I was set on getting the iPhone 16 Pro, but now I’m second-guessing whether the basic 16 would be enough. This is my first time using iOS as my main device, so I’m hesitant to spend so much on the Pro in case I don’t like it. I mostly use my phone for texting, social media, and casual photography. I’ve been using a mid-range Android for the past 4 years, and I’ve never had a 120Hz screen. So, is 60Hz really that bad, or will the base model be good enough for long-term use?
The base 16 is pretty much the same as the Pro model. If you’re not used to a 120Hz display, I’d suggest going for the 16 or 16 Plus. It will last at least 3-5 years, and I have a 13 Pro Max myself. Honestly, I haven’t felt the need to upgrade to another Pro model since I rarely use the extra features.
The base 16 should be more than enough for you.
I’d say go for the 16 Pro. If you plan on keeping your phone for a while, the 120Hz display is going to feel much smoother and will become the norm pretty soon. Plus, the camera zoom and overall system are much better, and you also get a bigger screen and better battery life than the base model.
It all comes down to what you want. I’m new to Apple too and went for the Pro Max, thinking I might as well try the best, but if you’re not going to use all the extra features, it might not be worth the extra cost.
If it’s your first iPhone, I’d recommend the Pro model. The 120Hz display really makes a difference, and from iOS 17 onwards, base models are expected to have 90Hz, which is a nice improvement. Also, the 16 Plus has amazing battery life.
I chose the base model mainly because I prefer the lighter weight. Going from the 13 Mini to the 16 base felt similar to the weight difference between the 16 base and the 16 Pro. I know I might be in the minority, but I’d still love a smaller version, like the 16 Mini.
@Remy
I just switched from a 13 Mini to a 16 Pro, but I’ll be switching back if they release a new Mini model.
@Remy
I’m still holding on to my 13 Mini for now. I might just replace the battery and keep it for another 2-3 years. The 16 Pro feels way too heavy for me.
@Remy
We need to keep the pressure on for more compact models. (Sent from my 13 Mini)
The 60Hz display is fine if you’ve never used a 120Hz screen before. The camera is great, and the battery life is pretty much the same for both. If you’re not into gaming or heavy photography, the base model will work well. Also, if you’re new to iOS like me, consider the size. It’s important to be able to reach the top of the screen easily, and the gestures aren’t always the same as Android.
Since you plan to use it long term, I’d recommend the Pro. The battery life is noticeably better on the Pro compared to the base 16. That said, all models are great, and I’m sure you’ll love it once you switch to iOS.
I went from the 14 Pro to the 16 Base and honestly, I don’t notice much of a difference other than the phone being lighter.
I’ve always had the base model, but I went for the 16 Pro this time. I can’t go back to the base model now.
Vail said:
I’ve always had the base model, but I went for the 16 Pro this time. I can’t go back to the base model now.
Why is the Pro worth it?
Vail said:
I’ve always had the base model, but I went for the 16 Pro this time. I can’t go back to the base model now.
Why is the Pro worth it?
The Pro feels much more premium in hand, and the 120Hz display was a bigger upgrade than I thought it would be.
@Vail
Thanks for the reply. I compared the 16 Pro with my phone, and I can definitely see the difference in the 120Hz display. I’m still using the 11 Pro but am looking to upgrade. I’m really drawn to the lighter weight of the 16, as I usually keep my phone in my front pocket.
@Joss
I had the same concerns about the weight, but after a week with the Pro, I actually like how it feels now. Both the 16 and the 16 Pro are great, but I prefer the Pro since I don’t upgrade my phone often. Best of luck with your decision!
I chose the Pro Max for the screen and the best battery life, but honestly, the regular iPhones aren’t bad either. The difference in screen smoothness is slight, and most people won’t notice it. For things like watching YouTube, there’s no real difference. The camera on both is great, but the Pro’s is a little better. In normal use, the performance of both models is almost the same.