One of the perennial points of controversy that accompanies each new iPhone release is undoubtedly its battery performance. The iPhone 15 and 15 Pro, since their initial days, encountered performance issues, leaving many users frustrated about their battery life. The big question is, just how long do these batteries actually last?
After conducting a comprehensive assessment of the four Apple phones introduced in 2023 and comparing them with their predecessors, we now possess enlightening data regarding their autonomy.
It’s essential to clarify that our iPhone battery tests do not rely solely on screen-on time; they encompass various tasks that demand different levels of performance, such as gaming, streaming, and social media usage – all to address the practical concerns of potential buyers.
Base iPhone 15: Meeting Expectations
The standard model of the iPhone 15 doesn’t come with any surprises, be it for better or worse. It delivers precisely what Apple promised in terms of battery life. This model houses a 3877 mAh battery, which, according to Apple’s specifications, should provide 16 hours of screen time – a figure that, as we’ve noted earlier, doesn’t quite align with reality.
In real-world testing from various media sources and YouTube channels, the iPhone 15 doesn’t excel in battery life, but it doesn’t perform poorly either when compared to previous generations. Its autonomy is notably commendable, often reaching up to 10 hours in most cases.
iPhone 15 Pro: The Disappointing Contender
The iPhone 15 Pro, the model that held the most promise, has ended up being the most disappointing in terms of battery life. Despite Apple’s claim of up to 23 hours of screen time with a 3650 mAh battery, it falls significantly short of expectations.
In fact, the iPhone 15 Pro stands out as having the shortest battery life among the 2023 iPhone lineup. It averaged only 9 hours and 20 minutes of screen-on time in tests, an inadequate result considering its high price and powerful chip.
The iPhone 15 Plus: Battery Champion
It’s no surprise that larger smartphones tend to boast greater battery capacity. The iPhone 15 Plus, with a 4912 mAh battery, promises 20 hours of screen time. Meanwhile, the iPhone 15 Pro pledges 29 hours, yet it falls short in practice.
In real-world testing, the iPhone 15 Pro Max averages about 11 hours of battery life. The standout performer in the battery department is the iPhone 15 Plus, offering a remarkable autonomy of over 13 hours, even during demanding tasks like gaming, GPS navigation, and photography.
For those seeking a premium phone with exceptional battery life, the iPhone 15 Plus, despite its premium price tag, stands as the ideal choice in the Apple ecosystem.