iPhone 16 • Unlocked vs iPhone 16 Plus • Unlocked

iPhone 16 • Unlocked
iPhone 16 • Unlocked
Starting at

Refurbished price:$542.00

Versus $729.00 new

See options
iPhone 16 Plus • Unlocked
iPhone 16 Plus • Unlocked
Starting at

Refurbished price:$599.00

Versus $829.00 new

See options

Ratings

The iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus, both released in September 2024, represent Apple's standard smartphone offerings for their eighteenth generation. While sharing a core design and the same advanced operating system, iOS 18, these devices primarily differentiate themselves through their physical dimensions and battery capabilities. The iPhone 16 offers a more compact experience, while the iPhone 16 Plus provides an expansive display and extended power longevity, catering to distinct user preferences.

Scores

Durability

Both the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus were launched in September 2024, ensuring they benefit from the same long-term software support typical of Apple devices. They shipped with iOS 18 and are currently upgradable to iOS 26.4, indicating a substantial period of future updates and feature enhancements.

  • Software Longevity: Users can expect these models to receive major iOS updates for approximately five to six years from their release, providing a consistent and secure software experience for an extended period.
  • Physical Durability: Both devices feature a Ceramic Shield front cover and an aluminum frame, contributing to their overall resilience against everyday impacts. They also carry an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, allowing submersion up to 6 meters for 30 minutes.
  • Expected Lifespan: Given Apple's track record for software support and the robust build quality, both the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus are designed for a practical lifespan of several years, making them suitable for users seeking a durable and long-lasting smartphone.

Release Year

2024

2024

Last OS Compatibility

Yes

Yes

Foldable

No

No

Performance

The iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus are equipped with the same internal processing capabilities, ensuring a consistent performance experience across both models.

  • Processing Power: Both devices feature a current-generation chip with a hexa-core CPU and a 5-core GPU, designed to handle demanding applications, complex multitasking, and graphics-intensive gaming smoothly and efficiently.
  • System Responsiveness: With 8GB of RAM, both phones offer ample memory for fluid app switching and maintaining multiple applications in the background without noticeable slowdowns.
  • Storage Options: Users can choose from 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB of internal storage, providing sufficient space for apps, photos, videos, and other digital content.

Memory

8 GB

8 GB

Screen quality

The primary distinction in screen quality between the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus lies in their physical size, while sharing many advanced display technologies.

  • Display Technology: Both models feature a Super Retina XDR OLED display, offering deep blacks, vibrant colors, and excellent contrast ratios. They support HDR, True Tone, and Wide color (P3) for an enhanced visual experience.
  • Size and Clarity: The iPhone 16 has a 6.1-inch display with a resolution of 2556x1179 pixels, while the iPhone 16 Plus boasts a larger 6.7-inch display with a resolution of 2796x1290 pixels. Both maintain a pixel density of approximately 460 pixels per inch, ensuring sharp and clear visuals.
  • Brightness and Refresh Rate: Both displays offer a typical maximum brightness of 1000 nits, peaking at 1600 nits for HDR content and up to 2000 nits in outdoor conditions, providing good visibility in various lighting environments. However, both models feature a standard 60Hz refresh rate.

Resolution

1179 x 2556

1290 x 2796

Screen type

Super Retina XDR OLED

Super Retina XDR OLED

Audiovisual

Both the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus share an identical and capable camera system, offering versatile photography and videography options.

  • Rear Camera System: Each device is equipped with an advanced dual-camera setup, featuring a 48MP Fusion main camera with an f/1.6 aperture and sensor-shift optical image stabilization. This main sensor also enables 2x optical-quality telephoto shots. Alongside it is a 12MP ultra-wide camera with a 120° field of view and autofocus, allowing for macro photography.
  • Photography Features: Both phones include features like Photonic Engine, Deep Fusion, and Smart HDR 5 for enhanced image processing, delivering detailed photos with accurate colors in various conditions. They also support next-generation portraits with Focus and Depth Control, and a new Camera Control button for quick adjustments.
  • Video Capabilities: For video recording, both models support 4K Dolby Vision at up to 60 frames per second, Cinematic mode up to 4K Dolby Vision at 30 frames per second, and Action mode up to 2.8K Dolby Vision at 60 frames per second. They also offer spatial video recording for immersive viewing experiences.

Main camera

48 megapixels

48 megapixels

Front camera

12 megapixels

12 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond their core specifications, the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus include several practical features that enhance daily usability and connectivity.

  • Connectivity Standards: Both devices support modern wireless technologies, including 5G cellular connectivity, Wi-Fi 7 for faster internet speeds, and Bluetooth 5.3 for efficient accessory pairing.
  • Physical Interface: They both feature a USB-C port for charging and data transfer, though it operates at USB 2.0 speeds. A new Action Button, previously exclusive to Pro models, is present on both, offering customizable shortcuts.
  • Biometrics and Safety: Facial recognition via Face ID provides secure authentication. For emergencies, both models include Emergency SOS via satellite, Crash Detection, and Roadside Assistance via satellite, offering peace of mind in remote areas.
  • Dimensions and Handling: The iPhone 16 measures 147.6 x 71.6 x 7.8 mm and weighs 170g, making it a more compact and lighter option. The iPhone 16 Plus, at 160.9 x 77.8 x 7.8 mm and 199g, offers a larger footprint and a slightly heavier feel, which can impact one-handed use.

Weight

6000 oz

7030 oz

Screen size (inches)

6.1

6.7

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

eSIM

eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

USB-C (USB 2)

USB-C (USB 2)

The iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus, while sharing a robust set of features, cater to users with different preferences regarding size and battery life. User feedback frequently highlights the iPhone 16 Plus for its exceptional battery longevity, with many reporting it comfortably lasting a full day or even into a second day of heavy use. Its larger display is also a common point of praise for media consumption and general viewing.

Conversely, some users note that the 60Hz refresh rate on both models feels less fluid compared to devices with higher refresh rates, a point of consideration for those accustomed to smoother scrolling. The standard iPhone 16 is generally regarded as a reliable one-day device in terms of battery.

Users prioritizing a more compact and lighter device that is easier for one-handed operation may find the iPhone 16 better suited to their needs. Those who value an expansive screen for content viewing, gaming, or productivity, and for whom extended battery life is a primary concern, will likely lean towards the iPhone 16 Plus. Both devices offer a consistent and powerful user experience, making the choice largely dependent on personal preference for size and battery endurance. For those considering a more sustainable choice, quality-assured refurbished options for both models are available, offering an eco-friendly alternative.

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