iPhone 16 Plus vs iPhone 15 Plus: Which is the smarter buy in 2026?

The iPhone 15 Plus starts at Rs. 69,900, while the iPhone 16 Plus starts at Rs. 79,900, making the older model worth a closer look.

If you want a large-screen iPhone without paying Pro-level prices, the iPhone 15 Plus and iPhone 16 Plus remain strong options in 2026. Both offer a 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display, Dynamic Island, a 48MP main camera, USB-C, and IP68 protection.

The iPhone 16 Plus adds the A18 chip, Camera Control, an Action button, macro photography, and Apple Intelligence support. However, the iPhone 15 Plus starts Rs. 10,000 lower, which makes it worth considering if your priority is a large-screen iPhone for everyday use.

iPhone 16 Plus vs iPhone 15 Plus

You can purchase your preferred iPhone at a highly competitive price, thanks to limited-time offers and discounts at Bajaj Finance partner stores. Browse models on Bajaj Mall, compare display, camera, processor, and storage, and visit any of the 1.5 lakh+ partner stores across 4,000+ cities. With an Easy EMI Loan of up to Rs. 5 lakh and repayment tenures ranging from 3 to 60 months, you can split the cost into manageable monthly instalments. Select models also come with a zero down payment offer, reducing your payment burden.

iPhone 16 Plus vs iPhone 15 Plus: what changes?

The two phones share the same large-screen format and several core features. The iPhone 16 Plus moves ahead with newer processing hardware, additional controls, and camera upgrades.

Specification iPhone 16 Plus iPhone 15 Plus
Display 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR OLED, 2796 x 1290 pixel, Dynamic Island 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR OLED, 2796 x 1290 pixel, Dynamic Island
Processor A18 A16 Bionic
Rear camera 48MP Fusion Main + 12MP Ultra Wide, macro photography 48MP Main + 12MP Ultra Wide
Front camera 12MP 12MP
Battery Up to 27 hours video playback Up to 26 hours video playback
Key extras Action button, Camera Control, Apple Intelligence Ring/Silent switch, Dynamic Island

Disclaimer: Easy EMIs and prices may vary by partner store, offer period, location, and variant. Please check the latest information at the partner store before purchase.

The display is not a major reason to upgrade. Both models have a 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display with a 2796 x 1290-pixel resolution at 460 ppi and Dynamic Island. This means the basic viewing experience is broadly similar between the two.

The biggest hardware difference is the processor. The iPhone 16 Plus uses the A18 chip, while the iPhone 15 Plus uses the A16 Bionic. The A18 also enables Apple Intelligence features and hardware-accelerated ray tracing.

The camera setup remains familiar, but the iPhone 16 Plus adds useful capabilities. It has a 48MP Fusion Main camera and 12MP Ultra-Wide camera, along with macro photography, newer Photographic Styles, and Camera Control.

The iPhone 16 Plus also replaces the Ring/Silent switch with an Action button and adds Camera Control. These features can make frequent camera use and quick shortcuts more convenient.

How to choose between the two

Choose the iPhone 15 Plus if:

  • You want a 6.7-inch iPhone at a lower price.
  • Your everyday use includes calls, social media, streaming, photography, and general apps.
  • You do not need Apple Intelligence or Camera Control.
  • You want to spend less while retaining the core Plus experience.

Choose the iPhone 16 Plus if:

  • You want the newer A18 chip for demanding apps and gaming.
  • Apple Intelligence is important to you.
  • You want Camera Control and the Action button.
  • You plan to keep your phone for several years and prefer newer hardware.

iPhone 15 Plus vs iPhone 16 Plus price

The starting price difference is Rs. 10,000. The iPhone 15 Plus starts at Rs. 69,900 for 128GB, while the iPhone 16 Plus starts at Rs. 79,900 for 128GB.

Model Key features Price Best for
iPhone 15 Plus 128GB 6.7-inch OLED, A16 Bionic, 48MP camera, USB-C Rs. 69,900 Large-screen value
iPhone 16 Plus 128GB 6.7-inch OLED, A18, 48MP camera, Camera Control Rs. 79,900 Newer hardware

Disclaimer: Easy EMIs and prices may vary by partner store, offer period, location, and variant. Please check the latest information at the partner store before purchase.

Is the iPhone 15 Plus the smarter buy?

The iPhone 15 Plus still covers the essentials that make the Plus range appealing. You get a 6.7-inch OLED display, Dynamic Island, 48MP main camera, USB-C, 5G, and up to 26 hours of video playback.

The iPhone 16 Plus is the more capable model, but its advantages matter most if you specifically want Apple Intelligence, the A18 chip, Camera Control, the Action button, or newer camera features. For straightforward everyday use, the iPhone 15 Plus can deliver a similar core experience while saving Rs. 10,000 at the starting price.

Why buy with Bajaj Finance

  • Browse and compare online: Explore iPhone models on Bajaj Mall and compare display, processor, camera, and storage before visiting a store.
  • Visit partner stores: Check shortlisted models at Bajaj Finance partner stores and get expert guidance from in-store representatives.
  • Opt for Easy EMI Loan: Finance up to Rs. 5 lakh with tenures of 3 to 60 months. Zero down payment available on select models.
  • Check eligibility online: Verify your pre-approved limit using your mobile number and OTP on the Bajaj Finance website.
  • Use the Insta EMI Network Card: Existing cardholders can convert purchases into EMIs instantly through a paperless process.

If you are comparing the iPhone 15 Plus vs iPhone 16 Plus in 2026, the newer model wins on performance, AI features, camera controls, and hardware. However, the iPhone 15 Plus makes a stronger value case for buyers who want a large-screen iPhone without paying extra for features they may not use.

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