So the iPhone 16 series is finally out and you’re contemplating if you should get it or perhaps save some money by getting the older generation iPhone 15 series. In this article, we will point out the similar features that you will enjoy by getting an iPhone 15 Pro Max instead of the shiny new iPhone 16 Pro Max. Read on as this article may save you hundreds of dollars.
Titanium build and design
Last year, Apple highlighted its titanium build as a key selling point. With the notably lighter and more durable metal, Apple assured greater durability in its iPhone 15 Pro series. The same is seen in the iPhone 16 Pro Max. Although the iPhone 16 Pro Max is slightly taller than the iPhone 15 Pro Max, the difference is negligible.
Aside from the new camera control button, everything is pretty much the same.
Display
While Apple is claiming a larger screen and smaller bezels on the iPhone 16 Pro Max, the difference is less than 2% in terms of screen to body ratio. This may have been impressive perhaps in the late 2010s, but this slight upsize is barely going to make a difference in overall experience.
Apple Intelligence
The good thing about Apple is that they tend to roll out software updates across most of their devices and the iPhone 15 Pro Max is no exception. iPhone 15 Pro Max users can expect the same AI capabilities that will be seen in the iPhone 16 series towards the end of 2024.
Similar main and telephoto camera
Aside from an improved ultrawide camera and 4k 120fps video recording capability, the cameras in the iPhone 15 Pro Max remain pretty much the same. Recording in 4k at 120 fps is a relatively niche function that may only be utilised by professionals. Everyday users will find that the regular recording and photo-taking functions in the iPhone 15 Pro Max is more than capable for regular to advanced use.
USB type-C
If you use a combination of Android and Apple products, the iPhone 15 series would already be utilising type-C USB cables. Now you can enjoy some uniformity across all devices. Exclusive to the iPhone 15 and 16 Pro Max series is USB 3.0 capabilities that ensure faster transfer speeds and faster charging.
Charging speeds
While you will enjoy faster wired charging speeds when compared to the iPhone 14 Pro Max, the iPhone 15 Pro Mac and 16 Pro Max have the same charging speed, giving you 50% of battery life after 30 minutes of charging. The main difference in battery life is the slightly upgraded 4685 mAh battery from the 4441 mAh in the iPhone 15 Pro Max. There is also an increased 25W wireless charging in iPhones sold outside of China.
Dynamic Island and Action Button
Outwardly, the main differentiator of the two devices is the camera control button. As an iPhone 15 Pro Max user, you will have access to the Dynamic Island as well as the Action Button. While photographers may appreciate the camera controls, it comes off as a niche function that offers convenience. It also forces the user to angle the camera horizontally which is not very intuitive considering platforms like TikTok and Instagram seem to favour vertical orientations.
Conclusion
iPhone launches have the effect of inspiring consumers to upgrade but take a step back and you’ll find that prior offerings are just as good at a smaller price tag. If you are looking to upgrade your phone without spending too much, consider the iPhone 15 Pro or Pro Max, or even an older generation iPhone that will surely fulfil your needs. Check out what’s available at CompAsia today.
