Apple iPhone 16 vs iPhone 16 Plus: is the bigger phone better?
If you were picking between the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro and you’ve settled on the standard model, you’ll now have to choose between the slightly smaller iPhone 16 and the iPhone 16 Plus. So, I’m here to help you decide.
For some context, Apple first started including a “Plus” model with the launch of the iPhone 14 Plus in 2022, replacing the iPhone 13 mini in the brand’s smartphone lineup. In the simplest way, it gives those who don’t need all the features of Apple’s most expensive “Pro Max” a way to get a bigger screen and a better battery life. Apple isn’t the only phone manufacturer to do this, as Samsung also sells a “Plus” Galaxy model to give users a bit more choice when shopping.
For iPhone buyers, there are a number of reasons why the 16 Plus may be worth considering over the regular iPhone 16.
Apple iPhone 16 vs iPhone 16 Plus: Battery life
For one, the iPhone 16 Plus is going to deliver a lot more battery, and if you use your phone a lot you’re going to notice this. I did some tests switching between the 15 and the 15 Plus over the past year and, trust me, there's a clear difference. This time around, the 16 Plus will deliver an extra hour of battery life during video playback, for 27 hours in total – compared to the total of 22 hours of video playback from the iPhone 16.
Apple iPhone 16 vs iPhone 16 Plus: Display size
The other detail to note, unsurprisingly, is that a 6.7-inch display size is a pretty substantial difference compared to the 6.1-inch iPhone 16. This extra screen space is ideal if you’d like to read on it, see more on video calls, or view your photos in greater size and detail. It also makes your phone almost as sizeable as an iPad mini.
On the one hand, it’s brilliant if you’re always watching streaming services, gaming or reading on your handset. On the other hand, well, you might need both hands to hold it safely!
It can be uncomfortable to hold easily, even if it’s lighter than the biggest Pro Max. One downside I noted with the 15 Plus in the long term? I just found myself more likely to drop it. A protective case is an absolute must.
Apple iPhone 16 vs iPhone 16 Plus: Price
Lastly, there’s a price difference. The 16 Plus isn’t going to cost you as much as a full-on Pro model, but it’s much closer to the Pro price when compared to the standard iPhone 16. In the UK, the iPhone 16 Plus starts at £899 (£100 less than the Pro), while the iPhone 16 starts at a more reasonable £799.
Verdict: Apple iPhone 16 vs iPhone 16 Plus
Deciding between the two options comes down to personal preference. Both are excellent iPhones but the regular iPhone 16 is both more affordable and more portable.
However, the pricier 16 Plus is going to have a lot more battery life and I think those who love streaming films, looking at photos or reading loads on their phone will find it a better experience.
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