Apple iPhone 16 Review
The iPhone 16, released in September 2024, represents Apple's iterative approach to its base model lineup, blending familiar design with targeted upgrades that make it a compelling choice for most users. Starting at $799 for the 128GB model, it closes the gap with the pricier Pro variants more than ever before, thanks to features like the A18 chip and Apple Intelligence support. While it doesn't reinvent the wheel, reviews consistently praise its reliability, battery efficiency, and camera enhancements, making it the "best basic iPhone" according to sources like CNN Underscored and PCMag. However, some critics note it feels like a refinement rather than a revolution, especially if you're upgrading from a recent model like the iPhone 14 or 15.
Design and Build
The iPhone 16 retains the 6.1-inch aluminum and glass construction of its predecessor, weighing just 170g for a comfortable one-handed grip. It measures 5.81 x 2.82 x 0.31 inches, with IP68 water and dust resistance. The standout addition is the Camera Control button—a capacitive sensor on the right side that lets you swipe for zoom, adjust exposure, or launch the camera app with a press. This tactile feature, borrowed from the Pro models, enhances one-handed photography but has mixed reception; some find it gimmicky or prone to accidental activation without a case.
Color options are vibrant and refreshed: black, white, pink, teal, and ultramarine—a deep blue that's infused into the glass back for a premium sheen. The 60Hz OLED display (2556x1179 resolution, up to 2,000 nits brightness) is crisp for everyday use but lags behind the Pro's 120Hz ProMotion for smoother scrolling. Ceramic Shield glass is 50% tougher than before, though reviewers still recommend a case for drop protection. Overall, it's a familiar, durable design that's lighter and more colorful than the Pro Max but lacks the titanium frame of higher-end models.
Performance and Software
Powered by the A18 Bionic chip (built on a 3nm process with a 5-core GPU), the iPhone 16 delivers flagship-level speed for gaming, multitasking, and AI tasks. Benchmarks show it scoring around 1,800 single-core and 7,200 multi-core on Geekbench 6, nearly matching the iPhone 15 Pro in most scenarios while being more power-efficient. It handles AAA games like Resident Evil Village smoothly at high settings, and the 8GB of RAM ensures seamless app switching.
iOS 18 brings customization like home screen tweaks and the Action Button (now on base models), which can be programmed for shortcuts like silencing ringer or launching flashlight. Apple Intelligence—AI features like enhanced Siri, image generation, and writing tools—launched in beta in October 2024 and runs natively on the A18, making the iPhone 16 future-proof for years. No major bugs reported in long-term use, though some users on forums like Reddit note the interface feels "bland" without deeper AI integration yet. Storage options go up to 512GB, and it supports USB-C 3.0 for faster data transfer (up to 10Gbps).
Camera
The dual-camera system (48MP main + 12MP ultrawide) is a highlight, with the main sensor now supporting 2x optical-quality telephoto via cropping, plus macro photography. Photos are sharp, with natural colors and excellent dynamic range in good light; low-light shots benefit from improved Night mode. The 12MP front camera handles selfies and video calls well, and Spatial Video recording adds 3D depth for Apple Vision Pro users.
Video shines at up to 4K/60fps with cinematic stabilization, and the new Audio Mix feature lets you isolate voices or reduce wind noise. The Camera Control button speeds up capture, but image processing can feel "over-sharpened" or artificial in some reviews, especially compared to Google Pixel's natural look. It's versatile for casual photographers but lacks the Pro's 5x telephoto or advanced pro controls.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery endurance is a strong suit, lasting 48+ hours on mixed use (web, video, 5G) and over 7 hours of screen-on time in tests. The 3,561mAh cell benefits from the efficient A18 chip, outpacing the iPhone 15 in video playback (up to 22 hours). Heavy users report 6-8 hours of active use before needing a recharge.
Wired charging hits 50% in 30 minutes with a 20W adapter (not included), and MagSafe wireless is 25W for 50% in 30 minutes. No charger in the box remains a gripe, but reverse wireless charging for AirPods works well. Long-term reviews after months of use confirm battery health stays near 100% with optimized charging enabled.
Pros:
- Excellent battery life and efficiency for all-day (or multi-day) use.
- Fast A18 chip with Apple Intelligence support.
- Improved camera with intuitive controls.
- Vibrant colors and solid build quality.
- Great value compared to Pro models.
Cons:
- 60Hz display feels dated next to 120Hz competitors.
- Incremental upgrades may not wow iPhone 14/15 owners.
- Camera processing can over-sharpen images.
- No always-on display or advanced telephoto.
Who Should Buy It?
If you're coming from an iPhone 13 or older, the iPhone 16 is a worthwhile upgrade for its speed, battery, and AI features—it's the sweet spot in Apple's lineup, as PCMag calls it their Editors' Choice for most people. Skip it if you have an iPhone 14/15, unless you crave the Camera Control or colors. Compared to Android rivals like the Google Pixel 9 ($799) or Samsung Galaxy S24 ($799), it excels in ecosystem integration and video but trails in raw camera versatility. For bigger screens, consider the iPhone 16 Plus ($899, 6.7-inch). Overall rating: 4.5/5—reliable, refined, and ready for the AI era.
The iPhone 16 (including the standard, Plus, Pro, and Pro Max models) is widely available for online purchase in the US from Apple's official site, major carriers, and retailers. Prices start at $799 for the base 128GB iPhone 16, with options for unlocked devices or carrier-locked versions. All models support eSIM activation (no physical SIM tray for US purchases) and are compatible with major networks like AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, and MVNOs like Boost Mobile. Free shipping is standard across most sites, and delivery typically takes 1-3 business days. As of September 2025, stock is plentiful, but popular colors (e.g., Ultramarine, Teal) may sell out quickly—check availability by model, storage (128GB to 1TB), and color.
Here are the top reliable options, focusing on unlocked or flexible carrier plans. Always verify current promotions, as deals like trade-ins (up to $700 off at Apple) or financing (0% APR) can vary.
Best Buy
https://www.bestbuy.com
- Competitive pricing, easy returns (15-45 days), and in-store pickup options. Geek Squad support for setup.
- *Options:* Unlocked or carrier-specific (AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile); all storage and color variants.
- *Deals:* Up to $830 trade-in credit with activation (e.g., for Verizon Unlimited plans); bundle with AppleCare+ for protection.
Best Buy offers deep discounts if you activate with AT&T or Verizon.
- *Shipping:* Free; expedited options available.
Verizon
https://www.verizon.com/smartphones/apple/
- Best for Verizon customers—devices arrive pre-activated on their network. Unlocked options also available.
- *Options:* All models; financing over 36 months.
- *Deals:* Up to $1,000 off with trade-in and Unlimited plan (credits over 36 months); no trade-in deals up to $830 on iPhone 16.
- *Shipping:* Free; 60-day price lock guarantee.
T-Mobile
https://www.t-mobile.com/cell-phone/apple-iphone-16
- Great for T-Mobile/ Metro users; strong 5G coverage and family plans.
- *Options:* Locked to T-Mobile or unlocked; up to 512GB storage.
- *Deals:* 0% APR financing; trade-ins for bill credits (up to $830 off iPhone 16 Plus). No line requirement for unlocked buys.
- *Shipping:* Free; includes SIM if needed.
AT&T
https://www.att.com/buy/phones/apple-iphone-16.html
- Ideal for AT&T subscribers; installment plans lock to their network but unlock after payoff.
- *Options:* All models; eSIM-ready.
- *Deals:* Up to $1,000 off with trade-in and unlimited plan; 36-month financing.
- *Shipping:* Free.
Apple iPhone 16 at Walmart
- Budget-friendly, especially for prepaid or Straight Talk (Tracfone MVNO) versions. Good for no-contract buys.
- *Options:* Prepaid locked models (e.g., Straight Talk iPhone 16 for $549+); some unlocked.
- *Deals:* Often bundled with chargers; Walmart+ members get free shipping.
- *Shipping:* Free for orders over $35; in-store pickup.
Apple iPhone 16 at Amazon
- Fast Prime shipping (1-2 days) and easy returns. Focus on renewed/refurbished for savings.
- *Options:* Primarily renewed unlocked iPhone 16 (e.g., 128GB Black for ~$700); new stock limited but available via third-party sellers.
- *Deals:* Renewed comes with 90-day guarantee; watch for flash sales.
- *Shipping:* Free with Prime.
Amazon Renewed Store
Shop like-new and refurbished products.
Around $650 | Refurbished, unlocked, inspected by Amazon-qualified suppliers
Amazon’s renewed models are budget-friendly but not Apple-certified.
Additional Tips
- *Carriers like Boost Mobile: For prepaid, check for deals starting at lower upfront costs.
- *Warranty:* All new iPhones include 1-year limited warranty; add AppleCare+ ($149–$199) for extended coverage.
Design & Display
- Bold new colors like Ultramarine and Pink add flair
- Dynamic Island replaces the notch, offering a more interactive UI element
- 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED with 2556×1179 resolution and 460ppi
- Still limited to 60Hz refresh rate, which feels dated compared to Android rivals
Performance
- Powered by the A18 chip, delivering snappy performance and improved graphics
- 8GB RAM, matching the Pro models for multitasking and AI tasks
- Runs on iOS 18 and supports Apple Intelligence, though some features are still rolling out
Camera System
- 48MP main sensor with Fusion capability and sensor-shift stabilization
- 12MP ultrawide with autofocus for macro shots
- New Camera Control button for quick access and better shooting ergonomics
- Spatial video recording support for Vision Pro compatibility
Battery & Charging
- All-day battery life confirmed even after a year of use
- Supports MagSafe and Qi2 wireless charging up to 25W
- Ships with a braided USB-C cable, though limited to USB 2.0 speeds
Apple Intelligence & Software
- Includes features like Clean Up (object eraser), Image Playground, and Writing Tools
- Some AI features are underwhelming compared to competitors like Samsung
The iPhone 16 is praised for:
- Offering Pro-level features without the Pro price tag
- Being a great upgrade for users of older models like the iPhone 12 or 13
- Holding up well even a year after release, making it a smart buy as the iPhone 17 rolls out