iPhone 15 vs iPhone XS Max
Shop iPhone
iPhone 15
Starting at
£416.19£699.00 new
iPhone XS Max
Starting at
£168.09£459.00 newWhat's the difference between the iPhone 15 and iPhone XS Max?
iPhone 15 vs XS Max comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Refurbished, the iPhone XS Max starts at £168.09, £248.10 less than the iPhone 15. The iPhone 15 is the newer model, released in 2023.
Refurbished from
Chipset
RAM
Battery
Screen size
Screen type
- Chipset: Apple A16 Bionic on the iPhone 15, Apple A12 Bionic on the iPhone XS Max.
- The iPhone 15 has more RAM: 6 GB vs 4 GB.
- The iPhone 15 has a bigger battery: 3349 mAh vs 3174 mAh.
iPhone 15 vs iPhone XS Max specs
The iPhone 15 and iPhone XS Max each offer a distinct experience suited to different needs. The iPhone 15 is more compact, lighter, and equipped with a newer chipset and more RAM, which benefits users who want a responsive device with higher memory for multitasking. It also features a higher resolution main camera and a sharper front camera for clearer photos. The iPhone XS Max has a larger screen, which is better for watching videos and browsing, and a slightly higher screen resolution. The iPhone 15 supports 5G connectivity and uses USB-C charging, while the XS Max uses Lightning and supports 4G. Choose the iPhone 15 for performance and camera quality, and the iPhone XS Max for a larger display experience.
iPhone 15 vs iPhone XS Max price
Colour
iPhone 15 vs iPhone XS Max battery life and software updates
Battery size and software support are key factors in durability, along with physical dimensions and weight.
Battery Capacity
The iPhone 15 has a 3349 mAh battery, which is slightly larger than the iPhone XS Max's 3174 mAh. A bigger battery can translate to longer use between charges, which suits those who need their phone to last through a busy day without charging.
Physical Size And Weight
The iPhone 15 is smaller and lighter, measuring 147.6 mm in height and weighing 171 g, compared to the iPhone XS Max's 157.5 mm height and 208 g weight. This makes the iPhone 15 a better fit for users who prefer a more compact and lighter device for easier handling and pocket carry.
Software Updates
This means both devices stay current in terms of software over time.
Battery
Foldable
Ip rating
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
iPhone 15 vs iPhone XS Max performance
The chipset, RAM, and storage options influence how smoothly each phone handles apps and multitasking, as well as how much data and media can be stored.
Chipset Power
The iPhone 15 uses the Apple A16 Bionic chipset, while the iPhone XS Max has the Apple A12 Bionic. The newer chipset in the iPhone 15 is suited for users who want faster processing speeds and better performance with demanding apps.
RAM Capacity
With 6 GB of RAM, the iPhone 15 supports keeping more apps active simultaneously, which benefits users who multitask frequently. The iPhone XS Max has 4 GB of RAM, which is adequate for everyday use but offers fewer resources for extensive multitasking.
Storage Options
The iPhone 15 is available with 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB storage, giving a choice for different storage needs starting from a larger base option. The iPhone XS Max options include 64GB, 256GB, and 512GB, which may suit those looking for a lower initial storage capacity.
Chipset
RAM
iPhone 15 vs iPhone XS Max screen
Screen size, resolution, and display type affect how content looks and feels. Both phones have 60 Hz refresh rates, so motion smoothness is similar, but other aspects differ.
Screen Size
The iPhone XS Max has a larger 6.5 inch screen, which provides more room for video and reading. The iPhone 15 has a 6.1 inch screen, better suited to users who prefer a smaller device that is easier to hold.
Resolution
The iPhone XS Max offers a slightly higher resolution at 1242 x 2688 pixels compared to the iPhone 15's 1179 x 2556 pixels. This means the XS Max screen can display content with a bit more detail, which may appeal to those focused on screen clarity.
Screen Type
The iPhone 15 uses a Super Retina XDR OLED screen, which typically supports higher brightness and contrast levels, while the iPhone XS Max has a Super Retina OLED screen. Users valuing vivid display quality might notice this difference.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
iPhone 15 vs iPhone XS Max camera
Camera quality influences photo and video detail, while front camera resolution affects selfies and video calls. Both phones offer strong camera systems, but differ in pixel counts.
Main Camera Resolution
The iPhone 15 has a 48 megapixel main camera, which captures more detail and suits users who want sharper photos with finer resolution. The iPhone XS Max's 12 megapixel camera is still capable but offers fewer pixels for image detail.
Front Camera Resolution
The iPhone 15 features a 12 megapixel front camera, ideal for clearer selfies and video calls. The iPhone XS Max has a 7 megapixel front camera, which is sufficient for everyday use but with less detail.
Front camera
Main camera
iPhone 15 vs iPhone XS Max size and design
Additional features such as network compatibility, connectors, and SIM options affect how the phones fit into your usage habits and accessories.
Mobile Network
The iPhone 15 supports 5G networks, which offers faster data speeds where available and benefits users who want quicker downloads and streaming. The iPhone XS Max supports 4G networks, suitable for those with standard network needs.
Connector Type
The iPhone 15 uses a USB-C connector, which is common for many modern devices and allows compatibility with a wide range of chargers and accessories. The iPhone XS Max uses a Lightning connector, which works with many established Apple accessories.
SIM Options
Both phones support a physical SIM and an eSIM, giving flexibility for managing multiple phone numbers or carriers.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
Release date
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
iPhone 15 or iPhone XS Max: which should you buy?
Buy the iPhone 15 if
- you want more RAM (6 GB vs 4 GB)
- you want a bigger battery (3349 mAh vs 3174 mAh)
- you want a higher-resolution main camera (48 megapixels vs 12 megapixels)
Buy the iPhone XS Max if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £168.09, £248.10 less than the iPhone 15
- you want a bigger screen (6.5 inch vs 6.1 inch)
What our customers say
Customers say the iPhone 15 looks like new even in fair condition, with many praising its battery life and camera quality. Many find the battery lasts a long time and appreciate the phone's responsiveness. The screen quality meets expectations, and the phones generally come with high battery health percentages. Users also comment on the device's speed and clear pictures, with some noting the phone feels like a new device. The iPhone 15 suits buyers who want a reliable, modern device with strong performance and camera abilities.
Reviews for the iPhone XS Max highlight its excellent condition and value for price, often noting it looks brand new with no scratches or dents. The battery life varies, with some users reporting shorter durations, but others are satisfied. The larger screen is appreciated for media viewing. Some customers mention minor issues like call volume or setup times but generally find the phone good for everyday needs. The iPhone XS Max fits users who prefer a larger screen and a solid smartphone experience without requiring the latest technology.
Overall, the iPhone 15 appeals to those looking for higher performance, better cameras, and 5G connectivity in a smaller, lighter device. The iPhone XS Max suits buyers wanting a larger display and a capable phone for everyday use with a more established connector type.
iPhone 15 vs iPhone XS Max FAQs
iPhone 15 vs XS Max comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Chipset: Apple A16 Bionic on the iPhone 15, Apple A12 Bionic on the iPhone XS Max. The iPhone 15 has more RAM: 6 GB vs 4 GB.
The iPhone XS Max is cheaper refurbished, from £168.09 compared with £416.19 for the iPhone 15.
The iPhone 15 has a bigger battery: 3349 mAh vs 3174 mAh.
The iPhone 15 has a higher-resolution main camera: 48 megapixels vs 12 megapixels.
The iPhone 15 is still supported and can run iOS 27. Updates for the iPhone XS Max ended in Apr 2026. Its last version is iOS 18.
The iPhone 15 adds more RAM (6 GB vs 4 GB), a bigger battery (3349 mAh vs 3174 mAh) and a higher-resolution main camera (48 megapixels vs 12 megapixels). Refurbished, it costs £248.10 more (from £416.19 vs £168.09).
Refurbished, the iPhone 15 comes in 128GB, 256GB and 512GB, and the iPhone XS Max in 64GB, 256GB and 512GB.
