording and improved low-light performance, the Pro models provide a substantial upgrade. The iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max support 4K ProRes video at 120fps, offering high-resolution slow-motion and cinematic video. They also feature new spatial audio capture, advanced video editing tools, and AI-driven enhancements that deliver unparalleled control over every frame, making them ideal for content creators and professionals.
For most users, the base models deliver more than enough video quality for daily use, but if you’re into professional filmmaking or serious videography, the Pro models are worth the investment.
iPhone 16 performance
The iPhone 16 series introduces new levels of performance powered by the A18 and A18 Pro chips. The A18, found in the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus, offers significant improvements in speed and efficiency thanks to its 16-core Neural Engine, delivering up to 30% faster processing while using 30% less power than its predecessor.
The A18 Pro, exclusive to the 16 Pro and Pro Max, brings even more power for demanding applications and graphics-intensive tasks. It includes a larger cache and enhanced memory bandwidth, perfect for gaming and professional-level workloads. Both chips utilize smaller, more energy-efficient transistors, maximizing battery life without sacrificing performance.
Together, these advancements ensure that the iPhone 16 series can handle anything from everyday tasks to high-performance gaming, multitasking, and professional applications with ease and efficiency.
iPhone 16 battery life and charging
The iPhone 16 series offers substantial improvements in battery life across all models, thanks to the efficiency of the new A18 and A18 Pro chips. The iPhone 16 and 16 Plus provide all-day usage, with up to 22 hours of video playback on the iPhone 16 and up to 27 hours on the 16 Plus. The Pro models take it further: the iPhone 16 Pro provides up to 27 hours of video playback, while the Pro Max boasts up to 33 hours, delivering the longest battery life of any iPhone to date.
These gains in battery longevity ensure users can enjoy extended usage, whether gaming, streaming, or multitasking, without needing frequent recharges.
iOS 18 features
The iPhone 16 series comes with the latest iOS, packed with new features designed to enhance user experience. Notably, iOS introduces Emergency SOS Live Video, which allows live video streaming to emergency services, adding a critical safety feature for users.
Siri is more intelligent and context-aware, thanks to deep integration with Apple Intelligence, allowing for more natural conversations and actions based on your activity. The system also offers improved privacy with Private Cloud Compute, where your data remains on-device and secure.
Other updates include enhanced Visual Intelligence, enabling on-device photo recognition, and new tools for creative professionals, such as the ability to create presets directly in Lightroom.
Which iPhone 16 model is right for you?
Choosing the right iPhone 16 depends on your needs and how you'll use it. For most users, the standard iPhone 16 is the best choice, offering a balanced mix of performance, camera quality, and battery life at a reasonable price. It’s perfect for everyday activities like browsing, streaming, and photography without overpaying for features you may not use. And if you want a bigger display, shoot for the iPhone 16 Plus.
Meanwhile, the Pro models—16 Pro and 16 Pro Max—cater to power users who demand top-tier performance, advanced camera capabilities, and additional Pro features. However, the extra power and features may go unused unless you’re a professional photographer, gamer, or content creator.
The iPhone 16 provides everything you need without paying for extra capabilities that might rarely be utilized.
Should I upgrade to the iPhone 16?
When considering an iPhone upgrade, we recommend not upgrading phones until they no longer serve your needs. Generally, this means that the battery can't hold a charge, the phone is mechanically broken, or current operating system updates don't support your phone.
We stand by this advice. However, this iteration of the iPhone comes with some of the most substantial upgrades we've seen in years, and we wouldn't blame you for jumping the gun and buying a new iPhone 16 even if you really don't need to. Just remember to consider your budget before taking that leap.
Angelo Ilumba
Angelo is a highly experienced writer specializing in unraveling the complexities of the mobile and tech worlds, helping readers easily understand what is relevant to them. Angelo has been featured in several publications including NPR, Yahoo Finance, and MoneyTalksNews. He is never too humble to brag about being a UC Berkeley graduate and is an avid hockey fan.
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