Score Breakdown
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Great performance value
- Solid dual camera system
- 120Hz-equivalent motion smoothing
- Clean iOS software
- Apple Intelligence features
Cons
- No 120Hz ProMotion
- No telephoto lens
- 60Hz panel lags behind rivals
- Base storage is limiting
Full Review
More Capable Than It Looks
At $799 the iPhone 16 packs the same A18 chip as the Pro models, which means it’s faster than virtually every Android phone regardless of price. The lack of ProMotion 120Hz is a compromise, but Apple’s motion processing still makes scrolling feel smooth.
Dual Camera System
The 48MP main camera and 12MP ultrawide deliver excellent daylight and reasonable low-light results. Portrait Mode works well for people, pets, and objects. The absence of a telephoto means you’re relying on digital crop for distant subjects, which is noticeably softer above 2x.
Who Should Buy It
If you’re upgrading from an iPhone 12 or older and don’t need the best possible camera, the iPhone 16 is the smart buy. It runs Apple Intelligence, supports MagSafe accessories, and will receive software updates well into the 2030s.
Key Specifications
| Processor | Apple A18 |
|---|---|
| RAM | 8GB |
| Storage | 128GB / 256GB / 512GB |
| Display | 6.1" Super Retina XDR OLED, 60Hz |
| Camera | 48MP main + 12MP ultrawide |
| Battery | 3561mAh, 25W wired, 25W MagSafe |
| Price | From $799 |
Verdict
The iPhone 16 brings flagship-class performance to a more accessible price. Camera limitations aside, it punches above its weight and offers several years of software support.