When you're setting out to buy an iPhone, the array of choices can feel overwhelming. Apple introduced the iPhone 16 and 16 Pro models in 2024, and later added the iPhone 16e to the mix, expanding the options even further. Navigating this selection isn't easy, especially if you're not just aiming for the newest model. Even if you are, it's wise to consider all available options carefully.
Apple iPhone 16 Pro
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Apple iPhone 16
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Apple iPhone 16e
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OnePlus 13
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All the iPhones listed here support iOS 18, which was unveiled at WWDC 2024. This update introduces numerous AI features and a revamped, more organized Photos app. To leverage Apple Intelligence, you'll need an iPhone 15 or later.
For those looking to enhance their iPhone experience, don't miss our guide on the best iPhone accessories, including screen protectors. We also reviewed the Apple AirPods 4 with ANC, which compete well with the AirPods 2 in several aspects, making them a compelling choice for new earbuds.
Contributions by Georgie Peru and Rudie Obias
iPhone 16 Pro
Best Overall iPhone
Apple iPhone 16 Pro
2The iPhone 16 Pro strikes the perfect balance between size and power, featuring a compact design, robust performance, and excellent cameras. See it at Best BuySee it at Apple
Product Specifications
- Screen: 6.3-inch OLED, 1206x2622, 460 ppi, 120Hz refresh rate
- Processor: A18 Pro
- Camera: 48-Megapixel Wide, 48-Megapixel Ultrawide, 12-Megapixel Telephoto, 12-Megapixel Selfie
- Battery: 3,582mAh
- Weight: 199g (0.44lb)
Pros
- Powerful performance
- Elegant design
- Robust camera system
Cons
- Camera settings could use some tweaks
The iPhone 16 Pro fills the gap between the base iPhone 16 and the iPhone 16 Pro Max. Its smaller size makes it more manageable for one-handed use, yet it retains all the features and camera sensors of its larger sibling. If a larger screen is what you're after, consider upgrading to the iPhone 16 Pro Max for a similar experience.
Powered by the A18 Pro chip, the iPhone 16 Pro delivers exceptional performance for daily tasks and gaming. It achieved the highest single-core Geekbench 6 score I've seen in both phones and laptops, complemented by a GPU that handles high frame rates at max settings with ease.
Apple's build quality feels luxurious, though the color options could be more vibrant. The screen is outstanding, with high brightness, contrast, and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate. Despite Apple's claims about the durability of Ceramic Shield glass, it still scratches easily, so additional protection is recommended.
The camera system on the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max is impressive, with the main sensor excelling in low-light conditions. The ultra-wide camera captures more in the frame but may show softness and noise due to focus issues. The 5x telephoto lens is great for portraits and zooming in on distant subjects. The new Camera Control feature enhances usability, though it could be refined further in future updates.
iPhone 16 – Photos
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iPhone 16
Best Mid-Range iPhone
Apple iPhone 16
2The iPhone 16 offers excellent performance at a more affordable price, without sacrificing much in terms of features. See it at Best BuySee it at Apple
Product Specifications
- Screen: 6.3-inch OLED, 1206x2622, 460 ppi, 120Hz refresh rate
- Processor: A18
- Camera: 48-Megapixel Wide, 48-Megapixel Ultrawide, 12-Megapixel Telephoto, 12-Megapixel Selfie
- Battery: 3,582mAh
- Weight: 199g (0.44lb)
Pros
- Excellent performance
- Fun colors
Cons
- Ultra-wide and selfie shots can be soft
The iPhone 16 is a standout mid-range option. With Apple Intelligence requiring more processing power, the iPhone 16 comes equipped with the A18 chip, delivering performance close to the A18 Pro in the Pro models. It outperforms many Android devices with Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, making it excellent for daily use and gaming.
The iPhone 16 offers vibrant color options, along with black and white designs. It includes Ceramic Shield for protection, but additional safeguards are advised. Its smaller size makes it pocket-friendly and easy to handle, though it lacks the 120Hz refresh rate of the Pro models. The OLED display is sharp and vibrant, paired with powerful speakers for an immersive media experience.
The main camera captures excellent photos with vibrant colors and good low-light performance. However, the ultra-wide and selfie cameras may exhibit softness, likely due to focus issues that could be addressed in future updates.
iPhone 16e
Best Budget iPhone
Apple iPhone 16e
0The iPhone 16e offers a budget-friendly entry into Apple's lineup with a powerful chip but some compromises. See it at Apple
Product Specifications
- Screen: 6.1-inch OLED, 1170x2532, 60Hz refresh rate
- Processor: A18
- Camera: 48-Megapixel Wide, 12-Megapixel Selfie
- Battery: 4,005mAh
- Weight: 167g (0.39lb)
Pros
- Fast chip
- Lower price than main iPhone lineup
Cons
- Trims a handful of common iPhone features
For those on a budget, the introduction of the iPhone 16e adds complexity to the decision. While it's Apple's cheapest new option at $599, it comes with significant trade-offs. The iPhone 16e uses the A18 chip, offering fast performance and access to Apple Intelligence features. It sports a modern design with a larger 6.1-inch OLED display, an aluminum frame, and Ceramic Shield glass, alongside a base storage of 128GB.
However, it lacks features like MagSafe, wireless charging, mmWave 5G, UWB support, and a second rear camera, which are standard in other non-SE models. These omissions limit its functionality and camera capabilities. If the missing features are a concern, consider refurbished or renewed devices like the iPhone 14 Pro or iPhone 15, available for under $500 on Amazon, which might offer better value.
OnePlus 13
Best iPhone Alternative
OnePlus 13
0The OnePlus 13 offers a compelling alternative to the iPhone with its excellent design, display, performance, and cameras at a competitive price. See it at Best BuySee it at OnePlus
Product Specifications
- Screen: 6.82-inch OLED, 1440x3168, 510ppi, 120Hz refresh rate
- Processor: Snapdragon 8 Elite
- Camera: 50-Megapixel Wide, 50-Megapixel Ultrawide, 50-Megapixel Telephoto, 32-Megapixel Selfie
- Battery: 6,000mAh
- Weight: 210g (0.46lb)
Pros
- Great value
- Fast performance
Cons
- Software support a little shorter than rivals
The iPhone is renowned for its user-friendly software, solid cameras, and excellent performance. However, if you're open to other operating systems or want to avoid the premium pricing of Apple's top-tier models, the OnePlus 13 is an attractive alternative. Priced at $899, it competes with the $1199 iPhone 16 Pro Max, offering similar high-end features.
The OnePlus 13 features a triple-camera setup with a 50MP telephoto lens, a 50MP main sensor, and a 50MP ultra-wide sensor, delivering impressive photos and videos. The front-facing 32MP selfie camera is also noteworthy.
Its display rivals the iPhone's, with a 6.82-inch OLED panel boasting a 3168x1440 resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. It's highly efficient, dropping to 1Hz for static content to save power, and offers vibrant colors and deep blacks.
Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite, the OnePlus 13 matches the iPhone 16 Pro Max in performance, excelling in gaming and multi-core tasks. Its 6,000mAh battery supports heavy use all day, and it can be quickly recharged with 80W wired or 50W wireless charging.
The OnePlus 13's design is elegant, available in various stylish colorways, including a unique wood grain pattern. It also features an alert slider and boasts IP68 and IP69 water resistance, offering robust protection.
If you're not set on an iPhone, the OnePlus 13 is certainly worth considering for its value and performance.
Upcoming iPhones
Apple's 2024 lineup includes the iPhone 16 series, which brings significant improvements and strong performance. The company also reduced prices on earlier models, enhancing their value. The introduction of the iPhone 16e aims to fill the budget slot previously occupied by the iPhone SE. Additionally, leaks about the iPhone 17 lineup, including an iPhone Air, are circulating online, hinting at future innovations.
What to Look for in an Apple iPhone
Despite the variety of models, the user experience across Apple iPhones remains consistent, which is a major draw and why the iPhone is the most popular smartphone globally. Here's what to consider when choosing an iPhone in 2025:
Phone Size
Size is crucial when selecting an iPhone. For one-handed use, opt for the smaller models like the iPhone 16 or iPhone 14. If you prefer larger screens, the iPhone 16 Plus or iPhone 16 Pro Max are ideal.
Storage Capacity
Storage is another key factor. For extensive high-resolution photo storage, the iPhone 16 Pro Max with 1TB is the best choice. Other models start at 128GB, sufficient for casual users.
Price
Prices range from the iPhone 16e at $599 to the iPhone 16 Pro Max (1TB) at $1,599. Regardless of the model, all iPhones run on iOS, which receives updates for five to six years, ensuring a consistent software experience and support across the board.
Ultimately, the best iPhone for you depends on your usage. For most, the iPhone 16 Pro offers the best balance of performance, camera quality, design, and storage options at a competitive price.
Best iPhone FAQ
What are the best iPhone alternatives?
While iPhones hold a significant market share, there are excellent Android alternatives. Top options include the OnePlus 13 and Google Pixel 9 Pro, which compete at the high end of the Android market. Brands like Asus and RedMagic also offer compelling features that appeal to iOS users.
