Choosing between the iPhone 15 Pro and the upcoming iPhone 16 series can be a tough decision for tech enthusiasts. As usual, Apple will officially launch the new iPhone 16 series in September this year. The colors, new design, Apple Intelligence, and other features make the iPhone 16 series worth looking forward to. While the iPhone 16 promises these new features and improvements, the iPhone 15 Pro still remains an interesting option. Despite being on the market for almost a year, the iPhone 15 Pro has some good qualities that make it a good choice. Here are a few reasons why I would choose the iPhone 15 Pro instead of waiting for the iPhone 16 launch.
iPhone 15 Pro or iPhone 16 – would you rather wait?
Screens, Screens and More Screens
One of the most important factors that separates the Pro models from the standard versions of the iPhone series is the display. Apple has consistently reserved its most advanced display technology for the Pro models. For example, the iPhone 13 Pro introduced ProMotion adaptive refresh rate, and the iPhone 14 Pro introduced the Smart Island feature. These innovations usually take a year or more to reach the standard models.
As of now, multiple sources are indicating that the iPhone 16 series will not feature the ProMotion adaptive refresh rate display. This means that users opting for the iPhone 16 may still be limited to a 60Hz refresh rate, while the iPhone 15 Pro with its ProMotion display will offer a 120Hz refresh rate, providing a smoother experience when browsing content or playing games.
The iPhone 16 series is rumored to feature a brighter display with narrower black borders, but those improvements could be exclusive to the iPhone 16 Pro models. On the other hand, the iPhone 15 Pro already offers a high screen-to-body ratio and narrow black borders, providing an immersive viewing experience. So if you prioritize a smoother, more visually appealing display, this device remains a solid choice.
Triple Camera Imaging Covers a Wider Range of Scenes
Another major difference between the Pro and standard versions lies in their imaging capabilities. The iPhone 15 Pro features a triple camera system that provides a consistent, high-quality experience in a variety of lighting conditions. This system covers a focal length range of 0.5X, 1X, 2X, and 3X, covering most shooting needs. What’s more, the Pro Max includes a 5X periscope telephoto lens that lets you capture distant objects clearly.
In contrast, the iPhone 16 is expected to retain its dual-camera design with a 48MP wide-angle lens and a 12MP ultra-wide-angle lens. While this setup is capable, it may not match the versatility of the iPhone 15 Pro’s triple-camera system. Additionally, this device supports ProRes video recording, allowing users to shoot high-quality 60fps 4K ProRes videos when connected to a mobile hard drive. This makes the Pro model not just a communication tool, but also a valuable asset for creative projects.
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The iPhone 16 could feature a new physical button called the “capture” button to enhance the imaging experience, similar to the “action button” on the iPhone 15 Pro series. However, the absence of a significant upgrade to the image sensor for the iPhone 16 suggests that the iPhone 15 Pro will continue to offer superior imaging capabilities.
Chip Still Works
With the introduction of Apple Intelligence in June this year, the iPhone 16 series is expected to be equipped with the latest A18 chip. However, Apple has confirmed that the iPhone 15 Pro series also supports AI functions, so even if you buy the phone now, you will be able to enjoy these AI features as soon as they become available.
The A17 Pro chip in iPhone 15 Pro is more than enough for everyday use and gaming, delivering industry-leading performance. Whether you’re multitasking or playing graphics-intensive games, iPhone 15 Pro can handle it all without breaking a sweat.
Battery life is another concern for many users. Whether you opt for the iPhone 15 Pro or the upcoming iPhone 16, there’s unlikely to be a significant difference in battery life. Most users have accepted “once a day” as the norm. However, it’s hoped that Apple will continue to improve charging efficiency, allowing users to charge quickly.
Finally, Let's Take a Look at the Price
Price is always a critical factor when choosing a new phone. Last year, the official retail price of the iPhone 15 was 5,999 yuan ($837), and the iPhone 16 will likely maintain that price while offering a base capacity of 256GB over the previous standard. This is a welcome change that provides more storage without increasing the price.
During this year’s 618 promotion, the iPhone 15 Pro, also with a 256GB capacity, was priced at 6,600 yuan ($920). The price difference between the iPhone 15 Pro and the upcoming iPhone 16 is only a few hundred yuan. For that small difference, the Pro model offers all the features expected from a Pro model, including Apple Intelligence support, plus a high-refresh-rate display, a versatile triple-camera system, and a Pro-level design.
Most importantly, the iPhone 15 Pro is a “buy and use now” product, meaning you don’t have to wait for the iPhone 16 to launch to enjoy a premium smartphone experience. While the new model will undoubtedly bring new features and improvements, the older Pro model remains a strong contender, especially for those who value immediate access to advanced technology.
Solution
In conclusion, while the iPhone 16 series is undoubtedly exciting, the iPhone 15 Pro still offers an impressive combination of features, performance, and value. If you’re thinking of buying a new phone and don’t want to wait, the iPhone 15 Pro is a great choice. Make sure you buy from a reputable source to ensure you’re getting a genuine product that meets your expectations.