How to Compare iPhone Models Before You Upgrade

Difficulty
Beginner
Tested on
iOS 18.4 - iPhone 15 Pro
You will need
Internet connection, web browser, Apple ID for account-specific trade-in values

Step by step

  1. 1 min

    Access the official Apple comparison tool

    Open your preferred web browser and navigate to the official Apple iPhone comparison page. Avoid third-party aggregators to ensure the technical specifications and feature availability are accurate for your specific region.

    Note: Ensure your browser is set to desktop view if accessing from a mobile device for a better side-by-side table layout.
  2. 30 sec

    Choose your current and target models

    Select your current iPhone model from the first dropdown menu to establish a baseline. Use the second dropdown menu to select the specific model you intend to purchase, such as the Pro or Pro Max variants.

    Note: Selecting the 'Pro' series alongside the base model will immediately highlight disparities in camera sensors and display technology.
  3. 1 min

    Evaluate core technical specifications

    Review the comparison table generated by the tool, focusing specifically on the Chip, Camera System, and Battery Life rows. These metrics provide the clearest indication of performance gains and efficiency improvements over your current device.

    Note: Pay close attention to the 'Connector' row to determine if your current Lightning accessories will require a USB-C adapter.
  4. 30 sec

    Check for exclusive feature availability

    Scroll to the bottom of the comparison chart to verify exclusive features like ProMotion displays, LiDAR scanners, or specific Photonic Engine capabilities. Note which of these features are actually integrated into your daily workflow to justify the price difference.

  5. 1 min

    Calculate your trade-in impact

    Visit the Apple Trade-In portal to enter your current device's serial number or model details. This provides an estimated credit value, which should be subtracted from the full retail price of the new model to determine your net upgrade cost.

    Note: Trade-in values fluctuate based on physical condition and storage capacity.