# iPhone 15 or 16: which to choose?

> Compare iPhone 15 and iPhone 16: design, chip, camera, refurbished price.

- URL: https://nomophone.com/en/guides/comparatif/iphone-15-vs-16
- Model comparisons
- Updated on 2026-06-16
- 9 min read

## Introduction

The iPhone 16 upgrades the iPhone 15 (chip, camera, Dynamic Island, USB-C…). The iPhone 15 stays strong **refurbished**.

Based on official Apple specs.

## Design and ergonomics

See the table for materials and buttons. The iPhone 15 often feels similar day to day.

## Performance

Newer chip on the iPhone 16. Both stay smooth; the gap shows in intensive gaming or 4–5 year ownership.

## Photo and video

Each generation improves zoom and processing. Also compare **Pro** variants.

## Refurbished price

A refurbished iPhone 15 costs less than an equivalent iPhone 16. Compare stock and trade-in estimates.

## Models mentioned

- **iPhone 15** (Apple iPhone 15 128 GB) - 2023 generation
- **iPhone 16** (Apple iPhone 16 128 GB) - 2024 generation

## Comparison table

| Criterion | iPhone 15 | iPhone 16 |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Display | 6,1″ | 6,1″ |
| Chip | A16 Bionic | A18 |
| Dynamic Island | Dynamic Island | Dynamic Island |
| Connector | USB-C | USB-C |
| ProMotion (120 Hz) | — | — |
| High-resolution camera | Super high-resolution photos (24 MP and 48 MP) | Super high-resolution photos (24 MP and 48 MP) |
| Optical zoom | Zoom, 0,5x, 1x, 2x | Zoom, 0,5x, 1x, 2x |
| Material | Aluminum frame | Aluminum frame |
| Video battery life | Up to 20 hours | Up to 22 hours |
| Refurbished price | Older, usually cheaper | Newer, higher price |
| iOS longevity | Very good | Excellent (+1 generation) |

### Our verdict

**Choose refurbished iPhone 15** if budget comes first.

**Choose iPhone 16** for the newer generation and extra iOS longevity.

Estimate your trade-in to stretch your budget.

## FAQ

### Is 15 / 16 worth the extra cost?

Refurbished iPhone 15 remains excellent for typical use.

### iPhone 15 or iPhone 16 refurbished?

Budget: iPhone 15. Longevity: iPhone 16.

### Trade in my iPhone 15 for a 16?

Yes — use our trade-in simulator.

## Continue reading

- [iPhone 14 or 15: which to choose?](https://nomophone.com/en/guides/comparatif/iphone-14-vs-15)
- [Which iPhone should you choose in 2026?](https://nomophone.com/en/guides/achat/which-iphone-to-choose)
- [How much is my iPhone worth?](https://nomophone.com/en/guides/reprise/how-much-is-my-iphone-worth)