iPhone 16 vs iPhone 15: What’s Better and What’s Not

by Jenefey Aaron   Updated on 2024-09-12 / Update for  iPhone 16

Buying an iPhone 15 or waiting for an iPhone 16, which one is the best?

—Reddit

Every year, Apple launches new iPhones. iPhone 16 vs iPhone 15 comparisons are already trending. Leaks hint at exciting features. The iPhone 15 vs iPhone 16 debate focuses on key upgrades. Expect changes in the camera, chips, and screen. Rumors also suggest new buttons. Like the iPhone 15 series, the iPhone 16 will offer four models.

With the iPhone 16's release in September 2024, deciding between the iPhone 15 and iPhone 16 becomes crucial. Not sure whether to wait? This article will help you choose.

Part 1. iPhone 16/Pro vs iPhone 15/Pro

When comparing the iPhone 16 size vs 15 size design, the changes are noticeable. The iPhone 16 is expected to introduce a vertical camera setup on the standard models, replacing the diagonal arrangement of the iPhone 15. This shift accommodates spatial video recording, a feature previously exclusive to the Pro models. The standard iPhone 16 models will likely adopt the new Action Button, which debuted with the iPhone 15 Pro.

For the iPhone 16 Pro Max, a larger 6.9-inch display with slimmer bezels and a new pill-shaped camera are expected. The Pro models maintain their sleek, premium look while offering bigger screens and new buttons, including a "Capture Button" for quick photo-taking. Both models will continue to feature a USB-C port and IP68 water and dust protection, with potential new colors like Purple in the mix.

Also Read: iPhone 16 Manual PDF Guide

Part 2. iPhone 16 vs iPhone 15 Specs

When comparing the iPhone 16 vs iPhone 15, the most significant changes lie in performance and features. Both models offer similar storage options and camera specs, but the iPhone 16 may have a larger battery and new color options like Purple.

iphone 15 vs iphone 15

iPhone 16 Specs vs 15:

FeatureiPhone 16iPhone 15
ChipsetApple A18 (newer, faster)Apple A16 Bionic
RAM8GB6GB
Storage Options128GB / 256GB / 512GB128GB / 256GB / 512GB
Camera SetupVertical, supports Spatial VideoDiagonal, no Spatial Video
Battery Size6% larger3,349 mAh
Wired Charging20W or faster 20W
ButtonsAction Button, Capture ButtonMute Switch
Color OptionsPurple (new), other optionsBlue, Pink, Green, Yellow, Black
AI SupportYesNo

Part 3. iPhone 16/Pro vs iPhone 15/Pro Camera

The iPhone 16 brings better cameras than the iPhone 15. The iPhone 16 Pro models get a new 48MP ultra-wide camera, while the iPhone 15 Pro has a 12MP ultra-wide camera. This means better low-light photos and sharper images on the iPhone 16.

The iPhone 16 Pro also has a 5x optical zoom lens, which was only on the iPhone 15 Pro Max before. A new Capture Button on the side of the iPhone 16 helps you take photos like a real camera. Even the standard iPhone 16 will take better photos with its improved processing chip. Plus, both iPhone 16 models can now record Spatial Video.

iphone 16 camera

Also Read: Transfer Photos from Old iPhone to New iPhone 16

Part 4. iPhone 16 vs iPhone 15 Performance and Software

The iPhone 16 brings significant improvements over the iPhone 15, starting with a new and faster A18 chip, compared to the A16 Bionic in the iPhone 15. This new chip is based on a 3nm process, promising better performance and efficiency, especially in AI-related tasks.

In terms of RAM, the iPhone 16 is expected to feature 8GB, compared to 6GB in the iPhone 15. This upgrade supports more demanding tasks and improves AI functions. The iPhone 16 Pro models will get even faster A18 Pro chips with better GPU performance, while the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max have the A17 Pro chip.

Part 5. iPhone 16 vs iPhone 15 Battery Life and Charging

The iPhone 16 models are expected to bring modest upgrades in battery life and charging speeds compared to the iPhone 15. The iPhone 16 will reportedly have a 3,561 mAh battery, a 6% increase from the 3,349 mAh found in the iPhone 15. However, these battery gains may not lead to a significant improvement in real-world usage.

Charging speeds may see a bigger leap, with the iPhone 16 potentially supporting up to 40W wired charging, significantly faster than the 27W limit of the iPhone 15. MagSafe wireless charging might get a bump to 20W from 15W, leading to faster charging times.

iphone 16 battery specs
SpecificationiPhone 15iPhone 16
Battery Size3,349 mAh3,561 mAh (+6%)
Battery TechnologySingle-layerStacked (denser)
Wired Charging SpeedUp to 27WUp to 40W (48% faster)

Part 6. iPhone 16 vs iPhone 15 Price

Apple typically lowers the price of older iPhone models after launching a new generation. With the release of the iPhone 16, the iPhone 15 models are expected to become more affordable. The iPhone 16 lineup is predicted to have a higher starting price across all variants compared to the post-launch prices of the iPhone 15.

iPhone 16 vs iPhone 15 Prices

ModeliPhone 15 iPhone 16
iPhone StandardFrom $699From $799
iPhone PlusFrom $799From $899
iPhone ProFrom $999From $999
iPhone Pro MaxFrom $1199From $1199

Part 7. Should I Wait for the iPhone 16

The iPhone 16 brings some notable upgrades, but whether it's worth waiting for depends on your needs. Key improvements include a faster A18 chip, more RAM, enhanced AI capabilities, the new Capture Button, Macro photography support, and better battery life with faster charging.

The differences between the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro may not be substantial for everyone. The lack of 120Hz ProMotion on the iPhone 16 might push some users towards the Pro models. For those with older iPhones, the iPhone 16 could be a significant upgrade in performance and features. But if you already have the iPhone 15, upgrading may not be necessary unless the new AI features or camera improvements appeal to you.

Also Read: How to Check if iPhone 16 is Original

Part 8. Bonus Tips: How to Transfer Data from iPhone 15 to iPhone 16

Transferring data from an old iPhone to a new one might be difficult, but with Tenorshare iCareFone, the procedure is straightforward, quick, and safe. Whether you're upgrading from iPhone 15 to iPhone 16, iCareFone offers a smooth transition with no data loss or quality compromises.

It's the ideal solution for anyone looking for a simple upgrade, with additional features such as selective file transfer, direct phone-to-phone migration, and greater privacy. Say goodbye to complex transfers and hello to an easier, faster, and safer way to move your data!

Advantages:

  • Migrate photos selectively or in bulk, preserving 100% of the original photo quality during transfer.
  • Transfer up to 10 different types of data, including contacts, messages, photos, videos, and more.
  • Works directly between two phones without the need for a computer.
  • Supports over 1,000 phone models, ensuring broad device compatibility.
  • Provides encrypted data transfer with no third-party server storage, keeping your information secure.
  • User-friendly design makes the transfer process simple, even for beginners.
  • Transfer data quicker than iCloud or iTunes without needing an internet connection.
  • Allows you to choose specific files to transfer, giving you full control over your data.

Conclusion:

When comparing iPhone 16 vs iPhone 15, the latest iPhone 16 brings some noticeable improvements. However, for those wondering what are the differences between iPhone 15 and iPhone 16, it's clear now. If you decide to jump, transferring data is made easy with Tenorshare iCareFone. It offers a quick, secure way to transfer your photos, apps, and more from your old device to your new one without any hassle.

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  • Sopport the latest iOS 18 and iPhone 16