iPhone 16 VS iPhone 17 Pro Max
iPhone 16
6.1-inch OLED 60Hz · A18 · 3561mAh · 48MP · IP68
MSRP
iPhone 17 Pro Max
6.9-inch OLED 120Hz · A19 Pro · 5088mAh · 48MP · IP68
MSRP
Our verdict
The iPhone 17 Pro Max takes the performance lead, 13% ahead overall, driven by its A19 Pro and an AnTuTu score of 2,590,567.
On value the iPhone 16 stands out at $799, pairing a 48MP main camera with a 3561mAh battery.
For most buyers the iPhone 16 is the smarter choice.
Performance winner
iPhone 17 Pro Max
13% faster overall
Best value for money
iPhone 16
12% better value per dollar
iPhone 16 best for
Value for money
12% better value per dollar
Overview
The iPhone 17 Pro Max comes out ahead overall, scoring 95 to the iPhone 16's 84. Priced at $1199 against $799, the choice between them is as much about budget as specs, and each phone leans toward a slightly different buyer.
Performance
For raw speed the iPhone 17 Pro Max takes the lead, with an AnTuTu score of 2,590,567 against 1,500,000, driven by its A19 Pro. Both feel quick in everyday use, but the gap shows up in demanding games and heavy multitasking where the faster chip pulls ahead.
Cameras
The iPhone 16 pairs a 48MP main camera with optical zoom and a 12MP front sensor. The iPhone 17 Pro Max answers with 48MP, zoom and a 18MP selfie camera.
Battery and charging
Battery favours the iPhone 17 Pro Max, with a 5088mAh cell against 3561mAh. For refills the iPhone 17 Pro Max is quickest at 40W, spending less time tied to a charger.
Display
Both use high refresh rate OLED screens. The iPhone 16 measures 6.1" and peaks at 2000 nits, while the iPhone 17 Pro Max is 6.9" and reaches 3000 nits. Screen size and outright brightness are where they separate most.
Which should you buy
Overall the iPhone 16 is the one we would steer most buyers toward. Consider the iPhone 17 Pro Max instead if longer battery life matters more to you.
battery
camera
display
Performance
Physical
Synthetic & compute benchmarks
Frequently asked questions
Is the iPhone 16 better than the iPhone 17 Pro Max?
Overall the iPhone 17 Pro Max scores 95 out of 100 against the iPhone 16's 84, so it edges ahead on our combined rating. Even so, the two are close enough that price, size and your preferred ecosystem should also guide the decision.
Which has the better camera, the iPhone 16 or the iPhone 17 Pro Max?
The iPhone 16 has the stronger camera on paper, leading with a 48MP main sensor and optical zoom. Both take excellent photos, but the iPhone 16 offers more reach and flexibility.
Which has better battery life, the iPhone 16 or the iPhone 17 Pro Max?
The iPhone 17 Pro Max carries the larger 5088mAh battery against 3561mAh, and the iPhone 17 Pro Max charges fastest at 40W. For heavy all-day use the iPhone 17 Pro Max is the safer bet.
Which is faster, the iPhone 16 or the iPhone 17 Pro Max?
In benchmarks the iPhone 17 Pro Max is quicker, posting an AnTuTu score of 2,590,567 against 1,500,000 thanks to its A19 Pro. Both handle everyday tasks smoothly, but the iPhone 17 Pro Max pulls ahead in demanding games.
Should I buy the iPhone 16 or the iPhone 17 Pro Max?
For most buyers the iPhone 16 is the smarter pick, balancing performance, features and price. Choose the iPhone 17 Pro Max if longer battery life is your priority.
Related comparisons
iPhone 16 VS Galaxy Z Flip 7
Score 84 VS 84
iPhone 17 Pro Max VS Galaxy Z Flip 7
Score 95 VS 84
iPhone 16 VS iPhone 15 Pro Max
Score 84 VS 85
iPhone 17 Pro Max VS iPhone 15 Pro Max
Score 95 VS 85
iPhone 16 VS OnePlus 13R
Score 84 VS 85
iPhone 17 Pro Max VS OnePlus 13R
Score 95 VS 85
iPhone 16 VS Pixel 10
Score 84 VS 86
iPhone 17 Pro Max VS Pixel 10
Score 95 VS 86