Zooming in on the Big Difference: iPhone 15 Pro vs. iPhone 15 Pro Max
Mondo Admin / 16-10-2023 / Tech
Caught between getting the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max? We've got you covered! In this review of Apple’s latest flagship smartphones, we're looking at their similarities and differences to help you decide where to invest your hard-earned cash.
More titanium
Apple has been loud and proud about their new flagships ditching their old stainless steel frames for a fresh titanium look. The result? Phones that are basically bulletproof. The new versions are exceptionally robust and lighter than the previous generations, exuding a sophisticated look that's as stylish as it is sturdy. Keeping with the theme, both devices are available in four sleek colours: Black Titanium, White Titanium, Blue Titanium and Natural Titanium.
Big vs. Bigger: How much can your thumb handle?
Naturally, the iPhone Pro Max models are the giants of the family, standing taller, broader and heavier than the others in the new range. This year is no different, but there is a small adjustment: both devices have shed some weight thanks to the new, lighter titanium frame. The iPhone 15 Pro Max weighs 221 grams and measures 6.29 inches in height (159.9mm) and 3.02 inches in width (76.7mm). The more compact iPhone 14 Pro weighs 187 grams with a height of 5.77 inches (146.6mm) and width of 2.78 inches (70.6mm). This makes the Pro Max 34 grams heavier, 13mm longer and 5mm wider.
So, how do you decide which one is for you? If you're the type who prefers a phone that snugly slips into your pocket or comfortably rests in one hand without putting your thumb through a workout, then the Pro is your go-to choice. But, if you're all about a large screen, then the Pro Max is the obvious pick. It might not be the best fit for your jeans, but there’s always a handbag or man bag to save the day.
Meet the Action Button
The new Pro and Pro Max models have a new trick up their sleeves: the all-new Action Button, here to replace the mute switch/toggle above the volume keys. This feature is exclusive to the top-tier devices and acts like your personal assistant, ready to help you with various tasks, all at your command. By default, it's set to 'silent mode,' but you can customise it to launch the camera, activate voice memos, or choose any other action that suits you. Your iPhone, your rules!
Never a Dull Moment With These Displays
The displays on the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max certainly don't disappoint. They closely resemble their predecessors with a Super Retina XDR Display, adaptive refresh rates ranging from 1Hz up to 120Hz, impressive peak brightness levels of 1600 nits for HDR and 2000 nits for outdoor use. And on the Pro-model, you get the exclusive Always-On Mode.
The screens perform brilliantly in any lighting environment, whether you're in a dimly lit room or under the blazing sun. Whatever you're doing, in any location, your screen will burst with colour, crispness, and clarity. Plus, it’s packed with power-saving features thanks to the dynamic refresh rate and Always-On mode.
The only difference, though it's quite evident, is the size of the displays. The iPhone 15 Pro features a more compact 6.1-inch screen, while the iPhone 15 Pro Max boasts a much larger 6.7-inch display.
Cameras: iPhone 15 Pro Max Zooms Ahead
The biggest difference between the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max? It's all about the camera! While they both rock a 48MP main camera and a 12MP ultrawide lens, the Pro Max takes zooming to a whole new level. Its telephoto camera got a major upgrade – it now boasts a 5x optical zoom. Not your regular run-of-the-mill zoom. It uses a new tetraprism design that reflects light in a very innovative way by sending it on a bit of a scenic tour before it hits the sensor. The outcome? Zoomed-in images that are so detailed and crisp, it's like having a microscope in your pocket! Perfect for capturing those tiny worlds.
The telephoto lens on the iPhone 15 Pro is the same as its predecessor at a 3x optical zoom with optical image stabilisation. It still captures images in stellar clarity, so you won't feel like you’re missing out.
Apple has introduced exciting new camera features to both the Pro and Pro Max, such as a new Smart HDR 5 algorithm for more true-to-life photos and greater dynamic range and the ability to record Spatial Videos for the Vision Pro headset which is set to launch next year.
G-Level Graphics
The iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max both hold the world's first 3nm chip – the A17 Pro. This new powerhouse is 10% faster than its predecessor, the A16 Bionic. It's not just a chip; it's a graphics giant, offering the most stunning visuals you've ever seen on a smartphone. In fact, it's so powerful that mainstream developers are gearing up to bring full-fledged console games to the Pro and Pro Max range. Get ready to dive into thrilling worlds with titles like Resident Evil Village, Tom Clancy's The Division Resurgence, and Ubisoft's Assassin's Creed Mirage, all right on your phone.
Additionally, both devices have received a nice boost in memory, packing a solid 8GB of RAM. When it comes to storage, the iPhone 15 Pro offers a range of options with 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB. The iPhone 15 Pro Max comes in three options – 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB.
Charge Up For Endless Entertainment
The Pro models are adopting global standards with the shiny new USB-C port. They're bringing a 20W wired charging speed and 15W wireless charging with Magsafe support, along with upcoming Qi2 compatibility.
Now, for the battery battle: The iPhone 15 Pro Max flexes its muscles with a bigger 4 422mAh battery, while the iPhone 15 Pro rocks a respectable 3 274mAh. That's a significant 35% more battery for the Pro Max.
So, how long can these devices keep you entertained? Apple says the iPhone 15 Pro gives you up to 23 hours of locally-stored video playback, 20 hours of streaming and 75 hours for audio playback. The bigger version goes the extra mile with 29 hours of local video playback, 25 hours for streaming and a staggering 95 hours of audio bliss.
iPhone 15 Pro vs. iPhone 15 Pro Max: Ready to choose?
Now that we’ve broken it down, are you ready to choose the flagship iPhone for you? Both are very similar, but if you have a broader budget and you’re looking for a bigger device with a better telephoto lens and beefier battery – the iPhone 15 Pro Max is the better choice. Other than that, both feature the incomparable A17 Pro that places these devices in a league of their own!