Apple remixed the 2025 iPhone lineup this week, outdating all existing buying advice until September. That’s when we expect the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, and new ultra-thin version likely called iPhone 17 Air. Between now and then, however, there’s one piece of buying advice everyone should hear first.
Apple’s current iPhone lineup looks like this:
There’s the iPhone 16 Pro from $999, the iPhone 16 from $799, the iPhone 16e from $599, and the iPhone 15 from $699. From most expensive to most affordable — except for the iPhone 15, which is oddly priced in the lineup.
Look, folks, don’t buy it. Simply do not buy the iPhone 15 in 2025. If you’re thinking about buying the iPhone 15, then buy the iPhone 16e instead.
Not just because iPhone 15 costs $100 more than iPhone 16e for the same amount of storage.
Not just because iPhone 15 has six hours less battery life than iPhone 16e for video playback.
Not just because iPhone 15 doesn’t support Apple Intelligence and iPhone 16e does.
Each of those factors should inform your decision, but it comes down to two specs: processor and RAM.
iPhone 15 runs on Apple’s A16 Bionic chip and has 6GB of RAM for multitasking. iPhone 16e is powered by Apple’s A18 chip and includes 8GB RAM for keeping more tasks in memory.
Sure, there are a number of things that make the iPhone 15 a more attractive phone than the iPhone 16e. It comes in blue, pink, and yellow. It wirelessly charges twice as fast and has built-in MagSafe. And it has a dedicated camera for capturing wider shots.
But if you’re buying an iPhone 15 in 2025, then you’re already saying no to the iPhone 16 which has all that and more. You’re definitely saying no to the top-of-the-line iPhone 16 Pro with all its bells and whistles.
That’s because you probably just want a good, reliable phone that’s simple and affordable. You probably want it to last for years before you think about replacing it.
For those reasons, do not buy the iPhone 15 in 2025. Instead, save $100 and buy the iPhone 16e with a newer processor and more RAM. These specs will help your iPhone feel fast for longer. They’ll also likely support software updates for longer.
For perspective, the iPhone X really doesn’t feel that old because it has two cameras, Face ID, and an OLED display. However, the iPhone X only runs the latest version of iOS 16 and not iOS 18.
If value and longevity are what you’re going for, and they probably are if you’re considering buying the iPhone 15, then the iPhone 16e is a rare instance of a better option costing less.
FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.
GIPHY App Key not set. Please check settings