Review: IPhone 15 Pro - Durability, Performance, And Should You Buy?

Key Takeaway:

The iPhone 15 Pro has been out for over six months now, boasting refined design, impressive performance, and notable features. Despite its durability and performance enhancements, if you’re considering purchasing one, it’s worth weighing the option of waiting for the iPhone 16 Pro later this year. Let’s delve into the details of its design, durability, performance, and whether it’s the right time to make the purchase.

Design

The iPhone 15 Pro sports a refined design that combines the curved edges of the iPhone 11 series with the flat edge introduced in the iPhone 12 and 13. This amalgamation results in a device that feels comfortable to hold and easier to handle than previous models. The titanium frame adds to its durability, although it tends to attract fingerprints, especially on non-natural finishes. Overall, the design is sleek, thin, and lightweight, making it a joy to use.

Durability and Scratches

With its titanium construction, the iPhone 15 Pro offers commendable durability, with fewer chips and scratches compared to other finishes. The sapphire displays over the cameras remain scratch-free, and the titanium frame is less prone to scratches than stainless steel. However, the ceramic Shield on the display, while resilient, may not be as durable as previous generations, as evidenced by some scratches reported by users.

Updates, iOS 17, and Apps

Initial heat issues were observed with the iPhone 15 Pro, particularly with iOS 17, but subsequent updates have significantly improved performance. With iOS 17.4.55, the device handles tasks seamlessly, including running AAA games and utilizing external controllers. App performance is smooth, and notable improvements have been made in heat dissipation, although occasional bugs persist.

Processor and Heat

Powered by the A16 chip, the iPhone 15 Pro delivers exceptional performance, effortlessly handling tasks and demanding applications. While it may generate some heat under heavy use, it hasn’t exhibited overheating issues or dimmed displays. The processor’s speed ensures swift navigation through apps and seamless gaming experiences, although improvements in heat dissipation are desirable for future iterations.

Battery Life

Battery life on the iPhone 15 Pro is commendable, with users reporting between 5.5 to 7 hours of usage, depending on their activities. Despite lacking cycle counts like the iPhone 15 models, the battery health remains robust even after numerous charging cycles. The device’s efficient power management ensures reliable performance throughout the day, catering to various usage patterns.

Display

The iPhone 15 Pro’s display impresses with its brightness, peaking at 2,000 nits outdoors and offering vibrant colors and excellent viewing angles. However, some users may experience discomfort due to pulse-width modulation (PWM), although it’s imperceptible for most at higher brightness levels. Features like the always-on display and dynamic refresh rate enhance usability and convenience.

Cameras

The iPhone 15 Pro’s cameras deliver exceptional results, especially in video recording, thanks to advancements in processing and autofocus capabilities. While the forward-facing camera remains consistent, the rear cameras excel in both photography and videography. The device’s versatility and performance make it a suitable choice for content creators and photography enthusiasts alike.

Speakers

Equipped with stereo speakers, the iPhone 15 Pro delivers crisp audio with ample volume. While the sound quality is impressive, some distortion may occur at maximum volumes, albeit expectedly. Overall, the speakers provide an immersive audio experience for multimedia consumption and casual listening.

Connectivity

Connectivity features like 5G, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth perform well on the iPhone 15 Pro, with occasional issues addressed through software updates. Features like crash detection and emergency SOS add to the device’s safety and utility, offering peace of mind in emergency situations. While some connectivity issues persist with certain vehicles, overall performance remains satisfactory.

Should You Buy iPhone 15 Pro Now?

Considering the imminent release of the iPhone 16 Pro later this year, potential buyers may opt to wait for the latest iteration for upgraded features and enhancements. Unless offered at a significant discount, purchasing the iPhone 15 Pro at this point may not be the most prudent decision. However, its impressive performance, sleek design, and reliable durability make it a compelling choice for those in need of a new smartphone.

In conclusion, the iPhone 15 Pro continues to impress with its refined design, robust performance, and innovative features. While it may not be the ideal time to purchase one with the iPhone 16 Pro on the horizon, it remains a solid option for users seeking a reliable and feature-rich smartphone experience. As always, weigh your options carefully and consider your priorities before making a decision.