This week, Apple has revamped the iPhone lineup for 2025, rendering all previous buying advice obsolete until September. During that month, we anticipate the release of the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, and a new ultra-thin variant potentially named iPhone 17 Air. However, before you make any decisions, there’s one crucial piece of buying advice that everyone needs to consider.
The current iPhone lineup from Apple stands as follows:
Included in the lineup are the iPhone 16 Pro starting at $999, the iPhone 16 priced at $799, the iPhone 16e at $599, and the iPhone 15, which starts at $699. The pricing order is from highest to lowest, noting the unusual placement of the iPhone 15.
Listen carefully, everyone—do not purchase the iPhone 15 if you’re considering a 2025 buy. Instead, opt for the iPhone 16e.
This recommendation isn’t solely based on the fact that the iPhone 15 costs $100 more than the iPhone 16e for identical storage options.
Nor is it just because the iPhone 15 offers six fewer hours of video playback than the iPhone 16e.
And it’s not just about the absence of Apple Intelligence support in the iPhone 15, which the iPhone 16e has.
While each reason is compelling, the decision ultimately hinges on two key specifications: processor and RAM.
The iPhone 15 operates on Apple’s A16 Bionic chip and is equipped with 6GB of RAM for multitasking. In contrast, the iPhone 16e boasts Apple’s A18 chip and features 8GB of RAM, enabling it to handle more applications simultaneously.
Of course, the iPhone 15 has attractive features that may tempt some buyers, such as its available colors—blue, pink, and yellow, plus faster wireless charging due to its built-in MagSafe, along with a dedicated camera for wider shots.
However, if you’re contemplating purchasing an iPhone 15 in 2025, you’re inherently dismissing the iPhone 16, which encompasses all those attractive features and additional enhancements. You’re certainly overlooking the premium iPhone 16 Pro, which includes numerous advanced options.
The truth is, you likely desire a solid, dependable phone that is straightforward and not overly expensive. You want a device that will serve you well for several years before considering an upgrade.
For these reasons, refrain from buying the iPhone 15 in 2025. Instead, save $100 and choose the iPhone 16e, equipped with a newer processor and more RAM. These specifications will ensure your iPhone remains speedy for a longer duration and will likely receive software updates for an extended period.
To put things in perspective, the iPhone X still feels relatively modern due to its dual cameras, Face ID, and OLED screen. However, it only supports up to iOS 16 instead of the latest iOS 18.
If your focus is on value and longevity—two factors likely at the forefront of your mind while considering the iPhone 15—then the iPhone 16e emerges as an exceptional choice that offers a superior option for a lower price.
