Which iPhone Should You Buy?

Consider budget, storage, and features to find the best iPhone for you

By
Sam Costello
Sam Costello
Sam Costello
Writer
  • Ithaca College
Sam Costello has been writing about tech since 2000. His writing has appeared in publications such as CNN.com, PC World, InfoWord, and many others.
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Updated on June 12, 2025
Reviewed by
Christine Baker
Reviewed by Christine Baker
    Christine Baker is a marketing consultant with experience working for a variety of clients. Her expertise includes social media, web development, and graphic design.
    lifewire's editorial guidelines
    4 models from the iPhone 16 Pro Series

    Apple Inc.

    The Download

    • Determine your budget, storage capacity needs, hardware preferences, and which features you want.
    • The iPhone 16e, the budget-friendly but feature-packed models, is the newest release.
    • Previous iPhone generations are only slight downgrades from their predecessors.

    This article explains how to decide which iPhone is best for you among the iPhone models Apple is currently selling: iPhone 16 Pro Max, iPhone 16 Pro, iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, and iPhone 16e.

    We'll also look at older iPhone models, from the iPhone 15 to iPhone 8 series, that are currently available only as refurbished devices through Apple or via third-party sellers.

    iPhone 16 Pro Max and iPhone 16 Pro

    Apple iPhone 16 Pro

    Apple
    What We Like

    • A18 Pro procesor.

    • Longer-lasting battery than iPhone 15 Pro models.

    • Slightly larger display than iPhone 15 Pros.

    What We Don't Like

    • Not wildly different from iPhone 15 Pro models.

    • Only released a year apart.

    • Slightly heavier than 15 Pro models.

    Who will want it: People who like to have the latest and greatest in their devices.

    Notable specs: The iPhone 16 Pro Max and iPhone 16 Pro sit at the top of the iPhone mountain, boasting an A18 Pro processor that makes them up to 20 percent faster than iPhone 15 Pro models, a dedicated Camera Control Button, slightly bigger displays, and longer-lasting batteries than the 15 Pro series. The same impressive camera setup appears, delivering Ultrawide and Telephoto lenses, Macro and Spatial photography, and a slight upgrade with up to 5x optical zoom.

    Bottom line: The iPhone 16 Pro Max and Pro deliver the best displays, cameras, and performance you can get in an iPhone.

    iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus

    iPhone 16 buttons
    There it is, recessed into the frame.

    Apple
    What We Like

    • Powerful A18 chipset.

    • Apple Intelligence.

    • Camera Control and Action buttons.

    • Improved camera system.

    What We Don't Like

    • Looks very similar to the iPhone 15.

    • No telephoto lens for zooming.

    • Resolution not as good as Pro models.

    Who will want it: If you have an older iPhone, like the iPhone 12, one of these models could be worth the upgrade.

    Notable specs: The iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus sit at the bottom of the model lineup, but sport some impressive new additions. Both phones receive the most powerful A18 chipset with built-in Apple Intelligence. You'll also see the addition of a dedicated Camera Control button and the return of a customizable Action Button. While the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus lack the advanced camera features of 16 Pro models, both capture Macro shots and Spatial photos and videos.

    Bottom line: The iPhone 16 and 16 Plus models aren't drastically different from their predecessors, but if you want a big boost in hardware, the A18 chip far surpasses the A16 in the iPhone 15 base models.

    iPhone 16e

    iPhone 16e in black and white

    Apple
    What We Like

    • Budget-friendly.

    • 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display.

    • Supports Apple Intelligence.

    • Includes the Action Button.

    What We Don't Like

    • Lacks MagSafe.

    • Only one rear camera.

    • No Dynamic Island.

    Who will want it: Users who want the core magic of iPhone at a more affordable price point.

    Notable specs: The iPhone 16e is Apple's answer to budget-conscious smartphone shoppers. It offers some of the best and most recent features you'll find in other iPhone 16 models: an A18 chip with support for Apple Intelligence, an Action Button, and a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display. Another unique distinction is the battery life, rated for up to 26 hours—the longest in an iPhone this size.

    Bottom line: The iPhone 16e lacks a few of the extras in the 16 series lineup, but has the essentials: a large, clear display, an impressive camera, Apple Intelligence, and a customizable Action Button.

    iPhone 15 Pro Max and iPhone 15 Pro

    iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max

    Courtesy of Apple
    What We Like

    • Durable Titanium design.

    • Slimmest borders of any iPhone.

    • Pro camera system.

    • Handy action button.

    What We Don't Like

    • A bit heavy.

    • Charging can be slow.

    • Limited color options.

    Who will want it: If you want more of the coolest, latest tech in your smartphone, the iPhone 15 Pro series is worth considering.

    Notable specs: The iPhone 15 Pro Max and iPhone 15 Pro share most of the same features. This lineup gets Dynamic Island, Always-On technology, a programmable Action Button, and a powerful new A17 chip to keep operation fast and efficient. Both models also have a hardy Titanium build with the slimmest borders of any iPhone and a pro-grade ProMotion camera system with up to 3x optical zoom.

    Bottom line: For users who demand a lot from their iPhones, the iPhone 15 Pro series delivers with speedy performance, a highly durable design, and excellent camera technology upgrades.

    iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus

    Apple iPhone 15 Plus.

    AT&T
    What We Like

    • Transition to USB-C.

    • Dynamic Island technology.

    • Thinner build.

    • Upgraded camera system.

    • Improved location finding.

    What We Don't Like

    • No ProMotion.

    • Limited colors.

    • Lacks always-on display.

    Who will want it: If you don't need some of the advanced features of the iPhone 15 Pro series, the iPhone 15 and 15 Plus pack much of the same punch for less.

    Notable specs: Like all of the iPhone 15 Pro models, the base 6.1-inch iPhone 15 and the 6.7-inch iPhone 15 Plus are equipped with USB-C ports for charging and data transfer, Dynamic Island technology for live notifications, and improved SOS support and satellite roadside assistance. The iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus also get a revamped 48MP camera with up to 2x optical zoom.

    Bottom line: The iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus lack ProMotion and Always-On technology, but they boast camera and design upgrades that mirror or nearly mirror the Pro models.

    iPhone 14 Pro Max and Pro

    Closeup on the iPhone 14 Pro camera array on the back of the phone.

    Apple
    What We Like

    • Always-On display.

    • Dynamic Island

    • Extra battery life.

    • Improved pro-grade camera system.

    What We Don't Like

    • Slightly heavier than iPhone 13 Pros.

    • Not a huge leap from iPhone 13.

    • Uses a Lightning connector.

    Who will want it: Older-generation iPhone users looking for a boost from the camera and overall performance will find a lot to like in the iPhone 14 Pro Max and iPhone 14 Pro.

    Notable specs: The iPhone 14 Pro Max and iPhone 14 Pro offer a few significant changes over the iPhone 13 Pros: Both introduce an A16 chip, Always-On display, Dynamic Island for interactive alerts, and a 48MP camera system—a huge bump from the 12MP iPhone 13 Pro systems. The iPhone 14 Pro series also gets an extra hour of video playback over the iPhone 13 Pros and new emergency features like crash detection and emergency SOS via satellite.

    Bottom line: While the iPhone 14 Pro series doesn't depart too wildly from the iPhone 13 Pro series, it does offer a noteworthy camera and chip upgrade.

    Apple discontinued the iPhone 14 Pro Max and iPhone 14 Pro upon the release of the iPhone 15 series.

    iPhone 14 Plus and iPhone 14

    Buy iPhone 14

    Apple
    What We Like

    • New emergency features.

    • Action Mode.

    • Up to 26 hours of video playback.

    • 4K video in Cinematic mode.

    What We Don't Like

    • Few significant upgrades from iPhone 13.

    • Some won't like the lack of physical SIM support.

    Who will want it: Older iPhone users looking for more of the latest features at a lower price point might find a happy medium with the iPhone 14 or iPhone 14 Plus.

    Notable specs: Both the 6.7-inch iPhone 14 Plus and 6.1-inch iPhone 14 come with the A15 Bionic chip and several emergency tool enhancements such as crash detection, emergency SOS, and satellite roadside assistance. These models also have Action Mode for more stable video shooting, up to 4K quality in cinematic mode, and support 26 hours (iPhone 14 Plus) and 20 hours (iPhone 14) of video playback.

    Bottom line: The iPhone 14 Plus and iPhone 14 don't offer a lot over the iPhone 13, but an improved camera could tip the scales for vintage iPhone users seeking an upgrade.

    iPhone 13 Pro Max and iPhone 13 Pro

    Apple iPhone Pro AND PRO Max
    What We Like

    • Up to 30 hours of battery life.

    • Amazing camera technology.

    • High refresh rate.

    • Crisp, bright screen.

    What We Don't Like

    • Lacks expandable storage.

    • Volume quality lacks at higher volumes.

    • Big and heavy.

    Who will want it: Both the iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max offer Apple's TrueTone color management system, making it an excellent choice for artists, content creators, and heavy users.

    Notable specs: The iPhone 13 Pro and Pro Max feature extraordinary cameras, long battery life, and A15 Bionic chips. The 13 Pro's screen is 6.1 inches, while the Pro Max boasts a 6.7-inch display with 2,778 x 1,284-pixel resolution. Both models' screens are noticeably brighter than previous models and feature a ProMotion display, which means a higher refresh rate.

    Bottom line: An iPhone 13 Pro or Pro Max will let you enjoy a gorgeous screen experience where animations and graphics—and even everyday images—are smooth and crisp.

    Apple removed the iPhone 13 Pro Max and iPhone 13 Pro from its store when the iPhone 14 series debuted.

    iPhone 13

    Apple iPhone 13
    What We Like

    • Improved performance and battery life.

    • Excellent camera.

    • Most bang for your buck.

    • 5G connectivity.

    What We Don't Like

    • Smaller notch isn't very useful.

    • Charging time slower than some competitors.

    • Not a major update over the iPhone 12.

    Who will want it: The iPhone 13's improvements over previous models in storage, performance, battery life, and camera make it an excellent device and a wise choice for those seeking an impressive, high-end smartphone at a reasonable price point.

    Notable specs: The iPhone 13 includes the same A15 Bionic chip as the 13 Pro and Pro Max. The iPhone 13 also features a 6.1-inch OLED Super Retina XDR display with 2532 x 1170-pixel resolution, 5G connectivity, and dual cameras boasting 12MP Ultra Wide and Wide lenses.

    Bottom line: The iPhone 13 is a gorgeous device with many of the benefits of its enhanced Pro and Pro Max siblings, but with a lower price tag and size that will appeal to the masses.

    iPhone 13 Mini

    iPhone 13 mini
    What We Like

    • Compact and lightweight.

    • Scratch-resistant screen and dust and water resistance.

    • Excellent photo and video quality from three cameras.

    What We Don't Like

    • Doesn't have a 120Hz refresh rate.

    • Ships without a charger.

    • Battery life is lower than the iPhone 13.

    Who will want it: With its compact, lightweight, and durable design, the iPhone 13 Mini is an excellent choice for those who want to reap the benefits of a flagship phone in a compact form factor.

    Notable specs: The iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 Mini share many key features, including the same A15 Bionic chip. The 13 and Mini also share an OLED Super Retina XDR display, 5G connectivity, and dual cameras boasting 12MP Ultra Wide and Wide lenses. While the iPhone Mini's battery life features 17 hours of video playback, this is less than the iPhone 13's 19 hours.

    Obviously, the Mini is smaller, with a 5.4-inch display and 2340 x 1080-pixel resolution. It's thin and lightweight, which many consumers prefer over bulkier phones.

    Bottom line: Users who don't mind less battery life and prioritize pocketability and affordability will love the iPhone 13 Mini.

    Apple discontinued the iPhone 13 Mini in September 2023 when the iPhone 15 launched.

    iPhone SE (Third Generation)

    iPhone SE third generation
    What We Like

    • Supports 5G connectivity.

    • Use a physical SIM card or an eSIM.

    • Battery life improved from the previous incarnations.

    • Affordable price with powerful features.

    What We Don't Like

    • Small screen.

    • Not a fast refresh rate.

    • Images are dark in low light.

    Who will want it: Apple's third-generation iPhone SE is an excellent choice for those who want the panache of an iPhone at an affordable price, starting at $429.

    Notable specs: The iPhone SE has a 4.7-inch display and includes the Home button, like its previous incarnations, while improving battery life and supporting 5G connectivity. The iPhone SE features the same A15 Bionic chip as the flagship iPhone 13 line, which powers the diminutive device without slowing down tasks like multitasking, editing images, and opening apps.

    Bottom line: For a 5G iPhone on a budget, the iPhone Mini is unbeatable, with the power and features of an expensive phone in a compact size.

    iPhone 12 and 12 Mini

    Apple iPhone 12 mini
    What We Like

    • Updated design compared to older models.

    • Benefits of newer iPhones but more affordable.

    • Significant camera improvements.

    What We Don't Like

    • Battery life isn't great.

    • Screen is only 60Hz.

    • Doesn't come with a charger.

    Who will want it: When they were unveiled in 2020, the iPhone 12 and 12 Mini were Apple's flagship devices, bringing an overhauled design to the iPhone lineup. Today, they're still excellent choices for those who want middle-of-the-road iPhones at an affordable price.

    Notable specs: The iPhone 12 has a 6.1-inch screen and a 2532 x 1170 resolution, while the 12 Mini has a 5.4-inch screen and a resolution of 2430 x 1080. The iPhone 12 succeeded 2019's iPhone 11, while the 12 Mini marked the smallest iPhone to date. Both devices boast an A14 chip, HDR support, vivid colors, haptic touch, and True Tone to adjust the display's color to ambient light.

    Bottom line: The iPhone 12 has many of the newer iPhone 13 series plusses at a more affordable price.

    Apple discontinued the iPhone 12 Pro and iPhone 12 Pro Max shortly after debuting the iPhone 13 series.

    iPhone 11

    The six colors of the iPhone 11
    What We Like

    • Supports Face ID and NFC.

    • Affordably priced while still feature-full and powerful.

    • Battery life on par with the iPhone 12.

    What We Don't

    • Looks dated.

    • Doesn't have 5G connectivity.

    Who will want it: If you don't mind your iPhone looking and acting a bit dated, don't need 5G connectivity, and aren't too worried about durability, the iPhone 11 may be a good, affordable choice.

    Notable specs: The iPhone 11 debuted an edge-to-edge OLED HDR screen (5.8 inches), a three-camera system, and enhanced IP68 waterproofing. In addition, it debuted the next-generation Face ID recognition system for unlocking the iPhone and confirming Apple Pay transactions. It also features the A13 Bionic chip and support for NFC (Near-Field Communication).

    Bottom line: Look a the iPhone 12 and 13 series' features and decide what you can live without. If the 11 suits your needs and budget, it's worthwhile.

    Apple discontinued the iPhone 11 upon the release of the iPhone 14 series.

    iPhone XR

    The iPhone XR
    What We Like

    • Boasted many of the iPhone 11's features.

    • Cameras improved on earlier incarnations.

    • Better battery life than its predecessors.

    What We Don't Like

    • Storage maxed out at 256 GB.

    • Less effective waterproof features.

    The iPhone XR is not currently available from Apple. However, you may be able to find it refurbished or through third-party resellers.

    The iPhone XR featured:

    • Screen: A 6.1-inch, edge-to-edge LCD.
    • Battery life: Its battery life outperformed its predecessor, the XS, by a few hours.
    • Cameras. Cameras improved on previous incarnations.
    • Most key iPhone 11 features: The iPhone XR offered Face ID, wireless charging options, and other iPhone 11 features.

    The iPhone XR exited the official iPhone lineup in 2021 upon the arrival of the iPhone 13 series.

    iPhone 8 Plus

    iPhone 8 and 8 Plus
    What We Like

    • Retina Display looked great.

    • Many of the same features as the XR.

    What We Don't Like

    • No Face ID.

    • No OLED, edge-to-edge, or HDR screen.

    The iPhone 8 Plus is not currently available from Apple. You may be able to find it refurbished or through third-party resellers.

    The iPhone 8 Plus featured:

    • Many iPhone XR features: The iPhone 8 Plus and iPhone XR had many of the same features.
    • Touch ID: Apple's 2nd generation fingerprint scanning technology was built into the 8 series. It didn't have Face ID.

    iPhone 8

    iPhone 8 and wireless charging
    What We Like

    • Had many of the 8 Plus's features.

    • Good screen size.

    What We Don't Like

    • Didn't bring any cutting-edge features.

    • Screen three-quarters of an inch smaller than the 8 Plus.

    The iPhone 8 is not currently available from Apple. You may be able to find it refurbished or through third-party resellers.

    The iPhone 8 featured:

    • Nearly identical features to the 8 Plus: The two phones were identical in storage options, processors, wireless charging, 3D Touch, Touch ID, NFC and Apple Pay support, and Apple Watch compatibility. 
    • Good screen: The iPhone 8 had a 4.7-inch screen. While that's not as huge as the 8 Plus's and much smaller than the XR or 11 Pro, it's a good size for many users.

    Apple discontinued the iPhone 8 Plus and iPhone 8 in April 2020.

    Deciding on Your Best iPhone

    The general rule when making a technology purchase is to buy the best device that you can afford. That's true when it comes to deciding which iPhone to buy.

    If you can afford the iPhone 16 series, these devices offer the best performance and features and will hold their value longer than older devices.

    If you're more price-conscious, more recent older iPhone models offer excellent features at a lower price.

    Current iPhone Models Compared

    For a quick comparison of how all current models stack up in terms of features and price, check out this chart.

    Scroll right at the bottom of the table as needed to see more phones.

      iPhone 16 Pro Max 256GB/ 512GB/1TB iPhone 16 Pro 128GB/ 256GB/ 512GB/1TB iPhone 16 Plus 128GB/ 256GB/ 512GB iPhone 16 128GB/ 256GB/ 512GB iPhone 16e 128GB/ 256GB/ 512GB
    Screen Size (inches) 6.9 inches 6.3 inches 6.7 inches 6.1 inches 6.1 inches
    Resolution 2868x1320 pixels 2662x1206 pixels 2796x1290 pixels 2556x1179 pixels 2532x1170 pixels
    Edge-to-Edge Screen Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
    OLED Screen Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
    HDR Screen Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
    Haptic Touch Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
    Processor A18 Pro chip A18 Pro chip A18 chip A18 chip A18 chip
    5G support Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
    Carrier AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon
    Dual SIM Support eSIM only Dual eSIM Dual eSIM Dual eSIM Dual eSIM
    A-GPS Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
    Max. OS iOS 18 iOS 18 iOS 18 iOS 18 iOS 18
    Camera (megapixels) 48MP Fusion, 48MP Ultra Wide, 12MP Telephoto, TrueDepth 48MP Fusion, 48MP Ultra Wide, 12MP Telephoto, TrueDepth 48MP Fusion, 12 MP Ultra Wide, TrueDepth 48MP Fusion, 12 MP Ultra Wide, TrueDepth 12MP main, 48MP back
    Wide-angle & Telephoto Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
    Ultra-wide angle Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
    Records Video Cinematic mode up to 4K HDR at 30 fps, 4K recording up to 4K up to 120 fps Cinematic mode up to 4K HDR at 30 fps, 4K recording up to 4K up to 120 fps Cinematic mode up to 4K HDR at 30 fps, 4K recording up to 4K at 60 fps Cinematic mode up to 4K HDR at 30 fps, 4K recording up to 4K at 60 fps Cinematic mode up to 4K HDR at 30 fps, 4K recording up to 4K at 60 fps
    Live Photo Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
    Portrait Mode Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
    FaceTime Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
    Touch ID Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
    Face ID Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
    NFC Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
    Siri Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
    Water & Dust Resistant Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
    Weight 7.99 ounces 7.03 ounces 7.03 ounces 6 ounces 5.88 ounces
    Size 6.42x3.06 inches 5.89x2.81 inches 6.33 x 3.06 inches 5.81 x 2.82 inches 5.78 x 2.82 inches
    Wireless Charging Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
    Battery Life (in hours) Up to 29 hours video playback Up to 27 hours video playback Up to 27 hours video playback Up to 22 hours video playback Up to 26 hours video playback
    Colors Desert Titanium, Natural Titanium, White Titanium, Black Titanium Desert Titanium, Natural Titanium, White Titanium, Black Titanium Ultramarine, Teal, Black, Pink Ultramarine, Teal, Black, Pink Black, White
    Starting Price $1199 $999 $899 $799 $599

    FAQ

    • What is the best music download app for iPhone?

      There are several excellent free music apps for iPhone. Some of the best include Spotify, Pandora, and iHeartRadio.

    • Which iPhone color is the best?

      The best color is a matter of opinion. However, Pacific Blue seems to be the most popular iPhone. Silver and Graphite are also favorites of iPhone users.

    • What is the best GPS app for iPhone?

      With several great GPS apps for iPhone available, the best one for you depends on what features you need. For instance, Google Maps is highly accurate and easy to use. Apple Maps is part of the iOS operating system and instantly available to iPhone users.

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