They are closely matched: Apple iPhone 15 Pro scores 80/100 and Apple iPhone 16 scores 79/100 in our overall comparison — within 1 point. Neither is a clear winner overall, so the decision comes down to the specific features and price that matter most to you.
Apple iPhone 15 Pro vs Apple iPhone 16
Verdict
Our overall take, at a glance
Key takeaways
- Apple iPhone 15 Pro and Apple iPhone 16 are closely matched overall (within 1 points).
- Apple iPhone 15 Pro stands out on Display Size: 6.12 in, Display Refresh rate: 120 Hz, Display Screen-to-body ratio: 88.8%.
- Apple iPhone 16 counters with Design & Weight Dimensions: 14.76 × 7.16 × 0.78 cm, Weight: 170 g, Power & Battery Battery capacity: 3,561 mAh.
- Best value: Apple iPhone 16 (from $799) — the strongest score-per-dollar of the two.
Apple iPhone 15 Pro and Apple iPhone 16 are closely matched
Apple iPhone 15 Pro
81
Apple iPhone 16
81
Where Apple iPhone 15 Pro stands out
- Display Size: 6.12 in
- Display Refresh rate: 120 Hz
- Display Screen-to-body ratio: 88.8%
Where Apple iPhone 16 stands out
- Design & Weight Dimensions: 14.76 × 7.16 × 0.78 cm
- Weight: 170 g
- Power & Battery Battery capacity: 3,561 mAh
Head-to-head verdictAI
AI-generated from the cited sources — may be incomplete or inaccurate; verify important details before deciding · generated Jul 2026.
The Apple iPhone 16 and Apple iPhone 15 Pro represent different generational priorities, with our site scoring the iPhone 16 slightly higher at 79 compared to the iPhone 15 Pro at 78. The newer iPhone 16 benefits from recent design updates like an upgraded Ceramic Shield with improved scratch resistance and the dedicated Camera Control interface. Meanwhile, the iPhone 15 Pro continues to stand out for users who value pro-level camera options and customizable inputs. Ultimately, the iPhone 16 is a great fit for users seeking modern everyday features, whereas the iPhone 15 Pro appeals to those who prioritize premium camera versatility.
- Durability
- The iPhone 16 utilizes the latest Ceramic Shield front glass, which offers three times better scratch resistance compared to older models like the iPhone 15 Pro.
- Physical Controls
- While both models offer advanced shortcut options, the iPhone 16 introduces a new physical Camera Control button to quickly manage photography settings, complementing the Action button design.
- Cellular and Setup
- For customers purchasing in the U.S., the iPhone 16 completely does away with the physical SIM tray, relying entirely on digital eSIMs for streamlined carrier activation.
In-depth analysisAI
AI-generated from the cited sources — may be incomplete or inaccurate; verify important details before deciding · generated Jun 2026.
Apple iPhone 15 Pro
The Apple iPhone 15 Pro is a high-end smartphone designed for users who demand top-tier performance, durability, and seamless integration into the Apple ecosystem. Its advanced build quality and powerful capabilities make it suitable for professionals and power users seeking an uncompromising mobile experience.
Best for ProfessionalsBest for Ecosystem usersBest for Media consumers
Pros
- Features enhanced physical durability with technology providing superior scratch resistance compared to other smartphone glass.
- Offers a cohesive software and hardware design, enhancing overall user ease and reliability.
- Provides continuous software support through regular operating system updates, keeping the device functional for multiple years.
- Incorporates features designed to simplify connecting and sharing files within the local ecosystem (e.g., AirDrop).
Cons
- The advanced feature set assumes a required level of familiarity with Apple’s integrated hardware and software platform.
- High-end models generally represent a significant initial financial investment.
Apple iPhone 16
The iPhone 16 is the newest generation of Apple's flagship smartphone, designed for users who expect top-tier performance and iOS integration. It utilizes advanced components like the A18 chip and operates with the latest version of iOS. The hardware includes updated dimensions and dual eSIM capabilities for global connectivity.
Best for Advanced usersBest for Photography enthusiastsBest for Integration into existing Apple ecosystems
Pros
- Access to the current generation’s processor (A18) and operating system (iOS 18)
- Advanced physical controls, including a dedicated Action button and Camera Control button
- Enhanced connectivity options with support for 5G NR and dual eSIM functionality
- High-quality build and reliable performance expected from the Apple ecosystem
Cons
- The base model storage capacity starts at 128 GB, which may limit users who need more space right away
- Model specifications vary significantly depending on chosen connectivity (e.g., standard vs. cellular plans)
- High initial cost can be a barrier for casual or budget-conscious consumers
Value for Money
Which is the better deal for the price
Pre-filled with launch prices where known — enter today's price for an up-to-date check. Use the same currency for both.
Apple iPhone 15 Pro
Apple iPhone 16
Performance
Higher benchmark score = faster
Apple iPhone 15 Pro1,641,883
Apple iPhone 161,640,000
Benchmark score — a measured indicator of raw performance, not a guarantee of real-world speed.
Battery capacity
Larger cell — a hardware spec, not battery life
Apple iPhone 15 Pro3,274 mAh
Apple iPhone 163,561 mAh
Capacity is the raw battery size. Real-world battery life depends just as much on the processor, software and display.
Physical Comparison
Weigh them up, then compare real dimensions in 3D
Apple iPhone 15 ProApple iPhone 16
Apple iPhone 15 Pro is 17 g (10%) heavier than Apple iPhone 16.
Review Videos
Hand-picked expert reviews for each product
Detailed Specifications
The full spec sheet, side by side
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Apple iPhone 15 Pro vs Apple iPhone 16 comparison
Apple iPhone 15 Pro and Apple iPhone 16 are compared side by side above across every spec in the smartphones category — including performance, features and design — each scored 0–100 so you can see exactly where one leads the other. Our overall scores are 80/100 for Apple iPhone 15 Pro and 79/100 for Apple iPhone 16.
At launch, Apple iPhone 16 was the more affordable option ($799) versus Apple iPhone 15 Pro ($999). Weigh that against the overall scores (80/100 vs 79/100) and the value-for-money meter above to judge whether the higher-rated model justifies its price for your needs. Current retail prices vary — check the retailer.
It's close — Apple iPhone 15 Pro (80/100) and Apple iPhone 16 (79/100) score almost the same. Pick based on price and the individual specs that matter most to you; the comparison above shows where each one pulls ahead.
Other Popular Comparisons
Explore more product comparisons
Apple iPhone 16
Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max
VS
Apple iPhone 15 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max
VS
Apple iPhone 16
Apple iPhone Air
VS
Apple iPhone 15 Pro
Apple iPhone Air
VS
Apple iPhone 16
Apple iPhone 16 Pro
VS
Apple iPhone 15 Pro
Apple iPhone 16 Pro
VS
Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max
Apple iPhone 16
VS
Apple iPhone 15 Pro
Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max
VS
Apple iPhone 16
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
VS
Apple iPhone 15 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
VS
Apple iPhone 16
Apple iPhone 16 Plus
VS
Apple iPhone 15 Pro
Apple iPhone 16 Plus
VS