iPhone 16 Plus vs iPhone 16 Pro Max
Shop iPhone
iPhone 16 Plus
Starting at
£588.00£799.00 new
iPhone 16 Pro Max
Starting at
£840.13£1,399.00 newWhat's the difference between the iPhone 16 Plus and iPhone 16 Pro Max?
iPhone 16 Plus vs Pro Max comes down to the chipset, battery and screen size. Refurbished, the iPhone 16 Plus starts at £588, £252.13 less than the iPhone 16 Pro Max.
Refurbished from
Chipset
Battery
Screen size
Screen type
Refresh rate
- Chipset: Apple A18 on the iPhone 16 Plus, Apple A18 Pro on the iPhone 16 Pro Max.
- Battery: 4674 mAh on the iPhone 16 Plus, 4685 mAh on the iPhone 16 Pro Max.
- The iPhone 16 Pro Max has a bigger screen: 6.9 inch vs 6.7 inch.
iPhone 16 Plus vs iPhone 16 Pro Max specs
The iPhone 16 Plus and iPhone 16 Pro Max both offer strong performance and premium build quality, but they differ in screen technology, chipset, storage options, and physical size. The iPhone 16 Plus suits those who prefer a lighter phone with a smooth 60 Hz display and a choice of 128GB storage starting size. The iPhone 16 Pro Max is designed for users who want a larger and more responsive 120 Hz screen, the Apple A18 Pro chipset, and more storage capacity up to 1TB. Differences in USB-C connector speed and SIM card type also influence everyday convenience. Each is a solid choice depending on your priorities for display, storage, and device size.
iPhone 16 Plus vs iPhone 16 Pro Max price
Colour
iPhone 16 Plus vs iPhone 16 Pro Max battery life and software updates
Both models come with similar battery capacity and run the same iOS version, so durability and software support are closely matched. Here are the key points that may affect your daily use.
Battery Capacity
The iPhone 16 Plus has a 4674 mAh battery while the iPhone 16 Pro Max has a slightly larger 4685 mAh battery. The difference is small, so both phones will hold charge for long periods, suitable for typical daily use without frequent recharging.
Operating System And Updates
This means you can expect the same level of new features and security support on either device.
Battery
Foldable
Ip rating
OS at launch
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
iPhone 16 Plus vs iPhone 16 Pro Max performance
Performance differences come down mainly to the chipset and storage options. Both phones have the same amount of RAM, so multitasking capability will be similar.
Chipset
The iPhone 16 Plus has the Apple A18 (3 nm) chip while the iPhone 16 Pro Max features the Apple A18 Pro chipset. Users who run demanding apps or want the most advanced processing power may prefer the Pro Max for its enhanced chipset.
RAM
Both devices have 8 GB of RAM. This amount keeps everyday apps running smoothly, making either phone a solid choice for general multitasking and app usage.
Storage Options
The iPhone 16 Plus is available with 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB of storage. The iPhone 16 Pro Max starts at 256GB and goes up to 1TB. If you need more space for photos, videos, or apps, the Pro Max offers higher capacity options.
Chipset
RAM
iPhone 16 Plus vs iPhone 16 Pro Max screen
Screen differences affect viewing experience and size. The two phones provide different refresh rates, screen sizes, and display types to suit various preferences.
Refresh Rate
The iPhone 16 Plus has a 60 Hz refresh rate, which is standard for smooth viewing of videos and scrolling. The iPhone 16 Pro Max doubles this to 120 Hz, offering a more fluid and responsive experience, especially noticeable when gaming or scrolling quickly.
Resolution And Screen Size
With a 6.7 inch screen at 1290 x 2796 resolution, the iPhone 16 Plus offers a large, clear display. The iPhone 16 Pro Max has a slightly larger 6.9 inch screen with a higher resolution of 1320 x 2868. This provides more screen real estate and a sharper image, beneficial for watching videos or multitasking.
Screen Technology
The iPhone 16 Plus uses Super Retina XDR OLED, while the iPhone 16 Pro Max features LTPO Super Retina XDR OLED. LTPO allows for efficient power use, especially with the higher refresh rate, which can help balance performance with battery life during varied use.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
iPhone 16 Plus vs iPhone 16 Pro Max camera
Both devices share the same camera specifications, making their photo and video capabilities similar. Front camera quality is also identical, which suits a variety of video call and selfie needs.
Main Camera
Both the iPhone 16 Plus and iPhone 16 Pro Max have a 48 megapixel main camera. This resolution supports detailed photos and videos, suitable for everyday photography and capturing important moments.
Front Camera
Both phones feature a 12 megapixel front camera, ideal for clear selfies and video calls. This consistency means your choice will not affect front-facing photo quality.
Camera type
Front camera
Main camera
iPhone 16 Plus vs iPhone 16 Pro Max size and design
Additional differences include physical dimensions, connector types, and SIM card options which may influence convenience and handling.
SIM Card Options
The iPhone 16 Plus supports both a physical SIM and eSIM, giving flexibility if you want to use two different phone numbers or plans. The iPhone 16 Pro Max supports only eSIM, which may suit users comfortable with digital SIM cards.
Size And Weight
The iPhone 16 Plus measures 160.9 mm high, 77.8 mm wide, and 7.8 mm deep, weighing 199 g. The iPhone 16 Pro Max is slightly larger at 163 mm high, 77.6 mm wide, and 8.3 mm deep, with a weight of 227 g. The Plus is lighter and a touch slimmer, which might appeal if you prefer a less bulky phone.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
Release date
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
iPhone 16 Plus or iPhone 16 Pro Max: which should you buy?
Buy the iPhone 16 Plus if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £588, £252.13 less than the iPhone 16 Pro Max
- you want a lighter build (199 g vs 227 g)
Buy the iPhone 16 Pro Max if
- you want a bigger screen (6.9 inch vs 6.7 inch)
- you want a smoother screen (120 Hz vs 60 Hz)
What our customers say
Customers using the iPhone 16 Plus often praise its like-new condition and battery life, describing it as lasting well throughout the day. Many note the phone feels fresh and performs smoothly, with the 12 megapixel front camera and 48 megapixel main camera meeting expectations for photo quality. Some mention its size and weight as comfortable for daily handling. A few users experienced initial setup quirks or minor glitches but overall found it a reliable device.
Users of the iPhone 16 Pro Max highlight its premium feel with a responsive and smooth touchscreen, appreciating the 120 Hz refresh rate and larger 6.9 inch screen for vivid visuals. The battery health and performance are frequently described as excellent, with many mentioning the phone looks and works like new. The 8 GB RAM and Apple A18 Pro chipset contribute to smooth daily use. Storage options up to 1TB support users with heavier media or app needs.
Both phones suit users who want a refurbished iPhone with solid performance and good battery life. Choose the iPhone 16 Plus for a lighter, simpler option with a good screen and physical SIM support. The iPhone 16 Pro Max fits those wanting a larger, faster screen and more storage capacity.
iPhone 16 Plus vs iPhone 16 Pro Max FAQs
iPhone 16 Plus vs Pro Max comes down to the chipset, battery and screen size. Chipset: Apple A18 on the iPhone 16 Plus, Apple A18 Pro on the iPhone 16 Pro Max. Battery: 4674 mAh on the iPhone 16 Plus, 4685 mAh on the iPhone 16 Pro Max.
The iPhone 16 Plus is cheaper refurbished, from £588 compared with £840.13 for the iPhone 16 Pro Max.
The iPhone 16 Plus has 4674 mAh and the iPhone 16 Pro Max has 4685 mAh.
Both have the same main camera: 48 megapixels.
The iPhone 16 Plus is still supported and can run iOS 27. The iPhone 16 Pro Max is still supported and can run iOS 27.
Refurbished, the iPhone 16 Plus comes in 128GB, 256GB and 512GB, and the iPhone 16 Pro Max in 256GB, 512GB and 1TB.
