Unlock the Perfect iPhone 16 for Your Loved Ones
If money is no object… get the iPhone 16 Pro Max
The iPhone 16 Pro Max stands out as the pinnacle of smartphone technology. It boasts a top-performing A18 Pro chip, providing lightning-fast performance for all your tasks. The phone also features the best battery life we've ever tested on an iPhone, ensuring you stay connected throughout the day. Its cameras are exceptional, topping even the Galaxy S24 Ultra in our 200-photo face-off. Additionally, the screen size has been increased to 6.9 inches, giving you more workspace and entertainment options.
However, for many, the price is a significant factor. Spending at least $1,199 on a gift may seem extravagant. Moreover, if the recipient has difficulty using larger phones, operating the 6.9-inch iPhone with one hand can be a challenge.
Who should receive this iPhone as a gift:
Demanding gamers, mobile device power users, and those who love to capture photos and videos at family gatherings will truly appreciate the iPhone 16 Pro Max. The high-quality cameras make it an ideal choice for photography enthusiasts, and the long battery life means you can stay on the go without constantly searching for a charging point.
If you don’t want to spend big for the best… get the iPhone 16 Pro
The iPhone 16 Pro offers a great balance between performance and price. Last year, there was a significant divide between the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max, but with the iPhone 16 Pro adopting the 5x optical zoom found on the Pro Max, Apple's Pro models are now on equal footing. The screen size has been increased to 6.3 inches, providing ample space for streaming and gaming. It's also more compact than the Pro Max, making it easier to handle.
At $999, the iPhone 16 Pro is less expensive than the Pro Max, but it does come with some trade-offs. The battery life is slightly shorter, lasting around 14 hours plus, which is still better than the average smartphone but lags behind the Pro Max by 3.5 hours.
Who should receive this iPhone as a gift:
The same people who would enjoy the iPhone 16 Pro Max would also love the iPhone 16 Pro. With the same A18 Pro chipset and camera setup as the Pro Max, it can handle most tasks with ease. The $200 savings can be used to purchase other gifts, making it a great option for those on a budget.
If you’re buying for the typical iPhone fan… get the iPhone 16
Apple has been working hard to bridge the gap between its Pro phones and the standard iPhone. With the iPhone 16, the difference is still there, but it's significantly narrower. The A18 chipset inside the iPhone 16 delivers strong performance, and its cameras are top-notch without a dedicated telephoto lens. The 48MP main camera can capture 2x zooms that mimic optical zoom quality.
However, for gamers who prefer graphically intense games, the iPhone 16 Pro is a better choice as it has an extra GPU core. Additionally, the iPhone 16 has the worst battery life among the new models, lasting around 12 hours and 43 minutes, but it still performs better than many other phones.
Who should receive this iPhone as a gift:
Most iPhone users would be happy with the iPhone 16 as a gift. It offers great performance and excellent cameras, making it a satisfying device for everyday use. Its stylish colors and compact design add to its appeal.
If you know someone who likes big screens… get the iPhone 16 Plus
The iPhone 16 Plus is a great option for those who love big screens. Since the introduction of the Plus model with the iPhone 14 lineup, it has offered a large-screen iPhone at a more affordable price compared to the Pro Max. The battery life on the iPhone 16 Plus is also exceptional, lasting around 16.5 hours on our test.
However, with the iPhone 16 Pro Max now having a 6.9-inch screen and the iPhone 16 Plus sticking at 6.7 inches, some fans of super-sized displays may feel disappointed.
Who should receive this iPhone as a gift:
Anyone who appreciates a big display but doesn't need the extra features of the Pro Max will love the iPhone 16 Plus. It offers good cameras and performance, making it a great choice for those who want a larger phone.
Should you give an older iPhone as a gift?
Apple keeps older devices in its lineup, and right now, both the iPhone 15 and iPhone 14 are available. Usually, older models offer good value for money as they are cheaper than the latest iPhones. For a teenager or someone who is more likely to be rough with their phone, an older iPhone can be a great option.
However, this year there's a complication. Apple introduced AI-powered Apple Intelligence features with the iOS 18.1 software update, but these features are only available on devices with an A17 Pro or higher chip. None of the iPhone 14 or iPhone 15 models available through Apple have the necessary hardware.
What about the iPhone SE?
The iPhone SE is the cheapest phone in Apple's lineup, priced at $429. It can be a great gift for someone's first phone, but it does have some limitations. It has only one rear camera and no night mode support for low-light photos. There are also rumors that a new iPhone SE will be released next year with a more modern design and potentially Apple Intelligence support.
Finding iPhone 16 deals
Just because you're buying an iPhone 16 as a gift doesn't mean you have to pay full price. Check out our round-up of the best iPhone 16 deals to find a lower price. While the iPhone 16 models are new, you may be able to get a discount by opening a new line of data or signing up for an unlimited data plan with your wireless carrier. For example, Verizon customers can get an iPhone 16 Pro for free when they open a new line and sign up for the Unlimited Ultimate plan. AT&T also has a deal where you can get the iPhone 16 for free with a trade-in and an eligible unlimited data plan. Keep in mind that these credits are spread over 36 months, so you need to be committed to the carrier.