If you’re torn between buying the iPhone 15 or going for the newer iPhone 16, you’re not alone. Apple’s 2024 lineup introduces some important changes, but also keeps many core elements the same. In this detailed comparison, we cover design, chip, camera, battery, and value, to help you decide which iPhone is truly worth your money.
Summary
- Design and build quality
- Performance and chip
- Camera and image processing
- Battery life
- Display and user experience
- Charging and ports
- Software and iOS updates
- Which model offers better value?
- FAQ
🖌️ Design and Build Quality
Both iPhones feature aluminum frames and color-infused glass backs, but Apple has made subtle refinements on the iPhone 16.
- Curved aluminum edges
- Soft pastel colors
- Dynamic Island
- Slimmer bezels
- New colors (Ultramarine, Teal, White)
- Improved thermal management
The difference is not drastic visually, but in long-term use, the iPhone 16 may feel slightly cooler and more balanced in the hand.
⚡ Performance and Chip
The iPhone 16 features the new A18 chip, a key improvement in both speed and efficiency.
iPhone 15: A16 Bionic, powerful, smooth, and capable for daily use
iPhone 16: A18, improved CPU, faster Neural Engine, better energy efficiency
If you plan to keep your phone for several years or care about AI features and long-term performance, the A18 is a better investment.
📸 Camera and Image Processing
On paper, both models include a 48 MP main camera, but Apple has enhanced the iPhone 16’s image processing.
Both models:
- 48 MP main
- 12 MP ultra-wide
- 2x telephoto crop
- 12 MP front camera with 4K video
iPhone 16 advantages:
- Improved Smart HDR
- Better low-light performance
- Faster camera launch and processing.
The camera results are especially noticeable in low light or action shots.
🔋 Battery Life
Apple improved battery efficiency slightly on the iPhone 16 thanks to the A18 chip.
iPhone 15:
- Up to 20 hours video playback
- Up to 16 hours streaming
- Up to 80 hours audio.
iPhone 16:
- Up to 22 hours video playback
- Up to 18 hours streaming
- Up to 80 hours audio.
That extra couple of hours can make a difference during heavy use.
🌟 Display and User Experience
Both iPhones use the same 6.1″ Super Retina XDR OLED display, with a 60Hz refresh rate and HDR support.
- Resolution: 2556 x 1179 (460 ppi)
- Brightness: 1000 nits typical, 1600 nits HDR, 2000 nits outdoor
- Dynamic Island included.
There’s no 120Hz ProMotion here, that’s reserved for the Pro models.
🔌 Charging and Ports
Both devices feature USB-C and support MagSafe.
- USB-C charging up to 20W
- MagSafe wireless charging (15W for iPhone 15, up to 25W for iPhone 16 with 30W adapter)
- Qi wireless charging also supported
The port switch to USB-C makes charging and accessory use more universal and convenient.
🔄 Software and iOS Updates
iPhone 15:
- Shipped with iOS 17
- Fully supports iOS 18
- May miss some AI features in the long term
iPhone 16:
- Shipped with iOS 18
- Supports new Apple Intelligence features (beta)
- More future-proof in terms of software
If you care about AI tools and longevity, the iPhone 16 is a safer pick.
💶 Which Model Offers Better Value?
If your priority is saving money, the iPhone 15 refurbished is an excellent option, modern, capable, and now more affordable.
But for buyers seeking a phone that will last longer, with a better chip, improved battery and camera refinements, the iPhone 16 (especially refurbished) is worth the extra cost.
⚙️ Full Specs Comparison
| Feature | iPhone 15 | iPhone 16 |
| Chip | A16 Bionic | A18 |
| Display | 6.1″ OLED, 60Hz | 6.1″ OLED, 60Hz |
| Main Camera | 48MP + 12MP ultra-wide | 48MP Fusion + 12MP ultra-wide |
| Zoom options | 0.5x, 1x, 2x (crop) | 0.5x, 1x, 2x (crop) |
| Front Camera | 12MP | 12MP |
| Battery life | Up to 20 hours video | Up to 22 hours video |
| Charging port | USB-C | USB-C |
| MagSafe | Yes, up to 15W | Yes, up to 25W |
| iOS version | iOS 17 / iOS 18 | iOS 18 |
| Apple Intelligence | No | Yes |
| Starting price (new) | €739 | €849 |
| Refurbished price | From €529 | From €759 |
❓ FAQ
Is the iPhone 16 a big upgrade from the 15?
Not a massive leap, but the A18 chip, extra battery, and AI readiness make it better long-term.
Does the iPhone 16 have better battery life?
Yes, around 10% longer in video playback and streaming.
Are the cameras exactly the same?
The hardware is similar, but the iPhone 16 processes images more intelligently thanks to its chip and software.
Which one is cheaper and refurbished?
The iPhone 15, it’s a great budget-friendly option with strong performance.
Are both models available refurbished?
Yes, both are available from sellers like Swappie with warranty and full testing.