The recently launched iPhone 15 Pro models come with impressive video features and a new chipset. Choosing between the iPhone 15 Pro and the larger iPhone 15 Pro Max can be challenging, so we present a detailed comparison to assist you in making an informed decision.

iPhone 15 Pro vs iPhone 15 Pro Max: Tech Specs

iPhone 15 Pro

  • Display: 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED panel, 2,556×1,179, 460ppi; 1,600/2,000 nits peak brightness (HDR/outdoor); Dynamic Island, ProMotion 120Hz refresh rate, Always On display
  • Processor: A17 Pro
  • Storage: 128GB/256GB/512GB/1TB
  • Rear Camera: 48MP f/1.78 Main, 12MP f/2.2 Ultra Wide, 12MP f/2.8 Telephoto, 0.5x, 1x, 2x, 3x optical zoom, Smart HDR 5
  • Front Camera: 12MP TrueDepth, f/1.9
  • Video Recording: Various features, including 4K video recording, ProRes video recording, HDR video recording with Dolby Vision, Cinematic mode, Action Mode, Macro, Log video
  • Biometric Security: Face ID
  • Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi 6E
  • LTE: 5G
  • Charging: USB-C, Up to 50% charge in 30 minutes
  • Wireless Charging: Yes, with MagSafe
  • Battery Life: 23 hours (video playback)
  • Bluetooth: 5.3
  • Apple Pay: Yes
  • Waterproofing: IP68
  • SIM: Dual (nano and eSIM except in the US where there is no support for physical SIM cards)
  • Dimensions: 5.77 x 2.78 x 0.32 inches; 6.60oz / 187g

iPhone 15 Pro Max

  • Display: 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR OLED panel, 2,796×1,290 resolution, 460ppi, ProMotion 120Hz refresh rate, 1,600/2,000 nits peak brightness (HDR/outdoor); Dynamic Island, Always On display
  • Processor: A17 Pro
  • Storage: 256GB/512GB/1TB
  • Rear Camera: 48MP f/1.78 Main, 12MP f/2.2 Ultra Wide, 12MP f/2.8 Telephoto, 0.5x, 1x, 2x, 3x, x5 optical zoom, Smart HDR 5
  • Front Camera: 12MP TrueDepth, f/1.9
  • Video Recording: Various features, including 4K video recording, ProRes video recording, HDR video recording with Dolby Vision, Cinematic mode, Action Mode, Macro, Log video
  • Biometric Security: Face ID
  • Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi 6E
  • LTE: 5G
  • Charging: USB-C, Up to 50% charge in 35 minutes
  • Wireless Charging: Yes, with MagSafe
  • Battery Life: 29 hours (video playback)
  • Bluetooth: 5.3
  • Apple Pay: Yes
  • Waterproofing: IP68
  • SIM: Dual (nano and eSIM except in the US where there is no support for physical SIM cards)
  • Dimensions: 6.29 x 3.02 x 0.32 inches; 7.81oz / 221g

Note: The Pro Max omits the 128GB storage variant.

Key Comparisons:

  • Both models feature the A17 Pro chipset, offering improved GPU and CPU performance.
  • Both phones support USB-C, replacing the Lightning port, and adhere to new EU laws.
  • The iPhone 15 Pro Max has a longer battery life, lasting up to 29 hours of video playback, compared to the iPhone 15 Pro’s 23 hours.
  • The iPhone 15 Pro can fast charge to 50% in 30 minutes, while the Pro Max achieves the same in 35 minutes.
  • Both phones offer Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, 5G, Face ID, and IP68 waterproofing.
  • Storage options vary, with the iPhone 15 Pro available in 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB, while the Pro Max excludes the 128GB variant.
  • The dimensions and weight differ, reflecting the size variation between the two models.

Design & Build:

  • Both phones feature a Titanium band attached to an aluminum chassis, with textured matte glass on the rear.
  • Dimensions for iPhone 15 Pro: 5.77 x 2.78 x 0.32 inches; 6.60oz / 187g.
  • Dimensions for iPhone 15 Pro Max: 6.29 x 3.02 x 0.32 inches; 7.81oz / 221g.
  • Both models offer color options: Natural Titanium, Blue Titanium, White Titanium, and Black Titanium.

Display:

  • Both phones share similar features such as ProMotion 120Hz refresh rates, True Tone, Wide Color display, Haptic Touch, Always-On, and 1,000/1,600/2,000 (typical, HDR, outdoor) maximum brightness.
  • The iPhone 15 Pro Max has a larger 6.7-inch display, providing a grander viewing experience compared to the 6.1-inch display on the iPhone 15 Pro.

Action Button:

  • Both models replace the mute switch with a programmable ‘Action’ button, allowing users to assign specific tasks.

Cameras:

  • Both models feature identical camera setups, including a 48MP f/1.78 Main, 12MP f/2.2 Ultra Wide, and 12MP f/2.8 Telephoto sensor.
  • The iPhone 15 Pro Max has an additional 5x optical zoom, providing more versatility in capturing distant subjects.

Price:

  • Pricing varies based on storage capacity.
  • iPhone 15 Pro prices (128GB/256GB/512GB/1TB): $999/$1,099/$1,299/$1,499.
  • iPhone 15 Pro Max prices (256GB/512GB/1TB): $1,199/$1,399/$1,699.

Verdict:

  • The key difference lies in size, with nearly identical features.
  • Choose based on personal preference, considering factors like battery life, weight, and display size.
  • The iPhone 15 Pro Max offers additional optical zoom but is heavier than the iPhone 15 Pro.
  • Consider the Pro Max if longer battery life and optical zoom are priorities.

In conclusion, Apple has simplified the choice between the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max, making it primarily a matter of personal preference regarding size and specific feature priorities. Both devices offer a range of capabilities, and the decision ultimately comes down to individual preferences and usage preferences.