iPhone•Comparison

iPhone 16 vs iPhone 15: Should You Upgrade?

Apple's latest iPhone 16 brings Camera Control, A18 chip, and improved cameras. But is it worth the upgrade from the iPhone 15? We break down every difference.

iPhone 16 vs iPhone 15: Should You Upgrade?

Quick Summary: The iPhone 16 is a solid iterative upgrade with Camera Control and Apple Intelligence as the headline features. If you have an iPhone 15, the upgrade isn't urgent unless you need the new camera controls or Apple Intelligence. iPhone 14 and older users will see a meaningful jump.

Specs at a Glance

Specification
iPhone 16
iPhone 15
ChipA18A16 Bionic
Camera ControlYesNo
Main Camera48MP 2-in-148MP
Ultrawide12MP (improved)12MP
Action ButtonYesYes
Spatial VideoYesNo
Apple IntelligenceFull supportLimited
Display6.1" 60Hz6.1" 60Hz
Battery (video)22 hours20 hours
Weight170g171g
Colors5 (incl. Ultramarine)5 (incl. Yellow)
Start Price£799£699 (was £799)

Pros

6
✓New Camera Control button for quick camera access
✓A18 chip with better efficiency and Apple Intelligence support
✓Improved 48MP main camera with 2x telephoto crop
✓Slightly larger battery with better endurance
✓Action Button on all models (was Pro-only)
✓New vertical camera layout enables Spatial Video

Cons

5
✗Still 60Hz display on base models
✗Same design language since iPhone 12
✗No USB-C speed upgrade (still USB 2.0)
✗Iterative rather than revolutionary
✗Base storage still 128GB

Our Verdict

The iPhone 16 is a solid iterative upgrade with Camera Control and Apple Intelligence as the headline features. If you have an iPhone 15, the upgrade isn't urgent unless you need the new camera controls or Apple Intelligence. iPhone 14 and older users will see a meaningful jump.

iPhone 14 or older users ready to upgrade

Photographers wanting Camera Control

Users waiting for Apple Intelligence

Best for

  • iPhone 14 or older users ready to upgrade
  • Photographers wanting Camera Control
  • Users waiting for Apple Intelligence

✕Avoid if

  • ✕iPhone 15 owners (diminishing returns)
  • ✕Waiting for foldable or major redesign
  • ✕Need 120Hz display (get Pro instead)

Common Questions

For most iPhone 15 users, no. The main advantages are Camera Control, Apple Intelligence readiness, and slightly better battery. Wait for iPhone 17 for bigger changes.
No, the base iPhone 16 and 16 Plus still have 60Hz displays. You need the Pro models for ProMotion 120Hz.
A new capacitive button on the right side that lets you quickly launch the camera, adjust zoom/exposure with a swipe, and capture photos/videos with a press. Works like a dedicated camera shutter.
A18 is about 15-20% faster in CPU and 40% faster in GPU than A16. The bigger difference is the neural engine for Apple Intelligence — A18 has 2x the ML performance.

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