Apple’s iPhone 15 series introduces exciting advancements, but choosing between the iPhone 15 and the iPhone 15 Pro can be confusing – especially if you’re buying for 2025. You can still get both of the phones new (even though the iPhone 16 series is already out) but you’ll definitely save a bunch of money if you opt for used. Apple doesn’t sell the Pro series directly anymore, but they do sell the iPhone 15 standard and iPhone 15 Plus models for $699 and $799, respectively.
Expect to pay $400-$550 for a used iPhone 15, and $600 – $750 for a used iPhone 15 Pro.
This guide simplifies your decision by offering a clear comparison of the two models. We’ll explore key features, including display technology, camera capabilities, and processing power, to help you identify the perfect iPhone 15 for your needs. Whether you prioritize affordability or cutting-edge technology, this guide provides the insights you need to make an informed choice.
Choosing the Right iPhone 15: A Guide to the Pro and Standard Models
Choosing a new iPhone can be hard. With the release of the iPhone 15 series, you have a lot of options. Here’s a guide to help you decide between the iPhone 15 and the iPhone 15 Pro.
iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro: Key Differences
Both the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro have some great features. However, the Pro model offers some extras.
- Display: The iPhone 15 Pro has a more advanced display with ProMotion and an always-on feature. ProMotion makes scrolling and animations look smooth. The always-on display shows the time and other info, even when the phone is locked.
- Action button: The iPhone 15 Pro has a new Action button you can customize. You can set it to do things like open the camera, turn on the flashlight, or start a voice recording.
- Camera: The iPhone 15 Pro has a better camera system. It has a telephoto lens for zooming in and a LiDAR scanner for better augmented reality experiences.
- Battery life: The iPhone 15 Pro has a longer battery life.
- Processor: The iPhone 15 Pro has a faster processor.
Which iPhone 15 Is Right for You?
The best iPhone for you depends on your needs and budget.
- Choose the iPhone 15 if:
- You want a great phone at a more affordable price.
- You don’t need the extra features of the Pro model.
- Choose the iPhone 15 Pro if:
- You want the best possible iPhone experience.
- You need a phone with a great camera.
- You want the latest technology, like ProMotion and the Action button.
Comparing the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro
| Feature | iPhone 15 | iPhone 15 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR | 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR with ProMotion and Always-On |
| Camera | Dual-camera system (Wide, Ultra Wide) | Triple-camera system (Wide, Ultra Wide, Telephoto) with LiDAR Scanner |
| Processor | A16 Bionic chip | A17 Pro chip |
| Action button | No | Yes |
| Battery Life | Up to 26 hours video playback | Up to 29 hours video playback |
| Starting Price | \$799 | \$999 |
Beyond the iPhone 15: Exploring Apple’s Ecosystem
Your iPhone experience extends beyond the device itself. Apple offers a range of products and services that seamlessly integrate with your iPhone, creating a comprehensive ecosystem.
Apple Watch: Your iPhone’s Perfect Companion
The Apple Watch acts as an extension of your iPhone, providing convenient access to notifications, calls, and health tracking. With features like fall detection, heart rate monitoring, and sleep tracking, the Apple Watch promotes a healthier lifestyle.
AirPods: Immerse Yourself in Audio
AirPods deliver a wireless audio experience, perfect for music, podcasts, and calls. Their comfortable fit and seamless connectivity make them an ideal companion for your iPhone.
Mac: A Powerful Productivity Partner
For those seeking enhanced productivity, a Mac computer complements your iPhone seamlessly. Continuity features allow you to start tasks on one device and finish them on another, while Handoff enables you to answer calls or respond to messages from your Mac.
Apple Services: Enhancing Your Digital Life
Apple’s suite of services further enriches your iPhone experience. iCloud provides secure storage for your photos, files, and backups, while Apple Music offers a vast library of songs. Apple Pay allows for contactless payments, and Apple Arcade provides access to a collection of premium mobile games.
By integrating these products and services into your routine, you can unlock the full potential of your iPhone and streamline your digital life.
A Look at iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro
Thoughts from Users
The iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro offer different features for users. The Pro model has more advanced tech, but costs more. Some buyers worry about overheating and battery life in the Pro.
Most issues get fixed by Apple if they happen. The basic iPhone 15 is a good phone too. It has many Pro features from last year’s model. The Pro adds extras like better cameras and titanium sides.
People who like the latest tech may prefer the Pro. Its new chip is faster. The Pro also has a zoom lens the basic model lacks. But the regular 15 works well for many users. It costs less and still takes great photos.
Battery life seems fine on both phones for most owners. A few Pro users say their phone gets warm, but this isn’t very common. Software updates often fix small issues like this.
The choice comes down to budget and needs. The Pro has some cool extras. But the basic 15 does everything most people want. Both phones run the latest iOS version. They’ll get updates for years to come.
Common Questions About iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro
How Do the Camera Features Differ?
The iPhone 15 Pro has better camera specs than the iPhone 15. It has a 48MP main camera, while the iPhone 15 has a 12MP main camera. The Pro model also has a telephoto lens for optical zoom. Both phones have wide and ultra-wide lenses.
The Pro can shoot ProRAW photos and ProRes video. It also lets users change the focal length after taking a photo. The regular iPhone 15 lacks these pro-level features.
What Are the Key Spec Differences?
The iPhone 15 Pro uses the newer A17 Pro chip. The iPhone 15 has the A16 Bionic chip. The Pro has more RAM at 8GB vs 6GB in the regular model.
The Pro has a ProMotion display with a 120Hz refresh rate. The iPhone 15 screen refreshes at 60Hz. Both use OLED screens but the Pro’s is brighter.
Pro models have a titanium frame. Regular models use aluminum. All iPhone 15 versions have USB-C ports and Dynamic Island displays.
Which Phone Costs Less?
The iPhone 15 is cheaper. It starts at $799 for 128GB storage. The Pro starts at $999 for the same storage.
Higher storage tiers cost more. The most expensive iPhone 15 (512GB) is $1,099. The priciest iPhone 15 Pro (1TB) is $1,499.
What Can Only the Pro Do?
The Pro has these unique features:
• ProRes video recording
• Macro photography mode
• LiDAR scanner for AR
• Always-on display
• Faster USB-C port (USB 3 vs USB 2)
• Action button (replaces mute switch)
It also has better water resistance (6m vs 2m) and a stainless steel frame.
Is Battery Life Different?
Apple claims similar battery life for both models. But real-world tests show small differences.
The Pro lasts a bit longer for video playback. The regular model edges out in audio playback. For mixed use, they’re about equal.
Exact times vary based on settings and usage. Both easily last a full day for most users.
Are the Screens the Same Size?
The base iPhone 15 and 15 Pro both have 6.1-inch screens. The Plus and Pro Max versions have 6.7-inch screens.
All use OLED tech with similar resolutions. The Pro models get brighter and have smoother scrolling thanks to ProMotion.
Screen quality is great on all models. The Pro just takes it a step further.
