Apple just made the new iPhone 16 lineup official and, as expected, there are four new devices that replace last year’s models. But let’s be honest, it’s the Pro models that get the best upgrades, like before. If you’re wondering which of the two models is the right fit, then read along. This iPhone 16 Pro vs iPhone 16 Pro Max comparison will help you decide which one you should buy.
iPhone 16 Pro vs iPhone 16 Pro Max: Specs Overview
Before we get into the details on what the iPhone 16 Pro and 16 Pro Max offer, let’s first look at the specifications.
| iPhone 16 Pro | iPhone 16 Pro Max | |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 6.3-inch LTPO Super Retina XDR OLED, 120Hz, 2622 x 1206 pixels | 6.9-inch LTPO Super Retina XDR OLED, 120Hz, 2868 x 1320 pixels |
| Dimensions | 149.6 x 71.5 x 8.25 mm | 163 x 77.6 x 8.25 mm |
| Processor | 3nm, Apple A18 Pro | 3nm, Apple A18 Pro |
| Rear Camera | 48MP wide, 12MP telephoto, 48MP ultra-wide, TOF 3D LiDAR | 48MP wide, 12MP telephoto, 48MP ultra-wide, TOF 3D LiDAR |
| Front Camera | 12MP wide | 12MP wide |
| Video | Max: 4K at 120fps | Max: 4K at 120fps |
| Battery | up to 85 hours on audio playback, up to 27 hours on video playback, up to 22 hours on streaming video | up to 105 hours on audio playback, up to 33 hours on video playback, up to 29 hours on streaming video |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.3, NFC, USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 | Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.3, NFC, USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 |
| Software | iOS 18 preinstalled | iOS 18 preinstalled |
| Protection | Ceramic Shield (2024), IP68 | Ceramic Shield (2024), IP68 |
Display and Design
A major factor in choosing a phone is its form factor and how large you want the display to be. The iPhone 16 Pro offers a 6.3-inch display, while its Max sibling comes in with a much bigger 6.9-inch panel. This size difference also translates to the resolutions, which are 2622 x 1206 pixels and 2868 x 1320 pixels respectively for the Pro and Pro Max models.
Beyond the size, both devices boast Super Retina XDR LTPO OLED panels with a 120Hz ProMotion refresh rate. The peak brightness is an impressive 2,000 nits when outdoors, ensuring that you can enjoy content even in bright sunlight. Additionally, both models support Dolby Vision and HDR 10, alongside Ceramic Shield glass protection for added durability.
When it comes to dimensions, the iPhone 16 Pro measures 149.6mm in height and 71.5mm in width, while the Pro Max measures 163mm in height and 77.6mm in width. Despite their differing sizes, the placement of buttons remains consistent across both devices, including the Power, Volume, and Action buttons.
Hardware and Software
On the hardware front, both iPhone 16 Pro models feature the new Apple A18 Pro chip, which is built on a 3nm process node and utilizes TSMC’s N3E architecture for enhanced efficiency. This chip also offers more cores in the Neural Engine compared to its predecessor, allowing for improved performance in AI tasks.
Both models are available in storage options of 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB, all supported by 8GB of RAM. To prevent overheating, they come equipped with a graphene heatsink and metal battery casing for better thermal management. Moreover, the upgraded Snapdragon X75 modem improves 5G connectivity, making it 20% more energy-efficient and 25% smaller than previous generations.
In terms of connectivity, the Pro models support Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, and Ultra Wideband 2. They both feature a USB Type-C 3.2 Gen 2 port for charging, data transfer, and even as a DisplayPort.
Camera Features
Photography enthusiasts will be pleased to know that both the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max feature a triple-camera system that includes a 48MP wide sensor, a 48MP ultra-wide sensor, and a 12MP telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom. This means you can capture stunning photos with excellent detail, regardless of which model you choose.
The front camera remains unchanged with a 12MP wide sensor for selfies and Face ID functionality. Additionally, the new models support video recording at 4K resolution and up to 120 frames per second, making them great for capturing high-quality video.
Battery Life and Charging Options
Battery performance is where the Pro Max shines, boasting up to 105 hours of audio playback, 33 hours of video playback, and 29 hours of streaming. In contrast, the 16 Pro offers up to 85 hours of audio playback, 27 hours of video playback, and 22 hours of streaming.
Both models maintain the same wired charging speeds as their predecessors. However, the MagSafe wireless charging capability has improved, increasing from 15W to 25W, allowing for faster charging while using a compatible wireless charger.
Choosing the Right Model for You
With minimal differences between the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max, the decision largely comes down to personal preference and budget. The standard Pro model, priced at $999, delivers nearly all the features of its Max counterpart, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a smaller device.
On the other hand, if you want the largest display and the best battery performance, the iPhone 16 Pro Max may be worth the additional $200 investment. Consider your specific needs and how much you value the larger size and extended battery life when making your choice.
