iPhone 16 vs Pro: What do you really need?
You're scrolling through specs. Comparing prices. iPhone 16 or the Pro? The price difference is significant – we're talking hundreds of euros. The Pro has better cameras, a larger screen, and longer battery life. It's understandable that you're hesitant.
But here's what no one tells you: most Pro buyers barely use 40% of those extra features . In fact, for the extra cost of one Pro, you can get a standard 16, plus premium accessories and new AirPods .
While you think you have to choose between "good" and "better," it's actually about something else. It's about what you truly need versus what Apple wants you to believe you need. And that line? It's surprisingly thin.
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The core debate: standard or Pro?
The choice between an iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro isn't just about specs. It's mainly about what you do with it. Let's face it: most people scroll through social media, take pictures of their food, and video chat with friends. You don't need a Pro for that.
But still. That doubt keeps nagging. Because what if you regret it later? What if that extra camera lens would have been useful after all? These thoughts are precisely why Apple offers two models. They play on your fear of missing out.
Where exactly is the difference?
Display and dimensions
The standard iPhone 16 has a 6.1-inch OLED screen. A good size for most hands. The Pro comes with a 6.3-inch screen and ProMotion (120Hz refresh rate). The latter means smoother scrolling and gaming. But be warned: only if you're sensitive to it will you notice the difference.
Both screens are equally sharp and colorful. The Pro's Always-On display is handy for checking the time without turning on your phone. But is that worth an extra €300?
Cameras: the great seducer
Here's the biggest difference:
- iPhone 16: Two cameras (main camera and ultra-wide angle)
- iPhone 16 Pro: Three cameras (plus a 5x zoom telephoto lens)
That third lens sounds impressive. In practice, you'll mainly use it for:
- Concert photos from the back of the hall
- Photographing Wildlife (If You Ever Do It)
- Recording details of buildings
For 95% of your photos—selfies, group shots, landscapes—the standard version is perfectly adequate. The image quality barely varies under normal conditions.
Performance and memory
Both models run on the same A18 chip. You won't notice any difference in daily use. The Pro does have 8GB of RAM compared to the standard model's 6GB. That extra memory is especially noticeable when:
- Heavy video editing
- Gaming with high graphics
- Dozens of apps open at the same time
If you mainly use your phone for WhatsApp, Netflix, and some browsing, you won't notice the difference.
Bridging the price gap
A new iPhone 16 starts at around €969. The Pro starts at €1229. That's a €260 difference for:
- A slightly larger screen
- An extra camera lens
- 2GB more RAM
- Titanium housing (instead of aluminum)
With that difference you can also:
- Buy a standard model plus AirPods
- Buying a refurbished Pro from last year
- Equip your standard model with premium accessories
Practical scenarios developed
The content creator
Do you regularly shoot videos for TikTok or Instagram? Then the Pro might be interesting. Not so much for the cameras, but for the ProRes video recording. This gives you more editing options afterward. However, it does eat up a huge amount of storage space.
The business user
For business use—email, calendar, video calls—the standard version is more than sufficient. Those extra Pro features don't add much to your productivity. Invest in good accessories like a power bank or wireless charger instead.
The gamer
Intensive games run slightly smoother on the Pro thanks to the extra memory. But the difference is minimal. The 120Hz screen does make a difference in fast-paced games. Still, the question remains whether mobile gaming justifies the extra cost.
Sustainability and alternatives
Want to make a truly smart choice? Consider a refurbished model. A refurbished iPhone 15 Pro often costs less than a new standard iPhone 16. You'll still get those Pro features, but at a more competitive price.
Refurbished devices have been thoroughly inspected and cleaned. They come with a warranty and are better for the environment. The only difference: the packaging isn't new. But you'll throw that away anyway.
Lifespan and updates
Both models will receive iOS updates for at least five years. After three years, you might notice some slowdown with the standard version due to its smaller memory. The Pro will likely last a year longer. But by then, you'll probably want to upgrade anyway.
The sober conclusion
Choose the iPhone 16 Pro if:
- You take professional photographs or films
- Gaming is an important hobby
- You have the budget without compromises elsewhere
- Status is important to you (also a valid reason)
Choose the standard iPhone 16 if:
- You are looking for a solid phone without any frills
- Price-quality is important
- You'd rather save money for accessories
- You don't need the latest of the latest
The truth? For 80% of users, the standard iPhone 16 is more than enough. Those Pro features sound great in stores, but you'll hardly use them in everyday life. Unless you have specific needs, that price difference is hard to justify.
Consider looking at refurbished models. A year-old Pro for the price of a new standard? Now that's a smart choice. At leapp, you'll find a wide range of verified devices with a warranty. Good for your wallet and the environment.
The choice is simpler than you think
The choice between iPhone 16 and Pro is ultimately simpler than you think. For most users, the standard model is more than enough – that extra camera lens and ProMotion display are nice, but not a game-changer for everyday use .
Want Pro features without breaking the bank? Check out the refurbished iPhone collection for smarter alternatives. Or invest the difference in accessories you'll actually use every day.
Because a standard iPhone with good earbuds and a decent case will take you further than a bare Pro where you never touch half the functions .
