If you’re weighing the options between the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro, you’ll find that the Pro model certainly boasts some impressive specifications. However, the iPhone 16 offers its own set of advantages that may make it the preferable choice for many users. Here are four compelling reasons to consider the iPhone 16 over its Pro counterpart.
Vibrant and Striking Color Choices
Apple appears to associate ‘Pro’ with understated aesthetics, with the Pro color selections primarily reflecting more neutral or muted tones. In stark contrast, the iPhone 16 showcases a spectrum of vibrant and lively colors, including:
- Ultramarine
- Teal
- Pink
- White
- Black
Even the basic colors of ‘White’ and ‘Black’ on the iPhone 16 are more visually striking than the ‘White Titanium’ and ‘Black Titanium’ options found in the Pro series. If you want your device to express a playful flair, the iPhone 16 is the clear choice.
Lighter and More Comfortable
In recent years, the Pro series has faced criticism for its weight. While appreciable improvements were made with the introduction of titanium in the iPhone 15 Pro lineup, this year the situation has shifted again. The iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max are heavier than their predecessors. If carrying a lighter smartphone matters to you, the standard iPhone 16 and 16 Plus are significantly less cumbersome.
- iPhone 16: 170 grams
- iPhone 16 Pro: 199 grams
- iPhone 16 Plus: 199 grams
- iPhone 16 Pro Max: 227 grams
While some may prefer the weight of the Pro models, many users will benefit from the lighter option.
Compact and Easy to Handle
For users who prefer a more manageable smartphone size, the iPhone 16 or 16 Plus may be the better option. This is especially true for those who miss the compact feel of the iPhone mini; the iPhone 16 models are more user-friendly and fit easily in pockets.
| iPhone 16 | iPhone 16 Pro | iPhone 16 Plus | iPhone 16 Pro Max | |
| Height | 5.81” (147.6 mm) | 5.89” (149.6 mm) | 6.33” (160.9 mm) | 6.42” (163 mm) |
| Width | 2.82” (71.6 mm) | 2.81” (71.5 mm) | 3.06” (77.8 mm) | 3.06” (77.6 mm) |
| Depth | 0.31” (7.8 mm) | 0.32” (8.25 mm) | 0.31” (7.8 mm) | 0.32” (8.25 mm) |
While the size differences may seem subtle, the iPhone 16 models provide a more streamlined and easier-to-handle experience compared to their Pro counterparts.
Affordability: The Key Factor
One of the most significant advantages of the iPhone 16 lies in its pricing. The Pro models come with a hefty $200 premium compared to the standard models. With the iPhone 16 starting at $799, choosing the $999 Pro model represents a 25% price increase.
The iPhone 16 Plus offers an even larger price differentiation. Since the 16 Pro Max begins at 256 GB of storage, the cost jumps significantly. The 16 Plus starts at $899, while the 16 Pro Max commands an additional $300, beginning at $1,199. This represents a striking 33% increase in price.
Conclusion: The Appeal of the iPhone 16
With features like Apple Intelligence, the new A18 chip, improved Camera Control, and the Action Button, the iPhone 16 stands out as a formidable competitor to the Pro series. While there may be trade-offs—such as missing out on ProMotion, always-on display, and the telephoto camera—if these aspects are not critical to you, the iPhone 16 could be the best entry model Apple has released in years.
Are you considering purchasing the iPhone 16? Which aspects are most important to you? Share your thoughts in the comments!