The Best iPhone to Buy in 2024

The iPhone has been a staple in the smartphone market for over a decade, consistently appealing to users seeking a reliable device. In its earlier years, there was a single iPhone model, requiring users only to decide on storage capacity and colour preference. However, the current landscape is more diverse, with the iPhone lineup expanding over time.

As of now, the iPhone 15 series introduces four distinct models, offering users a range of choices. Additionally, Apple continues to offer the iPhone 14 and iPhone 13 for those who prefer earlier versions. For users seeking a smaller, budget-friendly model with traditional features like the home button and Touch ID, the iPhone SE remains an attractive option. Given the array of choices, deciding on the right iPhone can be complex.

The general recommendation leans toward the iPhone 15 for most users, given its latest features and capabilities. However, if budget considerations come into play, the iPhone 14 is a viable alternative, and exploring ongoing iPhone deals can be beneficial. It’s worth noting that the iPhone 16 lineup is anticipated to be unveiled in the upcoming fall season, potentially introducing new features. Thus, individuals interested in the latest Apple technology may choose to wait a few more months for the next release.

The Best iPhone for Most People

iPhone 15

Price: from $799

The iPhone 15 emerges as the optimal choice for most users, benefitting from substantial upgrades in Apple’s latest release. Despite the availability of more potent Pro models, the iPhone 15 maintains a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display. Notably, this year’s model achieves a peak brightness of 2,000 nits outdoors, enhancing visibility. However, the refresh rate remains fixed at 60Hz, a potential drawback considering its cost compared to some Android devices with higher refresh rates. Nevertheless, the display exhibits vibrant colours, sharp text, and the inclusion of the Dynamic Island feature introduced in the previous iPhone 14 Pro.

A surprise upgrade in the iPhone 15’s dual-camera system elevates the main lens from 12MP to 48MP, similar to the iPhone 14 Pro. Default photos now capture in 24MP, promising more details and slightly larger file sizes. The 12MP ultrawide camera retains its 120-degree field of view. The larger sensors facilitate 2x optical zoom without requiring a telephoto lens. Additionally, a new Auto Portrait feature automatically captures depth information for images focused on a person or pet, enabling users to convert them into portrait images later.

A noteworthy change is the replacement of Lightning with USB-C, although charging speeds remain consistent. The iPhone 15 offers a full day’s charge, complemented by a selection of attractive pastel colours, with pink standing out as a distinctive option.

The Best Premium iPhone

iPhone 15 Pro

Price: from $999

For those seeking a premium iPhone experience, the iPhone 15 Pro stands out as an exceptional choice. Apple introduces notable upgrades, replacing the stainless steel frame with a new brushed titanium frame. This alteration not only enhances the device’s lightweight feel but also introduces a more pronounced curve on the edges, contributing to a comfortable and ergonomic hold devoid of sharp edges.

In a departure from tradition, Apple replaces the mute/silent switch with an innovative Action button. While its default setting remains for muting/silencing the device, users can customise it to perform various functions, such as launching the camera, activating the flashlight, accessing the Voice Memo app, adjusting Accessibility settings, or utilising Shortcuts. The Action button, unfortunately, supports only a single action with a press-and-hold gesture, leaving room for potential expansion to multiple actions with double-press or triple-press gestures in the future.

While adopting USB-C for connectivity, the charging speeds remain consistent. However, the iPhone 15 Pro distinguishes itself with faster data transfer speeds than the standard iPhone 15 models. With a full charge, the iPhone 15 Pro confidently powers through a day’s use without issues.

The Best Value iPhone

iPhone 14

Price: from $699

The iPhone 14 may not elicit much excitement among tech enthusiasts, particularly given its year-old status, but for users transitioning from older devices, it remains an excellent option. If features like a 48-megapixel camera, an always-on display, and the Dynamic Island don’t top your priority list, the iPhone 14 caters to your needs.

Retaining the characteristic notch, the iPhone 14 introduces only incremental improvements to the camera compared to its predecessor. Absent are features like the always-on display, Dynamic Island, and the 120Hz ProMotion display. Nevertheless, the iPhone 14 incorporates Apple’s new safety features, including Emergency SOS via satellite and crash detection.

While the iPhone 14 doesn’t diverge significantly from the iPhone 13, it becomes an appealing choice for those seeking the new safety features for added peace of mind. Moreover, with a price point lower than the latest iPhone 15 models, the iPhone 14 provides access to these safety features along with a commendable camera without requiring a substantial financial commitment for the latest and greatest.

The Best iPhone Camera

iPhone 15 Pro Max

Price: from $1,199

The iPhone 15 Pro Max shares many features with the iPhone 15 Pro but distinguishes itself with a few notable differences. Retaining the impressive titanium frame, Action button, USB-C charging, A17 Pro chip paired with 8GB RAM, and a 120Hz ProMotion display, the iPhone 15 Pro Max stands out with its larger 6.7-inch display, a slightly enhanced battery, and a groundbreaking tetraprism telephoto lens capable of 5x optical zoom. Opting for the iPhone 15 Pro Max is ideal for those desiring the best camera performance on an iPhone, provided they can accommodate the larger form factor.

The 48MP main camera and 12MP ultrawide lenses deliver exceptional photo quality, mirroring the capabilities of the iPhone 15 Pro. With default 24MP photos, the device captures more intricate details, complemented by the Smart HDR 5 technology ensuring accurate and realistic colours and skin tones. Notably, low-light photography has seen improvements from the previous year, and the addition of Auto Portrait mode enhances the device’s appeal, particularly for parents capturing memorable moments.

The highlight of the iPhone 15 Pro Max is its tetraprism telephoto lens, setting it apart from the iPhone 15 Pro. While it falls short of the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra’s 10x optical zoom, the iPhone 15 Pro Max’s 5x optical zoom is highly impressive. This feature allows users to get 5x closer to their subjects while maintaining remarkable detail and colour, making it a superior choice compared to the iPhone 15 Pro in this aspect.

In the vast landscape of iPhones available in 2024, choosing the right one requires navigating through a diverse lineup. For those prioritising a balance of features, the iPhone 15 stands out, even with its 60Hz display, however more budget-conscious consumers might discover value in the iPhone 14. Then on the other hand, individuals seeking a premium experience can explore the iPhone 15 Pro, equipped with a brushed titanium frame and an innovative Action button. Then lastly for the photography enthusiasts out there the iPhone Pro Max truly stands out boasting a remarkable tetraprism telephoto lens. It’s worth noting that the upcoming iPhone 16 series is expected to debut in the fall, which may introduce new features, adding an extra layer of consideration to the decision-making process.