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 colours, 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 enhancements, the iPhone 15 Pro still stands as a compelling option. Although the iPhone 15 Pro has been in the market for almost a year, it has some decent qualities that make it a good choice. Here are some reasons why I will 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 key factors that set the Pro models apart from the standard versions of the iPhone series is the display. Apple has consistently reserved its most advanced screen tech for the Pro models. For instance, the iPhone 13 Pro introduced the ProMotion adaptive refresh rate, and the iPhone 14 Pro brought the Smart Island feature. These innovations usually take a year or more to trickle down to the standard models.
As of now, multiple sources indicate that the iPhone 16 series will not feature the ProMotion adaptive refresh rate screen. This means that users opting for the iPhone 16 might still be limited to a 60Hz refresh rate, while the iPhone 15 Pro, with its ProMotion screen, offers a 120Hz refresh rate, providing a smoother experience whether you’re browsing content or playing games.
Although the iPhone 16 series is rumoured to feature a brighter screen with narrower black borders, these improvements may 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, delivering an immersive viewing experience. So, if you prioritize a smoother and more visually engaging 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 boasts a triple-camera system that provides a consistent and high-quality experience across various lighting conditions. This system covers a range of focal lengths, from 0.5X, 1X, 2X, to 3X, meeting most shooting needs. Moreover, the Pro Max includes a 5X periscope telephoto lens, allowing you to capture distant subjects with clarity.
In contrast, the iPhone 16 is expected to retain the dual-camera design with a 48 MP wide-angle lens and a 12 MP ultra-wide-angle lens. While this setup is capable, it may not match the versatility of the iPhone 15 Pro’s triple-camera system. Also, this device supports ProRes video recording, enabling 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 may introduce a new physical button called “capture,” similar to the “operation button” on the iPhone 15 Pro series, to enhance the imaging experience. However, the lack of a significant upgrade in the image sensor for the iPhone 16 suggests that the iPhone 15 Pro will continue to offer superior imaging capabilities.
The Chip Still Works
With the introduction of Apple Intelligence in June this year, the iPhone 16 series is expected to come equipped with the latest A18 chip. However, Apple has confirmed that the iPhone 15 Pro series also supports AI functions, ensuring that even if you purchase the phone now, you’ll be able to enjoy these AI features as soon as they are available.
For everyday use and gaming, the A17 Pro chip in the iPhone 15 Pro is more than sufficient, delivering industry-leading performance. Whether you’re multitasking or playing graphics-intensive games, the 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 come to accept “one charge a day” as the norm. However, it’s hoped that Apple will continue to improve charging efficiency, allowing users to recharge quickly.
Finally, Let’s Take a Look at the Price
Price is always a critical factor when deciding on 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 this price while offering a base capacity of 256GB, up from the previous standard. This is a welcome change, providing more storage without increasing the price.
During this year’s 618 promotion, the iPhone 15 Pro, also with 256GB capacity, has a 6,600 yuan ($920) price tag. The price difference between the iPhone 15 Pro and the upcoming iPhone 16 is only a few hundred yuan. For this slight difference, the Pro model offers a high-refresh-rate screen, a versatile triple-camera system, and a Pro-level design, in addition to all the features expected from a Pro model, including Apple Intelligence support.
Most importantly, the iPhone 15 Pro is a “buy now and use it” product, meaning you don’t have to wait for the iPhone 16’s release to enjoy a top-tier smartphone experience. While the new model will undoubtedly bring new features and improvements, the old Pro model remains a strong contender, especially for those who value immediate access to advanced technology.
Conclusion
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 in the market for a new phone and don’t want to wait, the iPhone 15 Pro is an excellent choice. Just be sure to purchase from a reputable source to ensure you get a genuine product that meets your expectations.