Best iPhones of 2024: find your perfect match!

Following last week’s unveiling of the iPhone 16 lineup in Cupertino, we delve into the nuances that distinguish the latest models from their predecessors.

By WIllian Silver

Unlock the Future: Discover Apple’s Latest Marvels — At the recent ‘Glowtime’ keynote, Apple introduced four revolutionary iPhones, headlined by the dynamic iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro. Featuring display sizes of 6.1 and 6.3 inches, these models are designed to surpass expectations with significant design and technological advancements, from intuitive camera controls across the board to an exclusive action button on the iPhone 16 duo. Plus, each model now boasts a USB-C connector and Dynamic Island for a seamless user experience.

As the iPhone 13 retires after three years, and the iPhone 14 becomes more accessible with a price reduction, the market is buzzing. Are you pondering which iPhone to choose with all these exciting updates? Whether you’re considering the top-tier iPhone 16 Pro or the more compact iPhone SE, I’m here to guide you through making the best choice for your needs and budget, drawing on years of hands-on experience with each iteration.

• •  The Best iPhone: iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max

• • The Best Value iPhone: iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus

• • The Most Affordable iPhone: iPhone SE

Key Factors to Consider When Deciding Between a Regular and Pro iPhone

When deciding between a standard iPhone and its Pro counterpart, it’s essential to recognize the distinct advantages the Pro models offer. Since the launch of the iPhone 11 Pro and 11 Pro Max in 2019, each Pro model has featured a triple-camera system with dedicated telephoto lenses, providing a far more versatile photography experience compared to the dual-camera setups found on non-Pro models.

From 2022 onwards, Pro versions also boast a more powerful chipset, enhancing multitasking capabilities, gaming performance, and overall responsiveness.

Choosing an iPhone Pro means opting for the pinnacle of Apple’s technology. However, for those prioritizing budget, such as students, tech enthusiasts on a tighter budget, or those simply upgrading from much older models, the non-Pro iPhones offer exceptional value, delivering robust performance without the premium cost associated with the latest features.

Screen Size Considerations for iPhone Models

Apart from the compact 4.7-inch iPhone SE, the current iPhone lineup offers a variety of larger displays, ranging from 6.1 inches to 6.9 inches. The latter sizes are typically reserved for the Plus and Pro Max models. An iPhone with a 6.1-inch screen provides the ideal balance of usability and convenience, being more suitable for one-handed use and easier to carry in a pocket or purse.

For those who prioritize media consumption and productivity, opting for a Plus or Pro Max model with a 6.7-inch or 6.9-inch display can be particularly advantageous. Larger screens not only enhance the experience of gaming and watching videos but also improve the comfort of attending virtual meetings and multitasking on the go. Additionally, bigger iPhones tend to have better battery life, offering extended usage between charges—a crucial factor for power users.

Understanding iPhone Pricing Options

When considering the purchase of an iPhone, it’s crucial to understand the pricing structure I’ve outlined, which includes contract-free costs for each model. Additionally, there’s the option to purchase your iPhone through monthly installments paid directly to your phone carrier, providing a more flexible payment approach.

Apple and its partner carriers also offer an advantageous trade-in program. This allows you to exchange your current phone for a discount on a new model. Depending on the value of your outgoing phone and the iPhone model you select, the cost to upgrade could be minimal. This program is particularly beneficial if you’re looking to keep up with the latest technology without bearing the full brunt of new iPhone prices.

My Approach to Testing iPhones

My journey with Apple’s renowned iPhones began in 2010 when I acquired my first iPhone, the iPhone 4, and eagerly waited in line to collect it. Since then, I have experienced every model that has been released, with the latest iPhone 16 Pro or Pro Max currently in use as I write this.

When testing each iPhone, I dedicate weeks—or often much longer—to use it as my primary device both at work and in my personal life. My rigorous testing routine includes using the phone for everyday tasks such as communicating with family and friends, participating in virtual meetings, managing emails and text messages through various apps, as well as for entertainment purposes like gaming and streaming music and videos. This extensive hands-on experience enables me to provide a personal endorsement for every iPhone model that I recommend.

• • The Best iPhone
    iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max

    Available for $999 at Apple

PROS

• •  The camera control button enhances ease of use and intuitiveness in photo-taking.

• • Superb all-around performance and battery life.

• • Best-in-class triple camera system.

CONS

• •  The 6.9-inch Pro Max may be considered too large for some users.

Key Specs

Chip	A18 chip with 6-core CPU, 5-core GPU, 16-core Neural Engine
Display	6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display with 460 pixels per inch (iPhone 16); 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display with 460 pixels per inch (iPhone 16 Plus)
Camera	48-MP main, 12-MP ultra-wide, sensor-shift optical image stabilization, Dolby Vision-enhanced 4K video recording, 12-MP Face ID camera
Memory	Up to 512 GB of storage

The redesigned iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus offer standout upgrades under $1,000, merging fresh design with Pro features at an affordable price. Enhancements such as action and camera control buttons match the Pro’s ergonomic and versatile standards. Powered by the new Apple A18 chip with advanced 3-nanometer technology, these models excel in gaming, handling high-demand titles like “Assassin’s Creed: Mirage” and “Resident Evil 4” that were previously exclusive to higher-end models.

Both retain their impressive displays, with the iPhone 16 featuring a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED and the Plus a 6.7-inch variant, alongside dual cameras, stereo speakers, solid battery life, and a USB-C connector. Starting at $799 for the iPhone 16 and $899 for the Plus, they offer superior performance and value in their segment. Available in multiple colors including striking pink, teal, and ultramarine, and with storage options up to 512 GB, they cater to a broad audience seeking premium features without the premium price.

 

• • The Best Value iPhone: 
    iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus

    Available for $999at Apple

PROS

• • Camera and action buttons significantly enhance usability.

• • Excellent performance and battery life.

• • Fresh design available in cool new colors.

CONS

• • Screen refresh rate is limited to 60 Hz. 

Key Specs

Chip	A18 chip with 6-core CPU, 5-core GPU, 16-core Neural Engine
Display	6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display with 460 pixels per inch (iPhone 16); 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display with 460 pixels per inch (iPhone 16 Plus)
Camera	48-MP main, 12-MP ultra-wide, sensor-shift optical image stabilization, Dolby Vision-enhanced 4K video recording, 12-MP Face ID camera
Memory	Up to 512 GB of storage

The newly revamped iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus present outstanding options for sub-$1,000 upgrades, blending a modern design with advanced Pro features at a more affordable price point. Notable enhancements include the introduction of action and camera control buttons, aligning the iPhone 16 with the ergonomic and versatile standards of the 16 Pro.

Apple has equipped these latest models with the cutting-edge A18 chip, featuring 3-nanometer lithography, making them two generations ahead of the A1 chip in the iPhone 15 series. This upgrade ensures full compatibility with Apple Intelligence and the capability to run high-demand games like Assassin’s Creed: Mirage and Resident Evil 4—previously only available on the more expensive iPhone 15 Pro models.

In terms of display, the iPhone 16 maintains a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED screen with Dynamic Island, while the Plus version boasts a larger 6.7-inch panel. Both models offer robust dual cameras, stereo speakers, excellent battery life for their size, and a USB-C connector.

Priced starting at $799, the iPhone 16 offers exceptional value, with its powerful chipset, superior camera capabilities, and comprehensive safety features making it a top contender in its price bracket. For an additional $100, the iPhone 16 Plus is an excellent choice for those seeking a larger screen and extended battery life within a budget under $1,000.

Available in colors including black, white, pink, teal, and a striking ultramarine, the iPhone 16 starts with a generous 128 GB of storage, which can be expanded up to 512 GB, catering to a range of preferences and needs.

• • The Most Affordable iPhone: 
    iPhone SE

    Available for $429 at Apple

PROS

• • Compact and durable build.

• • Robust hardware for reliable performance.

• • Solid camera system.

• • Affordably priced for its features.

CONS

• • Dated design, lacking modern aesthetics  

Key Specs

Chip	A15 Bionic chip with 6-core CPU, 4-core GPU, 16-core Neural Engine
Display	4.7-inch Retina HD display with 326 pixels per inch
Camera	12-MP main camera, 7-MP front camera
Memory	Up to 256 GB of storage

Starting at just over $400, the iPhone SE offers an excellent value for those seeking essential Apple features like FaceTime and iMessage without the frills of more advanced models. It retains the compact and familiar design of its predecessors but with upgraded hardware, including the A15 Bionic chip found in the iPhone 14, making it the most powerful phone in its price range.

The iPhone SE boasts water-resistant housing, built-in stereo speakers, and support for both fast wired and wireless charging, although it lacks MagSafe and uses the older Lightning connector instead of USB-C. Its camera capabilities are impressive for its class, capable of capturing high-quality images, portrait photos with blurred backgrounds, and crisp 4K videos with effective stabilization and stereo sound.

Unique among current iPhones, the SE features a Touch ID fingerprint sensor, which is fast and reliable but feels somewhat outdated compared to the Face ID system on more expensive models. Despite its smaller display and different aspect ratio, which might seem like a step down from newer iPhones, the SE remains a robust option for those prioritizing functionality and affordability.

In conclusion, the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus not only meet but exceed expectations with their blend of affordability, cutting-edge technology, and stylish design. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast or a casual user, these models offer something for everyone. I hope this review has provided you with valuable insights to help make your decision easier. Thank you for taking the time to read, and I look forward to bringing you more updates and reviews in the future. Stay tuned and happy upgrading!