When each iPhone releases excitement and debate as to whether it actually adds anything new. So, is the iPhone 16 so much better than the iPhone 15 so as to warrant an upgrade? A full comparison is here to help you make a decision.
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | iPhone 15 | iPhone 16 |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 147.6 x 71.6 x 7.8mm / 171g | 147.6 x 71.6 x 7.8mm / 170g |
| Screen | 6.1” Super Retina XDR, 60 Hz, 2556 x 1179 px | 6.1” Super Retina XDR, 60 Hz, 2556 x 1179 px |
| Processor | Apple A16 Bionic | Apple A18 |
| Memory | 6GB RAM, 128GB/256GB/512GB | 8GB RAM, 128GB/256GB/512GB |
| Battery | 3,349 mAh, 30W wired / 15W wireless charging | 3,561 mAh, 30W wired / 25W wireless charging |
| Rear Camera | 48MP main + 12MP ultra-wide | 48MP main + 12MP ultra-wide |
| OS | iOS 17 | iOS 18 |
Key Differences Between iPhone 15 and iPhone 16
While both models look quite similar, the iPhone 16 brings internal changes that may be game-changers for some users:
Revamped Camera Design
Though new, the iPhone 16 has a vertical pill shaped camera setup. It is a design that fits Apple’s new Spatial Video function, ideal for immersive video content.
Upgraded Buttons
The Action Button and Camera Button that come with iPhone 16 bring new ways to interact with your phone. The plate action button replaces the mute switch and the camera button is designed to be a shutter like for quick photos.
A18 Chip and More RAM
The Apple A18 chip, optimized for the launch of AI features that will become available soon, powers the iPhone 16. It has 8GB RAM, and it outperforms the iPhone 15 when you’re doing multiple things or running through demanding apps.
Battery life and Charging are improved
The iPhone 16 features a bigger 3,561 mAh battery which allows it to hold up to 22 hours (vs. 20 hours on iPhone 15) with video playback. Along with that, the new model packs in 25W wireless charging for faster power ups.
Apple Intelligence
Apple’s upcoming AI features will be one of the first features to make an appearance in the iPhone 16. These aren’t available quite yet, but they could provide future proofing for users who are curious about Apple’s AI work.
Reason to Stick with iPhone 15
The iPhone 15 remains an attractive option for several reasons:
- More Affordable Pricing: With the era of release of the iPhone 16, the iPhone 15 may come at a reduced rate.
- Compatibility with iOS 18: The iPhone 15 won’t be a new model, but it’ll still run iOS 18 and see future updates.
- Classic Mute Switch: If you like the mute slider, the iPhone 15 is the choice.
Including Reasons to Upgrade to the iPhone 16
If you’re debating whether to get the iPhone 16, here’s why it might be worth the extra investment:
- Longer Software Support: Now that Apple has embraced yearly iPhone updates, the iPhone 16 will likely receive iOS updates that are at least one year longer than the iPhone 15.
- Advanced Buttons and Controls: With a touch of the Action Button and Camera Button, interactions for the phone become more challenging and more fun.
- Future-Proof AI Capabilities: While not really here yet, Apple Intelligence makes the iPhone 16 an enticing prospect for people looking to pick up on AI progress.
- Better Battery and Charging: You’ll spend less time plugged in thanks to an improved battery and a faster wireless charger.
Our Recommendation
That iPhone 16 might be tempting, but the amount of difference between it and the iPhone 15 might not be compelling for everyone. Could 120Hz ProMotion display and USB-C 3.0 data transfer features be worth waiting for in future versions.
That said, if you already own the iPhone 15, you may want to hold out for the next generation. If you’re totally fine with that extra battery life, new buttons, and future AI capabilities, the iPhone 16 is a good upgrade to what is a modern, powerful experience.