Since today is March 18, 2025, the last iPhone that has been released so far is iPhone 16, which was presented in September 2024 during Apple’s “It’s Glowtime” event. In addition, in February 2025, the iPhone 16e was launched, an entry model that comes to replace the iPhone SE (2022) and other models that are no longer available, such as the iPhone 14 and 15 base. Next, I bring you a detailed account of the iPhone 16 (the main line) and the iPhone 16e, where we will evaluate whether they really are worthwhile, their differences, prices and recommendations based on current trends and the information we have.
iPhone 16 (Main line: iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, 16 Pro Max)
Key characteristics
- Day:
- iPhone 16 and 16 Plus: Aluminium housing, vibrant colors (black, white, pink, teal, ultramarine). Screen 6.1″ and 6.7″ (OLED Super XDR, 60 Hz).
- iPhone 16 Pro and 16 Pro Max: Polished Titanium, larger screens (6.3″ and 6.9″) with ProMotion 120 Hz and thinner bezels.
- Processor:
- 16/16 Plus: Chip A18 (15-20% faster than the A16 iPhone 15).
- 16 Pro/16 Pro Max: A18 Pro, optimized for AAA games and intensive AI tasks.
- Chambers:
- 16/16 Plus: Dual system (48 main MP + ultrawide improved), new “Camera Control” button for quick access.
- 16 Pro/16 Pro Max: Triple camera (48 main MP, 48 ultrawide MP, 5x remote), 4K 120 fps recording in slow-mo and ProRes.
- Baterà a: Increased duration across the line; 16 Pro Max leads with up to 30 hours of mixed use.
- News: Customizable Action button (before Pro exclusive), Apple Intelligence compatibility (generative IIA), USB-C port (USB 2.0 in 16/16 Plus, USB 3.0 in Pro).
- Resistance: IP68 (submersible up to 6 m for 30 min), Ceramic Shield.
Prices (in USD, according to Apple at 18/03/2025):
- iPhone 16: $799 (128 GB base).
- iPhone 16 Plus: $899.
- iPhone 16 Pro: $999 (256 GB base).
- iPhone 16 Pro Max: $1199.
Main differences between models
- 16 vs. 16 Plus: Screen size (6.1″ vs. 6.7″) and larger battery in the Plus. Cameras and performance.
- 16/Plus vs. 16 Pro/Pro Max: The Pro have titanium (premium), 120 Hz screen, 5x remote, best processor (A18 Pro) and USB 3.0. The base is lighter and colourful, but limited to 60 Hz and no telephoto lens.
- Pro vs. Pro Max: Screen (6.3″ vs. 6.9″) and beat larger in the Max. Reviews in 2025 (unlike 2024).
Is it worth buying?
- Pros:
- Performance: The A18/A18 Pro is ideal for gaming and Apple Intelligence (e.g. writing tools, improved Siri), which will expand with iOS 18.3 and 19 in 2025.
- Cameras: Excellent for photo and video, especially in Pro (5x zoom and 4K slow-mo are differential).
- Durability: Software support guaranteed up to 2030-2031.
- Contracts:
- Apple Intelligence is also in the initial phase and is not revolutionary (incomplete launch in 2024, with updates in 2025).
- 60 Hz in 16/16 Plus feels outdated against Android competitors (e.g. Galaxy A54 has 120 Hz for $400.
- High price for incremental improvements regarding iPhone 15.
- Verdict:
- Yeah.if you come from an iPhone 12 or earlier (remarkable improvements in camera, dressing and design).
- No.if you have an iPhone 15/15 Pro (changes do not justify the cost). Wait for the iPhone 17 (September 2025) for major jumps ( iPhone 17 Air Ultrafines).
iPhone 16e review (Entry model, February 2025)
Key characteristics
- Day: Aluminium, 6.1″ OLED display (without Dynamic Island, use traditional notch), 60 Hz, more modern than the SE 2022.
- Processor: A18 (like iPhone 16 base), compatible with Apple Intelligence.
- Chamber: A single rear lens (48 main MP), without ultrawide or telephoto lens. He doesn’t have “Camera Control.”
- Baterà a: Significant improvement over SE (up to 20-22 hours of mixed use).
- Other: USB-C (USB 2.0), Action Button, without MagSafe, iOS 18.
Price: $599 (128 GB base).
Differences with iPhone 16
- Day: Notch vs. Dynamic Island, less premium.
- Chamber: A lens vs. dual system (high-wide and macro).
- Extras: No “Camera Control” or MagSafe, but equal power (A18).
- Price: $200 less than iPhone 16.
Is it worth buying?
- Pros:
- Access to Apple Intelligence and A18 chip for $599, competitive against average-end Androids.
- OLED screen and updated design regarding SE.
- Ideal for those looking for simplicity and do not need advanced cameras.
- Contracts:
- A single camera limits versatility (without ultrawide or optical zoom).
- 60 Hz and lack of MagSafe make it less “futurist”.
- $599 is expensive for a “basic” model (Android offers more for less, e.g. Pixel 8a).
- Verdict:
- Yeah.if you want a modern and econic iPhone with good performance and long support (up to 2031).
- No.if you prioritise photograph or fluent screens (improve the iPhone 15 reduced or 16 for $100-200 more).
Extended comparison: iPhone 16 vs. 16e vs. Alternatives
- Performance: Same in 16 and 16e (A18), higher in Pro (A18 Pro).
- Chamber: 16 Pro /2005 16/Plus /2005 16e ( descending quality).
- Screen: Pro (120 Hz) 한 16/16e (60 Hz), but 16e wins in size and OLED vs. SE.
- Price-value: 16e is the cheapest, but the iPhone 15 (discontinued,
$699) or refurbished iPhone 14 ($500) could be better deals. - Competition: Pixel 8 ($699, 120 Hz, advanced AI) or Galaxy S24 ($799, 120 Hz, higher cameras) offer more for the same price.
Prices and where to buy (March 2025)
- Apple Store: Base prices ($599-$1199). Includes trade-in ($50-$800 counts old model).
- Operators: Subsidies reduce the initial cost (e.g. AT fakeT, Verizon), but you tie to 2-3 year plans.
- Refurbished: iPhone 15/14 cheaper on sites like Swappa or Back Market ($400-$600).
Conclusion: Is it worth it?
- iPhone 16/16 Plus: Recommended for general users looking for a smooth and colorful iPhone, but not essential if you have a 15. Expect discounts on Black Friday 2025 (~$650-$750).
- iPhone 16 Pro/Pro Max: Ideal for photographer, gaming enthusiasts or those who want the best. Justify your price if you use your Pro (video, zoom) features.
- iPhone 16e: Perfect for tight budgets or those entering the Apple ecosystem. However, the iPhone 15 (if you find it on offer) offers more for little extra.
- Strategy: If you do not need to wait for the iPhone 17 (September 2025) or check out previous models reduced. The long-term value of Apple (software + resale) remains a strong point.
