iPhone 16 vs iPhone XS Max
Shop iPhone
iPhone 16
Starting at
£577.65£699.00 new
iPhone XS Max
Starting at
£168.09£459.00 newWhat's the difference between the iPhone 16 and iPhone XS Max?
iPhone 16 vs XS Max comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Refurbished, the iPhone XS Max starts at £168.09, £409.56 less than the iPhone 16. The iPhone 16 is the newer model, released in 2024.
Refurbished from
Chipset
RAM
Battery
Screen size
Screen type
- Chipset: Apple A18 (3 nm) on the iPhone 16, Apple A12 Bionic on the iPhone XS Max.
- The iPhone 16 has more RAM: 8 GB vs 4 GB.
- The iPhone 16 has a bigger battery: 3561 mAh vs 3174 mAh.
iPhone 16 vs iPhone XS Max specs
The iPhone 16 and iPhone XS Max differ in several ways that suit different needs. The iPhone 16 has a smaller 6.1 inch screen but uses a Super Retina XDR OLED panel, while the XS Max has a larger 6.5 inch Super Retina OLED display with slightly higher resolution. The iPhone 16 uses the Apple A18 chipset with 8 GB of RAM, offering more memory and smoother multitasking. It also has a higher capacity battery and supports 5G networks. The iPhone XS Max has a bigger screen and a Lightning connector, which may suit users preferring a larger display or older accessories. Camera resolution is higher on the iPhone 16.
iPhone 16 vs iPhone XS Max price
Colour
iPhone 16 vs iPhone XS Max battery life and software updates
Durability covers battery capacity, software updates, and physical dimensions. These affect daily use, how long the phone lasts on a charge, and how it feels in your hand.
Battery Capacity
The iPhone 16 has a 3561 mAh battery, which is larger than the iPhone XS Max's 3174 mAh. This means the iPhone 16 can offer longer use between charges, which suits users who rely heavily on their phone throughout the day. The iPhone XS Max's smaller battery might be enough for more moderate use or those who charge during breaks.
Software Updates
This keeps both devices relevant for apps and services.
Battery
Foldable
Ip rating
OS at launch
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
iPhone 16 vs iPhone XS Max performance
Performance focuses on chipset, RAM, and storage options. These specs influence speed, multitasking, and how much data you can keep on your phone.
Chipset and RAM
The iPhone 16 uses the Apple A18 chipset with 8 GB of RAM, while the iPhone XS Max has the Apple A12 Bionic and 4 GB of RAM. The higher RAM in the iPhone 16 helps keep more apps open and running smoothly, which benefits users who multitask or use demanding apps. The newer chipset also supports faster processing.
Storage Options
The iPhone 16 is available in 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB, offering a good range for different storage needs. The iPhone XS Max is stocked in 64GB, 256GB, and 512GB options, allowing for a lower entry point in storage capacity. Users who want more space for apps, photos, or media might prefer the higher options available on both devices.
Chipset
RAM
iPhone 16 vs iPhone XS Max screen
Screen quality includes size, resolution, refresh rate, and panel type. This affects how content looks and feels, especially for media and browsing.
Screen Size and Resolution
The iPhone XS Max has a larger 6.5 inch screen with a resolution of 1242 x 2688, while the iPhone 16 has a 6.1 inch screen with 1179 x 2556 resolution. The larger screen suits those who prefer more space for videos, reading, or gaming. The higher resolution on the XS Max means sharper images on its bigger display.
Screen Technology and Refresh Rate
Both phones have a 60 Hz refresh rate and use OLED technology. The iPhone 16 uses Super Retina XDR OLED, which is an enhanced version of the Super Retina OLED on the XS Max. This can result in better contrast and colour accuracy for the iPhone 16, suiting users who prioritise display quality for photos and videos.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
iPhone 16 vs iPhone XS Max camera
Audiovisual specs cover camera capabilities, important for photography and video calls. Differences here affect image detail and video quality.
Main Camera Resolution
The iPhone 16 has a 48 megapixel main camera, while the iPhone XS Max has 12 megapixels. A higher megapixel count on the iPhone 16 captures more detail in photos, which suits users who take a lot of pictures or want sharper images.
Front Camera Resolution
The iPhone 16 features a 12 megapixel front camera compared to the 7 megapixels on the XS Max. This means video calls and selfies on the iPhone 16 will have more detail and clarity, appealing to users who frequently use the front camera.
Camera type
Front camera
Main camera
iPhone 16 vs iPhone XS Max size and design
Miscellaneous features include connectivity, dimensions, weight, and other practical details that affect everyday use.
Network Compatibility
The iPhone 16 supports 5G networks, offering faster mobile data speeds when available. The iPhone XS Max supports 4G. Users who want faster internet on the go might find the iPhone 16 better suited to their needs.
Connector Type
USB-C is a common standard on many devices, which may simplify charging and cable sharing for some users.
Physical Size and Weight
The iPhone 16 is smaller and lighter at 147.6 mm tall, 71.6 mm wide, and 170 g, compared to the larger and heavier iPhone XS Max at 157.5 mm tall, 77.4 mm wide, and 208 g. The iPhone 16's more compact size suits those who prefer a phone that fits easily in one hand or a pocket. The XS Max is better for users who want a larger device.
SIM Card Options
Both phones support a physical SIM and eSIM, allowing flexibility in mobile plans and easier switching between numbers or carriers.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
Release date
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
iPhone 16 or iPhone XS Max: which should you buy?
Buy the iPhone 16 if
- you want more RAM (8 GB vs 4 GB)
- you want a bigger battery (3561 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, £409.56 less than the iPhone 16
- you want a bigger screen (6.5 inch vs 6.1 inch)
What our customers say
Customers say the iPhone 16 looks like new, with many reporting excellent condition and 100% battery health. Users appreciate the smooth performance, large storage options, and camera improvements. Several mention the phone works well without defects, and the battery life is reliable even with regular use. The iPhone 16's screen and speed receive positive notes, and some customers highlight the phone's light weight and pleasing size. Setup and everyday use are described as smooth, with users satisfied by the overall quality of the device.
For the iPhone XS Max, customers find it a good value for a quality smartphone with a bigger screen. Many mention the phone looks brand new with minor signs of use that are easily covered by a case. Battery life varies, with some users noting good performance while others had to trade their device due to battery wear. The phone is described as doing everything needed, with a reliable screen and solid call quality. Some users appreciate the included accessories and clear product descriptions.
The iPhone 16 suits buyers who want a compact, fast phone with high camera resolution and 5G connectivity. The iPhone XS Max suits those who prefer a larger screen and a familiar Lightning connector, with solid all-round performance for everyday use.
iPhone 16 vs iPhone XS Max FAQs
iPhone 16 vs XS Max comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Chipset: Apple A18 (3 nm) on the iPhone 16, Apple A12 Bionic on the iPhone XS Max. The iPhone 16 has more RAM: 8 GB vs 4 GB.
The iPhone XS Max is cheaper refurbished, from £168.09 compared with £577.65 for the iPhone 16.
The iPhone 16 has a bigger battery: 3561 mAh vs 3174 mAh.
The iPhone 16 has a higher-resolution main camera: 48 megapixels vs 12 megapixels.
The iPhone 16 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 16 adds more RAM (8 GB vs 4 GB), a bigger battery (3561 mAh vs 3174 mAh) and a higher-resolution main camera (48 megapixels vs 12 megapixels). Refurbished, it costs £409.56 more (from £577.65 vs £168.09).
Refurbished, the iPhone 16 comes in 128GB, 256GB and 512GB, and the iPhone XS Max in 64GB, 256GB and 512GB.
