When you're in the market for a new iPhone, the sheer number of options can be overwhelming. In 2024, Apple released the iPhone 16 and 16 Pro models, and later introduced the iPhone 16e, expanding the range of choices. Whether you're aiming for the latest technology or looking for a more budget-friendly option, understanding the differences among these models is crucial for making an informed decision.
Apple iPhone 16 Pro
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Apple iPhone 16
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Apple iPhone 16e
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OnePlus 13
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No matter which iPhone you select, you'll benefit from iOS 18, announced at WWDC 2024, which introduces numerous AI features and a revamped, more organized Photos app. To leverage Apple Intelligence, however, you'll need an iPhone 15 or later.
For the best accessories to complement your new iPhone, check out our guide to the best iPhone accessories, particularly screen protectors. We've also reviewed the Apple AirPods 4 with ANC, which hold their own against the AirPods 2 in several categories, making them a worthy investment.
Contributions by Georgie Peru and Rudie Obias
iPhone 16 Pro
Best Overall iPhone
Apple iPhone 16 Pro
2A compact size meets powerful internals, a great display, and capable cameras. See it at Best BuySee it at Apple
Product Specifications
- Screen: 6.3-inch OLED, 1206x2622, 460 ppi, 120Hz refresh rate
- Processor: A18 Pro
- Camera: 48-Megapixel Wide, 48-Megapixel Ultrawide, 12-Megapixel Telephoto, 12-Megapixel Selfie
- Battery: 3,582mAh
- Weight: 199g (0.44lb)
PROS
- Powerful performance
- Elegant design
- Robust camera system
CONS
- Camera settings could use some tweaks
The iPhone 16 Pro strikes the perfect balance between the base iPhone 16 and the iPhone 16 Pro Max. Its compact form factor is ideal for one-handed use, yet it retains all the features and camera sensors found in the Pro Max. For those who prefer a larger screen, the iPhone 16 Pro Max offers a similar experience.
Equipped with the A18 Pro chip, the iPhone 16 Pro delivers exceptional performance for everyday use and gaming. It boasts the highest single-core Geekbench 6 score we've seen in any phone, and its GPU handles the latest games at high frame rates and max settings.
Apple's build quality is top-notch, with a luxurious feel, though the color options are less vibrant. The screen is brilliant, offering high brightness, contrast, and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate. Despite Apple's claims about Ceramic Shield's durability, it's still susceptible to scratches, making additional protection advisable.
The iPhone 16 Pro's camera system excels, particularly the main sensor which performs well in low-light conditions. The ultra-wide lens captures more in the frame but can struggle with softness and noise, while the 5x telephoto lens is great for portraits and distant subjects. The new Camera Control feature offers a more traditional shutter-button experience, though it could benefit from further refinement.
iPhone 16 – Photos
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iPhone 16
Best Mid-Range iPhone
Apple iPhone 16
2More affordable than its Pro siblings, the iPhone 16 doesn't make you give up a lot and still delivers excellent performance. See it at Best BuySee it at Apple
Product Specifications
- Screen: 6.3-inch OLED, 1206x2622, 460 ppi, 120Hz refresh rate
- Processor: A18
- Camera: 48-Megapixel Wide, 48-Megapixel Ultrawide, 12-Megapixel Telephoto, 12-Megapixel Selfie
- Battery: 3,582mAh
- Weight: 199g (0.44lb)
PROS
- Excellent performance
- Fun colors
CONS
- Ultra-wide and selfie shots can be soft
The iPhone 16 is an excellent mid-range choice within the iPhone lineup. With the introduction of Apple Intelligence, it needed a robust internal setup, leading to the inclusion of the A18 chip. This chip delivers performance nearly identical to the A18 Pro found in the Pro models, surpassing many Android phones with Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipsets.
The iPhone 16 handles everyday tasks and demanding games like Wuthering Waves effortlessly, staying comfortable even during long sessions. It offers colorful design options, along with black and white variants, and features Ceramic Shield for protection, though additional safeguards are recommended. Its smaller size makes it more pocket-friendly and easier to handle than the wider Pro Max models.
While it lacks the 120Hz refresh rate of the Pro models, the iPhone 16's display remains sharp and vibrant, enhancing the viewing experience. The main camera captures vivid images with good light handling, but the ultra-wide and selfie cameras may produce softer images, likely due to focus issues that Apple may address in future updates.
iPhone 16e
Best Budget iPhone
Apple iPhone 16e
0The iPhone 16e is Apple's cheapest new option and comes with a potent chip, though with some trade-offs. See it at Apple
Product Specifications
- Screen: 6.1-inch OLED, 1170x2532, 60Hz refresh rate
- Processor: A18
- Camera: 48-Megapixel Wide, 12-Megapixel Selfie
- Battery: 4,005mAh
- Weight: 167g (0.39lb)
PROS
- Fast chip
- Lower price than main iPhone lineup
CONS
- Trims a handful of common iPhone features
The iPhone 16e is Apple's new budget-friendly option, starting at $599. It runs on the A18 chip, offering robust performance and access to Apple Intelligence features. It features a modern design with a larger, sharper 6.1-inch OLED display, an aluminum frame, and Ceramic Shield glass, with base storage now at 128GB.
However, it lacks several standard iPhone features such as MagSafe, wireless charging, mmWave 5G, UWB support, and a second rear camera. These omissions limit its functionality and camera capabilities. If these features are essential, consider refurbished or renewed devices like the iPhone 14 Pro or iPhone 15, available for under $500 on platforms like Amazon.
OnePlus 13
Best iPhone Alternative
OnePlus 13
0A great design, excellent display, superb performance, and impressive cameras combine in a discounted flagship that deserves consideration. See it at Best BuySee it at OnePlus
Product Specifications
- Screen: 6.82-inch OLED, 1440x3168, 510ppi, 120Hz refresh rate
- Processor: Snapdragon 8 Elite
- Camera: 50-Megapixel Wide, 50-Megapixel Ultrawide, 50-Megapixel Telephoto, 32-Megapixel Selfie
- Battery: 6,000mAh
- Weight: 210g (0.46lb)
PROS
- Great value
- Fast performance
CONS
- Software support a little shorter than rivals
The OnePlus 13, priced at $899, offers a compelling alternative to the iPhone 16 Pro Max. It features a triple-camera setup with a 50MP telephoto, 50MP main, and 50MP ultra-wide sensors, delivering excellent photos and videos, complemented by a high-quality 32MP selfie camera.
Its 6.82-inch OLED display boasts a 3168x1440 resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate, providing smooth visuals and power efficiency. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite, it matches or exceeds the iPhone 16 Pro Max in performance, making it a gaming powerhouse. The 6,000mAh battery supports all-day use, with 80W wired and 50W wireless charging for quick recharges.
The OnePlus 13's elegant design comes in various stylish colorways, including silver and white, silver with vegan leather in blue, and black with a wood grain pattern. It features an alert slider and offers superior water resistance with IP68 and IP69 ratings. For those not tied to iOS, the OnePlus 13 is a strong contender.
Upcoming iPhones
In 2024, Apple introduced the iPhone 16 series, bringing significant improvements and performance enhancements. Additionally, Apple lowered prices on earlier models and introduced the budget-friendly iPhone 16e. Rumors and leaks suggest an upcoming iPhone 17 lineup, including an iPhone Air.
What to Look for in an Apple iPhone
Despite the variety of models, the user experience remains consistent across Apple iPhones, making them the most popular smartphone globally. Here's what to consider when choosing an iPhone in 2025:
Phone Size
Size is a critical factor. For one-handed use, smaller models like the iPhone 16 or iPhone 14 are ideal. For those with larger hands, the iPhone 16 Plus or iPhone 16 Pro Max offer larger displays and a more comfortable grip.
Storage Capacity
Consider your storage needs. If you plan to store many high-resolution photos, the iPhone 16 Pro Max with 1TB of storage is a top choice. Other models start at 128GB, suitable for casual users.
Price
Prices range from the budget-friendly iPhone 16e at $599 to the premium iPhone 16 Pro Max (1TB) at $1,599. Regardless of the model, you'll enjoy the same iOS experience, with updates for five to six years post-purchase.
Ultimately, the best iPhone for you depends on your usage. The iPhone 16 Pro stands out as the most well-rounded option, offering a fast processor, excellent camera system, attractive design, and various storage options at a competitive price.
Best iPhone FAQ
What are the best iPhone alternatives?
While iPhones lead the smartphone market, several Android phones offer strong competition. Top alternatives include the OnePlus 13 and Google Pixel 9 Pro. Other brands like Asus and RedMagic also provide compelling options with features that iOS users might appreciate.
