Apple launched its new iPhones during It’s Glowtime. But should you go for the iPhone 16 or the 16 Pro?
Like every year, Apple releases four different iPhones: the iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro and 16 Pro Max. So there’s a lot to choose from. But which iPhone 16 will you want in your pocket soon?
We list the differences between the regular model and the Pro version so you can make an informed choice.
iPhone 16 vs iPhone 16 Pro
To make the differences between the iPhone 16 and 16 Pro clear, we compare the most important aspects. Here are the main differences.
The camera
The biggest difference between the iPhone 16 and the iPhone 16 Pro is in the camera. The 16 has a 48-megapixel fusion main camera and a 12-megapixel ultra-wide-angle camera. Although Apple suggests you have four different cameras, the 16 actually has only two lenses.
Under/next to the regular model. (Image: Apple)
The iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max have three. Like the regular iPhone 16, the Pro has a 48 megapixel fusion main camera, but the wide-angle lens on the Pro also has 48 megapixels. In addition, the Pro has a telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom, ideal for razor-sharp photos when zooming in without losing quality like digital zoom.
The iPhone 16 Pro also lets you shoot better video. The Pro can record in 4K at 120 fps, while the regular 16 is limited to a maximum of 60 fps.
Processor and battery
Another major difference between the iPhone 16 and the 16 Pro is the processor. The regular 16 is equipped with the A18 chip, while the Pro version gets the more powerful A18 Pro chip. The Pro chip is faster and more powerful, which is ideal for running AI processes. Unfortunately, Apple Intelligence is not coming to the Netherlands.
For most users, however, the regular A18 chip is more than enough. This chip is powerful enough to play AAA games such as Assassin’s Creed Mirage and the Resident Evil games, something that was not possible with the iPhone 15.
(Image: Apple)
The A18 Pro chip is not only more powerful, but also more efficient, which makes for longer battery life. According to Apple, the iPhone 16 lets you watch 22 hours of video (18 hours of streamed video) before the battery runs out, while the 16 Pro lasts up to 27 hours (22 hours of streamed video).
Screen
There are also distinct differences in the display. Both models have an OLED Super Retina XDR screen with a pixel density of 460 ppi and a maximum brightness of 2,000 nits during the day, with a minimum brightness of 1 nit in the dark.
However, the iPhone 16 Pro has a larger screen of 6.3 inches, while the regular iPhone 16 has to make do with 6.1 inches. A major drawback of the regular model is its refresh rate of 60 Hz, which really can’t be done for a $969 smartphone. Even cheaper Android smartphones already offer 120 Hz.
Material
The iPhone 16 has an aluminum frame with the familiar glass panels, while the Pro version has a titanium side, which is lighter and gives the smartphone a more luxurious look.
Cool colors. (Image: Apple)
Dimensions differ minimally. The iPhone 16 Pro has a larger screen, but Apple compensates by thinner screen bezels. The dimensions of the 16 are 14.76 cm x 7.16 cm x 0.79 cm, while the 16 Pro measures 14.96 cm x 7.14 cm x 0.81 cm. The weight of the 16 is 170 grams, while the 16 Pro is slightly heavier at 199 grams. In practice, you hardly notice any difference.
In terms of buttons, both models are identical. Unlike last year, the iPhone 16 now has the Action button, as do the Pro models. Both models also have the new Camera Capture button.
Price
Then the perhaps most important difference: price. The iPhone 16 is available starting at $969, while the 16 Pro starts at $1,229.
Between the two models, like last year, there is a price difference of 260 euros. Since Apple Intelligence is not coming to the Netherlands, you may wonder if you really need that more powerful processor. However, if you value the camera, screen and slightly longer battery life, the 16 Pro may be a better choice. This is especially true if you are an avid photographer, videographer, mobile gamer or streamer.
