Is iPhone 15 Still Worth Buying in 2025? Full Review of All Models
The iPhone 15 lineup launched in September 2023, but in mid-2025, Apple fans and upgraders still ask: is it worth buying the iPhone 15 now, or should you wait for the iPhone 16? In this guide, we break down all four iPhone 15 models — base, Plus, Pro, and Pro Max — with updated specs, price ranges, and current buying advice.
Also Read: iPhone 16 vs iPhone 15 – What to Expect & Should You Wait?
Contents
iPhone 15 Lineup Overview (2025)
There are 4 models in the iPhone 15 series:
| Model | Display | Chip | Camera | Price (2025 est.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| iPhone 15 | 6.1″ Super Retina XDR | A16 Bionic | Dual 48MP + 12MP ultrawide | ~$699–799 |
| iPhone 15 Plus | 6.7″ Super Retina XDR | A16 Bionic | Dual 48MP + 12MP ultrawide | ~$799–889 |
| iPhone 15 Pro | 6.1″ ProMotion OLED (120Hz) | A17 Pro | Triple 48MP + 12MP ultrawide + telephoto | ~$949–999 |
| iPhone 15 Pro Max | 6.7″ ProMotion OLED (120Hz) | A17 Pro | Triple 48MP + 12MP ultrawide + 5x periscope zoom | ~$1,099–1,199 |
All four models support USB-C, Dynamic Island, Face ID, 5G, and iOS 17 (upgradable to iOS 18 in Fall 2025).
iPhone 15 (Base Model) in 2025
- Great for everyday users who want Apple quality without going Pro
- Bright and color-accurate 6.1″ OLED display
- Excellent main 48MP sensor (but lacks telephoto)
- A16 Bionic chip: still fast and power-efficient
- Lacks ProMotion, stainless steel frame, and LiDAR
iPhone 15 Plus – Bigger Battery, Bigger Screen
- Everything in iPhone 15, but with 6.7″ display
- Best battery life in the non-Pro lineup (4,400 mAh approx.)
- Ideal for media consumption and older users who prefer larger screen sizes
iPhone 15 Pro – Compact Flagship with Titanium
- Lighter titanium frame, smaller bezels
- 6.1″ 120Hz ProMotion display (great for smooth scrolling and gaming)
- A17 Pro chip delivers elite performance
- 3-camera system including telephoto zoom and ProRAW/ProRes support
- Best for mobile creators and enthusiasts
Compare With: MacBook Air M3 vs M2 – What’s New & Should You Upgrade?
iPhone 15 Pro Max – The Best of Apple
- Everything the Pro offers plus:
- 6.7″ display
- 5x optical periscope zoom for long-range photography
- Largest battery in the lineup (~4,400–4,500 mAh)
- Most expensive, but also most feature-packed
- Ideal for photographers, videographers, and power users
iPhone 15 Series Comparison Table
| Feature | iPhone 15 | 15 Plus | 15 Pro | 15 Pro Max |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Display | 6.1″ OLED | 6.7″ OLED | 6.1″ OLED, 120Hz | 6.7″ OLED, 120Hz |
| Chip | A16 Bionic | A16 Bionic | A17 Pro | A17 Pro |
| Rear Camera | 48MP + 12MP | 48MP + 12MP | Triple (telephoto) | Triple (5x periscope) |
| Frame | Aluminum | Aluminum | Titanium | Titanium |
| Battery | ~3,300 mAh | ~4,400 mAh | ~3,290 mAh | ~4,450 mAh |
| USB-C | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Dynamic Island | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Price (est) | $699–799 | $799–889 | $949–999 | $1,099–1,199 |
Compare with: iPhone 15 Vs iPhone 14
Should You Still Buy iPhone 15 in 2025?
✅ Buy If:
- You’re using iPhone 11/12 or Android and want a major upgrade
- You want to save money and skip the iPhone 16 hype
- You can find a good deal (refurbished or on sale)
❌ Consider Waiting If:
- You’re on iPhone 14 or 15 already
- You’re excited for iPhone 16’s rumored AI and camera upgrades
- You want the absolute latest (iPhone 16 launching September 2025)
Verdict
Yes, the iPhone 15 is still worth buying in 2025 — especially if you’re upgrading from an older model. Whether you want the base 15 for simplicity, the Plus for screen size, or the Pro/Pro Max for creative power, there’s something for every type of user. Just make sure to shop smart and consider your upgrade cycle.
FAQs
Q: Is the iPhone 15 still worth buying in 2025?
A: Yes, especially if you’re upgrading from an older model like iPhone 11 or 12. It still offers great performance, camera quality, and future iOS support.
Q: What’s the difference between iPhone 15 and 15 Pro?
A: The 15 Pro has a faster A17 Pro chip, a 120Hz display, titanium build, and a telephoto camera — features not available on the base iPhone 15.
Q: Should I wait for the iPhone 16 instead?
A: If you want the latest AI features and can wait until September 2025, the iPhone 16 may be worth it. Otherwise, the iPhone 15 is a great value right now.
Q: Is the iPhone 15 Pro Max camera really better?
A: Yes, it’s the only model in the 15 lineup with a 5x periscope zoom lens, ideal for long-range photography and videography.
Q: Which iPhone 15 model has the best battery life?
A: The iPhone 15 Plus and Pro Max both offer excellent battery life, with the Plus slightly ahead due to its power-efficient setup.