Which iPhone 15 model should you buy? Comparing base, Plus, Pro, and Pro Max

When Apple unveiled the iPhone 15 in 2023, it announced not one, not two, not three, but four new models all at once. So that must mean there's basically a model for every type of user, right? Yes, but there are definitely some points to consider.

Also: iPhone 16 vs. iPhone 15: What to consider if you're upgrading to Apple's base model

The iPhone 15 series starts at $699 and ranges up to $1,119 for a renewed model on Amazon. I wouldn't go as far as to say that it's an easy buying decision for budget-minded shoppers. However, If you fall into that group, allow me to direct you to ZDNET's best iPhone deals guide instead.

But if you're dead set on buying an iPhone and don't want all the AI features the iPhone 16 offers, let this decision tree help you make the best purchase for your needs, use cases, and preferences. I guarantee that one of the four iPhone 15 models will resonate with you more than the others.

Specifications

You should buy the iPhone 15 Pro Max if…

1. You want the best iPhone camera experience, period.

Apple has made its iPhone 15 Pro Max model better fit its name by giving it the exclusive benefit of a new periscope zoom lens. How is this different from the telephoto lens found on the smaller Pro model? A periscope lens allows the iPhone to capture distant subjects with a 5x optical zoom as opposed to a digital one, which translates to greater detail and less blurriness.

Also: I used my iPhone 15 Pro without a case for a year. Here's how it looks now

2. You're a multimedia connoisseur

Besides the superior camera, the iPhone 15 Pro Max also offers the best multimedia experience of the four models released. With a large 6.8-inch AMOLED display that refreshes at 120Hz and powerful dual-channel speakers, the Pro Max variant remains the phone of choice if you often watch shows, short-form videos, and more on your mobile device.

It's rather heavy at 221 grams, but the thinner bezels and lighter Titanium material on this model make the Pro Max more ergonomic than ever. The same couldn't be said about the older 14 Pro Max.

You should buy the iPhone 15 Pro if…

1. You want the Pro benefits without the Pro Max size

Bigger is not always better, as the smaller iPhone Pro model has proved year after year. For most people, the 6.1-inch form factor of the standard Pro phone is more than enough. I personally find it to be more enjoyable to use than the Pro Max because of its combination of portability and power.

Also: These iPhone SE rumors hint at a major redesign that will frustrate iPhone 15 owners

Aside from the periscope lens and larger proportions, the iPhone 15 Pro offers just about every other utility that the Pro Max does, including the updated A17 Pro Bionic chip, iOS 17 features, and new Action Button. In fact, the Action Button is much more reachable on the smaller 15 Pro. And for photos and videos, it shares the same 48MP primary sensor, which is what you'll rely on the most.

2. You can't justify the $200 Max Tax

Due to the hardware gap, Apple charges for the Pro Max model. Although the original price has dropped since the device's launch, there is still a $139 difference between the Pro Max and the regular iPhone 15 Pro. That's a hefty sum, and it is enough to cover a few accessories like a screen protector and USB-C charging case for your AirPods Pro should you want to update to Apple's new port standard. Or, you can just save the money and carry on.

You should buy the iPhone 15 Plus if…

1. You want a big-screen iPhone at a more accessible price

While the new iPhone 15 Plus isn't necessarily cheap at a starting price of $799, it is the most affordable option if you want a big-screen iPhone that doesn't cost several hundred more. Like the Pro Max, the iPhone 15 Plus features a 6.8-inch panel with a similar-behaving Dynamic Island interface.

Also: Apple retires iPhone 13 and iPhone 15 Pro models - what should you buy instead?

The display doesn't get quite as smooth with a 60Hz refresh rate, and the speakers are not as punchy as the Pro Max's, but if you just want an iPhone that gets the basics right, and looks good doing them, then the 15 Plus is the way to go.

You should buy the iPhone 15 if…

1. You want the latest iPhone for less

If features like ProRes video recording, 120Hz ProMotion display, and an A17 Pro Bionic chip don't raise your eyebrows, then the standard iPhone 15 may be the best option for you. It's also the most accessible of the bunch, with a starting price of $699, and most carriers offering buy-one-get-one (BOGO) or "free with trade-in" deals for this model in particular.

2. One of the colors suits your vibe

Smartphones are arguably our most personal piece of technology, so something as basic as color can be a deciding factor when purchasing one. Apple tends to give the non-Pro iPhones the more poppy and adventurous colors, with this year's crop getting splashes of pastel yellow, pink, blue, white, and black. If one of those colors speaks to you, then it may be your calling to opt for an iPhone 15 instead of an iPhone 15 Pro.

Alternatives to consider