iPhone 17 Pro Max vs iPhone 16
The iPhone 17 Pro Max and iPhone 16 cater to different segments of the market, offering varied features and performance levels. The iPhone 17 Pro Max stands as Apple's flagship device, equipped with the cutting-edge A19 Bionic chip and an expansive 6.9-inch Super Retina XDR ProMotion display, supporting dynamic refresh rates up to 120Hz. In contrast, the iPhone 16 is positioned as a more accessible option, featuring the A18 Bionic processor and a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display with a 60Hz refresh rate, appealing to those who prioritize essential features with a lower entry cost.
iPhone 17 Pro Max
4.9
iPhone 16
4.7
iPhone 17 Pro Max
Processor: A19 Bionic (3nm)
RAM: 12GB
Storage: 256GB / 512GB / 1TB / 2TB
Display: 6.9" Super Retina XDR ProMotion (1-120Hz)
iPhone 16
Processor: A18 Bionic
RAM: 8GB
Storage: 128GB / 256GB / 512GB
Display: 6.1" Super Retina XDR OLED (60Hz)
Comparison: iPhone 17 Pro Max vs iPhone 16
iPhone 17 Pro Max
iPhone 16
| Criterion | iPhone 17 Pro Max | iPhone 16 |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.9 | ★4.7 |
| Processor | A19 Bionic (3nm) | A18 Bionic |
| RAM | 12GB | 8GB |
| Storage | 256GB / 512GB / 1TB / 2TB | 128GB / 256GB / 512GB |
| Display | 6.9" Super Retina XDR ProMotion (1-120Hz) | 6.1" Super Retina XDR OLED (60Hz) |
| Battery | Up to 34h video playback | Up to 22h video playback |
| Weight | 7.76 oz (220g) - Titanium frame | 6.0 oz (170g) |
| OS | iOS 19 | iOS 18 |
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| Cons |
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iPhone 17 Pro Max
✓ Pros:
- • Face ID is now invisible under the display (Under-display)
- • Triple 48MP cameras allow insane detail
- • Battery life is basically 2 days
✗ Cons:
- • Extremely expensive starting price
- • Camera bump is quite large
iPhone 16
✓ Pros:
- • New Camera Control button for quick access
- • Support for Apple Intelligence features
- • Faster A18 chip handles gaming well
✗ Cons:
- • Display limited to 60Hz refresh rate
- • Charging speeds slower than competitors
Which one is better?
The iPhone 17 Pro Max wins on display size and refresh rate (6.9 inches, 120Hz vs 6.1 inches, 60Hz) and offers significantly more storage options. Despite its higher price, the superior camera system and battery life make it the overall winner.
Who should buy each?
Choose iPhone 17 Pro Max if... - You need top-tier performance with the A19 Bionic chip. - Two-day battery life is crucial for your lifestyle. - You desire the most advanced camera capabilities. Choose iPhone 16 if... - You prefer a lighter device weighing only 6.0 oz. - Budget-friendliness is a key factor. - The latest Apple Intelligence features meet your needs. They're equally matched on... - Seamless integration with iOS ecosystem and Apple services.
Conclusion
iPhone 17 Pro Max and iPhone 16 are both solid choices. Match the strengths above to your budget and workflow to make the best call.
FAQs
+ Which has better value?
iPhone 17 Pro Max excels if you value face id is now invisible under the display (under-display). iPhone 16 is better if you prioritize new camera control button for quick access. Pick based on your budget and daily use.
+ Is this an independent review?
Yes. We use affiliate links for monetization, but recommendations are research-driven and unbiased.
+ Do newer models exist?
Check release timelines from the manufacturers and compare pricing before you buy. We refresh this page when major updates land.
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