iPhone 15 Plus vs 16 Plus: Which Offers Better Value?

Smartphone upgrade dilemma: A consumer faces the choice between the iPhone 15 Plus and the upcoming iPhone 16 Plus, weighing factors like screen size, features, and price difference.

• The user’s spouse currently owns an iPhone 14 and is considering an upgrade to a larger screen device, with the iPhone 15 Plus and 16 Plus as primary options.
• The price difference between the two models is approximately $125 in their local market, prompting consideration of whether the newer model justifies the additional cost.
• AI features and Siri functionality are not priorities, as these services are not available in the user’s language.
• Specific features like the action button and new photo button are not of interest to the potential buyer.

Device specifications and performance: Both the iPhone 15 Plus and 16 Plus offer similar core features, with some incremental improvements in the newer model.

• The screen size remains consistent at 6.7 inches for both devices, providing the desired larger display.
• The iPhone 16 Plus is expected to feature the newer A18 chip, compared to the A16 in the 15 Plus, though the performance difference may not be significant for typical usage scenarios.
• Battery life is anticipated to be comparable between the two models, offering no clear advantage to either option.

Camera capabilities: While camera improvements are often a key selling point for new iPhone models, the differences between the 15 Plus and 16 Plus may not be substantial for casual users.

• The camera upgrades in the 16 Plus are not expected to be major unless photography is a primary concern for the user.
• For users who are not photography enthusiasts, the camera capabilities of the 15 Plus are likely to be more than sufficient for everyday use.

Software support and longevity: The newer model may offer extended software support, which could be a consideration for long-term use.

• The iPhone 16 Plus is likely to receive software updates for 1-2 years longer than the 15 Plus, potentially extending its useful lifespan.
• However, given Apple’s track record of supporting older devices, even the 15 Plus is expected to receive updates for several years.

Alternative options: Some responses suggested considering other models that might offer additional features at a similar price point.

• A used iPhone 15 Pro model was proposed as an alternative, offering features like the ProMotion display with a 120Hz refresh rate.
• However, the original poster noted that their spouse cannot discern the difference between 60Hz and 120Hz displays, diminishing the value of this feature.

Cost-benefit analysis: Given the specific needs and preferences of the user, the consensus leans towards the iPhone 15 Plus as a more cost-effective choice.

• The incremental improvements offered by the 16 Plus may not justify the additional $125 cost for this particular user.
• The 15 Plus appears to meet all the stated requirements, including the larger screen size, without unnecessary features that would go unused.

Future-proofing considerations: While the iPhone 16 Plus will be the newer model, the practical benefits for this user may be limited.

• The performance improvements of the A18 chip in the 16 Plus are unlikely to be noticeable in day-to-day use for most users.
• The extended software support lifecycle of the 16 Plus, while beneficial, may not outweigh the immediate cost savings of the 15 Plus for users who upgrade their devices every few years.

Market timing and availability: The decision may also be influenced by the immediate availability of the iPhone 15 Plus versus waiting for the 16 Plus release.

• The iPhone 15 Plus is currently available, allowing for an immediate upgrade if desired.
• Opting for the 16 Plus would require waiting for its release, which could be several months away depending on Apple’s launch schedule.

Balancing priorities and value: In this case, the iPhone 15 Plus emerges as the recommended choice, aligning with the user’s needs while providing better value for money.

• The larger screen size, which is the primary motivation for the upgrade, is satisfied by both models equally.
• The lack of interest in AI features, Siri, and specific hardware buttons reduces the appeal of potential new features in the 16 Plus.
• The similar performance in everyday tasks and comparable battery life further diminish the advantages of the newer model for this particular user.