What iPhone 16 model should you buy?
Apple’s new iPhone 16e is a surprise addition to the iPhone 16 line, months after its launch. Tim Cook says that the iPhone 16e, unlike the iPhone SE which it replaces, is part of the iPhone 16 family. This guide will help you decide which model to buy if you are planning an upgrade. I’ll break down the differences and similarities of each model in this guide so you can make a more informed choice about your next iPhone.
Updated February 2025: We’ve added details about the iPhone 16e and updated the carrier deals.
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Should You Upgrade?The iPhone 16 (left) and iPhone 16 Plus (right).
Photograph: Julian Chokkattu
Ah, the age-old question. Should you buy the new iPhones? WIRED’s philosophy is to only upgrade when necessary. Does your current phone work perfectly? Apple offers a battery exchange program at a low cost. This could give your phone a new lease of life. Upgrade your phone if it is too difficult to use. The iPhone 16 range has USB-C ports, just like the iPhone 15 line. If you decide to sell your iPhone, you can read our guide to selling an iPhone. You should back up your iPhone and then factory reset the device to remove all data. We also have tips on how to set up your new iPhone to get the most out of your new handset.
Which iPhone 16 Model Is Right for You?
The iPhone 16 range includes the iPhone 16e, iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max. The iPhone 16e and 16 Plus have the same screen size, but differ in battery life and power. Both Pro models are identical. The iPhone 16e is a smaller version of the iPhone 16. Apple’s iPhone 16e is the same size, but it has a lower price. There’s no color-infused back glass here. The A18 chip powers the device, but there are only four GPU cores instead of the five on the iPhone 16 standard. This means that games and other tasks with high graphics requirements will suffer a little. This iPhone is different from the rest of its range as it does not use the Dynamic island floating selfie camera but uses the notch design similar to the original iPhone X.
