Are you struggling to decide which iPhone to buy in 2024? With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your needs. But fear not! In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down every iPhone currently sold by Apple, discussing the good and the bad of each model. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of which iPhone is the best choice for you in 2024.
Key Takeaway: By considering factors like design, build quality, display, camera, battery life, performance, connectivity, pricing, and software updates, you can make an informed decision about which iPhone to buy in 2024.
Design & Build Quality
All iPhones currently sold by Apple feature a sleek full-screen design, except for the iPhone SE, which retains the home button and larger bezels. Here’s a quick overview of the design and build quality aspects:
| Model | Design & Build Quality |
|---|---|
| iPhone 13, 14s, 15s | Aluminum frame with glass back |
| iPhone 15, 15 Plus | Titanium frame with color-infused glass back |
| iPhone SE, 13 | Physical SIM tray; Lightning cable charging |
| iPhone 14, 15 Series | eSIM only; USB-C charging |
| All models (except SE) | Ceramic Shield front glass for improved durability |
| All models (except SE) | IP68 water and dust resistance |
Size & Weight
The size and weight of an iPhone can significantly impact user experience. Here’s a comparison of sizes and weights across different models:
| Model | Display Size | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone SE | 4.7 inches | 148 g |
| iPhone 13, 14, 15 | 6.1 inches | Varies |
| iPhone 14 Plus, 15 Plus, 15 Pro Max | 6.7 inches | Varies |
Major Differences in Displays
The display is a crucial aspect to consider when choosing an iPhone. Here are some key differences among models:
- iPhone SE: LCD display with 625 nits peak brightness
- iPhone 13, 14, 15 Series: Super Retina XDR OLED display with up to 800 nits peak brightness
- iPhone 15 Series: Up to 2,000 nits peak brightness with Dynamic Island and 120Hz refresh rate
Cameras (Avoid These)
The camera capabilities of an iPhone can greatly impact its utility. Here’s a breakdown of camera systems across models:
- iPhone SE: Single 12-megapixel camera
- iPhone 13, 14: Dual 12-megapixel camera system
- iPhone 15 Series: Dual 12-megapixel or 48-megapixel camera system
- iPhone 15 Pro, Pro Max: Triple camera setup with 48-megapixel main camera
Battery Life (Pro Max Isn’t King)
Battery life is a crucial consideration for many users. Contrary to popular belief, the iPhone 15 Pro Max doesn’t necessarily offer the best battery life. Here’s a comparison of battery life across models:
- iPhone SE: Up to 10 hours of video streaming playback
- iPhone 13, 14: Up to 16-20 hours of video streaming playback
- iPhone 15 Series: Up to 16-20 hours of video streaming playback
- iPhone 15 Pro Max: Up to 25 hours of video streaming playback (as claimed by Apple)
Performance (Why It’s Not a Huge Deal)
While performance is important, modern iPhones offer excellent performance across the board. Here’s a comparison of performance specs:
- iPhone SE, 13, 14: A15 Bionic chip
- iPhone 15, 15 Plus: A16 Bionic chip
- iPhone 15 Pro, Pro Max: A17 Pro chip
DO NOT Overlook This (Connectivity)
Connectivity features can greatly enhance user experience. Here’s what to consider:
- iPhone SE: Sub-6 5G; Bluetooth 5.0
- iPhone 14s, 15 Series: mmWave 5G; Bluetooth 5.3
- iPhone 15 Series: Second-generation Ultra Wideband chip; Wi-Fi 6E; USB-C
Pricing & Storage
Pricing and storage options vary across iPhone models. Here’s a summary:
- iPhone SE: Starts at $429 for 64GB
- iPhone 13: Starts at $599
- iPhone 14, 14 Plus: Starts at $699, $799
- iPhone 15, 15 Plus: Starts at $829, $929
- iPhone 15 Pro, Pro Max: Starts at $999, $1099
Which iPhone Should You Buy? (Don’t Skip This Chapter)
Considering all factors, here are some recommendations:
- Best Overall Value: iPhone 15
- Best Battery Life: iPhone 14 Plus, 15 Plus
- Best Camera Quality: iPhone 15 Pro Max
- Best Budget Option: iPhone SE
Ultimately, the best iPhone for you depends on your specific needs and budget. Whether you prioritize camera quality, battery life, or affordability, there’s an iPhone out there for everyone in 2024. So, which one will you choose?