Short answer
A newer regular iPhone is usually the better buy for price, years of updates and features like Apple Intelligence. An older Pro is worth it if you want a zoom camera and a smoother 120Hz screen. For example, the iPhone 16 gets Apple Intelligence and lasts about as long as a 15 Pro, which has the better zoom.
Older Pro vs newer regular, side by side
| Older Pro vs newer regular | Zoom | Battery (video) | Apple Intelligence | Our price from |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| iPhone 14 Pro vs iPhone 15 | 3× vs 2× | 23 vs 20 hrs | No vs No | $375 vs $290 |
| iPhone 15 Pro vs iPhone 16 | 3× vs 2× | 23 vs 22 hrs | Yes vs Yes | $365 vs $400 |
| iPhone 15 Pro Max vs iPhone 16 Plus | 5× vs 2× | 29 vs 27 hrs | Yes vs Yes | $465 vs $445 |
Apple's published figures; prices are our lowest graded price today and update every night.
What a Pro adds
- A telephoto camera for zoom (the regular models crop the main camera instead).
- A 120Hz ProMotion screen that scrolls more smoothly.
- More storage options at the top end.
What a newer regular adds
- A newer chip, and usually more years of iOS updates.
- Battery life close to the older Pro's.
- Newer features, like Apple Intelligence on the iPhone 16.
Is the Pro worth it?
Only if you'll use the zoom camera or notice the smoother screen. If you mostly message, browse and take everyday photos, a newer regular model costs about the same or less and will be supported for longer.
Common questions
Is an older iPhone Pro better than a newer regular iPhone?
For zoom photos and a smoother screen, yes. For battery life, years of updates and newer features, a newer regular model usually wins.
iPhone 15 Pro or iPhone 16?
Both get Apple Intelligence. The 15 Pro has a 3× zoom camera and a 120Hz screen; the 16 has a newer chip, and the Camera Control button. Battery life on video is about the same (22 vs 23 hours).
iPhone 14 Pro or iPhone 15?
The 14 Pro has a 3× zoom camera and a 120Hz screen; the 15 has USB-C. Both have the Dynamic Island and the A16 chip.
Is the iPhone Pro worth it?
If you use zoom or want the smoothest screen, yes. Otherwise a newer regular iPhone is the better value.
Which lasts longer?
They're close. Apple's video figures for the older Pro models are slightly higher; see the table.