As we enter the time of year when Apple reveals its latest iPhone models, the iPhone 16 comes with various incremental updates. These include a better camera, improved battery life, and a more durable display. However, this year’s event focused more on how Apple Intelligence will be integrated into iOS 18.
So, if you already own an iPhone 15, should you consider upgrading? This article offers a comprehensive comparison between the iPhone 16 and iPhone 15 to help you decide if Apple’s new AI-powered smartphone is worth the upgrade.
PGasia | Introduction to the Contenders: iPhone 15 vs. iPhone 16
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The iPhone 15 introduced several major improvements over the iPhone 14 in 2023, including the dynamic island design, a 48-megapixel camera, and the introduction of a USB-C port. However, the iPhone 16 has returned to more incremental updates.
One of the most talked-about changes on the iPhone 16 is the introduction of a new Action button, which has generated a lot of buzz online. But is that change enough to justify a costly upgrade? Let’s explore how these two devices stack up against each other.
PGasia | iPhone 15 vs. iPhone 16: Specifications Comparison
When comparing the iPhone 15 and iPhone 16, their specs are quite similar. However, the iPhone 16 includes a faster A18 chipset, 8GB of RAM, and enhanced wireless charging capabilities, giving it a slight advantage over the iPhone 15.
| Feature | iPhone 16 | iPhone 15 |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 6.1-inch screen | 6.1-inch screen |
| Chipset | Faster A18 chipset | A16 Bionic chipset |
| RAM | 8GB RAM | 6GB RAM |
| AI Support | Supports Apple Intelligence | No AI support |
| Storage Options | 128GB/256GB/512GB | 128GB/256GB/512GB |
| Main Camera | 48MP Fusion main camera | 48MP main camera |
| Ultra-Wide Camera | 12MP ultra-wide with Macro support | 12MP ultra-wide |
| Battery Life | 22 hours of video playback | 20 hours of video playback |
| MagSafe Charging | 25W wireless charging | 15W wireless charging |
| Color Options | Ultra Marine, Teal, Pink, White, Black | Blue, Pink, Green, Yellow, Black |
| Mute/Action Button | New Action and Camera Control buttons | Mute switch |
PGasia | iPhone 15 vs. iPhone 16: Which Is Better?
Overall Winner: iPhone 16
Technically, the iPhone 16 stands out due to new features such as the Action and Camera Control buttons, faster wireless charging, and Apple Intelligence capabilities. However, this only makes it worth upgrading if you’re planning to make full use of these enhancements.
It’s also important to note that Apple Intelligence is still a work in progress, and its true benefits may not be fully realized for another 12 months.
Despite these future promises, the iPhone 16 wins this round with slight improvements, though the difference between the two models is closer than you might think.
PGasia | Design and Display
Winner: iPhone 16
At first glance, there is little to differentiate between the iPhone 16 and iPhone 15 in terms of size and overall design. However, closer inspection reveals that the iPhone 16 has replaced the traditional mute switch with the new Action and Camera Control buttons.
Additionally, the iPhone 16 reintroduces the vertical, pill-shaped camera layout that was last seen in models like the iPhone X. This change supports the new spatial video feature.
In terms of color choices, the iPhone 16 offers a fresh palette with Ultra Marine, Teal, and Pink options, which may appeal to those who enjoy customizing their devices.
Though the changes aren’t groundbreaking, they give the iPhone 16 another edge in this category.
Performance and Software
Winner: Tie
Only the iPhone 15 Pro models will support Apple’s new AI features, meaning base model iPhone 15 owners won’t get to experience Apple Intelligence.
However, even with the iPhone 16, Apple Intelligence is still in development and will roll out gradually over the next year. This makes it hard for the iPhone 16 to secure a clear victory in this category.
Until we see Apple Intelligence’s full potential in action, the performance of both phones remains closely matched.
Camera Features
Winner: iPhone 16
Although both models feature a 48MP Fusion main camera, the iPhone 16 pulls ahead with its 12MP ultra-wide lens that includes Macro support.
The addition of a dedicated Camera Control button makes capturing photos easier and more precise, allowing users to focus with a light press and capture the shot by fully pressing the button.
With these enhancements, the iPhone 16 easily wins the camera comparison.
Audio Quality
Winner: Tie
Despite minor improvements, there is little difference in audio quality between the two devices. As a result, this category ends in a tie.
Battery and Charging
Winner: iPhone 16
The iPhone 16 improves wireless MagSafe charging from 15W to 25W, along with an increased battery life of up to 22 hours of video playback, compared to 20 hours for the iPhone 15.
Although these are incremental improvements, they give the iPhone 16 a slight edge in battery performance.
Price Comparison
Winner: iPhone 15
| Model | iPhone 15 Prices | iPhone 16 Prices |
|---|---|---|
| Base Model | $699 | $799 |
| Plus Model | $799 | $899 |
| Pro Model | $999 | $999 |
| Pro Max Model | $1,199 | $1,199 |
The iPhone 16 base model starts at $799, which is $100 more than the iPhone 15’s starting price of $699. Since the AI features aren’t fully functional yet, many may find the iPhone 15 to be the better value, especially as its price is expected to drop with the launch of the new model.
iPhone 16 Plus vs. iPhone 15 Plus
Winner: iPhone 16 Plus
When comparing the iPhone 16 Plus and iPhone 15 Plus, we see slight differences in the A18 chipset, an additional 2GB of RAM, and the introduction of the Action and Camera Control buttons.
Though not major changes, the iPhone 16 Plus wins for those seeking a new device. However, current iPhone 15 Plus owners may not find enough reasons to upgrade.
iPhone 16 vs. iPhone 15: Should You Upgrade?
Before rushing to upgrade, it’s important to remember that the iPhone 16 offers incremental updates, and many of its AI-powered features won’t be available immediately.
While the addition of the Camera and Action buttons are appealing, and Apple Intelligence is an exciting prospect, you might want to wait for the iPhone 17 when these features are more fully realized.
In the meantime, investing in a battery replacement for your iPhone 15 might be a more cost-effective option. However, if you need the latest tech, the iPhone 16 offers modest improvements that could make it worth considering.
