Here is a question you may have heard a lot of times before: “What kind of iPhone should I buy?” In most cases, the answer is simple: Get the best answer you can afford. And, if you're happy with your current iPhone, don't feel like you have to upgrade. But if you're ready to make the changes, we've tested all seven models in Apple's current smartphone lineup and picked out the ones that should satisfy most people.
Before you dig deeper, please note that we've based this guide on the list price of currently unlocked iPhones on Apple.com. If you can find big discounts from a huge deal with another trusted retailer or refurbished model, that can always change the equation of value.
Table of contents
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Best iPhone of 2025
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Apple's remaining iPhone lineup in 2025
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Latest updates
Best iPhone of 2025
Apple's remaining iPhone lineup in 2025
iPhone 16.
Billy Steele
Apple iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus
The iPhone 16 and 16 Plus have made real improvements to their ex, often more like “professional” than they did in the past few years. They also have a range of bright colors. If the iPhone 16 Pro or 16 Pro Max is too expensive, especially if you want extra storage, they will compromise. Despite this, they yes compromise. If you can afford it, professionals should improve a little over time.
Apple iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus
The iPhone 15 and the 6.7-inch iPhone 15 plus many key upgrades to the iPhone 16E, including a superior two-camera system, a brighter display, magsafe and Dynamic Island. As the most affordable large-screen iPhone in Apple's current lineup, these more than 15 times are particularly attractive. It also has excellent battery performance.
However, both phones cost $699 or $799, both on one unmanned land. Most people who care about super cameras and MAGSAFE support should spend another $100 on the iPhone 16 or 16 Plus, plus the addition of AI features, slightly improved super wheel lenses, with macro support, an extra one or two hours of battery life, faster wireless charging (25W vs. 15W), a faster processor, faster processor, more RAM, action buttons, and camera control buttons.
Meanwhile, those who just want essentials may be happy to save $100 on the iPhone 16e, thanks to its faster chips and Apple's smart support that can provide better gear for the long term. As a result, if you can find good prices on refurbished models, the 15 and 15 Plus may make the most sense.
Latest updates
February 2025: The new iPhone 16e replaces the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus as our “budget” choice. We also deleted notes on the iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, and iPhone SE (third generation) because everyone has officially discontinued production.
January 2025: We have done some minor edits to make sure our suggestions are still up to date.
December 2024: We have done some edits to reflect the release of Apple Intelligence, although our choices remain the same.
This article originally appeared on Engadget
